The Airborne Threat

The COVID-19 outbreak taught people that the airborne transmission of respiratory viruses is real and that it’s important to take responsive steps to create a safe environment for ourselves and each other. We must now seriously consider safeguarding the air our staff and customers are breathing.

Viruses are spread via airborne transmission 

Studies and tests prove viruses, like COVID-19, can spread through the air from one person to another via the following methods:

– Infectious droplets that are larger than 10 microns can travel up to two metres when a person coughs or sneezes.

– Infectious particles that are less than 5 microns can travel up to two metres when a person cough, sneezes, or talks.

These airborne viruses can be inhaled by someone else, or when the particles land on surfaces, are touched by someone, and then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Viruses such as COVID-19 can also spread in poorly ventilated and/or crowded indoor settings, where people tend to spend longer periods. Small virus particles can remain suspended in the air or travel farther than conversational distance.

Preventing airborne transmission with air purifiers

There are ways to protect people from airborne transmissions, such as wearing a facemask or keeping a safe distance from each other. However, in a crowded or poorly ventilated area where people can’t keep a safe distance from each other, or wearing a facemask for a long period of time, such as in an office or other work environment, a more practical method is to use an air purifier: a standard air purifier with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter can deal with airborne particles, as well as the following air pollutants:

– Allergens

– Harmful chemicals

– Dust

– Mould spores

– Asthma triggers

It is important to choose the right air purifier for your environment and make sure the chosen unit is effective against these air pollutants.

Fellowes Air Purifier test:

All AeraMax Pro machines are tested and approved by accredited and independent labs: one of the tests was conducted by Prof. A. Izzotti, part of the School of Hygiene and Preventative Medicine at the University of Genoa, Italy.

Testing was conducted using aerosolised particulate of SARS-CoV-2, aerosolised particulate was channelled directly into the inlet of the AeraMax unit and particulate was measured at the exhaust to measure % captured at 99.9999%. Wipe Tests completed within 5 minutes of test completion on the HEPA Filter, Filter Frame and pre-filter to verify they played a role in trapping the virus.

The full test methodology is available along with test reports from the lab:

To ensure your staff and customers are kept safer from airborne pollutants, Cleanroom Garments have added the Fellowes Air Purifier to our range, available for purchase. The Fellowes Air Purifier comes in a range of models to suit your workplace or shop. Contact Cleanroom Garments today by calling 02 9851 4600 or emailing service@cleanroom.com.au.