Thread by @j_corey02

BRILLIANT news in Ireland! 🇮🇪

@TheHSA recently published a new Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality, and these new regulations for workplaces are already in effect!

So what are some of my key takeaways? Let’s break it down 🧵 👇

Employers must carry out an Indoor Air Quality risk assessment in the workplace. Suggested at least annually.

The required assessment will depend on the complexity of the space - simple being a small office, complex being like a hospital. Assessments should be documented.

For workplaces reliant on natural ventilation, CO2 levels should be below 1000ppm. If CO2 levels are consistently higher than 1000pmm, HEPA filtration should be installed to remove harmful airborne contaminants until mechanical ventilation systems are put into place.

Workplaces with mechanical ventilation should aim to deliver 4-6 Air Changes per Hour, and high quality MERV or HEPA filters should be installed into the system, where possible.

There are enhanced IAQ measures that should be taken where there is an outbreak in the workplace, or increased airborne infections (like Covid) in the community. This includes increasing air filtration, or installing it if it’s not already available.

Employees can now ask their workplace to conduct an IAQ risk assessment using these new codes, and be consulted and kept informed throughout the process.

Once widely adopted, these measures will have a massive impact & help reduce community transmission of Covid-19 and other airborne pathogens 🦠

This is not an exhaustive summary, but rather some points that stood out to me. There’s lots more great info in the full document, which I’ve linked here & recommend reading.

Big thanks to @TheHSA for all of the great info and making it happen!👏

hsa.ie/eng/publicatio…

Another big thanks to @nealerichmond and all other officials involved in updating the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Regulations to implement this new guidance. Such an important and crucial amendment!!👏

While complex workplaces have more specific guidelines, this Code of Practice is relevant to SO many workplaces. Classrooms, offices, shops, etc.

The clean air revolution in Ireland has begun! 🥳