The solution against the spread of the coronavirus: a co2 meter
In the fight against the coronavirus, having fresh air is an important weapon. In fresh air, or air with a high quality, moisture droplets that may contain virus particles are less able to accumulate and spread. This reduces the chance of infection.
In addition, poor air quality leads to physical complaints such as headaches, reduced concentration and fatigue. Good air quality is therefore important, but how do you measure this? We explain that to you!
How do you measure air quality?
An important indication of air quality is the content of carbon dioxide: the dust we exhale. The lower the CO2 concentration in the air, the higher the air quality. The CO2 content can be measured with an air quality meter. When purchasing, note that not every air quality meter actually measures the CO2 values, some meters only give an indication. An air quality meter with CO2 meter monitors the quality of the air by measuring the number of CO2 particles and is indicated in PPM. When the CO2 level is too high, the meter gives a message and you know that the room needs to be ventilated.
The meter works like a traffic light: when the air quality is good, a green light is lit, when ventilation is recommended, a yellow light is lit and when the air quality is poor, a red light is lit. This visual element makes using the meter very easy. The light is supported on most meters with figures about, for example, the PPM value and the temperature.
We give an indication of the CO2 reference levels and the corresponding message:
- Green: 400-1000 PPM. This is typical level for outdoor air or indoor areas with good air circulation.
- Yellow: 1001-1500 PPM. The air quality is not optimal. Room ventilation is recommended.
- Red: 1500+ PPM. The air quality is poor and can cause complaints such as drowsiness and headaches. Ventilation highly recommended.
A CO2 meter in the fight against the coronavirus
In order to guarantee good air quality and safety, it is important to keep the CO2 content as low as possible. With a CO2 meter you can monitor the air quality and ventilate in time. Measures that can be taken are:
- Air exchange through cracks, grids or mechanical ventilation systems
- Air the room regularly by opening the doors against each other for 10 to 15 minutes
- Proper maintenance of ventilation systems
- Avoid recirculation within communal areas
Please note: (swivel) fans or mobile air conditioners do not provide air exchange and are better avoided in common areas during this time. Do you still want to use (swivel) fans or mobile air conditioners for cooling, for example? Then make sure that the airflow does not go from person to person.
Legislation in the Netherlands and Belgium
A CO2 meter is ideal for public buildings such as hairdressers, schools, gyms, museums, sports clubs, etc. But also just for at home to measure the air quality in a good way. However, there is also legislation regarding the installation of a CO2 meter.
In the Netherlands, CO2 meters are mandatory in the classrooms of newly built schools, built from 2015. The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science has CO2-meters prescribed in the building regulations.
In Belgium, hairdressers are currently obliged to install a CO2 meter when they cannot keep the windows and doors of their salon open. Although a CO2 meter is not yet mandatory in other places, it is strongly recommended.
It is expected that with further relaxation, placing a CO2 meter will also be mandatory or strongly recommended in other closed spaces where close contact is possible. Think of restaurants, bars, beauty salons, shops, museums and cinemas.
This blog was written in collaboration with Cooler Media – The Explanation Company. Do you have complex matters that require an explanation? Then contact them.