Publication - Advice and guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): ventilation guidance - November 2020
Guidance to support the mixing of individuals safely in indoor domestic and commercial properties.
Introduction
The provision of fresh air into indoor environments is essential to preventing the spread of COVID-19. By taking measures to increase the volume of outside air entering a building, such as opening windows, doors or vents you can help minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19 to colleagues, friends, family members and customers.
We have developed this guidance to support the mixing of individuals safely in indoor domestic and commercial properties where this is necessary.
Summary
- the circulation of air (ventilation/air conditioning) can reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, however this must be in addition to other protective measures, such as physical distancing, enhanced hygiene regimes, face coverings and reduced occupancy
- COVID-19 is spread through the air in droplets and aerosols (finer particles/ drops)
- good ventilation helps reduce exposure by dispersing droplets and aerosols;
- the most important thing to remember is to maximise the amount of fresh air coming into the premises
- in many premises this will be done through opening vents, windows or doors
- where there is mechanical ventilation, expert advice may be needed to ensure that the air pattern disperses the droplets and aerosols rather than just recirculates them
- aerosol transmission should be one of the hazards considered in your COVID-19 risk assessment
Contact
Email: covid-19.policy@gov.scot