HEATING AND VENTILATING


IQVISION is a Trend BEMS Supervisor, built upon the Niagara 4 platform, which provides real-time graphical information to standard web browser clients, and enables server-level functionality across the system.


as temperatures rise,2


yet higher


filtration and disinfection technologies is an important defence against airborne pathogens. By capturing contaminants that can linger in the air, they are able to reduce infection risks. For any indoor air quality strategy to be fully effective, it will need to include appropriate levels of ventilation and filtration. For example, operating theatres and treatment areas require higher levels of air treatment and filtration than communal spaces and offices.


Indoor air quality is not just about outright cleanliness, but also associated factors such as filtration, ventilation, pressure, temperature, and relative


humidity, since all have a bearing on occupant comfort. In most cases the optimal range for humidity is around 40- 60%,1


as this is where the transmission of


viral pathogens is at its lowest; it is more difficult to control the spread of potential infections in excessively dry conditions. On the other hand, excessive humidity promotes the growth of dust mites and fungi, which are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions and allergies.


Minimising energy expenditure Managing indoor air temperatures can be a complex balancing act. Studies show that virus survival rate decreases


temperatures have an impact on occupant comfort and humidity levels. Running a BEMS in the most effective and efficient way requires a balance between comfort and safety – particularly when your main priority is patient care. A fully-featured BEMS is also capable of monitoring light readings to provide an optimum level of illumination, only switching on artificial lighting when and where it is needed. This not only helps maintain occupant comfort, but can also help minimise avoidable energy expenditure. Significantly, sensors not only measure temperature, humidity, air quality, and light levels, but can also monitor occupant activity and building capacity, helping to maintain regulatory compliance, which in turn builds confidence, and creates trust. Areas such as hallways, reception areas,


and communal spaces can be run more efficiently, especially if footfall and usage isn’t constant. For example, air-conditioning systems, lighting, and audio-visual equipment in parts of a building not being used can be automatically switched off or turned down to energy-saving mode.


Show and tell


Hospitals and other healthcare facilities – such as GPs’ surgeries and community health centres, face a particular challenge when it comes to comfort, well-being, and safety – they not only need to maintain appropriate measures to support these important elements, but also to communicate effectively the importance they afford to such factors – and especially the safety of all users – to patients, staff, and visitors. This is important because it can help: n Encourage reluctant patients to attend consultations and appointments;


n Build confidence among visitors that they are protected during their visit, and


n Create a reassuring working environment for both medical and support staff. It’s not just about working to limit the


potential spread of infections; it’s also about conveying these steps to everyone who interacts with healthcare facilities to reassure them that their welfare is considered paramount.


Trend Controls said: “The concept of a ‘healthy building’ isn’t new, although it has been intensified during the two years.”


52 Health Estate Journal April 2022


Remote access to building management systems In the healthcare arena, the latest BEMS technology, and its ability to create a comfortable and ‘healthy’ indoor


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