COVID-19 Cross Contamination through Energy Recovery Ventilation Devices

ABSTRACT

Airborne diseases are a current concern. Infections can spread through the air even when a disease may not be characterized as "airborne" in medical terms. Some installed HVAC systems can spread infectious agents to those who are not currently infected. Cross contamination through leakage in energy recovery ventilation (ERV) devices can provide a pathway for infection. Energy recovery devices are currently required in many new buildings codes and standards. They are often installed in retrofit projects in older buildings in order to save energy. The risk from cross-contamination can be estimated using the Wells-Riley infection model. Energy recovery ventilation device applications can be designed, specified, and installed to effectively eliminate the risk of cross contamination in new systems using current technology so this is an avoidable risk.. A framework for evaluating currently installed ERV systems is providedfor facilities managers and HVAC systems operators to identify and minimize cross contamination infection risk.