On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, the Belgian government published rules for the sale of portable CO2 meters, which measure indoor air quality.
Why is measuring CO2 important?
The concentration of CO2 in the outdoor air is currently around 420 parts per million (ppm). In exhaled air, this can increase to 38000 ppm. A too high concentration can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances and germs, which can cause health problems and incur societal costs.
Measuring CO2 makes it possible to take action if the concentration becomes too high. This may include reporting a faulty ventilation system, opening windows and doors, or limiting the number of people in the room.
The Royal Decree sets minimum requirements for portable CO2 meters, including:
- Effective measurement of CO2
- A measurement range of 0 to at least 2000 ppm
- Auto-calibration or calibration according to manufacturer instructions
- Accuracy according to standard NBN EN 50543:2011
- A technical manual
Certification by an accredited laboratory and supervision by the FPS Public Health.
If you already have one, you do not need to replace it. After March 22, 2024, federal inspectors will check whether the CO2 meters available on the Belgian market comply with the new requirements.
More info at Recommendations from the Taskforce for CO2 sensors | FPS Public Health (belgium.be)
