The effect of ventilation and cooking activities towards indoor fine particulates in apartments

Indoor air pollution is currently being studied extensively because of its effects on the health and comfort of residents. The effects of indoor air pollution can be felt directly such as irritation to the eyes, nose to throat. This effect can also occur after several years such as respiratory infections, heart disease and cancer. Indoor air pollution such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM1) can be caused by occupant activities such as cooking, room cleaning and smoking by residents. Research on the effect of ventilation and cooking activities on the concentration of PM2.5 and PM1 in the room has not plentiful researched. So the purpose of this study is to determine the effect of those variables in indoor air conditions. The data was obtained by measurement and interview in this study. The method that served in this research is a multilevel approach using three models. The study observes that most of the variables affected the indoor concentration of PM1 and PM2.5. In addition, it was also observed that the large number of fans could improve air quality. During peak sessions especially the morning, the number of particulates is significantly higher. Whereas cooking with an open window causes the condition of fine particulates to be even worse. Therefore, the combination of indoor pollution sources and poor outdoor concentrations has an extremely health impact on the residents. The result of the study shows the importance of adjusting the time to close the window and the time to cook properly, so that the accumulation of fine particles in the room can be avoided. Further observation is required to investigate the concentration of outdoor space near apartments continuously to confirm this result.