Georgetown University
Washington, DC
CHALLENGE
Georgetown University is the one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions. Established in 1789, Georgetown is the nation’s oldest Catholic and Jesuit university. Over 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend the University, studying at the campuses in Washington, DC: Main Campus, Medical Center, Law Center, and the School of Continuing Studies.
In response to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, and to enhance the health and well-being of their community, Georgetown University took proactive steps to safely return students and faculty to campus.
SOLUTION
Boland worked with Georgetown’s Planning & Facilities Management team to minimize the spread of viruses through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The team developed an ongoing HVAC assessment and enhancement program to ensure that all classrooms and study spaces meet CDC COVID-19 guidance and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards for mitigation of virus transmission.
The team evaluated and upgraded the performance of the ventilation systems that provide temperature control and ventilation air that flushes contaminants from the classrooms, study rooms and common spaces within the University buildings.
Upgrades to the systems include MERV-13 and MERV-15 air cleaning technologies for occupied spaces, installation of Dynamic Air Quality Solutions with ultraviolet decontamination systems.
RESULTS
As a result of the work of this team, Georgetown University’s HVAC systems now provide:
99% effectiveness against pollen, mold, and dust
98% effectiveness against lead, dust, and large bacteria
97% effectiveness against small bacteria and fine dust (.3 – 1 micron)
Maintenance savings and sustainable practices with fewer passive filter changes
The University’s indoor air quality system now provides proper ventilation and filtration as a reliable method for minimizing the spread of airborne diseases, while ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants.