CORRECTED LINK: Is your workplace heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system optimized to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19?

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries sent this bulletin at 12/24/2020 03:00 PM PST

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washington state department of labor and industries - safety and health

Optimize your HVAC system to help reduce COVID-19 

 Illustration of coronavirus flowing out of a ventilation system and fresh air flowing in

Note: This bulletin has been revised to clarify a link to L&I's "Verify a Contractor" search. 

Is your workplace heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system optimized to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19?

Coronavirus is a serious workplace health hazard. The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) just published "COVID-19 Guidance on Ventilation in the Workplace" - a one-page tip sheet on ventilation in the workplace in support of your efforts to provide a workplace free of safety and health hazards. Adequate ventilation throughout the work environment can help to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

This handout will guide you through some of the following questions and more.

  • Have you or the responsible party worked with an HVAC professional to optimize building ventilation?  What did they look at?
  • When were the filters last were replaced?
  • Can you improve air filtration?”
  • Are exhaust fans in restrooms setup properly?

Contact a licensed HVAC contractor near you for assistance with your HVAC system. When you find a contractor, be sure to verify that the contractor is licensed and has an active worker's compensation account.

Contact an L&I Safety & Health consultant near you for assistance with other things you can do to keep workers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.