INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN A BANK STRONG BOX

摘要

The air quality in a specific indoor environment, the strongbox of a commercial bank (vault and associated offices) was evaluated. VOCs, Aldehydes, TPM and Fungi were analyzed. These analyses were performed by HRGC-FID/MS, HPLC, Gravimetry and microbiological techniques. The determinations were made simultaneously in internal and external points, in order to reveal both contributions for the indoor air quality. TVOC occurred in relatively high values, varying from 342 to 423 μg/m~3. It was also observed the presence of organo-chlorinated compounds, mainly dichlorobenzene (40-49 μg/m~3) that suggests the use of insecticides. A second sampling after one year did not show dichlorobenzene that indicates its removal by dilution or cleaning procedures. The microbiological analysis suggested a secondary source of contamination, which indicated the need for the cleaning of the HVAC. The expected critical situation of contamination by particles or fungi was not found in spite of the intensive manipulation of new and used bills and coins.