Are carpets a source of chemical and biological emissions that contribute to poor indoor air quality. Does carpeting in schools contribute to an increase in respiratory problems, allergies and asthma in schools? Should schools and preschools make use of carpets or kids area rugs in classrooms?

The safety and health of our kids are of the utmost importance and therefore the valid concerns raised with regard to the health issues around the use of carpets in schools should be addressed. In this article we will review select studies in order to answer some of the health concerns that are raised concerning the use of carpets in schools.

Carpet Related Findings:

· Studies found that carpet in schools, when properly maintained, did not contribute negatively to indoor air quality.

· Indoor air quality readings tended to be higher over hard surfaces than over carpet.

· Concerns that carpeting in schools is contributing to an increase in respiratory problems, allergies and asthma in schools were found to be unfounded.

· Carpets were found to improve indoor air quality because it captures and holds dirt, contaminants and allergens that would otherwise become airborne.

· When carpets were banned from schools in Sweden during the late 80's, asthma rates in children skyrocketed.

· Carpets accumulate a diverse population of bacteria and fungi that are temporarily reduced following cleaning only to accumulate to a steady level between cleanings.

Cleaning and Hygiene Related Findings:

· The primary objective of all cleaning in schools should be to guard the health of the kids.

· Cleaning should compliment, not replace, basic hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, surface disinfection, effective waste disposal and management of communicable disease.

· Walk off mats should be placed at entrances to trap pollutants.

· Non-toxic cleaning agents should be used.

· Carpets should be properly cared for and cleaned within regular intervals.

· Clean carpets with daily vacuuming with a high efficiency particulate (HEPA) filter, and monthly hot water extraction.

· Do not use chemicals or soap if possible, as residues of these can be very irritating when airborne.

Benefits of using Carpets in Classrooms:

· Carpets reduce slips and falls.

· Carpets improve acoustics within classrooms thereby improving communication and learning.

· Glare is reduced resulting in improved sight.

· Classrooms fitted with carpets tend to improve student morale and school pride.

Conclusion:

The use of carpets in classrooms is a very sensitive discussion point. There are a lot of perceptions about the health impact of carpets and people have strong views on the subject. It is important to base any decision on facts and studies done on the subject by reputed institutions. Terrazzo, ceramic tile or concrete, with washable children rugs, classroom rugs or cushions can also be used to great effect in classrooms.

Additional Resources:

· To find information on the health effects of a product, one place to start is the product's Material Safety Data Sheet, or MSDS. Companies are required by OSHA to furnish MSDS's to all users. If the MSDS does not provide clear or adequate information, other sources can be consulted, including the local or state health departments, OSHA, or the internet.

· The Green Product List of Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI) website, carpet-rug.com, which also provides information on selection, installation and maintenance.

Reviewed Studies:

i. Berry, M.A., 2002. Healthy School Environment and Enhanced Educational Performance; The Case of Charles Young Elementary School Washington, D.C. Carpet and Rug Institute Web Site, carpet-rug.org/carpet-and-rug-industry/research-and-resources/scientific-research/charles-young.cfm

ii. Hedge, A., 2001.Carpets in schools don’t compromise indoor air quality. Cornell Chronicle Vol. 32, No. 28

iii. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) Draft Guideline For Environmental Infection Control In Healthcare Facilities, 2003. pp. 92-93. cdc.gov/ncidod/hip/enviro/Enviro_guide_03.pdf

iv. State of California, School Sound Level Study, School Facilities and Transportation Division, California State Department of Education, 1998.

v. Shishoo, R.L., A Börjesson, Claims in Sweden that Textile Floor coverings Cause Allergic Reactions In Some People Have Not Been Adequately Proved, Swedish Institute of Fibre and Polymer Research, Carpet and Floor covering Review carpet-rug.com/pdf_word_docs/Swedish_Chart.pdf