Dutch Program Paves Way for Pandemic-Ready Ventilation Systems
The Hague, Netherlands – A comprehensive Dutch research program, led by TNO, is delivering actionable insights to fortify buildings against airborne disease transmission and improve indoor environmental quality, positioning the nation to better withstand future pandemics and climate challenges. The program, known as P3Venti, uniquely integrates biomedical understanding of viruses with building science expertise, offering a holistic approach to ventilation system design and implementation.
The COVID-19 pandemic starkly revealed vulnerabilities in indoor spaces,particularly regarding airborne virus spread. P3Venti directly addresses these weaknesses, moving beyond reactive measures to proactive preparation. The program’s findings are poised to impact healthcare facilities, public spaces like swimming pools and fitness centers, and perhaps broader building codes, safeguarding vulnerable populations and bolstering societal resilience. The stakes are high: effective ventilation isn’t just about virus control, but also about mitigating the growing risks of mold and heat stress in buildings as the climate changes.
TNO coordinates P3Venti, collaborating with knowledge institutes and universities to leverage a diverse range of expertise.”Our strength as TNO is that we have knowledge and expertise of the biomedical side – so of viruses and everything surrounding it – as well as of buildings: how to make them healthy and climate-proof,” explains TNO researcher Traversari. This dual focus distinguishes the program and allows for targeted solutions.
Initially concentrating on healthcare buildings – a core area of TNO’s expertise – the program prioritized long-term care facilities, where pandemic-related challenges were most acute.The scope subsequently expanded to include sectors vital for social cohesion, such as swimming pools, medical fitness centers, and smaller fitness and yoga studios, often housed in older buildings with inadequate ventilation.
The program’s success hinges on its three-pronged research approach,according to program manager Lisette Rueb. “It consists of three parts. the biomedical research focuses on the virus itself, so how does the virus behave? The technical research looked at how particles spread in a room, including a large-scale mock-up and field research into various ventilation systems.”
This research extends beyond simply understanding viral behavior and particle spread. P3Venti also examines the policy and decision-making processes that unfold during a pandemic, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement. Rueb emphasizes,”All insights from these three lines were then brought together into concrete action perspectives. That is what makes this program so valuable.”
The resulting action perspectives are designed to inform practical improvements to ventilation systems, ensuring they are not only effective against airborne pathogens but also contribute to climate adaptation by addressing issues like mold growth and overheating. By integrating these considerations, P3Venti aims to create healthier, more resilient indoor environments for all.
