Building employees responsible for assessing the physical structure and building systems should refer to all Authority Having Jurisdiction.
• Air filters should be replaced after flushing the building. Refer to manufacturers’ recommendations and guidance for filter selection. Use the highest efficiency rated filter recommended/allowed by the manufacturer (MERV rating) and reference any WHO guidelines
• When replacing air filters (including HEPA filters):
• Use proper safety procedures and PPE
• Avoid hitting, dropping, or shaking the filter
• Do not use compressed air to clean a filter, which could allow materials in the filter to become airborne
• Properly dispose of used filters and PPE/gloves in a sealed plastic bag
• Clean hands when the task is finished
• Minimize exposure to building interior areas when removing old filters from the site. » Recommended approach: transport to a waste collection area without entering the building » Alternative approach: if it’s impossible to dispose of the filter without transporting through the building, choose routes that minimize exposure to normally occupied areas, including freight elevators and minimally used support space
• Review building water management plans for domestic and process water systems
• Work with water treatment service provider to insure chemical levels are within defined ranges for cooling towers, closed water systems, water features, etc.
• Building engineers should verify the operation of mechanical systems and restore all sequences, set-points and schedules modified during the rollback of operations
• Flush Building:
• Flush building with fresh air based on the design of the makeup/outside air system and if possible to leading sustainability standards such as LEED, BREEAM, and WELL for a minimum of 24 hours and ideally for 48 to 72 hours
• For specific Air Change plan, the rate can be calculated: n = 60 q / V where » n = air changes per hour (1/h) » q = fresh air (make up air) flow through the room (CFM) » V = volume of the room (Cubic Feet) After the building is flushed, building engineers should
• Change the air filters (if available) as an added precaution. Follow manufacturer recommendations for filter reconditions
• Increase fresh air intake