Wirral's indoor air quality study

We spend 90% of our time indoors. Wirral Council and Liverpool John Moores University are carrying out a new study on indoor air quality in homes in Wirral.

We want to understand what air quality is like inside our homes and, where necessary, provide handy hints and tips, to improve it.

Who is involved in the study?

Liverpool John Moores University is carrying out the study, supported by officers from Wirral Council. We are asking several householders to join the study which involves plugging in a smart digital sensor to monitor the air quality in their homes.  

What do participants have to do?

  • participants will be asked to plug in a smart digital sensor. This sensor is small and silent. It has no camera and does not record sound. It is cheap to run, costing approximately 80p per month
  • for the first 2 weeks, the monitor checks your usual air levels
  • you don’t need to do anything during this time. You will get an app or leaflet with easy tips to make your air better
  • these tips are simple things like opening windows, avoiding sprays or improving ventilation

What does the device measure?

  • temperature and humidity: cold temperatures and too much humidity can lead to mould growth, which can cause breathing problems
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Too much CO2 can cause symptoms such as drowsiness and headaches
  • Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Tiny dust particles that you can breathe in and could affect your heart and lungs etc
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Invisible chemical gases from household products that can irritate your eyes, nose and throat
  • it cannot detect other specific pollutants such as cannabis smoke

Is the smart digital monitor safe to use?

  • yes! The monitor only checks air quality
  • your information is protected under UK data protection laws (GDPR)
  • no one can see or hear inside your home

GDPR and Data Protection

This research is conducted strictly under UK data protection laws and is GDPR compliant.

The device sends air quality readings to a secure, university-approved system.  Your location is not identified, and no sound or video recordings are made. 

 What are the benefits to joining the study?

  • hints and tips to help improve the quality of air in your home
  • real-time information about your indoor air
  • a £25 shopping voucher for participating in the study

Who owns the device?

The equipment remains the property of Liverpool John Moores University and is loaned to you for the duration of the study. Once the study concludes, we will arrange a convenient time to collect the devices from you.

How long will the study last?

The monitors will be in place for approximately 12 months. We will contact you at the end of the term to manage the equipment return.

Can I withdraw from the study?

Yes. Participation is voluntary. You may withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason. Upon withdrawal, we will stop data collection and, where possible, delete previously recorded data at your request.

Need further information?

You can contact the following people via email if you require additional information:

Page updated 11 June 2026