Post-COVID Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality at Work
It’s probably been a long time since you’ve seen your coworkers – at least in person, that is. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the nature of work for millions of Americans. Many people have been working from home for the last 15 months, and companies everywhere are anxious to bring their employees back to the office. If you’re thinking of bringing your work environment back online, use this guide to make sure it’s safe for you and your employees before bringing them back onsite.
Check Your HVAC System
Many employers are letting their employees decide whether they want to get vaccinated instead of issuing a vaccine mandate. Some of your workers may be unvaccinated, so do your best to protect them and others from infection.
Unless you and your team plan on working with the windows open, your HVAC system will be your first line of defense against bacteria and germs that can lead to severe illness, including COVID-19.
Make sure your HVAC system is bringing fresh, clean air into every corner of your office or workplace, including hard to reach areas, like storage areas and back-room offices. Put your hand in front of ducts and vents and feel for cool air. Watch out for dead zones and avoid having your workers occupy spaces with poor air flow. The unit should draw in clean air from the outdoors. Make sure the unit isn’t being obstructed by trees, bushes, and other environmental debris.
The CDC says most ventilations systems should be equipped to prevent the spread of the virus, as long as they are working properly and comply with the latest indoor air quality standards.
You probably haven’t used your HVAC system in a while, so have an expert inspect your unit before bringing your workers back onsite. They can test the air quality and help you improve energy efficiency to lower your utility bills.
Install an Air Filter
For an extra layer of protection, ask the professional to replace your air filter. It’s best to replace the filter every few months to prevent dust, dirt, and other pollutants from mucking up your system.
The IWave air purifier is considered the preferred choice when it comes to preventing the spread of COVID-19. It uses patented needlepoint bipolar ionization (NPBI) to get rid of germs that can lead to infection as well as other debris that make it harder to breathe.
Talk to Your Team
You should always consider the needs of your workers before asking them to come back into the office. If someone refuses to get vaccinated or has an underlying health condition that makes them more susceptible to severe illness, they may be more comfortable working from home. A lot has changed since the world first went on lockdown in March 2020. Some workers may have moved away, while others may need to stay home to take care of an ailing family member or their children if they aren’t in school. Be sensitive to their needs to keep these individuals on your team.
The CDC also recommends regular handwashing, social distancing, regular testing, and using protective gear when working closely in person. Ask your team to stay home if they aren’t feeling well to prevent the spread of disease. Nothing will ever be exactly the same after the pandemic and getting back to the office may take some getting used to.
Contact the professionals at A-1 Guaranteed in Solano County to make sure your company’s HVAC system is up to the task at hand.
