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NEW California study on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) showed that facilities were not using best practices, leaving vulnerable residents and staff at greater risk from respiratory illnesses, like COVID-19. Proper use of existing heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, supplemented with low-cost portable air cleaners, can improve IAQ in these facilities.Interventions That Work:
NEW California study on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) showed that facilities were not using best practices, leaving vulnerable residents and staff at greater risk from respiratory illnesses, like COVID-19. Proper use of existing heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, supplemented with low-cost portable air cleaners, can improve IAQ in these facilities.
Interventions That Work:
Keep HVAC systems running continuously (not on auto shut-off mode).Upgrade to MERV-13 filters in HVAC systems.Ensure fresh outdoor air is being introduced through air dampers.Use portable air cleaners with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.Maintain HVAC system regularly to catch and fix problems early.
This study highlights the importance of prioritizing air filtration and bringing in outside air to keep LTCF residents and staff safe, especially during respiratory illness outbreaks. Let's take action and improve air quality by using these tools effectively in indoor spaces across California.
Fact Sheet: Improving Indoor Air Quality at Work (PDF)
Air Cleaner Information for Consumers | California Air Resources Board
The California Workplace Guide to Aerosol Transmissible Diseases (PDF, 2.6MB)