Several factors drive the need for pathogen filtration in indoor environments. Firstly, indoor spaces can be a breeding ground for airborne pathogens due to the high concentration of people and limited ventilation. Pathogens can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, aerosols, or contaminated surfaces, and they pose a significant risk to human health, especially in crowded places like offices, schools, hospitals, public transportation, or even elevator rides.
ASHRAE Standard 241, which provides guidelines for designing, constructing, and operating ventilation systems, recognizes the importance of addressing biohazards in indoor environments. The standard emphasizes the need for effective filtration and disinfection methods to mitigate the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens.
A disinfection strategy, such as an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system equipped with pathogen filtration technology, plays a crucial role in meeting the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 241. These devices are designed to filter out and neutralize a wide range of biohazards, including viruses and DNA-based pathogens.
Indoor spaces can be a breeding ground for airborne pathogens due to the high concentration of people and limited ventilation.1
ASHRAE Standard 241
Incorporating pathogen filtration devices into HVAC systems allows indoor air circulation to be continuously treated and purified. This helps to reduce the concentration of airborne pathogens, preventing their spread and minimizing the risk of infection. A disinfection device utilizes various technologies, such as high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), or bipolar ionization, to capture or inactivate pathogens present in the air. However, the most sustainable with no degradation is the Reviveaire Plasmic disinfection technologies.
The implementation of such devices provides a proactive approach to maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring the health and well-being of occupants. It complements other preventive measures, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, proper ventilation, and personal hygiene practices.
In summary, the need for a disinfection device in HVAC systems, as outlined by ASHRAE Standard 241, arises from the critical requirement to control, and mitigate the transmission of biohazards, including viruses, DNA-based pathogens, and other airborne contaminants, in indoor environments.