TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taipei City Department of Environmental Protection has announced the results of an indoor air quality inspection conducted at sports venues and fitness centers across the city.

Sports and fitness facilities with a floor area exceeding 2,000 square meters must comply with the Indoor Air Quality Management Act, according to the Ministry of Environment. In October, city inspectors evaluated 27 venues for air pollutants such as carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, bacteria, and suspended particulate matter (PM10), per CNA.

Two venues failed to meet indoor air quality standards, both operated by the fitness chain World Gym.

At World Gym’s Daan Branch, formaldehyde levels exceeded permissible standards by 0.1 ppm. In response, the Taipei City Government issued an official warning and posted a notice at the gym entrance, setting a deadline of Dec. 12 for necessary air quality improvements. Failure to comply could result in a fine ranging from NT$50,000 to NT$250,000 (US$1,542–7,708).

The Taipei City Department of Environmental Protection noted that formaldehyde is an irritant to the skin and mucous membranes. It urged businesses to use green building materials and water-based paints for interior decorations to reduce formaldehyde emissions, protecting customers from unexpected health risks.

World Gym’s Ximen Branch also violated air quality standards due to elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the venue implemented the required improvements and has since been deemed fully compliant with regulations.