Ventilation plan implemented for High Holy Days (Activity Report)

THIS YEAR, with the incidence of Covid-19 infections at a moderate level and a predicted high temp of 78° for Rosh Hashanah, we implemented a particular plan to provide reasonably healthful air for attendees at our High Holy Day services. 

Below the jump, that plan is outlined for future reference.…

The relatively large crowd combined with the outdoor temperatures and relatively high humidity meant that it was air-conditioning time for our sanctuary. Which is a bit of a challenge, because the A/C system is undersized. 

In order to provide some fresh make-up air with oxygen, we opened two windows: the one on the south side at the back of the sanctuary, and one on the north side (I had recommended the one closest to the school building, for better cross-ventilation and to reduce the sound impact on the neighboring apartment)—opening them about halfway, so as to moderate the transmission of noise and sunlight. We also kept one door open to the play yard. (The doors to the lobby were kept closed for noise control.)

However, given that it was termite swarming season, we closed those windows after services and overnight. 

As for the risk of transmission of airborne diseases, we had new air purifiers installed, as described here, and we temporarily installed MERV-13 air filters in the HVAC system, too. In order for those measures to work, the fans needed to be set to run continuously during the services, even when the A/C itself was not on.

Lastly, the following announcement was submitted to the Galim but somehow was not included in that issue. I am recording it here as a model for future public health information. 

To help protect all of us from illnesses, we have installed air scrubbers in our historic sanctuary’s air conditioning system, using a technology that has been shown to significantly reduce the airborne transmission of disease while a system’s fan is running. (Our members can refer to the Building & Grounds blog for more information.) Those who are at high risk of complications are nonetheless advised to take personal precautions, as usual.

Lastly, a reminder as to why all this matters: Among HVAC engineers and professional facilities managers it is well understood that the design and management of a building’s ventilation system plays a major role in protecting people from airborne diseases. Consequently, Mishkon has a responsibility to be thoughtful and proactive about this aspect of High Holy planning.