Correct ventilation helps to prevent virus transmission
Correct ventilation helps to reduce the risk of virus transmission
Pupils are back in schools all over the world. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, they are sitting side by side in closed rooms for several hours. Of course, this raises concerns about virus transmission.
Tiny droplets (known as aerosols) are emitted not only when people cough or sneeze, but also during normal breathing and speech. These aerosols may contain viruses, which is why frequent and effective ventilation is more important than ever. The more fresh air there is in a closed room, the less exhaled air which may contain viruses.
On this page, you will find information about the most important topics:
CO2 as an important indicator for minimizing the risk of infection
Short interview with our environmental sensor specialist Pascal Gerner: is there a connection between CO2 and virus transmission?
Why CO2?
CO2 is part of the human metabolism. For example, it’s produced when carbohydrates are broken down for energy generation. This CO2 is then transported out of the body when we breathe. That means that the main source of CO2 indoors is people themselves. We pollute the air not only with bacteria and viruses, but also with CO2. High concentrations of carbon dioxide can affect work performance because they lead to concentration problems and fatigue. And these are just a few of the negative effects of CO2 and the associated risks to people indoors.
CO2 monitoring reduces the risk of infection
Measuring the CO2 content of air indoors and taking appropriate measures reduces the risk of disease transmission. One measure is sufficient fresh air supply: once the CO2 concentration in a room exceeds a defined value, ventilation should be performed manually or automatically.
CO2 Monitors: the solution for classrooms
Healthy air is particularly important in rooms where people need to perform at their best. Classrooms are spaces where large numbers of people remain for extended periods of time, working with intense focus. Unfortunately, air quality in classrooms is generally poor, as a large number of people have to share a relatively small space. Such environments often contain critical levels of CO2 after just a quarter of an hour.
CO2 Monitors
Various solutions for regular and effective ventilation in enclosed rooms are currently being tested. In Germany, for example, modules equipped with CO2 sensors were used to measure air quality in school classrooms. The advantage: a CO2 monitor is easy to use, intuitively understandable thanks to the traffic light system, and measures with high accuracy.
A CO2 monitor ensures regular and effective ventilation, so instructors and pupils can work together calmly and with a little more security and freedom from worry. In addition to reducing the risk of transmitting viruses such as COVID-19, CO2 reduction measures also increase concentration capacity – another positive effect.
Four steps for efficient ventilation
Position CO2 monitor
Place the CO2 monitor somewhere where it is clearly visible. Make sure that it’s not located next to a fresh air source.
Observe monitoring system
Consult the monitor from time to time during your work. This will provide you with information on the current CO2 concentration in the room.
Ventilate efficiently
Respond to the traffic light warning system and adjust your ventilation behavior accordingly.
Analyze & optimize
You can derive rules of thumb from the data recorded, allowing you to further optimize your ventilation behavior and prevent unnecessary energy loss during cold periods.
CO2 Monitors Recommended by Sensirion
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