Singapore - Advisory on CO2 Monitoring to Assess Ventilation Adequacy
1. Introduction |
2. Prioritisation of premises for CO2 monitoring and ventilation improvements |
Ensuring good ventilation is critical in premises with higher risk of aerosol transmission, due to risk factors such as mask-off or bioaerosol-generating activities, prolonged time duration spent by occupants within the space, and/or the presence of vulnerable populations. A list of such higher risk premises is shown below. Managers of such premises should proactively ensure that these premises are always well-ventilated.
List of premises with higher risk of aerosol transmission and/or presence of vulnerable group- Hospitals and clinics
- Eldercare facilities, including nursing homes and day activity centres
- Establishments with food and drinks served on-site*
- Gyms and fitness studios
*Include food establishments, event venues, function rooms, nightlife establishments, karaoke establishments etc.
CO2 monitoring can be used as a quick, easy-to-implement proxy for ventilation adequacy, and to identify pockets of under-ventilated spaces or overcrowding within the premises. High CO2 levels imply that there is insufficient outdoor air intake and/or overcrowding, and measures should be taken to improve ventilation or reduce occupancy. Managers of higher risk premises should carry out CO2 monitoring regularly and take prompt action to improve ventilation, where necessary.
For more information, please refer to appended Guide to Premises Managers on CO2 Monitoring.