Air conditioning – what is the role in transmission of COVID-19
1Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide
Air conditioning (HVAC) in indoor spaces has traditionally aimed to provide comfort for occupants, by conditioning air temperature, air movement, and some extent humidification and filtration of airborne particles. The recognition that COVID-19 may be transmitted by long range bioaerosol exposure has focussed attention on the role of HVAC in modifying risk.
On the one hand, a greater air exchange and more efficient filtration should reduce risk. Appropriate modification of HVAC systems can reduce virus-laden aerosol buildup and redistribution, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces. However, there is limited epidemiological evidence for reduced risk. On the other hand, poorly directed air flows, notably from viral source to susceptible receiver, air stratification and pressure differentials can increase virus exposure.
This presentation considers exposure scenarios, especially for quarantine hotels, and what HVAC can and can’t do. The role of air purifiers as a supplement to HVAC, and the importance of HVAC testing and maintenance, are also considered.
Biography:
Dino Pisaniello is Adjunct Professor in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene and recently retired Director of the OEH Laboratory and Adelaide Exposure Science and Health in the School of Public Health at the University of Adelaide.
Dino is a Past President of the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists and, from 2001 – 2005 was the Chairman of the Congress of Occupational Safety and Health Association Presidents. He is the immediate past Australian Secretary of the International Commission on Occupational Health.
Dino works with various professional and industry groups to translate evidence into practice in order to advance the health and wellbeing of communities in Australia and internationally.
Dino has published in excess of 250 scientific papers and technical reports. His publications address hazards in mining, manufacturing, defence, healthcare, agriculture, domestic and office environments, work and vision and climate change impacts on health. He has expertise in chemical hazard risk assessment and management, occupational and environmental epidemiology, intervention research, and health and safety education.