As West Michigan businesses re-engage and employees return to their traditional office spaces, companies are preparing with new health and sanitation requirements, screening for COVID-19 symptoms, and stocking up on PPE. These efforts are critical in keeping transmissions of COVID-19 to a minimum, but there is an additional step that each business should be taking: address your indoor air quality.
HVAC SOLUTIONS THAT REDUCE VIRUS SPREAD
In studies of past virus outbreaks, HVAC systems were found to spread viruses throughout buildings. Since the most recent outbreak, Egan’s engineering team has been conducting extensive research to determine solutions for existing HVAC systems that may minimize this spread. While each system is unique, the following steps may be effective in improving indoor air quality:
- Increased Ventilation
- Increased Filtration
- Humidification
- Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation
- Bi-Polar Ionization (pictured)
Many of these options can be used in conjunction with one another for greater results. Egan’s engineers will advise on the optimal solution for your building. In addition, our team of service and controls specialists can retro commission your building’s HVAC and/or BMS systems per ASHRAE standards.
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE & CORONAVIRUS
Standard preventative maintenance measures -- such as cleaning coils and changing filters -- also have the potential to reduce virus spread. However, if active virus is present in these systems, precautions are needed to prevent personnel from being exposed. Egan’s service specialists are trained and experienced in these type of preventative maintenance procedures that are typically conducted in pharmaceutical settings.
COST SAVINGS AND BENEFITS
Some of these solutions also have the potential to reduce operating costs by lowering long-term energy usage. Other benefits may include:
- Reduced TVOC levels
- Elimination of odors
- Eliminate the virus and/or reduce the spread both in the HVAC systems and on direct space surfaces
REDUCE TOUCHPOINTS & INCREASE SANITATION
Frequent handwashing remains one of the most important measures to prevent COVID-19 spread. By installing sinks and fixtures with touchless technology, Egan can help reduce the number of high-touch surfaces in your building and give employees more opportunities to wash their hands.
For a quote on any of these solutions, complete our online form or call us at 616-791-9952.