Equipment manufacturers have released revised recommendation on how to manage ventilation systems during the Coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement, Eurovent said the latest research is that the virus (SARS-CoV-2) is spread through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
The droplets do not remain in suspension, but generally fall to the ground or land on other surfaces at a short distance from the infected person — this is why social and physical distancing are effective in preventing the spread of the virus.
“There is currently no evidence that the coronavirus can spread through ventilation or air conditioning systems,” the statement said.
“There is no doubt that the concentration of the smaller airborne droplets, which may contain viruses including viruses other than SARS-CoV-2 should be kept as low as possible. This can be achieved by correctly operating mechanical ventilation systems.”
The general Eurovent recommendation is to maintain and operate ventilation systems in accordance with instructions and applicable hygiene standards. As a precaution for the pandemic risk period, the following measures may be useful:
Increase ventilation rates and increase the percentage of outdoor air in the system; extend the operation time of the ventilaion system; check ventilation units are properly set up and they are serviced correctly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Eurovent said consider maintaining the indoor relative humidity above 30% where posible. As soon as new reliable information about the disease and how it spreads is available, the recommendation will be updated.
|
|
|