The Airliner Cabin Environment and the Health of Passengers and Crew

Although poor air quality is probably not the hazard that is foremost in peoples' minds as they board planes, it has been a concern for years. Passengers have complained about dry eyes, sore throat, dizziness, headaches, and other symptoms. Flight attendants have repeatedly raised questions about the safety of the air that they breathe. The Airliner Cabin Environment and the Health of Passengers and Crew examines in detail the aircraft environmental control systems, the sources of chemical and biological contaminants in aircraft cabins, and the toxicity and health effects associated with these contaminants. The book provides some recommendations for potential approaches for improving cabin air quality and a surveillance and research program. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 Environmental Control 3 Chemical Contaminants and Their Sources 4 Biological Agents 5 Health Considerations Related to Chemical Contaminants and Physical Factors 6 Health Surveillance 7 Air-Quality Measurement Techniques and Applications 8 Surveillance and Research Programs on Cabin Air Quality Appendix A: Biographical Information on Committee Members Appendix B: Building-Related Symptoms Appendix C: Relevant Federal Aviation Regulations Appendix D: Additional Monitoring Techniques Appendix E: Glossary