Ventilation matters

How the University is managing the risks associated with an airborne virus

The University has a variety of risk controls to support the reduction of transmission on campus, including vaccination, testing and isolation, cleaning and hygiene, and face masks. Ventilation works together with these other risk controls.

The principles for minimising transmission through air in our buildings include:

  • Ventilation with fresh outside air reduces the concentration of airborne contaminants, including viruses.
  • Filtration of recirculating air reduces the concentration of airborne virus particles.
  • Minimising the transfer of air between spaces reduces opportunities for the virus to spread through a building via the ventilation flow patterns.

The University of Melbourne has implemented a variety of infrastructure and systems to support indoor air quality, including:

  • Buildings have either mechanical Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems or operable windows capable of ensuring adequate air intake and exchange.
  • Where the system is unable to ensure adequate air intake and exchange, other mitigations, such as portable air purifiers are deployed.
  • Real-time monitoring of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels as a proxy to monitor fresh air supply. Sensors have been installed in each teaching space and every floor in every occupied building to actively monitor air quality. These are monitored by the Campus Management team who take action as needed, such as adjusting ventilation settings or deploying portable air purifiers.
  • Operating procedures and maintenance cycles, including servicing of air purifiers and CO2 sensors.

Further advice

  • Some spaces rely on windows to allow outside air intake. You should still try to open windows during colder months, eg opening windows for 10 minutes each hour or when a room is empty.
  • Please do not move portable air purifiers. They are located in spaces that may require supplementary air filtration. Moving air purifiers may impact the effectiveness of the ventilation in these spaces.
  • Campus Management is rolling out signage to inform occupants of ventilation arrangements in specific rooms.
  • If you have any ventilation concerns, including to report a missing air purifier, please contact the facilities team via ServiceNow > facilities request > heating and cooling (‘facilities area’ drop down box)