HVAC increases in relative humidity may help fight COVID-19

The range of 40 to 60 percent RH may reduce contagion


While recent research has explored the seasonality of COVID-19, it is the overlap of seasons and HVAC system operation that determines the indoor environment—where most viral propagation occurs, according to an article on the Consulting-Specifying Engineer website.

Research has linked air between 40 and 60 percent relative humidity (RH) with less-effective aerosol travel, shorter airborne and surface survival times, lower transmission rates and more effective patient lung repair functions. 

However, hospitals in colder climates typically operate at lower RH levels (often 20 percent-30percent) during winter, in line with minimum requirements. 

Most Northern Hemisphere cities have a window of opportunity before summer arrives to increase humidification to 40 percent. 

Read the article.

 



April 24, 2020


Topic Area: Industry News


Recent Posts

Rethinking Carpeting's Role in Senior Care Facilities

New research from the Carpet and Rug Institute finds that carpet supports healthier indoor environments.


Parkview Health Breaks Ground on New Hospital in West Lafayette, IN

The hospital is scheduled to open in June 2028.


Loma Linda University Health Experiences Data Breach via AI Tool

A file containing limited patient information was inadvertently uploaded to an external artificial intelligence (AI) platform.


Inside One of Healthcare's Most Ambitious Hospital Projects 

When someone faces a serious medical condition, having access to world-class care close to home can make all the difference. 


Turning Condensate Loss into a Systemwide Steam Efficiency Opportunity

Case study: How APM Steam helped Atrium Health Cabarrus uncover hidden steam system inefficiencies and build an actionable repair plan with a projected $144,949 in annual energy savings.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.