Scientists believe that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or simply talking. It happens at a much faster rate indoors than outdoors. As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, people can catch the virus through “droplets and particles that can linger in the air for minutes to hours.”
The CDC has also warned that the virus can spread over 6 feet in enclosed spaces with insufficient ventilation. In this post, we’ll tell you how to keep residential and commercial spaces virus-free.
#Step 1 Bring fresh air into your house
Ventilate the room—The best way to keep an indoor space safe is by constantly bringing outside air to replace the stale air inside. If a residential space is small and poorly ventilated, fresh air will help dilute any contaminants in the room. The CDC recommends using fans to enhance the airflow in the room. If close friends have gathered for a meal, consider shifting tables and chairs closer to open windows. It is important to note that even if people do not have any Covid-19 symptoms, it may still be a good idea to open windows.
Air conditioning—Activities such as exercising, shouting, and singing may increase the risk, especially indoors, of spreading the virus. Air conditioners help improve the air quality by catching all the dirt and dust in your indoor air. Some air conditioning units also contain plasma technology to kill bacteria and other contaminants. According to US EPA, air cleaners and HVAC filters can help reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a small space.
Limit the number of visitors in your home—If a large number of people stay inside a room for a long period, virus particles can accumulate. Limit the number of visitors in your home and keep the visits as short as possible.
Routine cleaning: Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces can reduce the risk of infection. A commercial establishment needs to follow regulations and standards practices. The first step is to determine the type of surface and how often the surface is touched. Highly exposed surfaces like tables, doorknobs, light switches, desks, toilets, sinks, elevator, and elevator buttons, should be cleaned regularly. Before disinfecting the entire space, ensure that sanitization workers use personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaners, and disinfectants.
Air Changes per Hour (ACH)—ACH refers to the volume of air added or removed from space in one hour. The ACH will vary with the type of building. The general ventilation rates to maintain a comfortable indoor environment ranges from 4 to 30. For instance, the 4 ACH is the minimum for any commercial or industrial building. However, the recommended ACH should be higher for spaces that may contain the virus, between 6-12.
HVAC systems—Commercial space owners can change their HVAC systems to help reduce the infection rate. These modifications include:
- Replace fixed-speed fan motors with variable-speed ones to improve airflow
- Implement airflow-control systems, for easy adjustment of airflows
- Increase outside air by 100% to isolation rooms
- Increase outside air by adding dedicated outdoor air units
About HIRO Systems Hawaii
We offer a wide range of sanitizing solutions suitable for various commercial and residential needs. We use proprietary products like TEG and HOCL tested and approved as non-toxic by CDC, FDA, and EPA. If you are looking for the best commercial non-toxic sanitizer solution, HIRO Systems Hawaii should be your one-stop destination.
You can reach out to us at (808) 359-2298. You can also fill our online contact form to know more about our services.