Used properly, an air purifier for the office can help improve indoor air quality. But on its own, it won’t offer enough protection against COVID-19.
Safety measures involve a lot more than using air filters, but these types of equipment may help slow down or prevent the transmission of the virus in indoor spaces.
Take note, though, that air cleaning devices vary in efficacy, and various factors can impact their performance. Learn more about them before investing in an office air purifier in Singapore.
What are air purifiers?
Air purifiers get rid of contaminants or pollutants that pass through them. The air can contain contaminants, including those that can transmit viruses.
Having an air purifier can be helpful if there’s not enough ventilation in an area. Choose one that can get rid of small airborne particles in the air. You’ll find manufacturers offering equipment that carries this feature.
You might also want to check if the device uses High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. This means that the purifier can effectively remove viruses from the air.
It’s also crucial to ensure that the purifier size is right for the space. Otherwise, it won’t offer help as expected.
Air purifier for office use: what to keep in mind
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units are normally used in indoor spaces, especially offices. They help keep tenants comfortable, but they should be used properly and taken care of to remain effective.
HVAC systems can vary depending on the size or complexity of the space they’re used for. It’s a good idea to update to the latest type of air filters, as long as they’re compatible with the existing system.
Ensure proper positioning to keep airflow falling from one person to another and reduce the risk of spreading droplets.
If you own an establishment or commercial building, consider working with experts in choosing appropriate office air purifiers in Singapore and ensuring they’re at an optimal location.
Air cleaning should be done along with improving airflow and ventilation. In itself, air cleaning won’t offer much help, especially if there’s poor ventilation in the area.
Alone, an air purifier for office use cannot guarantee clean indoor air. They also won’t be enough to protect building occupants against COVID-19.
The use of air purifiers in preventing the spread of COVID-19
Air purifiers use filters to trap potentially harmful particles. It’s a safe and effective method to eliminate airborne particles, but not all air filters for purifiers are the same.
HEPA air filters are known for their reliable performance. But if the indoor air or environment is overloaded with pollutants, their performance can also weaken.
Also, COVID-19 can be transmitted in various ways. In airborne transmission where droplets exhaled from those affected can remain in the air, the proper use of air filters may help.
But if droplets are released within close range, say the infected person coughs or sneezes, or droplets fall on surfaces, and others touch the surface and then touch their nose, eyes, or mouths, then air filters won’t be enough.
Having an air purifier in the office can help improve air quality, but it should be used along with other best practices to prevent the spread of the virus.