Moving Forward in Healthy Buildings 7 Innovations for Creating Healthier Environments in Business and Industry

Meeting the increased expectations for cleaning frequency can be a challenge for many workplaces. Additionally, on any given day—whether during the pandemic or post-pandemic—it’s unlikely every space is being used or occupied. Knowing where unused spaces exist allows organizations to reallocate resources to the spaces that need additional attention.

IoT sensor-based strategies give building owners and managers real-time data and insights into how their spaces are being used. Cleaning is delivered based on actual usage, driving visibly safer environments and improving resource allocation.

Building performance data is an essential component for creating healthier and safer environments. Variables like social distancing, occupancy levels, space utilization, air quality, temperature, equipment vibration and occupant satisfaction all influence how businesses create healthier spaces.

AIWX Connect, for example, provides real-time building intelligence data through a variety of sensor technologies and delivers insights into building performance straight to mobile devices. Data is used to make adjustments that improve service delivery and predict cleaning, operating and environmental needs.

The use of robotic cleaning has gained traction during the pandemic. Businesses have increased adoption of these technologies, particularly for floor care. The ROI for the vehicles has been improving, thanks to advancements such as increased battery life, improved tracking, data analytics and the addition of UV-C disinfection.

The pandemic has heightened everyone’s perception of cleanliness and safety. For example, more than  3 in 4 (79%) employees expect their employer to provide disinfectant or hand sanitizer. Providing and communicating methods for keeping workplaces clean helps to break through employees’ concerns and provides reassurance of safety. 

The use of black light technology with a simple fluorescent spray provides a quick, objective measurement of cleaning thoroughness, so that areas needing additional attention can be addressed.

The pandemic has highlighted the role that HVAC systems can play in transmitting or impeding virus transmission. Air filtration systems are an important part of creating safer and healthier spaces. Increasing the use of HEPA and MERV filters and introducing fresh air into building spaces may be the first line of defense in creating healthier environments.

These HVAC strategies have the potential to reduce the risks of infectious aerosol dissemination, according to the ASHRAE Board of Directors , by targeting air distribution patterns, differential room pressurization, personalized ventilation, source capture ventilation, filtration (central or local), and through controlling temperature and relative humidity.

Technological advancements, including the use of nanotechnology, are providing new solutions to further treat high-touch surfaces.

Microbial film is a common form of surface protectant. Some films continually “self-clean” when exposed to light. These films must still be cleaned of dirt and bioburden. These treatments complement the traditional cleaning process by more thoroughly sanitizing or disinfecting surfaces. Applications on door handles, elevator buttons, desks, hand railings and other high-touch areas help support a safer environment.

Cleaning solutions that safely combine tap water, salt and electricity have been in use for years. Electrically charged solutions attract dirt without the use of many common chemical-based cleaners. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly due to the lack of chemical products, packaging and waste disposal. Recently, these systems have been proven to deactivate the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Aramark Blue Cleaning program embraces this technology, employing the safest and most environmentally sustainable approach to cleaning.