Providing comprehensive air and filtration verification using veriDART™ by SafeTraces
The importance of proper airflow is not new to the Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) industry – quite the opposite. However, something that was generally perceived as routine was thrust into focus this past year and the COVID pandemic made it clear that indoor air monitoring alone may not be enough. Enter veriDART™ by SafeTraces.
Earlier this month, IEC principals, Michael P. Menz, CIH, CHMM and Robert J. DeMalo, M.Sc., completed a three-tiered veriDART training program and its state-of-the-art system that uses a DNA-enabled liquid aerosol-based solution for verifying air ventilation and filtration. This tool is key for EHS teams as it takes monitoring to the next level. With an aerosol spray bottle and computer tablet in hand, studiers have a way to verify the efficacy of any engineering and HVAC controls in place as well as indicate areas where greater risks still remain. This empirical data can then be used in developing strategic action points to mitigate the risks and better ensure the reduction of airborne viruses indoors.
As SafeTraces outlines, the veriDART protocol consists of a four (4) step process that includes:
SPRAY – Based on a customized test plan, release the DNA-tagged aerosol tracers in designated areas.
CIRCULATE – Aerosol tracers disperse throughout the building and air ducting.
SAMPLE – Collect samples and send to the lab for RT-qPCR analysis.
RESULTS – Receive a diagnostic report to guide engineering and HVAC decisions.
Both Menz and DeMalo have been certified by the company to provide each step within the veriDART workflow. The training also consisted of project plan set-up and documentation components, enabling IEC to offer the airflow improvement service from start to finish.
“We have seen veriDART at work in real life situations, not just a classroom,” says DeMalo. “It literally mimics the way COVID will travel through an HVAC systems so we can develop the best approach for our clients and they breathe easier.”
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