Ventilation and COVID-19 Risk Reduction

V. FAYE MCNEILL, Richard Corsi, J. Alex Huffman, Cathleen King, Robert Klein, Michael Lamore, Shelly L. Miller, Nga Lee Ng, Paula Olsiewski, Krystal Godri Pollitt, Rachel Segalman, Alex Sessions, Todd Squires, Sabrina Westgate, Columbia University

     Abstract Number: 444
     Working Group: Aerosol Science of Infectious Diseases: What We Have Learned and Still Need to Know about Transmission, Prevention, and the One Health Concept

Abstract
Layered risk reduction is an effective approach for reducing transmission of airborne pathogens including SARS-CoV-2. Such an approach may include adequate ventilation, air filtration, indoor air quality monitoring, and masks. Long-term investment in interventions which contribute to a healthy environment but rely less on personal responsibility, such as ventilation, filtration and IAQ monitoring, is desirable. Besides reduction in the transmission risk for SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens, these interventions will lead to improved indoor air quality, with health co-benefits.

We will discuss these points and present data from experiences where we partnered with facilities managers to characterize ventilation and to mitigate issues where they were identified. We will present an overview of approaches for measuring air exchange along with their advantages and disadvantages. We will share results from various building ages, types, locations, and climates, highlighting their commonalities and differences, and discuss best practices.