First steps to proper ventilation in public buildings
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II Part of the series „Expert Ventilation Methods for Offices and Stores“ by MMC – pro tips and tricks on how to ventilate offices and stores for a fresh, healthy and safe work environment.
How can you control the ventilation system?
The control of ventilation systems in stores and offices depends on a number of factors- the building's location, age and energy efficiency rating, the installed equipment and their control systems. It is also important if the windows can be opened or not.
The ventilation can be controlled by the building tenants or a hired building manager.
What should we know before adjusting the ventilation system ourselves?
Most important, before changing ventilation system settings, is knowing what sort of system is installed- a normal fan, a single Heat Recovery Unit or an Air Handling Unit, and whether the equipment is part of a Building Management System. The following advice is suitable for all ventilation types, provided windows can be opened.
Depending on buildin occupancy, outdoor temperature and time of day and filter quality, you may feel discomfort if ventilation is not sufficient. It is recommended in these cases that you leave the windows wide open for 10-15 minutes.
Set up ventilation rules in the office. Keep the air in the office constantly fresh by scheduling ventilation and who will be responsible, for instance 15 minutes every 2 hours. Start the working day right by ventilating each day before the working hours. This is especially important on Mondays, when the stale air accumulated over the weekend must be ejected from the building.
What about conference rooms? Make meetings a bit more comfortable by leaving doors and windows open before and after a meetings. It is generally recommended that you leave the doors open when no meeting is taking place.
