Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) Practice Exam

For which type of hazards should air quality be continuously monitored in health facilities?

1. Biological hazards

2. Physical hazards

3. Potential toxic air contaminants

4. Mechanical hazards

The correct answer is: Potential toxic air contaminants

Continuous monitoring of air quality in health facilities is essential primarily for potential toxic air contaminants because these contaminants can pose significant health risks to both patients and staff. Toxic air contaminants can include a variety of chemical pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), industrial emissions, and byproducts from different medical processes. These substances can lead to acute and chronic health effects, including respiratory issues, irritations, and other systemic health problems. Continuous air quality monitoring allows health facilities to promptly identify and mitigate exposure to these harmful substances, ensuring a safer environment for all individuals within the facility. In contrast, while biological hazards like airborne pathogens warrant monitoring, they typically involve infection control practices rather than continuous air quality assessments per se. Physical hazards and mechanical hazards generally refer to risks associated with physical injuries or equipment failures, which do not typically relate to air quality in the same crucial way as chemical exposure does. Thus, the focus is justifiably on potential toxic air contaminants when considering the hazards associated with air quality in health settings.