Effective v.s. Ineffective Ventilation

Ventilation Effectiveness

Ventilation effectiveness is an indicator of the quality of supply air distribution in ventilated rooms. It is a representation of how well a considered space is ventilated compared to a perfect air mixing condition.  Depending on pollutant properties and source position relative to the airflow, ventilation effectiveness can more or less successfully be used as an indicator of air quality and human exposure.

Another key component of ventilation in the confined space is to ensure that the ventilation systems in place are effective. As a general principle, ventilation systems should be set up with the following considerations:

• Long confined space
• Deep confined space
• Prevent short-circuiting
• Prevent re-circulation of exhaust air
• Remove lighter-than-air contaminants
• Remove heavier-than-air contaminants

Ineffective Ventilation

With increased environmental and health concerns, indoor air quality has become a critical focus across all industries. Manufacturers and food processors— especially those dealing with chemicals, running heavy or high-tech machinery, or producing ready-to-eat foods— must do whatever is necessary to keep the air in their facilities clean. Doing so will ensure better health amongst your workforce, meaning more productivity and fewer sick days. It also ensures the sanitation of plants and products.

Under OSHA regulations, you must provide the following safety measures:

• Oxygen (O2) levels need to stay between 19.5% and 22%.
• Gases and flammable vapors must be kept below 10% of their lower explosive limit (LEL).
• Potentially toxic materials must stay below their personal exposure limit (PEL) levels, or immediate danger to life and health (IDLH) levels if you’re using anything less than supplied air respirator protection.