Cutting Toxic Air Pollution: How Cap and Trade Works

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Cap and Trade are one of the best strategies for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. Cap and Trade work through introducing a price on carbon emissions, creating an incentive for companies to operate more efficiently and reduce their carbon footprint. How is Cap and Trade structured to effectively impact pollution reduction?

Definition of Cap and Trade

The definition of Cap and Trade is somewhat flexible, as different states and institutions will have their own definitions of Cap and Trade in their laws and regulations. In general, Cap and Trade refer to a form of “carbon pricing,” a technique for lowering emissions of greenhouse gases based on the open market. A price is put on carbon emissions with the intention of incorporating the cost of pollution into the cost of business.

“Cap and Trade programs utilize the market itself as a means of reducing emissions,” says Kevin Wood, Camfil USA Vice President Sales & Marketing. “By mandating payments for emissions over the accepted emissions cap, Cap and Trade help spur innovation of low-carbon technologies and prompt a shift to an economy based on greener forms of energy.”

Carbon Pricing With Cap And Trade

Cap and Trade is a form of carbon pricing. Carbon pricing can be done with two different methods, a straight carbon tax or through a Cap and Trade program. Carbon taxes create fees per ton of carbon emissions for the whole economy or for whole sectors of the economy. By contrast, carbon pricing with Cap and Trade programs functions by setting a “cap” on particular sectors of the economy, or the whole economy, and then issuing a certain number of permits to match that cap.

If there was a cap on carbon emissions of 12,000 tons of carbon per year than there would be 12,000 one-ton carbon allowances, which companies would have either bid for at an auction or obtain through allocation. While companies may bid for more allowances at auction, they are often allocated a set number of them for free. Every company that produces emissions that are subject to Cap and Trade programs must hold allowances which equal the number of emissions they release.

The trade portion of Cap and Trade refers to a system that allows entities to sell excess allowances they have to other companies. This system is intended to give companies more flexibility in how they meet the requirements of the carbon cap.

“A company that needs more allowances can purchase them from other companies, but typically at a higher cost than at the initial auction,” explains Wood. “Companies which managed to reduce pollution quicker can sell their outstanding allowances to these heavier polluting companies, which encourages companies to reduce overall pollution by rewarding innovative solutions that reduce a company’s carbon footprint. Due to the fact that there is a set number of allowances available, the total amount of pollution will fall as the cap is reduced.”

Cost Effectiveness of Cap And Trade

Agencies that have analyzed the cost-effectiveness of Cap and Trade have concluded that Cap and Trade programs are very cost-effective overall. This is due to the fact that Cap and Trade programs let the market determine the cheapest possible way of reducing emissions.

“Putting a price on carbon effectively creates a market for environmental services and goods, as in the absence of carbon costs, both producers and consumers don’t have to factor the environmental costs of their activities into their immediate expenses,” says Wood. “Putting prices on carbon emissions leads to more efficient and cost-effective use of resources, and lowered emissions overall. With a Cap and Trade system, the government can create an environmental market represented by the Cap and let the open market set the price for meeting that cap.” (3)

The Effects of Cap And Trade

The effects of Cap and Trade programs have been studied and at least in the case of California, they have proven effective in reducing air pollution.

“Since the Cap and Trade program was initially introduced in California back in 2013, the program has enabled California to get on track to hit their 2020 goal of reducing emissions back to their 1990 levels,” says Wood. “It is projected that by 2020 the Cap-and-Trade program in California will contribute to the reduction of emissions by almost 15% of initial pollution levels. There has been a falling demand for carbon allowances since the program was first created.” (4)

Cap-and-Trade programs can also raise revenue for a state through the money generated from auctioning off allowances. This revenue can then be used for a variety of purposes, such as offsetting the impacts of higher energy prices for low-income families or investing in the creation of renewable energy technologies. California’s revenue from Cap and Trade programs has shrunk since the introduction of the program, but it is important to note that less demand for allowances translates to less emissions.

Cap and Trade programs are intended to reduce emissions without hindering economic growth. To this extent, California’s Cap and Trade program has worked. The state may not have raised as much revenue through the program as it expected to, but raising revenue should not be how Cap and Trade programs are evaluated.

How to Ensure Cap and Trade Works to Reduce Emissions

It’s important to ensure Cap and Trade work to reduce emissions by backing them with legislation and frameworks that allow them to function and do not hinder their ability to encourage reductions in emissions. This includes not allowing Cap and Trade programs to expire.

Advocates of California’s Cap and Trade program recently pushed for a series of Bills that would extend Cap and Trade in the state, arguing that not extending the program would cripple California’s ability to reduce emissions while maintaining economic growth. (5)

Cap and Trade programs cannot solve every problem relating to emissions of greenhouse gases, and other forms of regulation are often needed. Despite this, they are still an important tool for combating climate change and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases.

Camfil can tell you more about how Cap and Trade programs work, and about the health risks of exposure to the greenhouse gases, they are intended to reduce. Visit Camfil now to get valuable information and quality filters for your home’s HVAC system.

SOURCES

http://www.ucsusa.org/global-warming/reduce-emissions/cap-trade-carbon-tax#.WeZGw2hSyUk

https://www.edf.org/climate/how-cap-and-trade-works

https://www.c2es.org/publications/meaningful-and-cost-effective-climate-policy-case-cap-and-trade

http://beta.latimes.com/business/hiltzik/la-fi-hiltzik-captrade-20160728-snap-story.html

http://www.mercurynews.com/2017/07/16/cap-and-trade-advocate-business-supports-anti-pollution-pro-clean-tech-bill/

The post Cutting Toxic Air Pollution: How Cap and Trade Works appeared first on Air Filters for Clean Air.

from Air Filters for Clean Air

How to Select the Proper Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Good indoor air quality leads to the better health and productivity of employees and staff. So how can you determine the best air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings?  If you are considering the installation or upgrading of an air filtration system in a commercial building, this guide will provide you with the information you need to get started.  

The decision to install or upgrade air filtration systems should not be made lightly, it should be made with full knowledge of the considerations that impact air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings. In order to ensure that air pollutants are effectively captured and removed from the air, you must ensure that your filtration system is properly maintained and installed. Be sure that all relevant staff and personnel is informed with the requisite information regarding air filtration systems, and that installation and maintenance is done only by qualified professionals. You will also want to take into consideration the cost of the system, the best-operating conditions for the system, and the system’s efficiency at removing particulate air pollution.

How to Make an Educated Decision about Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings?

Making an educated decision about air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings involves obtaining the correct information on all relevant considerations. You’ll need to understand the differences between the types of air filters, and how the different filters absorb particles with different levels of efficiency.

Good air filtration systems will be able to reduce levels of indoor air pollutants and protect workers from the flu and colds.  Not all air filters are created equal. All air filters are given a “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value” or MERV. The higher the number, the more particles are filtered out but the less air passes through the filter. You will want to find a balance of air resistance and particle capture.

MERV  1-4 are typically cheap and disposable fiberglass filters, which let a lot of air through but are less efficient at capturing particles. MERV  5-8 include pleated filters and media panels. MERV 9-12 are extended pleated panels, and MERV 13-16 are electronic filters. You’ll want to check with a professional to decide the right type of filter for your commercial building.

Informed decisions about the best air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings should include considerations about implementation costs, the efficiency of the particulate air filters, and the operating conditions of the HVAC system. The better a filter is, the more expensive it will be. Though investing in an expensive filter could save you money in the long run, since it needs to be replaced less often.

What Are the Costs of Commercial Air Filtration Systems?

The costs of commercial air filtration systems may be deceptive at first glance. It’s important to look beyond the cost of the filters themselves, and consider all associated costs for the operation of a commercial air filtration system. You’ll need to consider all the potential costs including the cost of installation and removal, the cost of energy consumption, and even the cost of disposal.

A cheaper filter might look more appealing at first, but because they clog easier, the HVAC system has to spend more energy pushing the air through the filter which increases operational costs. Filters also degrade and suffer performance loss over time, meaning you’ll need to replace them at some point. A more expensive filter has a higher initial price point, but it can easily pay off over the long run. It won’t clog as quickly, and it will work for a longer amount of time before it must be replaced. More replacements mean paying higher labor costs for replacements and paying more costs for disposal as well.

Camfil has a guide to accounting for the total cost of ownership for commercial air filtration systems.

What Are the Optimal Operating Conditions for Commercial Air Filter Systems?

In terms of the optimal operating conditions for commercial air filter systems, the EPA’s guide to indoor air quality suggests that building pressure is taken into account when analyzing the effectiveness of a filtration system. Holes in the building envelope, as well as the layout of the building and pressure relationships, must be accounted for when planning for the installation of a commercial air filter system. (1)

Openings in the envelope of a building, such as small holes in the walls and cracks under doors or ceiling will change the air pressure in the building, making your HVAC system less efficient. You should remember that air filtration systems by themselves cannot improve air quality in a commercial building, it must be combined with intelligent maintenance and construction practices. Office furniture and partitions should be placed with an understanding of the HVAC system, and heat producing equipment shouldn’t be left near HVAC sensors. If a wall or support pillar is erected in front of where a vent would be it will make it harder for the HVAC system to do its job, and sensors accidentally being triggered by heat-producing equipment can cause the building to cool prematurely.

What Is Particulate Air Filtration?

Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of very small particles and liquid droplets in the air, and particulate air filtration refers to the removal of these fine particles from the air via either electronic or mechanical means. Once these particles are inhaled, they can harm people’s lungs and hearts, and lead to the development of serious health problems like lung disease and cancer.

The EPA states that particle pollution is usually divided into threeseparate categories, PM10 which includes inhalable particles smaller than 10 µm in diameter, PM2.5 which refers to fine inhalable particles smaller than 2.5 µm and PM1 which refers to particles less than 1 micron in size. Ten micrometers is one-tenth the width of a single human hair, and PM10 includes things like pollen, dust, and mold. Particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers are called “fine particles” and include particles released by all kinds of combustion as well as organic compounds and certain metal particles. Common sources of PM2.5 include power plants, motor vehicles and residential wood burning in fireplaces. PM1 are by far the smallest particles, sub-micron in size and by count make up over 98% of all particles in the air. The American National Standards Institute has set standards for air filters, and High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters remove approximately 99.97% of particles 0.3 µm in diameter and smaller. (2)

In terms of the different kinds of air filters that will remove particulate matter, there are both mechanical and electronic air filters. Mechanical filters reduce air pollution by capturing particles in filter materials, while electronic air cleaners make use of electrostatic attraction to ionize and trap charged particles.  Mechanical filters frequently need to be replaced more often than electrostatic air filters, but electrostatic filters often don’t capture larger particles and some of them can emit hazardous amounts of ozone as a byproduct. Electronic air cleaners also require periodic cleaning, an added maintenance expense.

What Are Some of the Emerging Technologies of Commercial Building Air Filters?

Mini-pleat V-cell filters are one of the most promising recent air filtration innovations, being an emerging technology of commercial building air filters. Unlike regular HVAC filters, which reduce air pressure as they get more proficient at filtering out particles, the mini-pleat V-cell filters can filter out a greater amount of particles with a very low resistance to airflow. The 1-inch mini pleat panels are arrayed in a ‘V’ formation, which gives the filters a higher surface area.  This, in turn, creates less airflow resistance.

Photocatalytic Oxidation Cleaners are another emerging technology. They work by hitting pollutants with ultraviolet light, rendering biological pollutants harmless, though they don’t remove particulate pollutants from the air…They are also very limited because of the required residence time of the particle within the light field which can be very restricted because of the fast airflow through the system.

The CDC recommends that before committing to emerging filter technologies, you identify data showing the efficacy of the system and that you investigate any long-term maintenance issues associated with using an experimental system.

How to Install Commercial Air Filtration Systems?

It is important that you properly install commercial air filtration systems, as improper installation can impact the efficiency of the system. If an HVAC system is not properly installed into the building’s filter holding mechanism, filter bypass may happen. Filter bypass is where the air is able to move around the filter through a gap between the frame and the HVAC system, instead of passing through it. Filter bypass represents a worst case scenario for an HVAC installation, as it essentially completely negates the point of your filtration system, dramatically reducing the efficiency of your system. Likewise, it is important to use the correct type of air filter holding clips and gasketing material sealing the surface of the filter against the frame. If the wrong type of holding clips for the filter or the wrong gasket material is used, air could flow around the filter or the filter could come loose or fall to the side, also allowing air to bypass the filter.

When installing the system it is also important to make sure the system is free, and remains free, of dirt or moisture. Dirt and moisture in your HVAC system will lead to the clogging of filters faster. The improper installation of duct liners or boarding can lead to the development of mold. Duct liners and boarding are intended to stay dry, and if parts of them are exposed to the outside world they can get wet, prompting mold to grow. lt is also important to de-grease metal air ducts. The metal that is used for ducts often comes with a grease coating that is intended to protect from corrosion. However, this grease can sometimes trap dirt particles in the system, so make sure ducts are degreased before they are installed.

What Are Other Things to Consider about Commercial Air Filter Systems?

Inappropriately installed systems or systems with missing components will reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, and subsequently impact the health and productivity of the occupants of the building. For this reason, it is important to ensure installation and maintenance are handled only by trained professionals.

Be sure to have building operators and technicians conduct regular inspections to ensure the system is operating normally and efficiently. When doing life cycle costs, maintenance plans can be created at the same time to help set scheduled maintenance periods. Inspections and maintenance could be set for every month, and the price incorporated into lifecycle estimates.  When changing out filters it is important to remain safe at all times. Follow the relevant OSHA guidelines when changing filters or doing any other work with HVAC systems.

What Are Our Final Thoughts on Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings?

Selecting the right air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings is pivotal for the health and productivity of those who occupy the building. Ensure that your filtration system is correctly installed and maintained only by those who have had training in HVAC system maintenance.  Take the full operating costs of the system into consideration, and ensure your system is operating in the optimal conditions for peak efficiency.  Finally, consider the use of indoor air quality meters. Air quality meters measure things like levels of particles in the air and can be employed to regularly check that levels of indoor air pollutants are at or below the safety standards set by cognizant authorities. If pollutant levels are above minimum safe levels or are increasing, that will indicate your HVAC system is not performing properly.

SOURCES

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/office-building-occupants-guide-indoor-air-quality#about

https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics#PM

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2003-136/pdfs/2003-136.pdf

https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/heating-ventilation-and-air-conditioning-systems-part-indoor-air-quality-design-tools

http://bit.ly/2DNdwE6

 

The post How to Select the Proper Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings appeared first on Air Filters for Clean Air.

from Air Filters for Clean Air

How to Select the Proper Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Good indoor air quality leads to the better health and productivity of employees and staff. So how can you determine the best air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings?  If you are considering the installation or upgrading of an air filtration system in a commercial building, this guide will provide you with the information you need to get started.  

The decision to install or upgrade air filtration systems should not be made lightly, it should be made with full knowledge of the considerations that impact air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings. In order to ensure that air pollutants are effectively captured and removed from the air, you must ensure that your filtration system is properly maintained and installed. Be sure that all relevant staff and personnel is informed with the requisite information regarding air filtration systems, and that installation and maintenance is done only by qualified professionals. You will also want to take into consideration the cost of the system, the best-operating conditions for the system, and the system’s efficiency at removing particulate air pollution.

How to Make an Educated Decision about Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings?

Making an educated decision about air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings involves obtaining the correct information on all relevant considerations. You’ll need to understand the differences between the types of air filters, and how the different filters absorb particles with different levels of efficiency.

Good air filtration systems will be able to reduce levels of indoor air pollutants and protect workers from the flu and colds.  Not all air filters are created equal. All air filters are given a “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value” or MERV. The higher the number, the more particles are filtered out but the less air passes through the filter. You will want to find a balance of air resistance and particle capture.

MERV  1-4 are typically cheap and disposable fiberglass filters, which let a lot of air through but are less efficient at capturing particles. MERV  5-8 include pleated filters and media panels. MERV 9-12 are extended pleated panels, and MERV 13-16 are electronic filters. You’ll want to check with a professional to decide the right type of filter for your commercial building.

Informed decisions about the best air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings should include considerations about implementation costs, the efficiency of the particulate air filters, and the operating conditions of the HVAC system. The better a filter is, the more expensive it will be. Though investing in an expensive filter could save you money in the long run, since it needs to be replaced less often.

What Are the Costs of Commercial Air Filtration Systems?

The costs of commercial air filtration systems may be deceptive at first glance. It’s important to look beyond the cost of the filters themselves, and consider all associated costs for the operation of a commercial air filtration system. You’ll need to consider all the potential costs including the cost of installation and removal, the cost of energy consumption, and even the cost of disposal.

A cheaper filter might look more appealing at first, but because they clog easier, the HVAC system has to spend more energy pushing the air through the filter which increases operational costs. Filters also degrade and suffer performance loss over time, meaning you’ll need to replace them at some point. A more expensive filter has a higher initial price point, but it can easily pay off over the long run. It won’t clog as quickly, and it will work for a longer amount of time before it must be replaced. More replacements mean paying higher labor costs for replacements and paying more costs for disposal as well.

Camfil has a guide to accounting for the total cost of ownership for commercial air filtration systems.

What Are the Optimal Operating Conditions for Commercial Air Filter Systems?

In terms of the optimal operating conditions for commercial air filter systems, the EPA’s guide to indoor air quality suggests that building pressure is taken into account when analyzing the effectiveness of a filtration system. Holes in the building envelope, as well as the layout of the building and pressure relationships, must be accounted for when planning for the installation of a commercial air filter system. (1)

Openings in the envelope of a building, such as small holes in the walls and cracks under doors or ceiling will change the air pressure in the building, making your HVAC system less efficient. You should remember that air filtration systems by themselves cannot improve air quality in a commercial building, it must be combined with intelligent maintenance and construction practices. Office furniture and partitions should be placed with an understanding of the HVAC system, and heat producing equipment shouldn’t be left near HVAC sensors. If a wall or support pillar is erected in front of where a vent would be it will make it harder for the HVAC system to do its job, and sensors accidentally being triggered by heat-producing equipment can cause the building to cool prematurely.

What Is Particulate Air Filtration?

Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of very small particles and liquid droplets in the air, and particulate air filtration refers to the removal of these fine particles from the air via either electronic or mechanical means. Once these particles are inhaled, they can harm people’s lungs and hearts, and lead to the development of serious health problems like lung disease and cancer.

The EPA states that particle pollution is usually divided into threeseparate categories, PM10 which includes inhalable particles smaller than 10 µm in diameter, PM2.5 which refers to fine inhalable particles smaller than 2.5 µm and PM1 which refers to particles less than 1 micron in size. Ten micrometers is one-tenth the width of a single human hair, and PM10 includes things like pollen, dust, and mold. Particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers are called “fine particles” and include particles released by all kinds of combustion as well as organic compounds and certain metal particles. Common sources of PM2.5 include power plants, motor vehicles and residential wood burning in fireplaces. PM1 are by far the smallest particles, sub-micron in size and by count make up over 98% of all particles in the air. The American National Standards Institute has set standards for air filters, and High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters remove approximately 99.97% of particles 0.3 µm in diameter and smaller. (2)

In terms of the different kinds of air filters that will remove particulate matter, there are both mechanical and electronic air filters. Mechanical filters reduce air pollution by capturing particles in filter materials, while electronic air cleaners make use of electrostatic attraction to ionize and trap charged particles.  Mechanical filters frequently need to be replaced more often than electrostatic air filters, but electrostatic filters often don’t capture larger particles and some of them can emit hazardous amounts of ozone as a byproduct. Electronic air cleaners also require periodic cleaning, an added maintenance expense.

What Are Some of the Emerging Technologies of Commercial Building Air Filters?

Mini-pleat V-cell filters are one of the most promising recent air filtration innovations, being an emerging technology of commercial building air filters. Unlike regular HVAC filters, which reduce air pressure as they get more proficient at filtering out particles, the mini-pleat V-cell filters can filter out a greater amount of particles with a very low resistance to airflow. The 1-inch mini pleat panels are arrayed in a ‘V’ formation, which gives the filters a higher surface area.  This, in turn, creates less airflow resistance.

Photocatalytic Oxidation Cleaners are another emerging technology. They work by hitting pollutants with ultraviolet light, rendering biological pollutants harmless, though they don’t remove particulate pollutants from the air…They are also very limited because of the required residence time of the particle within the light field which can be very restricted because of the fast airflow through the system.

The CDC recommends that before committing to emerging filter technologies, you identify data showing the efficacy of the system and that you investigate any long-term maintenance issues associated with using an experimental system.

How to Install Commercial Air Filtration Systems?

It is important that you properly install commercial air filtration systems, as improper installation can impact the efficiency of the system. If an HVAC system is not properly installed into the building’s filter holding mechanism, filter bypass may happen. Filter bypass is where the air is able to move around the filter through a gap between the frame and the HVAC system, instead of passing through it. Filter bypass represents a worst case scenario for an HVAC installation, as it essentially completely negates the point of your filtration system, dramatically reducing the efficiency of your system. Likewise, it is important to use the correct type of air filter holding clips and gasketing material sealing the surface of the filter against the frame. If the wrong type of holding clips for the filter or the wrong gasket material is used, air could flow around the filter or the filter could come loose or fall to the side, also allowing air to bypass the filter.

When installing the system it is also important to make sure the system is free, and remains free, of dirt or moisture. Dirt and moisture in your HVAC system will lead to the clogging of filters faster. The improper installation of duct liners or boarding can lead to the development of mold. Duct liners and boarding are intended to stay dry, and if parts of them are exposed to the outside world they can get wet, prompting mold to grow. lt is also important to de-grease metal air ducts. The metal that is used for ducts often comes with a grease coating that is intended to protect from corrosion. However, this grease can sometimes trap dirt particles in the system, so make sure ducts are degreased before they are installed.

What Are Other Things to Consider about Commercial Air Filter Systems?

Inappropriately installed systems or systems with missing components will reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, and subsequently impact the health and productivity of the occupants of the building. For this reason, it is important to ensure installation and maintenance are handled only by trained professionals.

Be sure to have building operators and technicians conduct regular inspections to ensure the system is operating normally and efficiently. When doing life cycle costs, maintenance plans can be created at the same time to help set scheduled maintenance periods. Inspections and maintenance could be set for every month, and the price incorporated into lifecycle estimates.  When changing out filters it is important to remain safe at all times. Follow the relevant OSHA guidelines when changing filters or doing any other work with HVAC systems.

What Are Our Final Thoughts on Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings?

Selecting the right air filter efficiencies for commercial buildings is pivotal for the health and productivity of those who occupy the building. Ensure that your filtration system is correctly installed and maintained only by those who have had training in HVAC system maintenance.  Take the full operating costs of the system into consideration, and ensure your system is operating in the optimal conditions for peak efficiency.  Finally, consider the use of indoor air quality meters. Air quality meters measure things like levels of particles in the air and can be employed to regularly check that levels of indoor air pollutants are at or below the safety standards set by cognizant authorities. If pollutant levels are above minimum safe levels or are increasing, that will indicate your HVAC system is not performing properly.

SOURCES

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/office-building-occupants-guide-indoor-air-quality#about

https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics#PM

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2003-136/pdfs/2003-136.pdf

https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/heating-ventilation-and-air-conditioning-systems-part-indoor-air-quality-design-tools

http://bit.ly/2DNdwE6

 

The post How to Select the Proper Air Filter Efficiencies for Commercial Buildings appeared first on Air Filters for Clean Air.

from Air Filters for Clean Air

The Hidden Threat of Northern California Air Pollution

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

The most people may not think it, Northern California has an air pollution problem. Air pollution in San Jose, part of Northern California’s Bay Area, was actually worse than air pollution in Shanghai for at least 32 days out of June and July of last year. What causes Northern California air pollution? What can be done to reduce this pollution and protect the health of the people who live in the Bay Area and beyond?

Northern California’s Air Pollution Problem

The Bay Area and other places in Northern California, like Sacramento, have struggled with air pollution over the past couple years. Northern California’s air pollution problem is actually so severe that on certain days the air quality in the Bay Area was actually worse than the air quality in the notoriously polluted Shanghai.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District monitors the air for the entire Bay Area and makes use of 35 different air quality monitoring stations. The air quality monitoring stations track levels of six pollutants that the EPA has defined as criteria pollutants: carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter, lead, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

“The Air Quality Index tracks the severity of air pollution in different areas around the world,” explains Kevin Wood, Camfil USA Vice President Sales & Marketing. “Measurements of PM2.5 (particles of soot and dust smaller than 2.5 µm in width) in San Jose were found to be either higher, or almost the same, as measurements made at the U.S. Consulate in Shanghai for 32 out of 61 days in June and July of last year.” (1)

Sources of Air Pollution in Northern California

North California is not usually thought of as a center of air pollution, especially when compared to other heavily polluted places in California like the Los Angeles basin. However, a combination of weather, geography, and emissions have colluded in recent years to hit Northern California hard with air pollution. Sources of air pollution in Northern California include increasing amounts of traffic, emissions from industry in areas like the Port of Oakland, and smoke from both domestic and wildfires.

The Pacific High-Pressure System sits over the Bay Area which traps air in the region and prevents it from moving up and over the mountains. California has also recently been impacted by a severe drought, which further exacerbates the air pollution problem.

“One of the main ways that particulate matter is removed from the atmosphere is rain, so if there’s less rain it means particulate pollution builds up more. The drought in the region also contributes to the probability and severity of forest fires which are themselves massive contributors to pollution,” says Wood. (2)

California experienced at least 22 massive wildfires during the fall of 2017, which emitted large amounts of particulate matter. The fires have created some of the highest pollution levels the Bay Area has ever seen, around 500 on the Air Quality Index, indicating “hazardous” air quality that is likely to affect the entire population.

Effects of Northern California Air Pollution

The effects of Northern California air pollution vary widely depending on the severity of the pollution and what pollutants people are exposed to. Ozone pollution comes from a chemical reaction between sunlight, nitrogen oxide, and volatile organic compounds. Breathing in high levels of ozone can cause difficulty breathing, throat irritation, and the worsening of conditions like asthma.

Exposure to both sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide can cause damage to people’s respiratory systems, aggravating conditions like asthma. Particulate matter pollution is perhaps the most persistent danger in terms of the air pollution affecting Northern California.

Particulate matter is small enough to enter the lungs and even the bloodstream, and it can increase the risk of strokes, heart attacks, respiratory illnesses, and cancer. Particulate matter is thought to cause almost 7000 premature deaths a year in the state of California alone, and millions worldwide.

Cleaning Up The Air In Northern California

Cleaning up the air in Northern California will require a combination of regulations and technology. Regulations have been extremely effective thus far in reducing aggregate air pollution across the nation. Throughout the United States, average air pollution emissions have dropped by 69%, while economic output has tripled, thanks to regulations like the Clean Air Act. However, more work still needs to be done creating standards that will facilitate lower emission levels.

“Technological solutions to Northern California’s air pollution problem also have their own role to play. Vehicles have gotten much cleaner since the 1970’s and 80’s, and a switch to electric or zero-emission vehicles is possible in the near future. Cleaner vehicles are a major contributor to cleaner air in Northern California, and continuing to invest in them is one of the best ways of reducing air pollution.” (3)

Protecting Yourself From Northern California Air Pollution

Protecting yourself from Northern California air pollution is incredibly important for your health and safety. Being exposed to particulate matter can harm your lungs and even increase your risk for cancer.

“The Bay Area Air Quality Management District recommends that you keep an eye on local air quality reports. If air quality is poor (over 100 on the Air Quality Index), limit your time spent outside,” says Wood. “If you must go outside when air quality is poor, do so at night or early morning when emissions are at their lowest concentrations. It is recommended that you employ industry-grade N95 respirator masks to avoid breathing in particulate matter.” (4)

It is also very important to protect yourself while you are inside your house. Make sure that your house is as airtight as it can be, and use the right air filters for your HVAC system.

Reach out to Camfil as soon as possible if you are affected by Northern California air pollution or are in any other area that may have high-level air quality concerns. Camfil will help you ensure that your HVAC system is equipped with the right filters, so it can protect your health and the health of your family.

SOURCES

http://www.ozy.com/acumen/think-chinas-pollution-is-bad-try-northern-california/71553

https://newrepublic.com/article/145259/toxic-air-california-public-health-crisis

https://ww2.kqed.org/news/2017/01/26/is-air-quality-in-the-bay-area-getting-worse/

http://www.ktvu.com/news/air-quality-alert-as-bad-as-beijing

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The Dangers of Indoor Air Over Outdoor Air: How to Prevent Them

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Most people think of air pollution as the pollutants in the air found outdoors, like vehicle exhaust or fumes from industry smokestacks. However recent studies have investigated the dangers of indoor air over the outdoor air and found that frequently indoor air is more polluted and more harmful than outdoor air. Hazardous chemicals like those found in cleaners, as well as mold and smoke, can build up inside. How do these indoor air pollutants impact us? Furthermore, what can be done to protect ourselves from these air pollutants?

Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants

Indoor air pollutants include things like dust, mold, pet dander, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, radon, carbon monoxide, ozone, and bioaerosols. Sources of indoor air pollution include building materials, cleaning chemicals, furniture, environmental or a cigarette smoke, cooking equipment, people, and animals. Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air because unlike outdoor air it stays in one place, slowly accumulating more pollutants.

Biological air contaminants such as mold can come from moisture that builds up in the house, while pets will leave pet dander around a home. Dust tends to come from dirt tracked in from outside as well as dead human skin.

“Radon is an invisible and radioactive gas that occurs naturally in certain rock formations. Radon can leak into houses through the foundation,” says Camfil’s Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials and 37-year ASHRAE member and active committee participant

. “Volatile organic compounds can be found in chemicals like paints, brushes, cleaning materials and building materials. Particulate matter and smoke frequently come from secondhand cigarette smoke but it can also come from sources like fireplaces and stoves.” (1)

Ozone is caused when sunlight reacts with certain air pollutants, but it can also come from indoor ionizers which are often used to purify the air. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that is released primarily by the burning of fossil fuels, so gas stoves, heaters and other sources of combustion can release it

Harms of Indoor Air Pollution

The harms of indoor air pollution range from short-term effects such as coughing, eye irritation, and difficulty breathing to longer-term effects such as the development of respiratory diseases and cancer. Depending on how dangerous the pollutant is and its concentrations, more severe effects can occur. Exposure to some pollutants, like carbon monoxide, can even cause death rather quickly.

Common symptoms of exposure to indoor air pollution include fatigue, headaches, sneezing, coughing, and congestion. More severe symptoms include rashes, chills, and fever, irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.

“Exposure to biological contaminants like animal dander and mold usually results in allergic reactions but can potentially cause the flu or other infectious diseases,” says Seyffer. “Ozone exposure can lead to damage to the respiratory tract and difficulty breathing if exposure is continuous lung damage can even be permanent.” (2)

Particulate matter exposure from stoves and heating systems can cause the exacerbation of asthma symptoms, irritation of the eyes nose and throat, as well as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. It can also cause lung cancer and is a frequent contributor to premature death.

Nitrogen dioxide can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as respiratory infections and permanent damage to the lungs. Pollutants like asbestos, lead, and radon can all be extremely damaging but difficult to detect, so it is important that proper procedures be followed to safeguard yourself from these pollutants. Asbestos can cause lung cancer, and so can radon. Lead can lead to brain and nerve damage, kidney damage, cardiovascular damage, and anemia.

Preventing the Dangers of Indoor Air Over Outdoor Air

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that when compared with deaths from outdoor air pollution, indoor air pollution may actually kill more people. Household cooking with coal or other biomass burning stoves killed around 4.2 million people in 2012, while outdoor air pollution killed around 3.7 million,” says Seyffer. “Preventing the danger of indoor air over the outdoor air is a matter of monitoring and controlling indoor air pollutants, and though it can be complicated it is absolutely necessary for people’s health.” (3)

One of the most effective ways to fight indoor air pollution is to improve ventilation. Ventilation can be done through natural means such as opening doors and windows, and with mechanical systems like HVAC systems which regulate outdoor air intake and conditioning. You’ll want to use air filters and have your HVAC systems regularly checked for any maintenance issues.

“Don’t let people smoke in your house, as cigarette smoke is both one of the most common and one of the most dangerous indoor air pollutants,” explains Seyffer. “Be sure to use household cleaners properly, in well-ventilated areas. Also be sure to store these chemicals properly, and use natural cleaning supplies if possible.” (4)

Be sure to clean your house regularly, and remove things like pet dander, bacteria, dust, and mold wherever it is found. Vacuum often, and try to use a low emissions vacuum if you can. Finally, if you are going to use an air purifier make sure that it is the right kind. Some air purifiers can actually make home air worse by releasing pollutants like ozone.

If you need help purchasing the right air filters or air purifiers to fight the dangers of indoor air over the outdoor air or want to learn more about how indoor air pollutants can harm you along with measures you can take to protect yourself, contact Camfil as soon as possible.

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620,

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

SOURCE Camfil.us

SOURCES

http://www.pureroom.com/Pure_living_blog/7-common-causes-indoor-air-pollution/

https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/healtheffects1table1.htm

https://www.cnbc.com/2016/04/22/indoor-air-can-be-deadlier-than-outdoor-air-research-shows.html

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2015/09/17-simple-ways-prevent-air-pollution-home/

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How Effective Are the UK’s Clean Air Zones?

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

The United Kingdom suffers from high levels of air pollution in its urban areas, with an estimated 40 million people living in air quality conditions considered illegal by regulations. In order to reduce pollution levels, the UK has created a “clean air zone” initiative. How do the UK’s clean air zones function? If they are effective, what are their implications?

What Is the True Need for the UK’s Clean Air Zones?

“According to a recent report commissioned by the UK’s Labor Party, approximately 40 million people throughout the UK live in areas where air pollution levels are illegal, harming their health and lifestyles,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA . “The report suggests that around 59% of the UK’s total population lives in a town or city where nitrogen dioxide levels exceed the maximum of 40 mcg/m³ as established by safety regulations.” (1)

Pollution in the UK is made up of substances such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ammonia. In the atmosphere, these particles are measured as being either 2.5 µm or less, and larger than 10 µm, known as PM 2.5 and PM 10 respectively. PM 2.5 particulate matter is considered to be a vastly dangerous to people’s health, as the particles are small enough to penetrate into a person’s lungs and nervous system, doing continual damage to their health.

Around the world, air pollution is thought to be responsible for approximately seven million premature deaths every year. Air pollution can cause heart conditions and stroke, respiratory diseases like asthma, and lung cancer. In the UK alone, around 30,000 people every year die prematurely from conditions associated with exposure to air pollutants.

How Do the UK’s Clean Air Zones Work?

In order to combat the UK’s air pollution problem, the UK government has proposed a series of initiatives which include “clean air zones,” where local authorities will be expected to create and implement pollution reducing plans. As for how the UK’s clean air zones work, potential plans might include encouraging public transportation to switch to ultra-low emission vehicles, levying fines on certain types of motor vehicles within the zone, and retrofitting polluting technologies with improvements to reduce their emissions.

“An air quality consultation paper released by the UK government describes pollution from diesel vehicles as the main source of the UK’s air pollution problem,” says Wood. “Therefore, much of the methods suggested by the paper revolve around how to reduce the use of diesel vehicles.” (2)

Plans for reducing pollution from diesel vehicles and other sources rely heavily on encouraging the private adoption of ultra-low emission vehicles and installing adequate charging spots for electric vehicles. The report also suggests encouraging citizens to make use of public transportation, walking, cycling, and ridesharing.

“These ultra-low emission zones ultimately attempt to both improve air quality and give the associated health benefits to citizens of the United Kingdom in a way that is supportive of economic growth,” states Wood. “London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has already moved towards expanding current charges on the most polluting vehicles to heavy diesel use vehicles. This is an attempt to discourage the operation of pollution-heavy vehicles in London and encourage the use of cleaner vehicles.” (3)

Looking Beyond the UK’s Clean Air Zones

Looking beyond the UK’s clean air zones to the future of pollution in the UK, it is unknown how effective the clean air zone initiative will be in reducing pollution. Critics of the plan argue it is weak, and simply putting the responsibility on the shoulders of local authorities to deal with what should be a national issue.

“Critics of the clean air zone plan argue that the government has not committed to a plan for scrapping diesel vehicles, which can be crucial in persuading drivers to adopt lower emission vehicles. Furthermore, there should be a national network of clean air zones overseen by the national government, instead of having local authorities deal with the issue of illegally polluted streets and high emission vehicles,” explains Wood. “Critics note that the report contains few substantive proposals and that it does not cite any specific towns or cities where charges would be possible for polluting vehicles.” (4)

While the implementation of the plan as it currently exists may leave much to be desired, the suggested solutions to the air pollution problem are sound. Increased adoption of low emission vehicles, pollution fines, greater access to public transportation, and pollution limiting technology are proven ways to combat air pollution. If the clean air zone initiative proves successful at reducing pollution in cities like London, it could be used as a model for cities that struggle with pollution around the globe.

The UK’s clean air zones could help other cities around the world combat their air pollution with an effective system, but only if the logistical problems of implementing the system and ensuring its efficacy are dealt with first.

How to Learn More about the UK’s Clean Air Zones

If you would like to learn more about the hazards of air pollution that the UK’s clean air zones are trying to target, contact Camfil now.  Camfil can educate you in the hazards of air pollution and provide you with high-quality filters to ensure your health and safety.

Lynne Laake

Camfil USA Air Filters

T: 888.599.6620,

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

SOURCE Camfil.us

SOURCES

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/apr/22/nearly-40-million-people-live-in-uk-areas-with-illegal-air-pollution

http://www.theactuary.com/news/2017/05/clean-air-zones-proposed-to-tackle-illegal-pollution-levels/

https://www.london.gov.uk/press-releases/mayoral/mayor-plans-to-introduce-ulez-in-april-2019

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/jul/26/governments-air-quality-plan-is-cynical-headline-grabbing-say-critics

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Avoiding the Harmful Impacts of Particulate Matter Pollution

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Particulate matter (PM), also known as particle pollution, refers to extremely small particles of pollutants in the air. Because PM is so small, it can damage people’s bodies when inhaled. The impacts of particulate matter include damage to people’s lungs and bloodstream, as well as damage to the environment. What are the common sources of particulate matter pollution? What can be done to protect people from particle pollution?

Sources of Particulate Matter Pollution

There are many sources of particulate matter pollution, some man-made and some natural. Common sources of particulate matter are factories, cars, plants, and fires.

Because particulate matter comes from such a wide variety of sources, it can be in liquid or solid form, and it can differ in size or shape. Particulate matter is grouped into three categories: PM 10, which refers to particles 10 micrometers or smaller, PM2.5, which refers to particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller (smaller than the width of a human hair) and PM1 which refers to particles smaller than 1 micron in size.  

“Because particulate matter can refer to almost any pollutant under a certain size, it is extremely varied and comes from many different sources,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA. “The most common sources of manmade particulate matter are production facilities, automotive use, and even forest fires. Anything that involves combustion releases particles into the air. The dirtier the object that combusts, the higher the levels of pollutants. This means that fossil fuel using facilities like factories and power plants are heavy contributors to PM pollution.” (1)

Particulate matter can also come from a variety of natural sources such as disturbed dirt, forest fires, mold spores, and pollen.

While particle pollution is often thought of as primarily an outdoor danger, it can easily be a danger indoors as well. Due to the fact that combustion is a major source of particulate pollution, things like tobacco smoke, fireplaces, candles, and even the cooking of meat can release particulate matter indoors.

Health Impacts of Particulate Pollution

Particulate matter can be extremely dangerous to human health. The health impacts of particulate pollution include a variety of illnesses, which PM exposure can both cause and exacerbate. The smaller the particles are the more damage they can do to human health. The tiniest particles can get into the lungs and the bloodstream, and can even ride the bloodstream up from the lungs and impact the brain.

“Studies have found that exposure to particulate matter pollution can damage both the heart and the lungs,” says Wood. “The most common conditions associated with PM exposure include coughing and difficulty breathing, nonfatal heart attacks, impaired lung function, exacerbated asthma, and irregular heartbeat. Those who have pre-existing lung or heart conditions also face premature death due to the worsening of their conditions caused by PM exposure.” (2)

The people who most at risk for damage caused by PM exposure include people with current lung or heart diseases, the elderly, and children. Children are especially at risk from PM exposure due to the fact that their bodies are still developing.

Environmental Impacts Of Particulate Pollution

High levels of particulate pollution also impact the environment in addition to people’s health. Particulate matter pollution contributes to acid rain and climate change.

The environmental impacts of particulate pollution can be devastating, with poor areas of the world hit particularly hard by the environmental impact of PM pollution

In addition to the worsening of acid rain, particulate pollution can also change weather patterns, cause drought, contribute to global warming, and cause the ocean to acidify.

“Particulate matter is thought to change the weather on regional scales. An example is that it suppresses evaporation of water from the Indian Ocean leading to more lackluster Indian Monsoons, which contributes to regional drought,” adds Wood. “Aerosols and particulate pollution are believed to increase drought around the world by pushing tropical rainfall southward.”  (3)

Particulate pollution also contributes to the greenhouse effect, which prevents heat from leaving the planet, leading to the melting of the polar ice caps and sea level rise. The oceans themselves acidify due to carbon dioxide particulates, which harm sea life.

Reducing Particulate Matter Pollution

Reducing particulate matter pollution is a matter of identifying and seizing the use of common polluting sources of particulate matter. Fossil fuel combustion is the primary contributor to atmospheric particle pollution, and any tasks done with fossil fuels can typically be accomplished with cleaner alternatives.

Increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions from vehicles is one of the best ways to reduce particulate air pollution. Diesel engines are particularly dirty and a massive source of fine particles, so it is important to replace older diesel engines with cleaner alternatives. Walking, biking, and carpooling to destinations are all important steps in reducing particulate pollution as well.

“The burning of fossil fuels at home is also a large contributor to particulate pollution, meaning that it should be reduced wherever possible,” says Wood. “Garden refuse can be mulched or composted instead of burned, fireplace use should be limited, and gas or alternate appliances should be used instead of wood stoves.” (4)

It’s critical for the health of your family, public health, and the environment that particulate matter pollution is reduced. The impacts of particulate matter can only be avoided when society works together to reduce particle pollution.

Camfil can give you more information about how to do your part to reduce particle pollution. Camfil can also provide you with filters to protect yourself and your family from the impacts of particulate matter pollution.

For more information visit https://www.Camfil.us

SOURCES

https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics#PM

https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/pmfactsheet.pdf

https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/causes-and-effects-of-particulate-matter.php

https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/outdoor-air-pollution

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Protecting Food from Airborne Contaminants: What Can You Do?

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Airborne contaminants at food processing facilities represent a serious threat to the safety of food and people’s health. Particles like dust, bacteria, mold, and yeast can get into food and cause health problems for those who ingest the food. How can proper air filtration and sanitization policies assist in protecting food from airborne contaminants?

What are Common Airborne Contaminants at Food Processing Facilities?

One of the most common airborne contaminants in food processing facilities are bioaerosols. Bioaerosols are airborne contaminants made up of liquid or solid microscopic particles which carry microbes through the air.

“Bioaerosols are frequently created when a source of microbes is disturbed, which launches the particles into the air where they remain suspended for varying lengths of time, depending upon their size and airflow patterns for example,” says Mark Davidson, Camfil USA Food & Beverage Segment Manager. “Bioaerosols could be created by using high-pressure hoses to wash down holding pens, the use of compressed air lines without filters, by poorly installed air handling units, as well as foot or vehicle traffic through stagnant water. Bioaerosols can also originate in neighboring buildings or fields. Whether originating from inside or outside the food processing facility.  These bioaerosols can come to rest on food or on contact surfaces where preparation work is performed.” (1)

The most common bioaerosols include microorganisms like Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Bacillus, and Clostridium. Yeasts and molds are also common sources of contamination, and they frequently become predominant in food processing facilities when conditions for bacterial growth aren’t optimal, such as on foods with a high amount of salt. Viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A are also common contaminants.

What Are the Effects of Contamination at Food Processing Facilities?

The effects of contamination in food processing are twofold. Contamination can cause significant product loss during production, reduced shelf life or product returns. These added expenses are a financial burden on the profitability of a facility. Far more important however is the negative effects on public health created by contaminated food.   Bacteria and viruses can all cause different foodborne illnesses that can have a variety of different effects on people’s health but are the most dangerous to the very young, the very old, pregnant women, and people with poor immune systems.

“Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria all cause the diseases associated with exposure to these pathogens. Bacterial-based foodborne illnesses are typically contracted by ingesting the food in question,” says Davidson at Camfil. “Common symptoms of infection from foodborne illnesses include vomiting, abdominal pain, chills, fever, and diarrhea.” (2)

Exposure to Clostridium botulinum can cause the disease botulism which can cause headaches, blurred vision, weakness, paralysis, and dizziness. Botulism can be fatal, so it is extremely important that potential sources of botulism are neutralized immediately.

Viral infections such as norovirus can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and people can pass the virus to one another rather easily.

How to Protect Food from Airborne Contaminants with Air Filtration

A food processing facility with a carefully developed HACCP plan should identify the critical areas where hazards can occur. One method to control the hazard of bioaerosols contamination is with the proper air filtration.

Broadly speaking, there may be up to three types of air filtration systems in a food processing facility. The main HVAC system that brings air into the facility which is typically located on the roof and controls the heating and cooling in the building. Second; filters that protect the air entering into a specific piece of equipment can be thought of as process filters. The HEPA filters protecting aseptic systems are a good example of this. Finally, food processing plants may have stand-alone individual air purification systems that are strategically located near areas known to generate contaminants.

Food processing facilities should be constructed with the placement of the HVAC systems optimized to ensure exposure to bioaerosols remains as low as possible, and the proper filters should be chosen to capture these bioaerosols.

“One of the primary sources of contaminants and bioaerosols is water, and a facility’s own HVAC system could be the culprit. HVAC systems should be designed to ensure that water does not pool in them. Cooling coils, drip trays, and evaporative condensers should be maintained and checked often for the possibility of contaminated water,” explains Davidson, “Optimal airflow management is also important for reducing the spread of bioaerosols, and a good principle to follow is that the more hygienic an area must be, the higher the pressure of that area should be.” (3)

“In those areas identified as potential sources of internally generated contaminants or where additional airflow is required to maintain a higher pressure, stand-alone air purification systems can add that missing layer of protection against airborne contamination.”

Properly designed filtration systems are wasted if the appropriate air filters are not selected. High-efficiency filters should be employed to capture bioaerosols. Be sure to look for filters labeled with both a MERV and MERV-A rating.  The – A is a  designation, such as MERV 13-A, which means that the filter has been tested in conditions designed to simulate real-world situations, and will not drop in efficiency over time like filters only rated with a single MERV value.

It is the responsibility of each individual facility to determine the specific MERV rating to use, if  HEPA filters are needed or if additional stand-alone purifiers are required. Each application and process is different and no one solution is suitable for all.

What Can You Do to Protect Food from Airborne Contaminants?

Protecting food from airborne contaminants is a matter of public health and the responsibility of those who work at food processing plants. Those responsible for air quality at food processing facilities should be sure to consult with qualified professionals who can help you determine possible sources of dangerous bacteria and bioaerosols both inside and outside of the plant. Plant managers should also contract with licensed professionals to ensure that proper installation and regular maintenance of air filtration systems is performed.

If you need help determining the best HVAC air filters to protect food from airborne contaminants like bioaerosols, contact Camfil air filtration today.

SOURCES

http://www.deibellabs.com/index.php/featured/378-air-monitoring-in-food-plants

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/foodborne-illnesses

http://www.wifoodprotection.org/docs/7%20David%20Mathieu%20Proper%20AIr%20Handling%20.pdf

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Camfil Awards H&R REIT MSLP – F1RST Tower The Exclusive Energy Cost Index (ECI) Award

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Calgary, AB, December 6, 2017 –  Camfil, the leading global manufacturer of air filtration products, awards H&R REIT MSLP – F1RST Tower, of Calgary, Alberta with the prestigious 5-Star Energy award.  F1RST Tower qualified for this award by demonstrating their continued commitment to saving energy while providing quality indoor air throughout their Alberta facility.  F1RST Tower’s selection of air filters have the 5-Star Energy Cost Index (ECI) rating placing the company in the top 20% of customers worldwide that have chosen to make a difference in energy usage globally.

Presented by Jon Holmes of Camfil Canada, the award recognizes facilities that conserve our natural resources and put their employees, visitors and customers first when improved indoor air quality is considered.  In the average commercial building, 50% of the energy bill is for the HVAC system — 30% of which is directly related to the air filtration.  The selection of 5-Star premium air filtration products can reduce a building’s HVAC energy costs by 20%, its installation costs by 50% and its disposal costs by 70% — all while boosting indoor air quality.

F1RST Tower was nominated by Jon Holmes, Camfil’s Territory Manager for Alberta, who presented the award to Jon Cromwell, H&R REIT MSLP’s Operations Manager, on November 1, 2017.  After 14 months, F1RST Tower reports significant savings in their facility’s energy, waste, and labour, and now proudly displays the award at their facility.  “By selecting the Camfil product lines, including the HiFlo ES bag filters, we continue to provide a high level of air filtration to our occupied spaces with reduced labour for installation.  Due to the longevity and durability of the product line, we dramatically reduce disposal volumes of expended materials”.

ABOUT CAMFIL

Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Camfil is a global leader in the air filtration industry with more than half a century of experience in developing and manufacturing sustainable clean air solutions that protect people, processes and the environment against harmful airborne particles, gases and emissions.  Camfil products are used globally to benefit human health, increase performance and reduce energy consumption in a wide range of air filtration applications.  Camfil’s 26 manufacturing plants, six R&D sites, local sales offices and 3,800 employees provide service and support to customers worldwide.

 

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How to Deal with the Dangers of Air Pollution from Charbroiling

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

HVAC Air Filter company for Restaurants Camfil goes over Effects of Air Pollution from Charbroiling.

While many people think of air pollution as primarily being released by factories and motor vehicles, an often-overlooked source of air pollution is restaurants that charbroil food. The air pollution from charbroiling can have substantial impacts on people’s health, including increasing the chance a person will develop cancer. It’s important to be aware of the dangers posed by restaurants that charbroil and to take the necessary steps to reduce air pollution from the charbroiling process itself.

What Are the Emissions Created by Restaurants that Charbroil?

In terms of the emissions created by restaurants that charbroil their food, much of the pollution is particulate matter. The particulate matter measurement barometer related to charbroiling refers to tiny particles, the smallest of which are less than 2.5 microns across and referred to as PM2.5.

PM2.5 particles are made up of tiny liquid or solid droplets include black carbon, a light-absorbing particle, which is a major component of soot. Black carbon and particulate emissions in general typically arise from the incomplete combustion of objects, such as biofuels and the charbroiling of food.

“Researchers from the University of California Riverside found that the amount of particulate matter emissions released by charbroiling a single hamburger patty is approximately equivalent to the emissions produced by an 18 wheeler diesel engine truck driving for 140 miles on a freeway,” says Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials at Camfil. (1)

The reason for this is when meat is charbroiled on the grill, all of the water vapor, smoke, and other particles are sent into the air. When the grills are run for hours at a time, the amount of emissions can quickly stack up.

What Are the Effects of Air Pollution from Charbroiling?

The effects of air pollution from charbroiling include the possibility of heart attacks, lung damage, aggravated asthma, increased risk of cancer, and premature death due to lung and/or heart disease.

Particulate matter pollution can get into the lungs and cause lung irritation, which can result in decreased lung function. It can also aggravate chronic lung diseases, and negatively impact heart function by causing the release of chemicals that damage the heart. Particulate matter also increases the risk of damage from both bacterial and viral pathogens, leading to conditions like pneumonia.

“The charbroiling of food can also release particulate matter containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Repeated exposure to PAHs can lead to kidney and liver damage, and has been correlated with the development of cancer in some research on animals,” says Seyffer. “Studies conducted on those exposed to PAHs as well as other chemicals found an increased risk of lung, skin, and gastrointestinal cancers.” (2)

How Can Reducing Air Pollution from Charbroiling Restaurants Be Achieved?

Reducing air pollution from charbroiling restaurants can be achieved through a variety of approaches. Regulatory standards and technological fixes should both be implemented to reduce air pollution from charbroiling restaurants.

One of the most effective ways of reducing air pollution from restaurants that charbroil food would be to instantiate emissions regulations for them. Very few regulations currently exist for restaurants. There should also be a focus on creating the sort of technology that would assist in cheaply and efficiently reducing these emissions.  

“New York City recently introduced legislation that would require the use of emissions control devices on restaurants across the city’s five boroughs. New emissions control devices referred to as wet scrubber systems cut down on particulate matter emissions at a much cheaper price than old electrostatic precipitators,” explains Seyffer. “This is an example of technological advancements and regulation working hand-in-hand to reduce emissions.” (3)

What Can You Do to Cut Down on Air Pollution from Charbroiling?

Cutting down on air pollution from charbroiling is a shared responsibility. Regardless of whether you own or work in a restaurant, try to be sure that emissions regulating technology like scrubbers and HVAC systems are properly installed and used. They are the best way to protect yourself and others against irreversible medical conditions that if left untreated, could prove to be deadly.

If you need help determining the best filters to protect yourself against particulate matter and other air pollution from charbroiling, contact Camfil now. A Camfil filter representative will be able to help you decide on the best filters to use and the best emissions limiting devices to employ.

SOURCES

http://bit.ly/2D7RBap

http://bit.ly/2AUGPxW

http://bit.ly/2D8K2jC

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Learn How to Protect Yourself from Lung Damage from Air Pollution

Clean Air Solution by Camfil USA. Leader in Air Filters for Commercial and Industrial applications.

Here is How Lung Damage from Air Pollution Happens explained by HVAC air filtration company of Camfil USA air filters.

Air pollution leads to the development of millions of respiratory illnesses and premature deaths every year, due to the damage caused by breathing in various air pollutants. It’s important to understand exactly how lung damage from air pollution occurs, as well as what steps can be taken to protect oneself from lung damage due to air pollution exposure

What Are the Types of Air Pollution that Cause Lung Damage?

There are several types of air pollutants that can cause lung damage. The EPA recognizes four primary air pollutants that are the most ubiquitous and have the most damaging impacts on human health. These air pollutants are nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, ozone and particulate matter.

Sulfur dioxide is a colorless toxic gas, part of the larger group of chemicals referred to as sulfur oxides. It is primarily released into the air by the burning of fossil fuels at industrial facilities and power plants. Nitrogen dioxide is a highly reactive gas and it comes primarily from emissions released by trucks, cars, and power plants.

“Ozone at ground level is not emitted straight into the air like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, but it is created through a chemical process that happens when nitrogen, as well as volatile organic compounds, react to sunlight,” says Kevin Wood, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA. “Ozone is beneficial in the high atmosphere where it protects us from ultraviolet radiation, but at ground level, it is a toxic pollutant that has a variety of negative health effects on people’s lungs.” (1)

Particulate matter is one of the most dangerous air pollutants. Particulate matter is the collective term for tiny liquid or solid particles that are found in the air such as dirt, soot, smoke, and bioaerosols. They are subdivided into three categories: PM10 which is around 10 µm across and potentially visible to the human eye, PM2.5 which is smaller than 2.5 µm or smaller than the width of a single human hair, and PM1 which are 1 micron and smaller and are by far the most prevalent size by count in any atmospheric air sample.

What Are the Effects of Air Pollution on Lungs?

The effects of air pollution on lungs vary, depending on the type of pollution, the length of exposure, and the individual person. However, the most consistent and likely effects of air pollution exposure are the cause or exacerbation of asthma, the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema, and the increased risk of developing lung cancer.

Asthma can be caused by all four criteria air pollutants, and more than 20 million people in the United States including around six million children struggle with asthma. Ozone exposure is thought to be one of the primary contributors to asthma, and it can collect in extremely high concentrations in urban environments during the summer. Relatively low amounts of ozone exposure can cause shortness of breath, throat irritation, coughing and chest pain.

“Chronic obsessive pulmonary disease is a permanent condition that involves the narrowing of the airways caused by continuous exposure to the pollutants that create inflammation. Inflammation is an immunological response intended to protect the body from these air pollutants,” says Wood. “However, the inflammatory response can also damage the lung tissue in a condition referred to as either chronic bronchitis when it happens in the larger airways or as emphysema when it happens in the lung’s smaller passageways.” (2)

Exposure to particulate matter is dangerous because the particles are so small that they can easily penetrate the tissue of the lungs and cause damage. While our natural defenses can protect us from larger particles, the small particles of air pollution can easily bypass those defenses and damage the lungs resulting in heart attacks, asthma, overall decreases in lung function, difficulty breathing, lung cancer, and premature death.

Particulate matter pollution irritates the lungs and causes an immunological response that leads to an increased permeability of lung tissue, which can further aggravate the severity of pre-existing respiratory diseases.

How to Prevent Lung Damage from Air Pollution

The best way to prevent lung damage from air pollution and protect yourself from developing lung diseases is to stay informed about the air quality in your local area. You can view reports about your local air quality and air pollution at Airnow.gov, managed by the EPA.

“If air pollution levels are high, try to limit time spent outdoors. Avoid exercising outdoors if possible, and if you must spend time outdoors, do so at night when air pollution levels are lowest. Avoid high traffic areas, and if air pollution is extremely high, employ industry-grade filtration masks,” states Wood. “At home, make sure your HVAC system is properly installed and maintained, with high-efficiency filters employed.” (3)

What Can You do to Stop Lung Damage from Air Pollution?

You can do your part to reduce air pollution emissions by using less energy in your house, and by walking, carpooling, or using public transportation to reduce emissions from your car. Don’t burn trash, and always use chemical cleaners responsibly.

If you need help determining the right type of HVAS air filters to prevent lung damage from air pollution, contact Camfil today. Camfil will be able to advise you on the different types of filters and tell you which filters are the most effective against the criteria air pollutants.

SOURCES

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