The Healthiest Indoor Air in Childcare: Analysis of the Flemish Quality Manual

The Flemish Department of Care's Quality Manual for Ventilation in Childcare Facilities is an essential guide for creating a healthy living environment for children and staff. Its central message is that poor indoor air quality is an invisible source of health problems, the urgency of which has been underscored by the coronavirus crisis.

The focus is on minimizing the spread of respiratory viruses, in addition to removing moisture, odors, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from sources such as furniture and cleaning products.

The Flemish approach makes a clear distinction between ventilation (24/7 air exchange) and aeration (temporarily opening windows). CO2 is the most reliable and simple indicator for measuring ventilation quality, although CO2 meters are not legally required in childcare facilities.

Critical CO2 Concentrations and Quality Targets

The quality indicators are linked to the required ventilation rate:

The upper limit for acceptable indoor air quality under normal conditions is 1200 ppm. This corresponds to a flow rate of 25 m3/h per person.

The guideline value for optimal air quality, and also the upper limit for an increased risk of infection with respiratory viruses, is 900 ppm. This requires a more ambitious flow rate of 40 m3/h per person. The Flemish Indoor Environment Decree even recommends a guideline value of less than 900 ppm.

The Role of Monitoring in the Step-by-Step Plan

The guide describes a four-step plan:

STEP 1 is measuring the CO2 concentrations. The meter must be installed in a safe, visible, and central location, 1.5 meters high. In rooms larger than 50 m2, multiple meters are required. Continuous monitoring is recommended for natural ventilation systems (Type A).

STEP 2 is assessing the measurements and taking action. Exceeding the 1200 ppm or 900 ppm limit requires action. Possible measures include additional ventilation or airing (open windows), adjusting the ventilation system (increasing the flow rate), or reducing occupancy. It should be noted that a low CO2 concentration does not automatically guarantee that other pollutants such as VOCs are also low.

STEP 3 involves managing the ventilation system. It is prohibited to completely close ventilation grilles or switch off the system, even outside of operating hours.

STEP 4 is developing a detailed ventilation plan.

The Challenge of Ventilation and Energy Consumption

Simulations show that in older childcare facilities without mechanical ventilation, keeping windows open all day is necessary to stay below 1200 ppm or 900 ppm. This leads to a very significant increase in heating energy consumption during the heating season, up to 65%.

In newer facilities with high-performance mechanical systems (Type D or D+ with heat recovery), the concentration often remains below 900 ppm without additional intervention. Systems with demand-driven control based on CO2 are the most energy-efficient solution.

Essential Requirements for CO2 Meters (like RoomYou1)

The manual specifies the characteristics of a good CO2 meter:

Sensor Type: Use of a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor.

Measurement: Must measure the actual CO2 concentration (not eqCO2).

Power: A battery-powered tabletop model is recommended for its flexible placement.

Additional Measurements: Temperature and humidity measurement is a plus.

Visual Indication: Meters with color or LED (orange/red) indicators are useful for quick visual indication.

Calibration: Self-calibrating devices (ABC logic) or devices that can be easily calibrated manually with outside air are preferred.

Data Storage: Meters with data storage enable analysis and reporting.

The Flemish guidelines emphasize the need for accurate, mobile, and comprehensive monitoring for a healthy indoor climate. The Room You 1 sensor meets all these critical technical requirements, with an NDIR sensor, battery power, and measurement of all required climate parameters, thus offering a suitable and flexible solution for childcare facilities.

Jille Kuipers, Innovation Manager at LuxBalance, on the focus on CO2

The Flemish guidelines set the bar for healthy air in childcare very clearly: 900 ppm is the absolute target to protect the health of the most vulnerable group. This necessitates active monitoring. The Room You 1 is specifically designed to support professionals in this with a portable, battery-powered solution. This is crucial, because in childcare centers, often with complex or older building structures, you need to be able to place the meter in the most relevant location, away from electrical outlets. With our 5-in-1 measurements, we provide not only the required CO2 and temperature data, but also the light level, which is the basis for a holistic approach to well-being.

Reference

Department of Care. (2025). Quality handbook ventilation in childcare locations: Handbook for organizers, managers, prevention advisors, and technical staff of childcare locations. https://www.departementzorg.be