COVID-Proofing Your Air

Call it “Murphy’s law”, “sod’s law” or just an unintended consequence, but making seemingly appropriate adjustments to building operations in the time of COVID-19 should be taken with caution and advice from technical experts.

We are hearing from so many people that they are seeking basic tips and guidance on making their buildings safer/healthier in light of COVID-19.

But it just isn’t that simple. Unfortunately, over-simplification of the measures to be taken can give building owners and occupants a false sense of security.

For example, a broad directive to increase outdoor air as a means of increasing air flow can lead to mold growth in your facility. The hope is it would be in a place that you can recognize it. The reality is it very well won’t be.

As we see a focus on mitigating the airborne spread of COVID-19, we also see an increase in over-generalized guidance that neglects the details that accompany these recommendations.

For example, implementation of HEPA filtration could reduce airflow or require costly system modifications. Or, increasing outdoor air could mean increasing cooling and heating capability. On the other hand, “local” attempts with supplemental equipment may prove challenging or ineffective depending on the structure and organization of your space. (Think about all of the obstructions in your space to fully circulating your air.)

Amid all of the recommendations currently circulating, the best and foremost recommendation we can provide is to seek advice from technical experts in the decision making process of your building’s modifications.

Remember that guidance is only intended to guide discussion as it relates to your unique facility. We say unique because there is no specific solution that meets the need of every building. Instead, modification and operations should be specifically tailored to the demands of your facility, the capacity of your system, and the health and wellbeing of your people and operations.

Neglecting to consult a technical expert can lead to many unintended consequences, the likes of which negate your intentions to keep your people, your building, and your operations safe and well. We are thrilled to see operations and facility managers taking an invested interest in the air quality of their spaces. But, modification should not be made without expert knowledge.

If you need a team, our mechanical engineers are here, ready to help, and utilizing guidelines distributed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

#ProblemSolved: Our Mechanical Engineering team is here to help. If you have questions, send an email to Bruce Bell, PE at bruce.bell@ssmgroup.com or give a call to 610-898-3079