According to an ISS report, office air quality has become a scientifically documented priority. People spend 90% of our time indoors, primarily in offices, and this can no longer be overlooked.
The report changing the rules
In September 2025, Italy’s Istituto Superiore di Sanità published the ISTISAN 25/15 Report, which is a comprehensive guide to monitoring chemical and biological pollutants in office environments. Aligned with WHO recommendations and European standards, it is one of the most detailed institutional frameworks ever produced on office air quality.
What scientific evidence reveals about office air quality
Multiple sources of pollution affect offices: insufficient ventilation allows CO₂ and bioaerosols to accumulate; construction materials and furniture release VOCs and formaldehyde; and poorly maintained HVAC systems can become vectors for mould, bacteria, and allergens.
The health effects range from acute symptoms such as headaches, irritation and difficulty concentrating, to chronic respiratory conditions. The impact on productivity is significant: research consistently links poor office air quality to drop in cognitive performance of up to 50% and productivity losses of up to 9%.
From monitoring to prevention
The ISTISAN report introduces a structured approach:
- Identify key pollutants (CO₂, VOCs, particulate matter, biological agents)
- Locate contamination sources within HVAC systems
- Monitor continuously, not sporadically
This is precisely why real-time monitoring solutions like Remotair are essential. While traditional environmental sensors can detect problems in rooms, they cannot identify their origin. Indeed, Remotair’s AI-powered system provides continuous visibility inside air handling units and ductwork, monitoring the hygienic conditions where contamination actually begins.
Office air quality as a measurable risk
Office air quality is now considered a risk factor that requires formal assessment, documentation and management. This isn’t just an Italian development; it reflects WHO’s global shift and EU Directive 2024/2881.
Solutions like Remotair, which enable predictive analytics and automated alerts, allow organisations to shift from reactive maintenance to prevention. This is exactly what the new IAQ standards demand.
Office air quality is a measurable risk factor. Those that systematically monitor their HVAC systems will lead the way in optimising workplace health and performance.
