The Delta variant has complicated matters, and there’s little doubt that the game has changed. But how does poor indoor air quality actually affect your health and wellness?
Many companies are switching over to a hybrid schedule model. What does this mean? It means the employees can choose to be flexible. They are no longer required to be onsite or in the office five days a week for eight hours a day. The conventional idea of the full-time forty-hour workweek is changing. Working remotely and working from home is now the more prominent way to get white-collar work done. The Delta variant has complicated matters, and there’s little doubt that the game has changed. But how does poor indoor air quality actually affect your health and wellness?
Groups Most Vulnerable to Hazardous Air
As has been evident during the earliest stages of the Covid crisis, a handful of population groups are more vulnerable to the virus than others. This reality overlaps with the four groups that need the cleanest air possible. Despite the distribution of safe and effective vaccines, infants to teenagers are still bound to be affected more acutely by Covid. Most of the vaccines produced so far have been given to adults and teenagers, yes, but children under 12 have not been so lucky. Likewise, adults 60 and over are more at risk, hence why they were the first age group to receive the vaccinations. As such, anyone with severe respiratory conditions or people who are immunocompromised can be affected as well. That’s one of the reasons why booster shots are on the table.
The Matter of Inadequate Source Control
Source control is one of the most important ways to improve your building’s IAQ. Mold, dust, bad odors, smoke, and viruses come and go more quickly than you might think. It gets even scarier when you realize that viruses are invisible. Air filters with higher MERV ratings make a positive difference. Likewise, electronic air cleaners and UV sterilization systems eliminate microorganisms or, at the very least, weaken them, so the viral loads are not as large.
AC Units and UV Systems
We’ve previously discussed the true potential of room air purifiers, needlepoint bi-polar ionization, and other related technologies. Ultraviolet light systems are worth their weight in gold as well. Besides, there are a few key points to know about AC units and HVACs. Mold and viruses are not there when the HVAC is first installed. Moreover, any mold and viruses that are present come from the people and environments around the unit. Finally, do your best to minimize the amount of moisture on system components and across your office space at large.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals navigate the post-COVID-19 environment. We can develop a cost-effective, customized program for your building that will mitigate the potential health risks of COVID-19. Click Here to Request a Quote!
To learn more about the importance of reopening your building safely, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 202.600.2787 or sales@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority treatment with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and Pinterest!