Designers, engineers, and commercial building owners have several ways to safeguard indoor air during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Office buildings can slow the spread by spacing desks at least six feet apart and by implementing a few ventilation measures including increasing outdoor air flow. Installing Minimum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) 13 and above filters—commonly used in hospitals—in air handlers can also have an impact. Indoor air cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air filters will remove even more particulates including pathogens.
Lesser-known strategies include CASPR (Continuous Air and Surface Pathogen Reduction) devices that spray trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide into indoor air that kills pathogens in the air and on surfaces. Short-wave ultraviolet light is also effective in neutralizing pathogens.
This technology can be employed by installing Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation [UVGI] in high-room [9-feet or higher] lighting applications in mechanical units and heating ducts.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Test method for vertical fenestration installation procedures updated
FGIA issues first update for document created in 2005.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Updated EPDs for Polyiso Roof and Wall Insulation; EPD for Polyiso High-Density Cover Boards published
Cover Boards EPD is an industry first.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Newly formed Rainscreen Association aims to be recognized authority on rainscreen assemblies
Will address innovations in material performance and building designs.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Investors want building resiliency plans and risk mitigation practices
Owners should assess risk, insurance coverage, and ability to withstand disasters.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2020
OSHA cites more than 200 employers for COVID-19 violations
Agency releases guidance on lessons learned from pandemic inspections.
Codes and Standards | Dec 1, 2020
Pandemic spurs nearly 16 million people to move from major cities
Most of the movement seems permanent.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
USGBC ready to catalyze LEED Positive future
New programs, updates will spur shift to regenerative strategies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Updated spec for self-adhering flashing surrounding exterior fenestration products released
FGIA document was last updated in 2013.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Finalized 2021 Energy Code leaves out future-proofing provision
Appeals process nixed requirement for residential electrification readiness.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
GBCI turns over GRESB ownership to global investment firm
Organization assesses sustainability performance of real estate and infrastructure portfolios and assets.
