Breathe Easy by Controlling Indoor Air Quality
With COVID-19 transmitted through air particles, indoor air quality has taken on renewed importance off the back of the pandemic.
In trying to curb the spread of the virus, COVID restrictions included provisions around good ventilation. This involved mixing indoor air with external air via extractor fans or open windows. As these restrictions are eased, the question of good air quality remains enduring and the argument for effective mechanical systems is strong. This has seen calls to government for legal standards of ventilation and how we regulate indoor air quality.
Buildings and Wellness: The Question of Indoor Air Quality
The pandemic continues to send shockwaves through our lives. One area that is affected is the built environment and how it serves good health. Within schools, the Education Secretary has been petitioned to improve ventilation and increase technology in classrooms to prevent illness amongst children and further disruption to classes. This is especially highlighted as budget constraints could affect their abilities to implement basic indoor air quality precautions.
In general, facilities managers, building and business owners are also being encouraged to evaluate their practices against proposed change to regulation around indoor air quality by organisations like BESA, who are calling for stricter regulations.
Ventilation Problems Highlighted by COVID-19
As mentioned above, COVID-19 was a catalyst for investigation into the effectiveness of existing ventilation systems. It has been reported that these investigations have revealed issues in the ‘design, management, and operation of buildings’, with the public wanting assurances around adequate ventilation and good air quality. This is not only to prevent ill health, but also to address the all-round comfort, health, and productivity of building occupants.
Mechanical Ventilation and Commitment to Indoor Air Quality
Mechanical ventilation seems to be a core component of the solution. Back in the school environment, recent research has shown that mechanical ventilation operating at British Standards rates eliminated most viral contamination within half an hour and these were removed completely over a two-hour lunch break.
Improved Air Quality: Let’s Get Started
In the UK, the Indoor Air Quality Standards Regulations are the compliance vehicle for indoor air quality. Here are a few top tips to achieving good indoor air quality in your building:
– It starts with good ventilation – but this needs to be implemented with careful consideration around factors like the quality of outdoor air and whether it needs to be filtered, the noise of natural or mechanical ventilation, energy costs of mechanical ventilation, and occupant comfort.
– Ensure regular maintenance of your HVAC systems to prevent the solution from contributing to the problem and to avoid disruptions and mechanical faults.
– Engage in indoor air quality monitoring. For reliability, work with a facilities maintenance service provider for compliance and best practice advice.
Partner With Voltix Services For Your Indoor Air Quality Needs
Some of the most meaningful indoor air quality efforts are made in partnership with facilities specialists. At Voltix Services, our team provides friendly service and expert advice around your indoor air quality. From assisting commercial businesses with reliable, professional routine preventative maintenance to indoor air quality monitoring, we partner with businesses to achieve results that matter. Contact us to find out more.