Register today for SyracuseCoE's July Research & Technology Forum, featuring a presentation from Dr. Guangyu Cao, Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley. Registration will open in June!

Ventilation, Indoor Environment and Exposure Risk in Healthcare Facilities

Operating rooms (ORs) and other critical spaces in healthcare facilities require strict environmental control to ensure patient safety, protect medical staff and achieve successful clinical outcomes. Ventilation systems of ORs play a key role in reducing airborne contamination, managing exposure risks and maintaining a safe, comfortable indoor environment.

A primary objective of OR ventilation is to minimize the spread of airborne pathogens and other contaminants, which can cause complications such as surgical site infections (SSIs) and adverse health effects. This is achieved through a combination of high-efficiency filtration systems, and the careful design of airflow patterns. Laminar airflow (LAF) systems which deliver a steady, unidirectional flow of clean air, are commonly used to protect sterile zones around the surgical field, while mixing ventilation (ML) systems are widely applied to manage overall air quality and thermal comfort. However, balancing infection control, indoor air quality and thermal comfort for different user groups in ORs remains a significant challenge.

This presentation will explore the fundamental principles of healthcare ventilation, with a particular focus on ventilation solutions for ORs. We will discuss how ventilation strategies affect indoor environmental quality, review exposure risks, and share insights from research and practice. Finally, we will highlight key challenges and future opportunities for creating sterile, comfortable and energy-efficient healthcare environments.