INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN A HAIR SALON

Abstract

Hairdressing is a regular activity for many people and there has been constant growth in the demand for good-looking hairstyles. With the introduction of non-traditional services, it has led to the accumulation of chemical compounds in hair salons as well as an extension in the customers’ length of stay in the salons. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the indoor air quality (IAQ) in hair salons is maintained at a satisfactory level so as to provide a healthy and comfortable environment for the occupants. This study will investigate the IAQ of an air-conditioned hair salon. The main objectives of this research are to examine the IAQ in an air-conditioned hair salon, the potential threats to health, and the technologies available to improve the air quality within Singapore’s environment. Objective measurements and subjective assessment were conducted to develop a better understanding of the local hair salon. The objective measurements have shown that there is a need to improve the IAQ and the inconsistency in the hair salon. Based on the SS554: 2009 standard, the hair salon is experiencing low air movement and high concentration level of respirable particulate matters (PM4.0 and PM2.5). The temperature and the concentration level of carbon dioxide measured during the off-peak hours was found to be at a marginally acceptable limit hence there is possibility that during peak periods, it would reach an undesirable level leading to poor IAQ. Feedback from 20 respondents was obtained for the subjective assessment. More than half of the respondents had given a neutral response to the acceptability of the thermal comfort in the salon. In general, most of the respondents felt that the IAQ of the hair salon is acceptable despite the presence of the odor and signs of sick building symptoms (SBS). The low air velocity and the high amount of respirable particulate matters might be due to the insufficient ventilation and the usage of hairdressing products. Based on the possible types of contaminants in the air, recommendations to improve the IAQ and comfort level of the occupants are put up.