Evaluating Indoor Air Quality and Associated Health Risks in a Basement Office Building at Kompleks PKNS Shah Alam

Abstract

Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a vital role in determining the health, comfort, and productivity of building occupants, especially in enclosed basement offices where ventilation is limited. These environments are prone to pollutant accumulation due to restricted airflow, nearby vehicle exhaust, and high humidity that promotes microbial growth, especially in Malaysia’s humid tropical climate. Although the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has issued the Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) 2010 with IAQ limits, enforcement and consistent monitoring remain weak, especially in older or enclosed buildings. This study aimed to (1) assess IAQ in a basement office at Kompleks PKNS, Shah Alam; (2) identify IAQ-related symptoms among occupants; and (3) evaluate potential health risks through a Health Risk Assessment (HRA).