The Hidden Threat in the Air: Understanding PM2.5 and How AIRsteril Helps Protect Indoor Environments
We all know that air quality affects our health—but what many people don’t realise is that some of the most dangerous particles in the air are completely invisible. Among them, PM2.5 has become one of the most significant global health concerns.
Whether you manage a healthcare facility, aged care residence, workplace, or public venue, understanding PM2.5 and how to control it is essential for creating a safer environment.
What Are PM2.5 Particles?
PM2.5 refers to particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter—about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Because of their tiny size, these particles:
- stay suspended in the air for long periods
- travel deep into the lungs
- enter the bloodstream
- carry harmful substances such as chemicals, soot, and microorganisms
This combination makes PM2.5 one of the most harmful forms of air pollution in both outdoor and indoor environments.
Where Do PM2.5 Particles Come From?
PM2.5 is produced by a wide range of everyday activities and environmental factors. Common sources include:
Outdoors
- vehicle exhaust
- industrial emissions
- bushfire smoke
- dust and soil particles
- agricultural burning
- sea salt aerosols
Indoors
Indoor levels can often be higher than outdoors, especially in enclosed spaces. Indoor sources include:
- cooking, especially frying and grilling
- wood heaters
- candles and incense
- cleaning sprays and aerosols
- mould spores
- dust and allergens
- air entering from outdoors
Because we spend up to 90% of our time indoors, exposure to indoor PM2.5 can be particularly harmful.
Why PM2.5 Is Dangerous to Health
The health risks associated with PM2.5 are well documented.
Short-term exposure can trigger:
- coughing, sore throat and irritated eyes
- asthma attacks
- headaches
- difficulty breathing
Long-term exposure increases the risk of:
- chronic respiratory disease
- heart disease and stroke
- reduced lung function
- lung cancer
- cognitive decline
Children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable.
How AIRsteril Helps Reduce PM2.5 and Improve Air Quality
Traditional air purifiers often rely on filters that trap particles but require regular maintenance and can struggle with microscopic contaminants.
AIRsteril technology takes a different approach.
According to AIRsteril product information, these systems:
- remove particulate matter including PM2.5 and PM10
- kill bacteria, viruses, fungi and mould spores
- remove allergens, odours and VOCs
- sanitise both air and surfaces
- operate continuously and safely in occupied spaces
- provide protection without chemicals or expensive filter replacements
Using a combination of hydroxyls and ions, AIRsteril works dynamically to break down airborne contaminants at their source, rather than simply trapping them.
Why This Matters for Indoor Spaces
Facilities such as:
- hospitals and healthcare clinics
- aged care homes
- schools and childcare centres
- gyms and changing rooms
- offices and hospitality venues
face continual challenges with air hygiene, odours, infection control and airborne particles.
Continuous air and surface treatment can help reduce:
- cross-infection risk
- unpleasant odours
- mould growth
- airborne allergens
- PM2.5 particle concentration
The result is a cleaner, fresher and healthier indoor environment.
Creating Safer Air for Everyone
PM2.5 may be invisible, but its impact on health is undeniable. With rising awareness around air quality, organisations are seeking effective, low-maintenance solutions to protect staff, visitors and residents.
AIRsteril offers a proactive approach—removing harmful particles and microorganisms while improving the overall indoor atmosphere.
Cleaner air isn’t just a comfort—it’s an essential part of safeguarding wellbeing.