Blog: The Power of Pathogens
In this blog, we'll delve into the pivotal role that air ventilation plays in safeguarding health and well-being, particularly in environments where pathogens seem to have the upper hand.
What do cycles of illness, absenteeism in the workplace, recurring coughs and colds, and the recent resurgence of Covid in the UK have in common?
They all share a common thread: indoor air quality and ventilation.
Making the right choices about indoor air can make a world of difference in fostering healthier and more productive spaces. As winter approaches and the wide range of airborne pathogens looms once again, the importance of indoor air quality and ventilation comes to the forefront.
Adequate ventilation systems play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy indoor environment by effectively removing airborne pathogens and contaminants. An effective ventilation system can reduce the risk of infection, improve indoor air quality, enhance comfort and contribute to overall well-being.
Understanding the airborne threat
Airborne pathogens, invisible to the naked eye, transmit directly through the air can include viruses, like Covid, influenza (flu), the common cold and TB. In other cases we see dispersion through the air and contamination of surfaces and healthcare equipment, for example MRSA and norovirus. Other contaminants such as bacteria, allergens, pollutants, and odours can also pose significant health risks, especially in enclosed spaces where people gather.
As we spend more time indoors during the colder months, the risk of exposure and transmission tends to increase dramatically.
Ventilation and reducing the risk of infection
Good ventilation is a formidable weapon against the spread of airborne pathogens and contaminants, especially in enclosed spaces. It is a key step to diluting and removing pathogens from the air, reducing the concentration and making it less likely that people are exposed and reducing spread between spaces.
It is essential to avoid redistribution and prevent the spread throughout a building via extract air ductwork, recirculating AHU (Air Handling Units), and supply ductwork.
Below are three ventilation strategies which aim to minimise cross-contamination and dilute potential viral loads within indoor spaces.
1. Decentralised facade ventilation units: The use of decentralised facade ventilation units, such as PulseVentilation or Eco2School, is one option. These systems supply 100% outside air directly into the occupied space and exhaust the extract air directly to the atmosphere. This eliminates room-to-room cross-contamination and is highly effective in preventing the spread of pathogens and contaminants.
2. Units with outdoor fresh air supply: For systems that supply outside air (e.g., decentralised facade ventilation units, induction units and fan coils with primary fresh air supply), it is recommended to increase the outside fresh air volume, as long as it's acoustically acceptable. Also extend runtimes, starting ventilation early in the morning and continuing for a few hours after occupation ends. It is also recommended you maintain constant ventilation of meeting rooms, even when not in use.
Consider lowering the CO2 target value to 500 ppm to increase fresh air volume and runtime or use a timed program for CO2 control use displacement in preference to mixed flow.
3. Recirculation units without outside fresh air share: In rooms occupied by more than one person, the recommendation is to turn off systems that only recirculate air. If these units cannot be turned off, ensure sufficient fresh air supply via window ventilation. Monitoring CO2 concentration and installing CO2 level indicators can help assess ventilation adequacy. Upgrading filter types and replacement schedules is crucial for recirculating fan coils.
The recommendations emphasise the importance of increasing fresh air supply, adopting decentralised ventilation units, monitoring CO2 levels, and maintaining high-quality filters to mitigate the risk of pathogen transmission through ventilation systems.
Moving forward
As the challenges of the changing seasons and ongoing health concerns persist, whether in home, work, school, leisure or healthcare facilities, there is no denying ventilation is an essential component of a healthy and safe indoor environment.
At Motorised Air Products (MAPUK), we are dedicated to supporting you in creating well ventilated indoor environments. Our technical knowledge and innovative solutions, backed by our range of high-quality products, ensures that indoor spaces are safer and healthier. Delivering a sense of security and well-being for all.
Looking for guidance on your next project? Reach out to our team at info@mapuk.com or explore more at www.mapuk.com.
About the author
Barry Hobday is the Managing Director at Motorised Air Products (MAPUK). With the help of innovative research, MAPUK and its associated suppliers are committed to using pioneering product design and technology to provide unique solutions in air ventilation.