The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many of us interact, clean and view air quality. Since the pandemic began, people everywhere have transitioned from social gatherings to social distancing, cleaning occasionally to cleaning all the time — and it has made us more mindful of the places we enter, especially with regard to air quality and building ventilation.
As restrictions change and people transition back to work, navigating these new rules of engagement can seem daunting. The Metallic Products team often covers the basics of metal building ventilation and the metal building accessories that make it possible. During these uncertain times, however, there are other simple ways for companies — and people in general — to ensure cleaner air in the spaces they occupy. Here are just a few suggestions:
Open Windows: In an article published on Harvard Medical School’s website, one of the easiest and quite possibly most overlooked ways to increase air quality — through airflow — is to open windows and let fresh air in. If your workspace does not have windows, propping open a door will work, too.
Keep Floors Clean: According to WebMD’s website, keeping the floors clean reduces dirt and grime. Vacuuming and mopping regularly — along with putting down large floor mats in front of doorways — effectively reduces the amount of dust mites, pollen, pet dander, pesticides and other chemical pollutants that can become airborne and contaminate the air we breathe.
Have Face Masks on Hand: Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, wearing cloth facial coverings in public settings where social distancing can be difficult to maintain is recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to minimize the spread of the virus.
Stay Home if Sick: Also recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, staying put when you wake up feeling under the weather — or heading home if you begin exhibiting symptoms of illness while at work — helps reduce the risk of transmitting airborne viruses such as COVID-19.
While it is uncertain how long the COVID-19 pandemic will last, if team members actively pursue cleaner, fresher air quality in their surroundings, it can create an environment that fosters productivity and decreases downtime. If you have questions about this information, or simply want to know more about building ventilation solutions, please feel free to contact our team. Our experts are here to help!
