Integrated Assessment of Indoor Air Quality and Structural Health: Insights from Residential and Commercial Buildings in Nasik, India

Abstract

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in public health, particularly in urban settings where aging infrastructure, human activities, and environmental factors intersect to influence indoor environments. Poor IAQ has been associated with adverse health effects, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and cognitive impairments. This study investigates the interrelationships between IAQ, structural health, and human behaviour in residential and commercial buildings across Nasik, India. A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating environmental monitoring, structural audits, and occupant surveys to assess IAQ and building conditions. Key IAQ parameters, including PM2.5, PM10, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and formaldehyde (HCHO), were analysed alongside structural integrity metrics, such as Schmidt Rebound Hammer values and Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV). The study introduces a novel Integrated Environmental-Structural Quality Index (IESQI), synthesizing environmental, structural, and behavioural data to evaluate building health and prioritize interventions. Findings indicate that high-risk locations, such as Ambad Gaon, exhibit poor IAQ and weak structural integrity, primarily due to poor ventilation, excessive gas stove use, and lack of maintenance. In contrast, low-risk locations, such as Pathardi Gaon, demonstrate better IAQ and structural conditions due to effective ventilation and regular upkeep. The study highlights the necessity of integrating IAQ management with building maintenance strategies to safeguard occupant health. The proposed IESQI framework offers a scalable model for IAQ risk assessment, providing valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and building managers in developing sustainable urban health interventions.