Shared Air: The New Enemy

Apr 22, 2020 | Newsletter

First, to all who read this newsletter, my best to you and your families. I hope this find you well.

As the COVID 19 virus continues to ravage our country and we practice social distancing, we all are beginning to think about life “Post COVID 19”. One of the issues we will face is how do we make our senior living facilities and nursing homes safer for residents, patients and staff.

It is undeniable that these markets have been devastated over the past six weeks. Social distancing, quarantines and better cleaning techniques certainly are part of the solution. But—the bigger issue is:

How do we handle the shared air with a community?

Right now, in most facilities, the HVAC system acts as a delivery system for the virus throughout the building. The truth is a resident at one end of the building could infect a resident at the other end of the building with the virus being delivered by the HVAC system through the duct work. No amount of social distancing, cleaning or quarantining will stop this issue. This is a problem that needs to be addressed to help ensure the senior living industry isn’t decimated with future outbreaks.

Senior living is our business. We’ve worked in 18 states in IL, AL, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, PT/OT, Brain Trauma Units and Short-Term Care. We’ve worked on, installed and improved roof top units, fan coil units, PTACs and VRF Systems. Over the years, we have developed some great relationships with top tier mechanical engineers and quality HVAC sub-contractors. Since the outbreak, we have been working with them to design a system that meets the following criteria:

  • Effective at mitigating virus and pathogens
  • Can be installed on existing units
  • Does NOT require changing of UV bulbs (no UV bulbs involved)
  • Proven in the market (system we are homing in on has been used in Boston hospitals)
  • Compatible with all systems
  • Additional benefits beyond mitigation of pathogens and virus
  • Identifiable costs

We have had several meetings about this system and are now working through pricing exercises and developing best practices for installation. We know from experience how to work in occupied space, including resident rooms (many have FCU’s in each room). That’s why this system, beyond senior living, will benefit healthcare, schools, offices, churches, restaurants and hotels.

We all knew for a long time that shared air had risks. Those risks have home to roost. I’d be happy to share the system with anyone as I think this is going to be required going forward.

Everyone stay safe and healthy. This will end. We will all get back to some sort of normalcy in due time. But the way we do things and how we handle issues, particularly in construction, will change forever and for the better.

Keep the faith!



View Our Work

Brandywine Haverford Estates by Monarch

Brandywine Haverford Estates by Monarch

South Coast Improvement Company has completed interior renovations at the senior living community, Brandywine Haverford Estates by Monarch. We were entrusted with enhancing the facilities, and the results speak for themselves. The team brought diligence and...

Nouveau Marc by Barclay House

Nouveau Marc by Barclay House

South Coast Improvement Company proudly partnering with QSL Management delivered a comprehensive renovation at Nouveau Marc by Barclay House, a premier senior living community. This project focused on revitalizing key resident areas with an emphasis on safety,...



Looking for something specific?

Check Out Our Portfolio

At South Coast Improvement Company, we take pride in our work – and for your project, you should too.

You May Also Like

Renovation Contractor vs New Build Contractor

Renovation Contractor vs New Build Contractor

Renovation Contractor vs New Build Contractor; Embarking on a new construction project can be an exciting but daunting experience for any building owner. Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing business or build a new custom commercial building, choosing the...

Custom Cabinets: 10 Reasons Your Business Needs Them

Custom Cabinets: 10 Reasons Your Business Needs Them

Are you looking for custom cabinets for your business? When it comes to creating functional and inviting spaces, custom cabinets can transform your business environment. Whether you’re managing a retail store, restaurant, office, or hospitality venue, custom cabinetry...

Understanding Millwork in Commercial Construction

Understanding Millwork in Commercial Construction

Millwork is more than just a functional element in construction. It’s a hallmark of craftsmanship, a staple of design, and an integral part of creating inviting, professional spaces. If you've admired the intricate trim around a doorway or the sleek custom windows in...