INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND CHALLENGES IN NURSERY FACILITIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

This study investigated indoor environmental management in nursery facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan, focusing on the Tokai and Hokushinetsu regions. A questionnaire survey revealed that most facilities emphasized window ventilation, but mechanical ventilation was underutilized. Increased ventilation led to issues such as thermal discomfort and dryness, particularly in winter. Regional differences were observed in the adoption of indoor environmental devices such as humidifiers and air purifiers, reflecting climate conditions. Compared to the post-H1N1 survey, the installation of such infection control equipment has advanced in nursery facilities.