How the indoor climate can reduce the risk of infection for employees.
In workplaces with poorly configured ventilation and air conditioning systems, not only will you find people and machinery, but also large quantities of viruses and bacteria – both in the air and on surfaces. Recent studies show that the survival time of viruses is significantly influenced by the level of humidity. If the room air is too dry, viruses remain infectious much longer than at average relative humidity. If the indoor climate is not right, employees are exposed to a high risk of infection.
It is therefore all the more important to consistently monitor the indoor air quality in order to prevent possible sickness, particularly during times like these. On this page you will find everything you need to know about this topic – the scientific background, suitable measuring technology and even a practical guide.
What recent scientific studies and professional associations have to say.
2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic: Built Environment Considerations To Reduce Transmission
Authors: Leslie Dietz, Patrick F. Horve, David A. Coil, Mark Fretz, Jonathan A. Eisen, Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg
This article describes how decision-makers, building operators and indoor users can minimize the environmental risk of transmitting infectious diseases.
High Temperature and High Humidity Reduce the Transmission of
COVID-19
Authors: Jingyuan Wang, Ke Tang, Kai Feng, Xin Lin, Weifeng Lv, Kun Chen, Fei Wang
Based on investigations of corona cases in China and the USA, this article proves that elevated humidity levels and rising temperatures can reduce the transmission intensity of COVID-19.
Effects of Air Temperature and Relative Humidity on Coronavirus Survival on Surfaces
Authors: Lisa M. Casanova, Soyoung Jeon, William A. Rutala, David J. Weber, Mark D. Sobsey
Based on tests with surrogate viruses, this study shows that corona viruses survive for a much shorter time on surfaces if you have average relative humidity and an elevated air temperature in indoor areas.
Operation of ventilation and air-conditioning systems under the conditions of the current Covid 19 pandemic
Authors: Bundesindustrieverband Technische Gebäudeausrüstung e.V. (BTGA), Fachverband Gebäude-Klima e.V., Raumlufttechnische Geräte Hersteller-Verband e.V.
This paper answers key questions on the safe operation of ventilation and air-conditioning systems with regard to the spread of corona viruses.
Here you can download
our practical guide “Indoor air quality and comfort level in the workplace” free of charge.
Check measurements or monitoring?
We have the right product to meet your specific challenge.
testo 400 universal IAQ instrument: professional and high-precision.
- Smart operation: Thanks to its Smart-Touch technology, the testo 400 is just as intuitive to use as your smartphone
- Fast digital reporting: Customer data and measuring points stored in the instrument
- Professional assistance: Measurement menus guide you step by step through the measurement (e.g. PMV/PPD)
testo 160 IAQ radio data logger: ideal for monitoring indoor air quality.
- Combined in just one logger: Temperature, humidity, CO2 and atmospheric pressure
- Exceptionally user-friendly: Air quality displayed according to the traffic light principle
- Perfectly networked: Data storage in the Testo Cloud, real-time alarm via e-mail or SMS
