Feature
CONDAIR COVID-19 REPORT
LOOKS AT BUILT ENVIRONMENT
CONSIDERATIONS: PART 1
By Condair
With the increasing spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome
coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that results in coronavirus disease 19
(COVID-19), all citizens and other building owners and occupants have
an opportunity to reduce the potential for transmission through BE
mediated pathways.
O
making process about whether to implement social distancing
measures and for what duration.
Increased spread of SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19
infections worldwide has brought increased attention and fears
surrounding the prevention and control of SAR-CoV-2 from both
the scientific community and the general public. More than
300 000 cases have been reported worldwide, with over
100 000 recovering.
While many of the typical precautions typical for halting
the spread of SARS-CoV-2 are being implemented, other less
common transmission pathways should also be considered and
addressed to reduce further spread. Environmentally mediated
pathways for infection by other pathogens have been a concern
ver the last decade, substantial research into the
presence, abundance, diversity, function, and
transmission of microbes in the built environment (BE) has
taken place and revealed common pathogen exchange
pathways and mechanisms. The synthesises this microbiology
of the BE research and the known information about SARS-
CoV-2 to provide actionable and achievable guidance to BE
decision makers, building operators, and all indoor occupants
attempting to minimise infectious disease transmission
through environmentally mediated pathways. We believe
this information will be useful to corporate and public
administrators and individuals responsible for building
operations and environmental services in their decision-
The built environment can take measures to prevent further transmission of COVID-19
through the HVAC system.
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RACA Journal I May 2020
www.hvacronline.co.za