Safe Work Australia has produced a fact sheet on improving ventilation in indoor workplaces, especially in relation to possible exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
In a statement, Safe Work Australia gave the example of ensuring heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems were well-maintained and operating properly and turning off or limiting air recirculation.
“These actions can help to manage the risk of COVID-19 in indoor workplaces,” the Agency said.
“Before you allow your workers to resume work after a period of shutdown, you should confirm with the building owner or facilities manager that the correct start-up procedures and control settings are in place to reduce any risks associated with the HVAC system being restarted.”
Managers should consider adjusting the settings of their HVAC system to help minimise the risk of COVID-19, it said. This included not recirculating the air or limiting the level of recirculation.
“Ensuring HVAC systems are well-maintained and operating properly includes any risks associated with the HVAC system being restarted after a period of shutdown,” Safe Work Australia said.
“These steps will help to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission and improve ventilation in indoor settings,” it said.
“However, the most effective ways to minimise the risk of COVID-19 infection at your workplace are to ensure your workers do not attend work if they are unwell, to practice physical distancing, and to maintain good hygiene and environmental cleaning.”
Safe Work’s factsheet can be accessed at this PS News link.
