The COVID-19 engineering solutions that we provide mostly correspond to the HVAC systems. ASHRAE, OSHA and the CDC have all provided recommendations for in-room filtration, and we do our best to meet and exceed those goals. We assess current systems for inefficiencies and provide solutions to improve what is currently available.
So what steps do we take?
1. We typically start by assessing current systems and identify areas that can be harmful if not improved. We analyze existing air systems, outside dampers and their conditions / settings, types of existing filters and design pressure drop, existing AHYs with demand-controlled ventilation, current EMS settings and more.
2. Once insufficiencies are identified, we recommend engineering solutions. These may include ensuring outside air ventilation airflow rate and controls meet current code requirements, improving central air and enhancing filtration to MERV-13 or highest level achievable and keeping systems for occupied buildings running longer hours to provide better ventilation flushing.
3. Additionally, we may use neutralization and dilution tactics to mitigate the spread. Solutions for this include the use of an Ultra Violet Germicidal Irradiation system in each air handling unit and providing building operators with humidification and dehumidification systems and controls.
Students put faith in their school to keep them safe and healthy. There is no better way to provide that to students than to defer to the experts.
Over the past 30 years, P2S has worked on more than 2,000 education projects with 30 + higher education campuses. Every campus has unique goals and priorities. The engineering solutions outlined in this assessment are just a sliver of successful cases and tactics that we’ ve utilized.