Health Effects of Lebanese School Indoor Environment
HELSIE
The HERA-implemented Health Effects of Lebanese School Indoor Environment (HELSIE) study is specifically focused on investigating the potential correlation between Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in Lebanese schools and its impact on the health of school children. The study aims to evaluate the health effects of both outdoor and indoor school environments by examining how the chemical and physical parameters of IAQ relate to the students' health status and well-being. Additionally, the study seeks to develop practical solutions and guidelines to help Lebanese schools enhance their IAQ. A crucial objective is to share the findings with relevant stakeholders to advocate for improved indoor environments in Lebanese schools.
To execute the study, a cross-sectional design has been adopted, involving sixth-grade students from six Lebanese schools. Data on physical, chemical, and biological stressors were collected through diverse methods, including questionnaires, inspections, and IAQ monitoring techniques. The measurements were conducted twice a year, during the heating season (December to March) and the non-heating season (April to June). The study ensured participation with parental consent and student assent.
Unfortunately, the study faced interruptions due to lockdown measures and school closures. In 2022, Key Informant Interviews were conducted with school administrators (N=6) to assess changes and plan for the continuation of HELSIE-Phase II, taking into account the impact of COVID-19 safety guidelines on indoor and outdoor air quality. At present, the study is in the process of revising its tools and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to relaunch in more schools across Lebanon. The study's observations have also acknowledged the substantial variations in indoor and outdoor air quality between the heating and non-heating seasons, with additional influences from the school's surroundings, age, and architectural features significantly shaping the air quality.