What is the difference between IAQ and IEQ?

IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) and IEQ (Indoor Environmental Quality) are related but distinct terms that refer to different aspects of the quality of the air and environment inside a building.

IAQ refers specifically to the quality of the air inside a building, including factors such as temperature, humidity, ventilation, and the presence of pollutants and allergens. IAQ is an important consideration for the health and well-being of building occupants, as poor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, headaches, and fatigue. Factors that can affect IAQ include poor ventilation, mold, and the use of certain cleaning products or building materials.

To measure and evaluate IAQ, several parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO2, VOCs, particulate matter, and other chemical pollutants are used as indicators of IAQ. Measurement of these parameters in the air helps to identify the causes of poor air quality and to take steps to improve it.

On the other hand, IEQ (Indoor Environmental Quality) refers to a broader range of factors that affect the overall environment inside a building, including not just the air quality but also factors such as lighting, acoustics, and thermal comfort. IEQ can also include the presence of pollutants and allergens, but it also encompasses other environmental factors such as noise levels, thermal comfort, and access to natural light, which are all important for the overall well-being of building occupants.

IEQ is important for not just health and safety, but also for productivity, comfort and overall satisfaction of the people inside the building. Adequate lighting, temperature, and noise levels are all essential for the productivity, comfort, and well-being of building occupants.

In recent years many studies and articles about the importance of IEQ and IAQ monitoring have been published and people are getting more familiar with topics such as indoor air pollutionoffice air quality risks, healthy buildings.

In summary, IAQ focuses on the quality of the air specifically and IEQ focuses on a broader range of environmental factors that affect the overall comfort and well-being of people inside a building. Both IAQ and IEQ are important for ensuring the health and comfort of building occupants, for maintaining the integrity of a building, and for creating a pleasant and productive work environment.


Discover more about IEQ at TSI