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Does air conditioning impact on hygienic quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels?
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Abstract
Objectives: To examine the hygienic quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels, a pilot study was initiated by the See-Berufsgenossenschaft.
Methods: Air samples were taken on-site at different sampling sites and analysed for the occurrence of microorganisms. Results: Bacteria showed the highest cell numbers and the highest distribution in indoor air on vessels, whereby the maximum level was determined in the air of crew cabins. The identification of bacteria showed that beside common airborne species, pathogens existed.
Conclusions: Air-conditioning seems to influence the quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels. Interim results of the study indicate that regular maintenance of airconditioning systems is essential.
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the hygienic quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels, a pilot study was initiated by the See-Berufsgenossenschaft.
Methods: Air samples were taken on-site at different sampling sites and analysed for the occurrence of microorganisms. Results: Bacteria showed the highest cell numbers and the highest distribution in indoor air on vessels, whereby the maximum level was determined in the air of crew cabins. The identification of bacteria showed that beside common airborne species, pathogens existed.
Conclusions: Air-conditioning seems to influence the quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels. Interim results of the study indicate that regular maintenance of airconditioning systems is essential.
Keywords
air-conditioning system; bacteria; fungi; indoor air; seagoing vessel
About this articleTitle
Does air conditioning impact on hygienic quality of indoor air on seagoing vessels?
Journal
Issue
Pages
71-77
Published online
2010-03-26
Page views
566
Article views/downloads
1080
Bibliographic record
IMH 2007;58(1-4):71-77.
Keywords
air-conditioning system
bacteria
fungi
indoor air
seagoing vessel
Authors
Gabriele Meyer
Bernd-Fred Schepers
