Before we reopen my building to occupants, what should I consider about the ventilation system?

Ventilation System Start-Up

From big cities to small towns, organizations are faced with important decisions about how to safely reopen after a pandemic shutdown. TSI ventilation testing experts have put together the following steps to help you make informed decisions.

Businesses must evaluate the operational capacity, and increase, improve, and maintain ventilation provided throughout the building. 

1. Increase the outdoor air-percentage to increase dilution of contaminants, and eliminate recirculating, whenever possible, while maintaining indoor air-conditions.
2. For heating-ventilation-air-conditioning systems that recirculate air, businesses need to improve central-air filtration to at least the MERV-13 or the highest compatible with the filter rack (at least MERV-14 preferred) and seal the edges of filters to further limit by-pass around the filters.
3. Replace and upgrade air filters prior to re-occupancy.
4. Run systems on full economizer as outside air-conditions allow.
5. Consult an HVAC professional to ensure proper ventilation is maintained.

Additional Resources

From the CDC: Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduced Operation

Learn about TSI's ventilation testing and indoor air quality instruments

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