* EC: Clarifications and Expectations: The Role of HVAC Systems in Preserving Patient Safety – Aim to maintain high-quality air throughout your facility[®] [REF: EOC, SFT] EC News, August 2014, Vol 17, #8, Pg 6 JCe1408_B6

Standard EC.02.05.01, EP6 requires appropriate pressure relationships, air-exchange rates, and filtration efficiencies “In areas designed to control airborne contaminants (such as biological agents, gases, fumes, dust)”.  Few  psychiatric hospitals have such areas (e.g., isolation rooms) and most HAIs result from surface spread (e.g., people, devices, etc). Still, in any hospital, air needs to be managed for patient/staff comfort and to minimize the spread of contaminants and infection.  In that context, a key point for our facilities might be the efficiency of filtration.  The article notes that there is now a standard for air filter performance designed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) that is called a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value).  Under ASHRAE Standard 170 (Ventilation of Health Care Facilities), most hospital HVAC systems would be required to have 2 filter banks in patient care areas.  The first (MERV 7) providing gross filtration (e.g., lint, leaves) and a second (MERV 14) for finer particles.
Tip1:  Periodically check to make sure HVAC filters are of the appropriate rating and properly installed/seated without gaps.
Tip2: Hospitals with odor and/or mold issues, should evaluate the filtration and/or dehumidifying effectiveness of their HVAC system in the areas of concern.