Ventilation is one component of mitigation strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the school setting. By increasing ventilation in buildings, less viral particles remain in the air, reducing the spread of illness. Increased ventilation can occur through use of HVAC systems, portable air cleaners with HEPA filters, and/or opening windows.
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COVID-19 Management Plan Template Sections
(Tables 5-7)
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Prevention
(Table 5) |
Response- High Transmission
(Table 6) |
Recovery-Gradual Return to Baseline
(Table 7) |
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Airflow and Circulation
Ventilation is one component of mitigation strategies to prevent COVID-19 in the school setting.
Ventilation in Schools and ChildCare Programs | CDC
ESSER III: Improving Ventilation Brief
School Testing for COVID-19 | CDC
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Standard operating procedures have been established directing the inspection, maintenance, and filtration requirements of HVAC equipment as well as directions to maximize the ventilation of buildings by increasing fresh air intake, purging the building before and after occupancy, etc. Building HVAC outside air dampers will be adjusted such that their minimum damper setting meets recommended outside air infiltration rates per ADSHRAE 62.11-2019 “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.”
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During high levels of community spread ensure all systems are working at full capacity. Plan outside school events such as lunches, classes, recess when it is safe.
Additional mitigation measures include the assessment of individual spaces to determine the need for portable HEPA filtration systems.
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During moderate levels of community spread ensure all systems are working correctly. Monitor need for maintenance of systems. |