General ventilation and air quality

Process ventilation removes hazardous substances from products and processes

Many workplaces emit substances that are directly hazardous to health. This applies to construction activities and workshops, but also to hairdressers and nail sculptors, for example.

What is emitted is dust and fumes, as well as vapours from liquids and gases that are harmful to health. If the hazardous substances are not removed, they can cause serious illnesses, either immediately or after prolonged inhalation. They can even be fatal.

Process ventilation captures pollutants close to the source

Health problems can be caused by the building

So-called building-related ill health can be linked to the building in which the workplace is located. For example, the building may have damp damage and mould, which in turn may be caused by, for example, water leakage, condensation of damp air or building moisture from when the building was constructed.

Emissions from materials and poor cleaning also have an impact. Poor ventilation can exacerbate these problems, as it can lead to high levels of pollutants in indoor air.

Always investigate building-related ill health

The cause of the building-related ill health must be investigated. Moisture damage, dampness and mould, whether ongoing or old, should be addressed at the source, not by increasing ventilation.

As an employer, you must manage the work environment systematically, so as to improve it. Our provisions for systematic work environment management apply to all employers – regardless of the activities or the risks that you and your employees could be exposed to.

As an employer, you are responsible for reducing risk from poor air quality and inadequate ventilation, just as you are responsible for all aspects of the work environment. You must be familiar with the Work Environment Act and other work environment regulations.

Employees and safety representatives have an important role in work environment management. As an employer, you must give all employees the opportunity to participate in work environment management. For example, you can let employees suggest measures or provide feedback on measures you have implemented.

Employees' participation in work environment management

As an employee, you must participate in work environment management and participate in implementing the measures needed to achieve a good work environment. You must follow the employer's instructions. You must also report to your employer or your safety representative if the work involves immediate and serious danger to life or health.