Applying CDC Building Recommendations in Your Environment
Maintaining a healthy indoor environment is essential, and proper ventilation is a key strategy for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in schools and childcare settings. Wearing a well-fitting, multi-layer mask reduces the chance of virus particles entering the air or being inhaled by the wearer. Additionally, good ventilation helps lower the concentration of airborne virus particles, minimizing the risk of transmission. When used alongside other preventive measures, improved airflow can make a significant impact. Below are steps to enhance ventilation in schools and childcare programs, whether in a large building or a home-based setting.
Increase Fresh Air Circulation
- Bringing in as much outdoor air as possible is an effective way to improve ventilation. If it is safe, open windows and doors to boost airflow. Even slightly opening a window or door can help reduce the concentration of virus particles in the air. Adjust the thermostat as needed to maintain a comfortable temperature while allowing for ventilation. However, avoid opening windows and doors if it poses a health or safety risk, such as exposure to extreme weather, falling hazards, or asthma triggers.
- To enhance airflow further, use child-safe fans to support ventilation efforts. Secure fans in windows to push indoor air out while drawing fresh air inside through other openings. Whenever possible, consider hosting activities, classes, or meal breaks outdoors to take advantage of natural ventilation.
Optimize Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems
- Ensure that HVAC systems are properly serviced and compliant with air quality standards, such as ASHRAE Standard 62.1, to provide safe indoor air for current occupancy levels. Home-based childcare programs should follow ventilation regulations set by state and local authorities.
- Set HVAC systems to maximize outdoor air intake while maintaining safe operations. Minimize or eliminate air recirculation where feasible, following expert recommendations. Increase the total airflow to occupied areas to promote air mixing and improve filtration efficiency.
- Disable demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) settings that adjust airflow based on temperature or occupancy. Keeping a constant air supply throughout the day helps maintain a healthier indoor environment. For HVAC systems managed by a thermostat, switching the fan control from “Auto” to “On” ensures continuous air distribution and filtration. Additionally, running the HVAC system at maximum outdoor airflow for at least two hours before and after building occupancy helps refresh the air and remove lingering particles.
Improve Air Filtration and Purification
- Enhancing air filtration is crucial for improving indoor air quality. Whenever possible, upgrade filtration systems without significantly restricting airflow. Ensure filters are correctly sized, installed, and replaced as recommended by manufacturers.
- Consider using portable air cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, especially in higher-risk spaces such as nurse’s offices or isolation areas. For additional air purification, schools and non-home childcare settings may explore ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) as a supplementary measure to inactivate airborne viruses. If opting for UVGI, consult a qualified professional to ensure proper system design and installation.
Utilize Exhaust Fans in Kitchens and Restrooms
- Properly functioning exhaust ventilation systems help maintain airflow and reduce airborne contaminants. Inspect and service exhaust fans in restrooms and kitchens to ensure optimal performance. These fans should remain on at full capacity while the facility is occupied and continue running for at least two hours after everyone leaves to support effective air circulation.
Enhance Ventilation in School Transportation
- Proper ventilation in school buses and vans is an important aspect of overall air quality control. Along with other preventive measures such as mask use for passengers over two years old and maintaining physical distance, increasing airflow in vehicles can reduce transmission risks.
- Keep vehicle windows open whenever it is safe to do so. Opening multiple windows is ideal, but even slightly cracking a few windows is better than keeping them all closed. This simple step can help improve air circulation and create a healthier travel environment for students and staff.