Amidst the global pandemic a growing number of health experts have raised concerns around current ventilation standards in a bid towards improving ventilation within apartment buildings and the need to operate a functioning ventilation system within apartment toilet, bathroom, en suite and laundry areas.

Once ‘out of sight, out of mind’, ventilation systems installed throughout the majority of buildings have now been thrust in to the spotlight.

Hotel quarantine systems have highlighted potential flaws towards ineffective ventilation systems.

Many apartments or units do not have the benefit of large opening doors and windows and rely on an effective, functional exhaust ventilation system to remove ‘bad-air’ from cramped apartment areas.

Pictured: Construction and infrastructure upgrades direct impact on apartment ventilation systems

The vast majority of systems SafeAir has inspected have never been cleaned since the building was constructed, with many buildings established over 30 years ago.

High levels of build-up and blockage within the system are caused as a direct result of little to no maintenance.

Not having a planned maintenance program in place for inspection and removal of debris from the system will continue to create cause for concern.

GP Dr David Berger has remained vigilant during the pandemic. Mr Berger states there is an excruciating resistance towards acknowledging the importance of airflow.

“This is all about ventilation.”

What causes blockage and build-up with the buildings ventilation system?

Urban city developments, roadworks and infrastructure upgrades all impact on a buildings ventilation system.

Where nearby cranes, excavators and workers are evident, dust and debris ensue.

A growing number of high-rise construction sites throughout the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast regions have allowed dirt and fibrous particles to become airborne. This content enters nearby apartment buildings through doors and windows and is drawn into each apartments ventilation system. Combined with air moisture in bathroom, en suite and laundry areas it exhausts into the system creating blockages.

It is estimated 2 million people will call Queensland home by 2041 with no ease in development on the horizon – an increase in surrounding dirt, dust and debris will continue to impact these systems.

How can building managers and Bodies Corporate ensure their ventilation systems remain operational?

Engaging a ductwork cleaning specialist to remove build-up, dirt and matter content from the ventilation system will go a long way to ensure operational standards are met.

Checking roof exhaust fans and cleaning the ventilation systems at prescribed intervals will ensure the system is free of blockage and operating to its intended design and specification.

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