Under the current circumstances, it is important to continue ventilating. Here are some basic recommendations published by the Swedish Ventilation Association on how to handle the operation and maintenance of the ventilation during the ongoing corona pandemic.
Current knowledge about the spread of Coronavirus
The disease is mainly transmitted through drops from an infected person. Therefore, social and physical distancing is effective in preventing the spread. But viruses can also be found in droplets that are so small that they stay in the air long enough to keep up with the air moving indoors.
At present, there is no evidence that the airborne coronavirus infects through the ventilation systems, but one should still try to keep the concentration of airborne droplets down.
Recommended Precautions
As a precautionary measure during the ongoing corona pandemic, we recommend, based on Eurovent’s recommendation (2020-04-10) and REHVA’s guidance (version 2, 2020-04-03) for commercial and public premises:
- Maintain effective ventilation and ensure proper airflow.
- Turn off any recirculated air, so that all possible air consists of supply air if possible.
- Check that the units are aligned with the correct pressure balance and that service is performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Change filters as usual, ie; when the calendar or monitoring system indicates that it is time.
Follow good general practice when changing filters, and make sure that the staff uses the usual protective measures: comprehensive clothing, gloves, respiratory mask and goggles. Put the old filter in a plastic bag and seal it.
Reliable sources of information
The authorities continuously publish the latest information on www.krisinformation.se.
Further ventilation-related information about coronavirus can be found on the following websites:
Relevant hygienic guidance is given in the following recommendations and guidance from Eurovent: