With heightened global awareness around preventing the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19 it is important to consider the interaction between humidity, airborne pathogens and human respiratory infections within the built environment. The recent pandemic has highlighted a fact that has long been known about the role of HVAC systems in helping to prevent the spread of pathogens in indoor environments – proper humidity control keeps people healthier and saves lives.
Nearly 35 years ago, an important study by Anthony Arundel, et al. was published in Environmental Health Perspectives ascertaining that adverse health effects from airborne viruses, bacteria and other pathogens can be minimized by controlling indoor relative humidity levels to 40%-60%. This knowledge becomes increasingly relevant as HVAC designers and building owners and operators seek new ways to make their buildings healthier and more resilient.
Contact us at 877-294-7646 to find out how we are delivering better humidity control and healthier indoor environmental quality for buildings.
