African Journal of
Environmental Science and Technology

  • Abbreviation: Afr. J. Environ. Sci. Technol.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1996-0786
  • DOI: 10.5897/AJEST
  • Start Year: 2007
  • Published Articles: 1145

Article in Press

Microbial Air Quality in Academic Offices: A Study at Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Nigeria.

Ekempiata Efeosa, Anthony Odiwe, Olayinka Osuolale

  •  Received: 21 February 2025
  •  Accepted: 21 February 2025
This study evaluated microbial indoor air quality in 40 staff offices at Elizade University, focusing on bacterial and fungal contamination and their relationship with environmental and spatial factors. Using the settle plate method, microbial loads were measured, revealing bacterial counts ranging from 12 to 303 CFU/m³ and fungal counts from 2 to 148 CFU/m³. Pathogenic species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Aspergillus were identified, with some offices exceeding NESREA-recommended thresholds, posing potential health risks. Temperature showed a moderate positive correlation with bacterial (r = 0.31) and fungal (r = 0.32) loads, while humidity had a weaker association with bacteria (r = 0.24) and negligible impact on fungi (r = -0.06). Office volume moderately influenced bacterial contamination (r = 0.362) but had a weaker effect on fungi (r = 0.189), suggesting larger spaces may be more susceptible to bacterial buildup. Although microbial distribution was consistent across floors, significant variations between offices highlighted the need for localized assessments. The findings emphasize the importance of improved indoor air quality management, particularly in larger offices and areas with temperature fluctuations, to protect staff health and productivity. This research provides a foundation for developing policies to optimize indoor air quality in academic environments.