COVID-19 Compressed Air Risk Assessment
If you use compressed air the updated World Health Organisation updated guidance to on the possibility of airborne transmission of the virus likely causes concern.
This page is to provide COVID-19 specific updates as they become available to Cambs Compressors.
The World Health Organisation advice regarding compressed air and COVID-19
At the outset of the pandemic the World Health Organisation (WHO) was very clear that Coronavirus COVID-19 is not an airborne virus and BCAS issued a statement of guidance quoting the World Health Organisation position. However, on 9th July 2020, the WHO updated their guidance to include the possibility of airborne transmission of the virus. This update by the WHO does not impact the advice given about the risks and management of Coronavirus and your Compressed Air System.
Notice to Cambs Compressor customers regarding the risk of COVID in compressed air
Although the situation continues to be dynamic, the updated document by BCAS following the revision to the WHO change on the possibility of airborne transmission of the virus makes the position clear. The BCAS published document released July 20th 2020 is designed to assist you to manage any concerns of those working with compressed air may be expressing - which is available below.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claims that compressed air is another potential source of Coronavirus COVID-19 or that compressed air used in the manufacturing of food, beverage, or pharmaceutical products can contaminate these products with the virus.
British Compressed Air Society (BCAS)
Do you need additional filters or more frequent filter sterilisations?
Some compressed air suppliers expressed the need to instal sterile air filters (or more frequent filter sterilisations and element changes) to prevent the contamination of food, beverage or pharmaceutical products with COVID-19. Cambs Compressors have been clear this is something you can do, but the advice from BCAS is it is not necessary. Viruses are different from bacteria in that they need a living host in order to reproduce and therefore do not demonstrate the behaviour of multiplying in warm, wet, under-treated compressed air.
Cambs Compressors here to help
We find ourselves in an extraordinary global situation. During these times Cambs Compressors is taking the necessary steps to follow government advice for the wellbeing of our employees and customers alike. We'd also like to assure you that we can continue to provide the highest levels of service when you may need it most.