As the UK looks for ways to manage the summer heat during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilities managers should try to minimise the risks associated with air-conditioning to ensure a safe and healthy building environment.
More and more information is emerging linking coronavirus outbreaks to droplet transmission associated with HVAC systems. A new study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases (July 2020) concluded that coronavirus outbreaks are likely related to droplet transmission associated with air-conditioning within a space. This conclusion was reinforced in another study entitled, “2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Built Environment Considerations To Reduce Transmission.”
Despite these findings, both studies concluded that the disabling of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems is not a recommended measure to reduce the transmission of the virus. Rather, the authors recommended proper filtration and HVAC maintenance as a way to reduce the spread of droplets and reduce the airborne concentration of SARS-CoV-2. The studies also recommended window ventilation and greater spacing between tables as two additional measures that can be taken.
With this new information in mind, it is clear that facilities managers need a clear strategy to deal with HVAC systems. Because most humans spend 90% of their daily lives inside the built environment, it is essential to understand the potential transmission of COVID-19 inside these spaces. As people move through a building, there is not only direct and indirect contact with the surfaces around them, but viral particles can be directly deposited and resuspended due to natural and mechanical airflow patterns.
Consider taking the following steps to improve ventilation in your building. Remember that it is best to do this in consultation with an HVAC professional and to base your strategy on local environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity as well as to consider the ongoing community transmission in the area.
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- Increase the percentage of outdoor air to as much as 100% where possible.
- Increase the total supply of airflow to occupied spaces, where possible.
- Disable demand-control ventilation (DCV) controls that reduce air supply based on temperature or occupancy.
- Use natural ventilation strategies such as open windows where possible and safe to do so.
- Run the HVAC system at its maximum outside airflow for 2 hours before and after occupied times, in accordance with industry standards.
- Use portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) fan/filtration systems to help enhance the air quality. This type of air filter can potentially remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm).
- Ensure exhaust fans in bathrooms are functional and operating at full capacity when the building is occupied.
Voltix Services is up to date with the latest recommendations from Government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and we are accredited to carry out a range of testing, maintenance and compliance services in order to assist your facility in maintaining the highest levels of health and safety during the pandemic.
Enquire now to find out how Voltix Services can assist with expert advice and efficient service while you prepare your building for a safe return to work.