Assessing Indoor Air Quality Indices and Airborne Contaminant Exposure in Isolation Rooms with Protected Zone Ventilation Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract:

Airborne transmission of pathogens, particularly through respiratory droplets and aerosols, poses a significant risk to human health and contributes to the spread of infectious respiratory disorders. Urbanization and population increase are frequently linked to rising energy consumption and the use of natural resources like fossil fuels, which harms the ecology. Solar and geothermal energy are examples of renewable energy sources that provide options that can help with environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy-efficient thermal comfort solutions. Adequate ventilation plays a crucial role in mitigating this risk and safeguarding human well-being. Previous studies have examined the importance of ventilation in airborne infection control, emphasizing its impact on indoor air quality. This paper aims to comprehensively review various control measures for enhancing indoor air quality, taking into account relevant influencing parameters. Additionally, the study explores sustainable solutions that can contribute to the long-term prevention of declining air quality and mitigate the potential impact of future biological threats on human health. A thorough literature study evaluates the performance of protected zone ventilation in reducing the risk associated with respiratory droplets and aerosols generated by infected individuals in different confined spaces. The findings highlight the significance of guideline recommendations to prevent airborne transmission of infections and offer a concise overview of enhanced ventilation strategies for improving indoor air quality, particularly in air-conditioned environments. The results of this review contribute to a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of protected zone ventilation in reducing the spread of respiratory pathogens. Moreover, they provide insights into the importance of maintaining optimal indoor air quality through appropriate ventilation measures. The implications of this research are crucial for developing evidence-based guidelines and strategies that can mitigate the impact of airborne transmission and foster healthier indoor environments.

• Periodical: Construction Technologies and Architecture (Volume 12)
• Pages: 85-96
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-qq0rvR
• Online since: June 2024
• Authors: Elaf Sadeq Barrak*, Hasanain M. Hussain, Laith Jaafer Habeeb
• Keywords: Air Distribution, Airborne Contaminant Exposure, Indoor Air Quality, Protected Zone Ventilation, Thermal Comfort, Ventilation

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