Particulate matter concentrations in social housing

Multifamily buildings generally, and social housing specifically, are an important component of most urban environments. Residents often exposed to higher concentrations indoor pollutants. We measured particulate matter (PM) in 91 smoking non-smoking apartments across seven Toronto, Canada before after energy retrofits. Particle varied greatly within between apartments. Of the four environmental factors examined (smoking, season, building, retrofit status), only (p < 0.001) had a significant effect all measurements. PM were two three times from this study than comparable measurements 21 single-family homes Toronto that used same particle monitor. A source detection algorithm reported elevated during 57% ± 12% each monitoring period, which was homes, suggesting sources likely responsible for concentration differences. Overall, we found disproportionately contribute health disparities highlight importance exposure reduction strategies building type.