Engineering Strategies for Airborne Diseases

E N G I N E E R I N G S T R A T E G I E S

E X E C U T I V E S U M M A R Y

SITUATION

SUGGESTED HVAC SYSTEM SOLUTIONS

SUGGESTEDELECTRICAL SYSTEMSOLUTIONS

The Transmission of airborne disease is a concern in commercial buildings. There are many uncertainties with the current Covid- 19 pandemic which is not confirmed to be airborne yet. However, the World Health Organization continues to recommend airborne precautions for circumstances and settings according to risk assessment.

Improvements can be made to HVAC equipment, controls programing and facility operations. The following options are discussed in more detail throughout this document.

Improvements can be made to electrical systems to minimize the spread of viruses, bacteria and other germs. The following options are discussed with more detail throughout this document.

•

Increased Ventilation

•

Air Disinfection (GUV)

•

Air Filtration

•

Surface Disinfectant

•

Air Disinfection (UVGI)

•

Touch Free Operation

• Temperature & Humidity Control • Air Direction & Space Pressurization Control • Restroom Exhaust Control • Sequence of Operations Updates • Facility Operations & Maintenance

•

Emerging Technologies

OBJECTIVE

To reduce the risk of transmitting airborne diseases from infected individuals, through specific modifications to engineered systems in the building including operation changes and equipment upgrades. .

CONCLUSION These recommendations should be followed based on building risk assessment, and in conjunction with the Building Pandemic Management Plan. Impacts of these suggestions on the occupant comfort, building pressure control, energy usage and other systems should be considered and analyzed before implementation.