As schools and workplaces prepare to reopen in the coming weeks, there are some immediate measures that can be taken to make the facilities safer and help implement social distancing guidelines. We have identified four major categories of upgrades that can significantly enhance the safety of the environments: HVAC, Restroom Upgrades, Door Hardware, and Signage. These measures can each contribute to the limiting of airborne and surface transmission of viruses. Signage plays a key role in communicating safe practices and new behaviors to limit transmission while communicating the commitment to creating a safe environment for working and learning.
HVAC
Specific to HVAC systems in general, MEP engineers have been recommending a ‘practical approach’ looking into implementing proven technologies that can be integrated into the new/existing equipment. Implementing some or all of them will be effective in increasing the indoor air quality.
Filter the air with increased Filtration which might include replacing MERV 8 with MERV 13 after filters integral to the air handling equipment. Please consult an engineer to determine if existing systems can handle increase pressure drop.
Dilute contaminants with operational changes such as running the HVAC system on economizer-mode before and after normal business hours to bring in more outside air and flush the system.
Sanitize the air with UV-C lights within the air handling equipment at cooling coils and possibly also in the air-stream.
Clear the air with Bipolar Ionization in the supply air main ducts to control odors within the system.
Here is a link to ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) guidelines on COVID-19 readiness and reopening guidance.
Plumbing Fixtures
Typical restrooms are extremely habitable space for virus and germs. The risk can be minimized by utilizing touchless technology to avoid cross contamination.
Faucets: While there are several universal touchless sensor adapters for existing faucets, these have not been widely tested in the commercial market. Replacing the existing faucets with battery operated touchless faucets would be much better in the long term. Sloan and Zurn have sensor operated faucets on battery power that eliminates the need for additional electrical work during installation.
Flush Valves: Retrofit sensor operated flush valves is an easy way to make water closets safer. This one from Global Industries is compatible with Royal and Regal Sloan manual flush valves. Sloan and Zurn also have retrofit flush valves that are proprietary to their brand of products. As tempting as it may be to go for solar powered units that charge from artificial lights, the occupancy sensor requirement of California Title 24 may make them ineffective. Better to go with battery operated kits.
Paper Towel Dispensers: Facilities are also advised against using electric hand dryers since they tend to disperse the virus and bacteria into the air. For the immediate use, it might be advisable to disable the existing hand dryers and provide wall mounted automatic towel dispensers such as this Bobrick model.
For facilities that already have paper towel dispensers, the increased towel use can be accommodated by providing roll towel in lieu of individual folded towels. This kit here can replace existing folded paper dispensers for field conversion.
Hardware
Door handles are another big concern since it is something everyone has to touch coming in and out of the restrooms. One easy implementation is adding this pull to operate door with arm or wrist.
There is another option as well. This one provides an anti-microbial sleeve over the push-pull handle which advances after each use, similar to the automatic toilet seat cover in some airports. It is battery operated and each refill cartridge holds enough material for 2600 uses. The refills are also recyclable.
Signage
Many reprographics companies and signage companies are producing Social Distancing Signage package, from window graphics and floor decals, to outdoor banners. It’s an easy and affordable way to visually promote social distancing.
ARC Signage (left)
40Visuals Social Distancing Signage | Vistaprint COVID-19 Products
