Category: News

Elevate Working and Learning Environments: How Air Purification Can Boost Achievement

Elevate Working and Learning Environments: How Air Purification Can Boost Achievement

Posted on by Georgina

In an unexpected turn of events, a seemingly simple change in school environments has unveiled the potential to significantly enhance student performance. Recent research suggests that installing air filters in classrooms can have a profound impact on educational outcomes, leading to improved test scores. This revelation is particularly pertinent to business owners and schools aiming to enhance productivity and elevate excellence.

The Aliso Canyon Gas Leak Incident

The catalyst for this revelation was the Aliso Canyon gas leak in 2015, the largest of its kind in U.S. history. While the leak itself raised concerns about immediate public health impacts and greenhouse gas emissions, it also triggered a series of actions that would eventually shed light on the power of clean air.

In response to mounting concerns from parents and educators, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) initiated a remarkable experiment. They installed air filters in every classroom, office, and common area in schools situated within a five-mile radius of the gas leak. This action was taken despite the fact that air quality testing had shown that these schools did not have unusually high levels of typical pollutants.

Surprising Results: Academic Gains

The results of this initiative were nothing short of astonishing. Math scores increased by 0.20 standard deviations, and English scores improved by 0.18 standard deviations. Notably, these improvements persisted even after controlling for various student demographics and residential pollution exposure. To put this in context, these academic gains are on par with the potential benefits of reducing class sizes by a third, as found by previous research.

Cost-Effective and Scalable

One of the most remarkable aspects of this discovery is the minimal cost involved. Installing air filters and indoor air purifiers might not be as costly as you’d think and ongoing maintenance is also cost-effective. This solution could be scaled up quickly and easily, making it a highly scalable initiative. Schools and workplaces across the country could adopt this approach with relative ease, generating a wealth of data to further support the benefits of cleaner indoor air.

The potential impacts of this research are not limited to academic improvements. Cleaner air has been linked to reduced teacher and student absenteeism, particularly among those with respiratory issues. Clearer thinking and better cognitive performance are additional byproducts of improved indoor air quality, which can result in improved learning experiences.

Equity in Education

The significance of this discovery extends to the reduction of socio-economic gaps in educational achievements. Air pollution tends to be more severe in lower-income communities, and installing air filters in schools can contribute to levelling the academic playing field. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds, often residing in more polluted areas, could experience even greater benefits from this low-cost intervention.

The Road Ahead

While this research represents a significant step forward, it is only the beginning. It opens up new avenues for understanding the impact of indoor air quality on cognition and educational outcomes. As we delve deeper into this somewhat uncharted territory, we have the potential to redefine the way we approach education and learning, especially in the context of air quality.

As business owners and school administrators seek ways to enhance productivity and foster academic excellence, the installation of air purification systems should undoubtedly be a top consideration. Clean air is not merely a matter of comfort; it is a catalyst for improved learning, critical thinking, and, ultimately, a brighter future for everyone.

In conclusion, investing in indoor air quality may very well be the most cost-effective education policy intervention that has ever been encountered, with the potential to deliver extraordinary benefits to students, particularly those in underprivileged communities. As we move forward, further research and broader adoption of air purification systems can help shape a future where the air we breathe fuels success.

Are you ready to unleash the potential that cleaner air in your school or workplace can bring? Get in touch with us today to find out more about our limited free trial and witness the benefits for yourself. Email: contact@rejuvenair.co.uk.

Enhancing Indoor Air Quality: Prioritising Health and Well-being in a Polluted World

Enhancing Indoor Air Quality: Prioritising Health and Well-being in a Polluted World

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

As the summer heat intensifies and air pollution levels soar, for businesses wishing to keep their productivity up, finding a balance between staying cool and maintaining good air quality becomes a challenge.


The recent air pollution warning issued by the Mayor of London has raised concerns about the health and comfort of people working indoors. Advice to keep windows closed to reduce exposure to outdoor pollution is understandable, however, this can lead to discomfort and poor air quality circulation. In such circumstances, relying solely on air conditioning systems that pass thousands of potentially harmful contaminants around within closed spaces, becomes a concern.


REJUVENAIR addresses these challenges, helping businesses to maintain high-performance levels and ensure the well-being of their employees by utilising UVC and HEPA filters to clean the indoor air continuously. Additionally, REJUVENAIR provides an app that allows users to check the status of air quality before entering a building, providing peace of mind, enabling informed decisions.

 

Air Pollution in London

London, much like other major cities, grapples with the persistent issue of air pollution. The Mayor’s recent warning serves as a clarion call, urging individuals and businesses alike to take action. With harmful contaminants and pollutants circulating both outside and indoors, finding effective solutions to combat this invisible menace becomes imperative.

 

The Vitality of Clean Air

Clean air is not merely a luxury but a crucial catalyst for our well-being and productivity. Poor air quality can lead to a range of health concerns, including respiratory problems, allergies, and diminished cognitive function. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can even have long-term consequences on our overall health. Furthermore, when it comes to indoor spaces, the air we breathe often harbours additional contaminants from various sources such as dust, pollen, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Addressing these concerns is paramount to create a healthy and comfortable working environment.

 

The REJUVENAIR Solution

REJUVENAIR recognises the indispensability of clean air and presents innovative solutions to combat indoor air pollution with efficacy. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies like UVC and HEPA filters, REJUVENAIR ensures the efficient removal of harmful contaminants from the air, fostering a healthier indoor environment. These cutting-edge filtration systems work in tandem to capture and eliminate particles, allergens, bacteria, and viruses, elevating the air quality within your workspace.

 

Real-time Air Quality Monitoring

REJUVENAIR goes beyond conventional air filtration by empowering businesses and individuals to monitor air quality in real-time. Through the user-friendly app, users can effortlessly check the air quality status before entering a building. This groundbreaking feature not only offers peace of mind but also enables informed decisions regarding the optimal utilisation of indoor spaces.

 

Embracing Clean Air Day

As part of its unwavering commitment to raising awareness about air pollution and its detrimental impact, it is vital to note that Clean Air Day is just around the corner, arriving this Thursday. Clean Air Day, orchestrated by the esteemed organisation Action for Clean Air, serves to inspire individuals, organisations, and communities to take definitive action in reducing air pollution and safeguarding our collective health.

 

Benefits for Businesses and Employees

The REJUVENAIR system delivers a plethora of benefits for both businesses and employees. By investing in cutting-edge clean air solutions, companies exhibit their unwavering dedication to employee well-being and satisfaction. Clean indoor air stimulates productivity, reduces absenteeism, and fosters a more comfortable working environment. Employees will relish the invigorating, pollutant-free air that enables them to focus and perform at their peak, even amid periods of elevated air pollution.

 

Conclusion

With air pollution rapidly emerging as a pressing concern, businesses necessitate effective solutions to uphold clean and healthy indoor air quality.

REJUVENAIR rises to the occasion, offering a groundbreaking approach by amalgamating Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, unmatched UVC and HEPA filtration technologies to eradicate harmful contaminants and measure air quality in real-time.

As Clean Air Day approaches, there has never been a better time for businesses to prioritise the well-being of their employees by investing in the REJUVENAIR state-of-the-art air purification system. By doing so, they not only contribute to the reduction of air pollution but also cultivate a workplace where employees can thrive and perform at their best. Let us embrace the power of clean air and join the movement towards a healthier, more productive future.

For more information on the Mayor of London’s air pollution warning, we invite you to visit [link: https://www.london.gov.uk/mayor-london-issues-high-air-pollution-alert]. To learn more about Clean Air Day and its inspiring initiatives, please visit [link: https://www.actionforcleanair.org.uk/campaigns/clean-air-day]. And to discover how REJUVENAIR can help your business achieve superior air quality and enhance employee well-being, please explore our website at [link: https://rejuvenair.co.uk/].

Together, let us breathe easy, stay healthy, and make every day a celebration of clean air. Trust REJUVENAIR to revolutionise your workplace atmosphere and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future.


If you’re interested in a THREE MONTH FREE TRIAL of REJUVENAIR for your business, email contact@rejuvenair.co.uk today. T’s and C’s apply, limited space available.

London’s Dirty Air: The Fight for Clean Air in the UK’s Capital

London’s Dirty Air: The Fight for Clean Air in the UK’s Capital

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

For decades, London has been known for its smoggy, polluted air. Despite efforts to improve air quality, the problem persists, and the consequences of dirty air can be devastating. The latest statistics from the Mayor of London’s office show that air pollution is responsible for over 4,000 premature deaths in the capital each year. In this article, we will explore the causes of London’s dirty air, its impact on public health, and what is being done to tackle the problem.

Causes of London’s Dirty Air

The primary cause of air pollution in London is road transport. Vehicles emit a range of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). In addition, diesel engines are a significant source of air pollution, and diesel vehicles are particularly problematic as they emit higher levels of NOx and PM compared to petrol vehicles. Other sources of air pollution in London include construction activities, industrial processes, and heating and cooking in homes.

London’s geography exacerbates the problem of air pollution. The city is surrounded by hills, which trap pollutants and prevent them from dispersing. In addition, London experiences high levels of air pollution due to its location in the path of prevailing winds from mainland Europe, where pollution levels are also high.

Impact of London’s Dirty Air on Public Health

The health effects of air pollution are well documented. Exposure to polluted air can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including asthma, lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, and exposure to polluted air can also harm cognitive development.

The economic cost of air pollution is also significant. The Mayor of London’s office estimates that air pollution costs the city £3.7 billion per year, including the cost of premature deaths, hospital admissions, and lost productivity.

What is Being Done to Tackle London’s Dirty Air?

The UK government and the Mayor of London’s office have introduced a range of measures aiming to improve air quality in the capital. These include:

  1. Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): The ULEZ was introduced in 2019 and covers the same area as the Congestion Charge Zone. Vehicles that do not meet emissions standards are charged a fee to enter the zone.
  2. Low Emission Zone (LEZ): The LEZ covers a larger area than the ULEZ and applies to heavier vehicles such as lorries, buses, and coaches.
  3. Clean Air Zones: Clean Air Zones have been introduced in several cities across the UK, including Birmingham, Bath, and Bristol. These zones aim to reduce air pollution by charging high-polluting vehicles to enter.
  4. Electric Vehicles: The UK government has committed to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030, and the Mayor of London has introduced measures to encourage the use of electric vehicles, such as installing more charging points.
  5. Green Infrastructure: Planting trees and creating green spaces can help to absorb pollutants and improve air quality. The Mayor of London has launched a programme to plant two million trees by 2025.

While these measures are a step in the right direction, there is still much more that needs to be done to tackle London’s dirty air. The Mayor of London’s office has set out an ambitious plan to achieve a carbon-neutral city by 2030, which includes reducing emissions from road transport, buildings, and industry. The plan also includes measures to improve public transport and encourage active travel, such as walking and cycling.

In addition to government action, individuals can also take steps to reduce their exposure to polluted air. This includes avoiding busy roads and walking or cycling on quieter routes, using public transport or car-sharing, and reducing their use of fossil fuels by choosing renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power for their homes and businesses. Together, we can work towards a cleaner, healthier future for London and beyond.

Improving Indoor Air Quality with REJUVENAIR: A Smart Solution for Building Managers

Improving Indoor Air Quality with REJUVENAIR: A Smart Solution for Building Managers

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

As the world becomes more aware of the importance of indoor air quality, building managers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to ensure that the air in their buildings is clean and safe. In this article, we’ll explore how REJUVENAIR, a patent-pending, world-first smart system, can help building managers improve indoor air quality and create a healthy environment for building occupants.

According to many recent articles, including one this one posted earlier this month in Forbes, “Poor indoor air quality can lead to a host of issues, from respiratory problems to headaches and fatigue.” The article highlights the importance of identifying and mitigating indoor air quality issues before they can negatively impact the health and wellbeing of building occupants.

One way to address indoor air quality issues is to use intelligent analysis to identify the sources of poor air quality. As discussed in a recent blog post by Buildings IoT, “IoT sensors can be used to monitor indoor air quality parameters like temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and particulate matter (PM) concentration.” By analysing this data, building managers can identify areas where indoor air quality may be compromised and take action to improve the situation.

This is where REJUVENAIR comes into its own. The REJUVENAIR smart system uses military-grade UVC and HEPA filters to protect the indoor air in commercial environments. It’s the most advanced technology and the most effective, hygienic, environmentally friendly, and safe way of deactivating viruses and removing harmful particulates such as PM2.5.

REJUVENAIR is the only stand-alone air purification solution to use Infection Prevention Society approved UVC. This allows it to remove up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria from indoor air. Using the highest quality UVC light available, combined with other, more traditional methods of filtration such as HEPA, the REJUVENAIR system performs like no other.

But what sets REJUVENAIR apart is its ability to monitor its own efficiency in real-time and communicate that information to a smart app. This means that building managers can identify areas of poor air quality and take action to address them before they negatively impact the health and wellbeing of building occupants.

In addition to its ability to monitor indoor air quality, the REJUVENAIR smart system is also environmentally friendly. By using the most advanced technology and the most effective methods to provide clean and safe air to commercial buildings, REJUVENAIR reduces the need for harsh chemicals and other environmentally damaging methods.

In conclusion, building managers have a responsibility to ensure that the indoor air quality in their buildings is clean and safe. By using intelligent analysis and innovative solutions like REJUVENAIR, building managers can identify and mitigate indoor air quality issues before they negatively impact the health and wellbeing of building occupants. With its patent-pending technology and world-first approach, REJUVENAIR is poised to revolutionise the way we think about indoor air quality solutions for commercial buildings.

If you’re interested in being one of the first to try REJUVENAIR out for yourself, contact us today.

Ozone and Air Purification

Ozone and Air Purification

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that can be both beneficial and harmful to human health, depending on the concentration and duration of exposure. In the Earth’s stratosphere, ozone acts as a protective layer, blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. However, at ground level, ozone can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems and exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

One source of ground-level ozone is air purifiers that use ozone generation technology. This technology works by releasing ozone into the air. Ozone masks odours by altering the chemical composition of air particles or gasses, creating a perception of cleaner air. While this may seem like a good idea, it is important to understand that exposure to ozone can be dangerous for both humans and pets. It should be noted that ozone generators do not effectively remove small particles that can trigger asthma symptoms. 

The smell of ozone produced by air purifiers can also be unpleasant, causing headaches, dizziness, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Some people may experience a burning sensation in the throat, nose, or eyes, as well as coughing and wheezing. Long-term exposure to ozone can cause more serious health problems, such as lung damage, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immunity.

In light of these dangers, it is important to choose an air purification system that doesn’t emit ozone. One such system is the Rejuvenair air purifier, which uses advanced air purification technology to remove pollutants without emitting ozone. Rejuvenair air purifiers use a combination of HEPA filters and the only UVC light technology approved by the Infection Prevention Society to clean the air of pollutants, making it safer and healthier to breathe.

HEPA filters capture tiny particles, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen, while UVC light technology destroys bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. By combining these technologies, Rejuvenair air purifiers provide a comprehensive solution for improving indoor air quality.

Rejuvenair air purifiers also have several other benefits. They are energy-efficient and do not consume a lot of electricity, making them cost-effective to use. They are also quiet and do not produce any distracting noise, making them ideal for use in offices and other working spaces. Additionally, they are compact and portable, making it easy to move them from room to room as needed.

In conclusion, ozone is a gas that can have both beneficial and harmful effects on human health. While some air purifiers use ozone generation technology to clean the air, this can also be dangerous, as exposure to ozone can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, as well as headaches, dizziness, and eye, nose, and throat irritation.

To avoid these risks, choose an air purification system that doesn’t emit ozone. The Rejuvenair air purifier is an excellent choice, as it uses advanced air purification technology to remove pollutants without emitting ozone. By improving indoor air quality, Rejuvenair air purifiers can help you breathe easier, stay healthier, and enjoy a clean, safe working environment.

Particle sizes and filters

Particle sizes and filters

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

Particles in the air can range in size from very large to extremely small. The size of a particle can determine how it behaves in the air and how it can affect our health. Understanding particle sizes and how different types of filters can remove them can be important for protecting ourselves and others from harmful airborne pathogens.

Particle sizes are often measured in micrometers (μm), which are one millionth of a meter. Particles that are larger than 10 μm in size are generally visible to the naked eye and are referred to as “coarse” particles. These particles include things like dust, dirt, and pollen. Particles that are smaller than 10 μm but larger than 2.5 μm are referred to as “fine” particles. Fine particles include things like smoke and haze. Particles that are smaller than 2.5 μm in size are referred to as “ultrafine” particles. Ultrafine particles are so small that they can be inhaled deep into the lungs and can cause serious health problems.

There are several types of filters that can be used to remove particles from the air. These filters can be classified based on the size of particles they are able to remove.

Coarse particle filters: Coarse particle filters are designed to remove large particles from the air. These filters are often made of fiberglass or another type of synthetic material and can be used in air purifiers or HVAC systems. Coarse particle filters are not very effective at removing fine or ultrafine particles.

Fine particle filters: Fine particle filters are designed to remove small to medium-sized particles from the air. These filters are often made of fibers that are tightly woven together and can be used in air purifiers or HVAC systems. Fine particle filters are effective at removing particles like smoke, haze, and certain types of bacteria.

Ultrafine particle filters: Ultrafine particle filters are designed to remove very small particles from the air. These filters are usually made of materials like HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) or ULPA (ultra-low particulate air) and can be used in air purifiers or HVAC systems. 

UV filters: UV filters use ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate harmful particles in the air. These filters are often used in hospitals and other settings where it is important to destroy or inactivate harmful pathogens. UV filters are extremely effective at removing and inactivating certain types of bacteria and viruses, but they are not effective at removing larger particles like dust and dirt.

Ozone filters: Ozone filters use ozone gas to destroy or inactivate harmful particles in the air. These filters are not commonly used due to concerns about the potential health effects of ozone gas. Ozone filters can be effective at removing certain types of bacteria and viruses, but they are not effective at removing larger particles like dust and dirt. 

The type of filter you choose will depend on the size of the particles you want to remove and the specific needs of your application. If you are looking to remove large particles like dust and dirt, a coarse particle filter may be sufficient. If you are looking to remove small to medium-sized particles like smoke and haze, a fine particle filter may be a good choice. If you are looking to remove very small particles like some harmful pathogens and certain types of bacteria, an ultrafine particle filter like a HEPA filter may be the best option. If you are looking to destroy or inactivate specific types of harmful viruses, a UV filter may be the way to go.

The patent pending Rejuvenair system uses a combination of HEPA and the only UV filters approved for use by the Infection Prevention Society, which when combined are extremely effective in the deactivation and/or removal of pollen, dust, moulds, bacteria, smoke and viruses in business environments. Moreover, it informs you about the quality of your indoor air in real time via smart app which also lets you know if there’s a problem and keeps us and you in the loop with maintenance scheduling. If you would like to find out more about Rejuvenair, email us at contact@rejuvenair.co.uk.

Air Purification Industry Trends

Air Purification Industry Trends

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

The demand for air purifiers in the United Kingdom is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% between 2020 and 2026, according to market research firm 6Wresearch. This increase is due to the growing awareness of the negative impact of poor air quality on health, well-being, and productivity in indoor spaces, as well as a wider understanding of airborne threats. The UK has become a leader among European countries in the air purification market, with a growing demand for high-quality indoor air.

Smart technology is also becoming a trend in the air purification industry, with companies such as Rejuvenair offering patent pending solutions equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) sensors that continuously measure air quality and component efficiency. This allows for real-time air purification monitoring and ensures that the air is always at its cleanest. It also provides building occupants with much needed reassurance that the air they are breathing is safe.

Energy efficiency is another rising trend in the air purification industry, with companies like Rejuvenair designing products that are energy-efficient while still providing powerful air purification. This is important as air purification can be a significant energy drain, particularly in large spaces.

This trend is increasing because one of the major challenges facing the UK right now is rising energy costs. This can be a particular concern for those who rely on air purifiers to maintain healthy indoor air quality. When choosing the right air purification solution for you, it is important to feel reassured that your provider understands these concerns and has made it a priority to design energy efficient products.

While sound, the government’s advice of opening windows to reduce airborne threats is not always practical, especially during colder months. Opening windows can lead to increased heating costs, as it requires your heating system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Overall, the clean air and air purification industry is expected to continue growing in the UK due to increasing concerns about indoor air quality and its effects on health. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of negative health effects, including respiratory issues, allergies, and headaches. It can also decrease productivity, as people working may experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive issues. Rejuvenair is an innovator in the air purification solutions for business space, using advanced technology to remove contaminants such as dust, pollen, mould and spores from the air, improving air quality and promoting healthier working environments.

It’s Clean Air Day 2022! Let’s make better air quality a priority.

It’s Clean Air Day 2022! Let’s make better air quality a priority.

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

According to the latest statistics published by Our World in Data, 4.5 million people died prematurely from outdoor air pollution in one year. A statistic that you may find even more shocking is that 2.3 million died from air pollution indoors. Every one of these deaths is preventable, which is why we need to raise awareness about clean air.

Clean Air Day is an initiative that aims to do just that. Today, events up and down the country will seek to raise awareness about the impact air pollution – indoor and out – has on our health. This year’s theme is “air pollution dirties every organ in your body”, which will highlight how poor air quality affects more than just our lungs.

But if indoor quality is indeed such a problem, where are these pollutants coming from? And what can we do to make the air we breathe in our homes and workplaces safer?

What causes poor indoor air quality?

Most of us associate air pollution with the outdoors. Particles like PM.2s, ozone, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide are produced by vehicle fumes, industrial sites, and chemical reactions that happen in the atmosphere. However, a large amount of the pollution we breathe in is produced indoors. This is because, on average, we spend most of our time in our homes, offices, schools, or other places of work.

Pollution builds in these indoor settings as it’s often not comfortable or possible to open windows. This allows harmful particles to build up. Many of these are biological matter like mould, mildew, pet dander and dust. These can cause allergies and respiratory illnesses. Other smaller biological particles include bacteria and viruses, such as COVID-19.

However, there may be more harmful particles coming from the places you least expect. Office equipment, like copiers and laser printers, emit microscopic particles known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These can penetrate deep into the lungs, increasing the risk of serious disease.

Even products that are intended to make our homes and workplaces smell clean and fresh can be hazardous. Many cleaning products also give off VOCs, some of which are potent enough to cause headaches. Ingredients in air fresheners and scented candles are also largely completely unregulated, which means many manufacturers continue to include volatile and semi-volatile compounds.  

How can you improve indoor air quality?

So if everything from the humble scented candle to the copier is contributing to a decline in indoor air quality, what can we do to maintain healthy conditions? In a workplace, management should seriously consider investing in air purification to reduce absenteeism, maintain comfort, increase productivity, wellbeing and safety. 

Air purifying systems, like those offered by Rejuvenair, can play a significant role in improving air quality indoors. Rejuvenair units combine UVC light and HEPA-13 filters to eliminate 99.9% of pathogens in the air, including VOCs and COVID-19. This is achieved without having to take other ventilation measures, such as opening windows, which are impractical in colder months.  

Plus, with the app, you can stay abreast of the air quality in your building. With insights in the palm of your hand and Rejuvenair at your side, you can do your bit this Clean Air Day to make the air your team breathes better.

What to keep in mind if you’re retrofitting UVC lamps into your HVAC system.

What to keep in mind if you’re retrofitting UVC lamps into your HVAC system.

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

Right now, there’s a lot more attention being placed on air quality. A series of events have made us more conscious about the air we breathe, from the coronavirus pandemic to the climate crisis. People everywhere are more aware of how air quality can impact our health, whether it be from viruses or harmful particles. As a result, lots of businesses are looking to upgrade their ventilation systems.

Installing air purifiers is, of course, the obvious solution. In a space of 60m2, a UVC air purifier like that built by Rejuvenair can eliminate 99.9% of pathogens. However, for some buildings, one purifier per room or area might not be viable. Therefore, they’ll be looking to retrofit purifying components in their existing HVAC systems. 

This might sound like a neat and tidy solution, however, it is essential to stay on top of the operation of the components. Here, we explain why.

UVC is powerful – keep it that way

UVC light was traditionally used to purify water. Now, advances in engineering have applied the same theory to air purification. UVC radiation is particularly effective for disinfection as the waves disrupt the DNA and RNA of viruses, rendering them unable to reproduce. Studies show that with a UVC air purifier, virtually all harmful particles will go down to sub-micron levels within a 30-40 minute period.

That said, this is only if the lamp is operating at full capacity. On average, a UVC lamp will have a lifespan of between 8,000 – 10,000 hours, or approximately a year. However, this is completely dependent on usage. The lamp could certainly deteriorate faster if used intensively, so it’s essential building managers perform regular tests.

When to be wary of this power

Shortwave-length UVC (in the range of 100-280nm) is considered the most damaging. According to a fact sheet by the US-based International Ultraviolet Association, UVC light is much more powerful than the UV rays we’re exposed to by the sun. If human skin is exposed to these rays, it can cause a severe sunburn-like reaction. This is why the waves are so effective at eliminating other types of biological and particulate matter.

This potency means that UVC light can affect other materials. For example, if a HEPA filter is exposed to UVC rays, it can degrade the material and impact its effectiveness. Therefore, the correct placement of a UVC lamp relative to other components is incredibly important in retrofits; if placed incorrectly, the strength of the radiation could impact the functioning of other parts.

Stay ahead of maintenance

The proper functioning of a UVC lamp is critical to the efficacy of an air purifying system. If you do choose to go down the retrofit route, make sure a qualified engineer supervises the fitout. That way, you can ensure the UVC lamp is in the right position. From here, it’s essential to perform regular checks to ensure you don’t get caught out by the usage/efficacy conundrum. 

This is why Rejuvenair deploys IoT technology to monitor the performance of our units, ensuring that our air purifiers are always in peak condition. This means you can stay ahead of UVC lamp replacements, ensuring maintenance is taken care of at the optimum moment. Click here to learn more.

Feeling anxious about returning to work? You’re not alone. Here are some tips.

Feeling anxious about returning to work? You’re not alone. Here are some tips.

Posted on by Georgina Williams-Hodgson

Many of us are feeling a little apprehensive about returning to work after over a year of remote working. It’s not just about health concerns anymore, even though they do encompass a wide spectrum of stress and complications. Now, many of us have become so accustomed to our own space or small circle that the thought of meeting face to face again can be overwhelming. As we emerge from the most recent phase of the pandemic, many people are reporting feelings of anxiety in public places or real-life interactions. Some have people have been in isolation for the entirety of the pandemic, which makes this prospect even more intimidating.

On top of this, there’s also the fear of getting back into your routine and how to manage time effectively. Getting up early, getting ready, driving to work, sitting in traffic, picking up or dropping off children, shopping, housework, and so on, can all feel a little too much to handle. However, one very important thing to remember is you’re not alone. That’s why we want to share some simple tricks and tips to keep you calm now we’re heading back to work.

1. Breathe

We’ve already discussed the benefits of breathing exercises. According to psychologists, breathing is the number one technique to reduce anger or anxiety fast. This is because when you’re anxious you tend to take quick, shallow breaths. This sends a message to your brain, creating a feedback loop that triggers your fight-or-flight response. That’s why taking long, deep calming breaths disrupts that loop and helps you calm down.

2. Think it through

If you’re faced with a situation that makes you feel anxious, ask yourself some grounding questions. For example, “How important is this?” or “Will this matter to me this time next week?” or “Am I going to allow this person or situation to get the better of me?” This allows you to shift the focus of your thinking and give yourself a reality check. This is because when we’re anxious, we tend to fixate on the cause and this can make you feel a bit irrational. Asking yourself some simple, reasonable questions can help you refocus.

3. Relax your body

When you’re anxious, it can feel like every muscle in your body is tense – and let’s face it, they probably are. Physiotherapists suggest progressive muscle relaxation is a good strategy to help you calm down. To do this, lie down with your arms by your side and your legs outstretched. Start at your toes and tell yourself to release them. Gradually move up your body, telling yourself to release or relax each part until you get to your head. Or, if you don’t have the space or privacy to do this, a key site for the physical manifestations of stress is the shoulders. Make sure they’re dropped, relaxed and roll them back to release tension.

4. Get some fresh air

The temperature and ventilation in a room can increase anxiety or stress. If you’re feeling tense and the room you’re in is hot and stuffy, it will only make things worse. Take yourself out of that environment as soon as possible and go outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Post-pandemic, getting out for some fresh air isn’t going to be frowned upon, as we all know how important that’s been over the last 18 months.

Space to breathe

Breathing is key to our emotional and physical well-being. Rejuvenair knows breathing deep and getting safe air into your lungs is important – that’s why we’re committed to clean air. Click here to learn more.