Conference Paper

Proceedings of Building Simulation 2021: 17th Conference of IBPSA

Simulating the impact of ventilation on COVID-19 infection probability from aerosol transmission in enclosed spaces

Olivia Nile Sobek ¹, Parag Rastogi ¹, John Allison ¹, Graeme Jephson ¹, Chris Pyke ², Alan Wegienka ^1
1 arbnco ltd, United Kingdom
² Arc Skoru

DOI: https://doi.org/10.26868/25222708.2021.30547
Abstract: Most people spend 80-90% of their lives indoors. This makes controlling the airborne transmission of respiratory viruses such as influenza, rhinovirus, SARS, and COVID19 in indoor environments important for healthy building outcomes. Though direct transmission from droplets and surfaces is usually a more effective means of infection transfer, buildings need to operate assuming aerosol transmission can be a serious risk. This study used simulations to assess the impacts of occupant density and ventilation rates as control measures to reduce the risk of aerosol transmission of COVID-19 in large and small offices. The simulation outputs were selected to correspond with in situ CO2 sensors and control points. The results of the simulation can be used to set targets for CO2 and other parameters that can be measured by low-cost sensors to manage risk of infection due to aerosol transmission.
Keywords: ventilation, aerosol transmission, CONTAM simulation, social-distancing, COVID-19
Pages: 2616 - 2617
Paper: