Protecting Patients and Staff: The Importance of Air Filtration in Healthcare

Maintaining clean air in healthcare facilities is crucial to the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. Airborne infections can pose a significant risk in these settings, especially to vulnerable individuals. Proper air filtration is vital to ensuring high indoor air quality (IAQ) and helps contain and prevent the spread of bacteria, pathogens, and contaminants.

The Power of HEPA and ULPA Filters

Selecting the right air filters is essential to maintaining high IAQ. In most areas of healthcare it is recommended HVAC systems be equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. HEPA filters offer an initial removal efficiency of 99.97% for particles as small as 0.3 microns. Ultra Low Particulate Air (ULPA) filters are denser than HEPAs and can remove 99.999% of particles as small as 0.1 microns. ​ULPA filters are ideal for operating rooms and other critical areas.

Understanding MERV Ratings ​and Prefiltration

Non-HEPA and ULPA filters use Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV), which are vital for selecting the correct air filters. ​MERV ratings range from 1–16 and measure a filter's efficiency in trapping particles of varying sizes. ​A higher MERV rating indicates higher efficiency, making these filters suitable for more critical environments. MERV ratings between 8 and 14 are ideal for prefiltration in healthcare.

Installing prefilters upstream can reduce the filtration load on HEPA and ULPA filters. Prefilters offer protection by capturing large particles like pollen, dust, and hair before they reach the main filters. This extends the life of the main filters and ensures they are optimized for removing smaller, more harmful particles. ​Prefilters can also help mitigate a buildup of dust and debris throughout the HVAC system, reducing required maintenance and energy consumption, and ultimately saving costs.

A certified air filter specialist can make recommendations for the best prefilters and main filters to use based on the area served, local and industry regulations, and the HVAC system.

Installation, Maintenance, and Testing

Beyond using the correct filters, proper filter installation and sealing, maintenance, and testing are key components in maintaining effective air filtration systems. It is essential to prioritize the correct installation and servicing of filters in these systems to ensure optimal performance.

Regular monitoring and testing of air quality in healthcare facilities are crucial steps for identifying potential issues or health risks. By monitoring parameters like particulate matter levels, humidity, and contaminants, healthcare facilities can take proactive measures to address any concerns and safeguard IAQ for patients and staff. ​

Personnel involved in filter installation and maintenance should be adequately trained, certified, and wear the proper protective gear when required.

At ATL Filtration™ our NAFA® Certified Air Filter Specialists have the knowledge and experience to ensure your facility is using the right filters to do the job properly, comply with regulations, and keep your air filtration running its best.

Implementing best practices for air filtration is fundamental to maintaining a safe and healthy environment in critical care areas. Working to ensure correct filter installation, maintenance, and testing means healthcare facilities can help reduce the risk of airborne infections and contribute to improved patient outcomes. Consulting with ATL Filtration’s specialists and adhering to local regulations and guidelines ensures the best air filtration practices are consistently applied.

Prioritizing clean air in healthcare facilities is more than just a regulatory requirement; it is a commitment to the well-being of all individuals within the facility. Our Aire Guardians at ATL Filtration™ and Abatement Technologies® stand ready to help improve IAQ in all critical care facilities for a safer, healthier environment.