Scientists are discussing a “paradigm shift” in ventilation

According to these experts, there is Great disparity Under the sanitary standards for food and water .. and the absence of rules for airborne pathogens.

Almost 40 researchers from around the world contacted on Thursday, May 13th “Quantum leap” By calling for the implementation of ventilation standards in buildings, in order to better fight against respiratory infections such as Covid-19, which are transmitted through the air in the future. “In the 21st century, we must lay the foundation to ensure that the air in our buildings (…) is clean as we would expect from the water coming out of our faucets.”They wrote in a copy of the prestigious magazine Science.

According to them, there is Great disparity Among the health standards that governments have set for food and water control tests, wastewater laws … – and the lack of regulations regarding airborne pathogens. The reason is given: It is difficult to determine their origin and their health consequences are more common. Inhalation of fine particles in suspension with viruses “This is likely to be the dominant mode of transmission for many respiratory infections.”, Expert note.

“For decades, architects and engineers have focused on thermal comfort, odor control (…), energy consumption, and other performance issues, while infection prevention has been neglected.”Scientists write. The only rule at this point: replenish the air enough to avoid the excess carbon dioxide levels from inhaling passengers. The WHO also has recommendations on indoor air quality for chemicals, but no “To fight bacteria or viruses that come from human respiration”, Expert note.

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practically, Air purification can be done by embedding filters in an HVAC system or by portable air purifiers.They add. It can also be disinfected by ultraviolet light systems. to Ventilation They can be deployed to encourage good practices, and to spread air quality information to raise awareness. The set of criteria should differ according to the places and the intensity of activities that are conducted there (gyms, cinemas …).

The researchers acknowledge that these measures involve costs. But it must be compared to what causes epidemics. That would be huge.. “It is estimated that the necessary investments (…) will not increase the construction costs of a standard building by more than 1%.”According to the text.

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