During the COVID-19 pandemic, discussions have occurred around the relationship between air movement and the spread of coronavirus. Some have blamed air conditioning for the virus’ spread throughout indoor spaces, whilst others have researched that the correct air conditioning can actually help limit the risk of coronavirus within enclosed areas. Let’s take a closer look as to why this may be and how you can make sure that your air conditioning is sufficient enough to help minimise the spread of COVID-19 within your workplace or commercial building.
Does air conditioning spread coronavirus?
A study published by Emerging Infectious Diseases discovered that nine people were first infected with the virus by sitting near an air conditioning vent in a restaurant in Wuhan, China. One asymptomatic diner spread the virus by sitting in front of the air conditioning unit, subsequently spreading the virus to nine other customers.
This then raised concerns about the use of air conditioning in public indoor spaces such as offices, restaurants and gyms; with so many people in these spaces at once and air conditioning moving the air around, surely this would quicken the spread of coronavirus? Not necessarily; this is where it is important to learn that some air conditioners (split units) recirculate the same air in the room, whereas others take in air from outdoors and then circulate.
How air conditioning affects COVID-19
Although the example of the restaurant in Wuhan may provide a case for air conditioning spreading the virus, recent studies have shown that as long as air conditioning is used in the correct way, it can actually be used to lessen the risk of COVID-19. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), a well-mainted air conditioning system can be used to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as long as it is used to increase the use of outdoor air in the space, rather than air recirculation.
The UK Health and Safety Executive also supports this claim, stating that the risk of air conditioning spreading coronavirus is extremely low “as long as there is an adequate supply of fresh air and ventilation.” It is also worth noting that a centralised ventilation system that repurposes and circulates the same air should be turned off.
Therefore to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus in an inside space, focus on supplying good air ventilation through robust air conditioning systems or if you are immediately concerned, simply opening doors and windows to allow fresh air into the space will help put your mind at ease.
TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections
Unsure of the quality of your air conditioning during these uncertain times? Building Energy Group are accredited air conditioning assessors, with a dedicated team who deal with just TM44 inspections, which is a dedicated air conditioning legislation. This means that not only will you receive expert service, we will also ensure that you don’t miss legislation expiry meaning that you always remain compliant.
The TM44 air conditioning inspection and report aim to provide building owners and managers with peace of mind of the efficiency of their air conditioning systems. The findings from the report are followed with recommendations, which often do not require any financial outlay; one of the many advantages of conducting a TM44 air conditioning inspection.
Find out more about arranging an air conditioning inspection with us here.