Air quality meters compulsory in all public places from next year

Belgium will require air quality meters in all public indoor spaces from next year, under new national legislation designed to improve monitoring of indoor environments and protect overall public health.

The rule, set to take effect in 2027, applies to a broad range of spaces including shops, offices, schools, restaurants and other spaces open to the public.

Operators of these locations will be responsible for installing and maintaining devices that measure air quality indicators such as carbon dioxide, temperature and humidity. Regular reporting of measurements will be expected as part of compliance.

The policy update aims to raise awareness of indoor air conditions and promote healthier environments, particularly in light of concerns about respiratory infections, long-term exposure to poor air quality and disease spread in crowded spaces.

Under the new guidelines, establishments must use certified measurement equipment and ensure devices are positioned where they can reliably capture correct data. Federal authorities say that air quality meters are intended to provide real-time information to users of indoor spaces.

Belgium’s updated indoor air quality policy aligns with overall European Union efforts to prioritise healthier indoor environments, reflecting growing scientific evidence on the importance of ventilation and air quality for public wellbeing.