HVAC Air Conditioning Filtration Against Omicron in the Philippines
On November 24th, 2021, the Omicron COVID-19 variant (B.1.1.529) was detected in South Africa. After the United States identified Omicron as a Variant of Concern on December 1, it has rapidly become the focal point of a new COVID-19 surge for winter 2021.
According to CDC statistics, the Omicron strain has been found in over 15 US states and territories as of December 6th, 2021. As with the Delta variation, Omicron is said to spread more quickly and easily than the original COVID-19 strain. Early WHO statistics reveal that Omicron may spread up to twice as quickly as the Delta variant.
As reported by the CDC, existing immunizations remain effective at lowering the risk of hospitalization and serious illness due to COVID-19. The CDC continues to promote vaccines as the best public health strategy for protecting individuals against COVID-19 and reducing the risk of additional variants arising.
However, with the COVID-19 outbreak and the emergence of new strains, many individuals are concerned about how to protect themselves when inside. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, businesses may implement a variety of viral mitigation policies and procedures.
Along with increasing facility cleanliness, the CDC advises improving indoor air quality (IAQ) via ventilation and air purifiers. When people are inside, they may be at a high risk of catching COVID-19 by aerosol transfer. As the CDC reports, increasing the amount of clean air delivered inside may help dilute any virus particles existing in the air. As part of this multi-layered viral mitigation strategy, IAQ improvements may directly lower the probability of COVID-19 transmission.
Several common approaches for enhancing Air Conditioning Filtration include the following:
- Systems of portable HEPA air purifiers
- It is advisable to use a higher-rate HVAC MERV filter, MERV 8-13.
- Rebalancing and upgrading the HVAC system to boost the building’s overall airflow and outside air intake.
- When the weather and environmental circumstances permit, open windows and doors to allow for fresh outside air.
- Increase air circulation inside enclosed places by using standalone and high-velocity fans.
- Induct UVGI-certified or UL/CARB-certified electronic air cleaning and purification technologies into HVAC systems.
Click below to read the magazine
Click here to download the magazine, Air Conditioning Filtration
Click here to read on Yumpu, Air Conditioning Filtration
