Legislature(2019 - 2020)ANCH LIO DENALI Rm
12/02/2020 02:00 PM House STATE AFFAIRS
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Presentation(s): Covid-19 Workplace Safety Roundtable | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE STATE AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE
Anchorage, Alaska
December 2, 2020
2:03 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Zack Fields, Co-Chair
Representative Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins, Co-Chair (via
teleconference)
Representative Andi Story (via teleconference)
Representative Steve Thompson (via teleconference)
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Grier Hopkins
Representative Sarah Vance
Representative Laddie Shaw
OTHER LEGISLATORS PRESENT
Representative Kelly Merrick (via teleconference)
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
PRESENTATION(S): COVID-19 WORKPLACE SAFETY ROUNDTABLE
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
KELSEY DAVIDSON
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Eagle River, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-provided a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "Safe Return to the Workplace and Public Buildings,"
dated 12/2/2020.
DANA NUNN
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-provided a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "Safe Return to the Workplace and Public Buildings,"
dated 12/2/2020.
MARY KNOPF
Fellow American Society of Interior Designers (FASID)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-provided a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "Safe Return to the Workplace and Public Buildings,"
dated 12/2/2020.
CRAIG ROHWER
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-provided a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "Safe Return to the Workplace and Public Buildings,"
dated 12/2/2020.
KEITH WRITGHTSON, Health & Safety Specialist
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
Derwood, Maryland
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "COVID-19 Workplace Safety."
ACTION NARRATIVE
2:03:02 PM
CO-CHAIR ZACK FIELDS called the House State Affairs Standing
Committee meeting to order at [2:03] p.m. Representatives Story
(via teleconference), Representative Kreiss-Tomkins (via
teleconference), and Fields were present at the call to order.
Representative Thompson (via teleconference) arrived as the
meeting was in progress. Also present was Representative
Merrick (via teleconference).
^PRESENTATION(S): COVID-19 Workplace Safety Roundtable
PRESENTATION(S): COVID-19 Workplace Safety Roundtable
2:03:22 PM
CO-CHAIR FIELDS announced that the only order of business would
be a presentation on COVID-19 workplace safety. He explained
that the hearing would be an informational presentation for
building owners and managers on ways to reconfigure workplaces
to help keep people safe.
2:04:41 PM
KELSEY DAVIDSON, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID),
co-provided a PowerPoint presentation, entitled "Safe Return to
the Workplace and Public Buildings." She directed attention to
slide 1 and read the preface and ASID's presentation statement
as follows [original punctuation provided]:
Preface:
Service-providers, businesses and institutions face
the necessity of creating Covid-responsive workplaces
and public buildings, addressing an array of
infection-control safety measures. These impact space
utilization and planning, building sustainability and
wellness, individual comfort and safety, cleanliness
and disinfection, mitigating touchpoint contamination,
and promotion of operational-procedural interventions.
ASID Presentation Statement:
Commercial interior design is rooted in the concept of
Evidence-Based Design, especially applicable as
science evolves on the novel Coronavirus, Covid-19.
How we address infection mitigation in the design and
outfitting of workplace environments is based on best
practices learned through current science as it
continues to evolve. Although we can't eliminate risk
in the workplace, we can implement flexible approaches
and solutions that allow us to feel safe and
comfortable in the places we work, learn, live, heal,
and recreate.
2:06:56 PM
MS. DAVIDSON continued to slide 2 and stated that the
presentation would address the following frequently asked
questions [original punctuation provided]:
1. How do we determine if our workplace is ready for
re-occupancy?
2. If our building owners don't replace or update our
air system, how might we mitigate airborne infection
within our individual suite?
3. Do portable air purifiers disinfect the air? Could
we use multiples around the office?
4. How can we mitigate touchpoint contamination?
5. I think our staff is nervous about returning to the
office building. How can we make sure it's safe and
help them feel ok about it?
6. What modifications can be implemented with very
limited funds?
7. How do these solutions vary for schools, prisons,
hotels, restaurants?
8. What is HVAC and how can it help me get back to
work?
9. Why is the finish on our waiting area furniture
suddenly failing?
2:08:44 PM
DANA NUNN, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID),
introduced herself as a commercial interior designer and project
manager based in Anchorage. She said her 17-year focus on
safety, accessible universal design, sustainability, and
wellness is founded on an integrative, evidence-based design
process. She noted that recently, she participated in the
International WELL Building Institute's task force studying the
role buildings can play in reducing the health burden of COVID-
19 and other respiratory infections. She added that she leads a
team of six interior designers as the Interior Design Director
for Bettisworth North.
2:09:30 PM
MARY KNOPF, Fellow American Society of Interior Designers
(FASID), informed the committee that she is a Washington State
University (WSU) graduate with 35 years of commercial design
experience in Alaska. She noted that she has served as
president of the Alaska chapter of ASID and on the ASID national
board of directors. She explained that her focus is on creating
safe, healthy, and sustainable interior environments for
education, office, hospitality, healthcare, and
public/institutional buildings. She added that she is a
principal with ECI, an architectural, planning and design firm
in Anchorage.
2:10:02 PM
CRAIG ROHWER, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and
Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), introduced himself and
provided a short history of his work experience as a specialist
in mechanical air systems and products. He informed the
committee that he served six years on the Alaska board of
directors for ASHRAE, educating Alaska's members on topics
relevant to the region and climate. With a degree in mechanical
engineering, he shared his passion for energy and cost-efficient
systems, as well as improving air filtration/purification to
mitigate virus transmission. He added that currently, he is an
account manager with Trane in Anchorage.
2:10:50 PM
MS. DAVIDSON resumed the presentation on slide 5 and outlined
the agenda, which included workplace screening, circulation,
space planning, and partitions; sustainable, healthy buildings,
and the human factor; cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and
operational interventions; mechanical systems and air
filtration.
2:11:36 PM
MS. NUNN explained that she works with a range of Alaskan
clients, including agencies, school districts, healthcare
organizations, as well as recreation, retail, and hospitality
businesses and building owners. In all cases, she said her
clients have been looking for a "silver bullet" in the effort to
overcome COVID-19 and return to normal. She stated that a
multi-pronged approach that addresses human behavior, changes to
business environments, and operational adjustments are necessary
for greatest impact in this pandemic. She recommended a longer
view, investments in improvements for long-term resilience, and
solutions that have value for the current situation and beyond.
When implementing coronavirus-specific solutions, she encourages
clients to adopt flexible strategies to avoid getting stuck with
an expensive approach that cannot be easily removed, expanded,
or modified as new evidence informs more specific solutions.
She pointed out that businesses and organizations have different
requirements to meet in order to maintain operations through
COVID-19, and those requirements are always changing. She added
that state and local mandates add complexity to the collective
pandemic response, and designers continue to follow those
developments closely to advise clients of their responsibilities
and options to meet them within their spaces. Ultimately, she
said, national and local public health experts are her first
points of reference for information about the disease and how
best to mitigate transmission. She noted that OSHA requirements
for workplace safety still apply and, in some cases, have new
implications since many employees are now handling cleaning and
disinfection duties or encountering other new hazards.
Additionally, accessibility requirements, in accordance with the
ADA still apply, so businesses must continue to provide
reasonable accommodation where new operations and distancing
protocols may impede access. She observed that as businesses
begin to implement coronavirus-response plans, screening
occupants at building entry points has become "the norm."
Smaller organizations are handling screening with handheld
thermometers and a logbook to support contact tracing, while
others have deployed iPads with specific apps to conduct more
discreet screening. More recently, she said some clients have
implemented automated screening systems at entry points using
thermal cameras to confirm or discreetly discourage entry. The
available systems range widely from fancy cameras integrated
into networks and security systems or simpler, localized
application-based systems. She noted that Alaska's cold
temperatures have impacted the efficacy of the "fancier"
systems; therefore, she encourages her clients to utilize iPads.
MS. NUNN recapped her work on modifying circulation through
buildings and suits, establishing separate entrance and exit
points, implementing one-way traffic patterns, and widening
circulation paths wherever possible; all to minimize overlap of
the six-foot bubble. She explained that exiting access to
restrooms, elevators, and stairs, as well as security concerns,
are all considered when studying and developing strategies. She
emphasized that modified circulation should not impede life
safety features within buildings. She stated that altered
circulation plans are most successful with clear signage that
indicates how to proceed and reinforces when people are going
the right way. She shared that some businesses have adopted
operational solutions to help manage occupant load and
circulation; for example, healthcare clients are limiting access
to waiting rooms to stagger patients and provide enough time for
cleaning between encounters.
2:16:41 PM
MS. NUNN directed attention to slide 6, which highlighted
workplace practices. She explained that at her own businesses,
they immediately conducted an office analysis and developed
plans to reduce occupant density, implemented protocols for
sharing spaces and amenities, and identified locations for
hygiene and cleaning stations. She said she has since completed
similar studies for many clients throughout the sate to help
them understand and plan how to bring their workforce back to
the office, either in full or in a "modified shift situation."
In some cases, plans were created for temporary expanded offices
to support larger teams of businesses with more traffic; other
times, offices were rearranged to provide a greater variety of
workstation types to accommodate drop-ins for people that are
primarily working remotely but may need to come into the office
occasionally. In all cases, she conveyed that universal masking
combined with distancing inside businesses and public facilities
is imperative regardless how spacious the building or suite may
be. She added that it's important to develop and enforce
guidelines for the use of shared spaces, like print areas,
breakrooms, and meeting spaces; also, to communicate
expectations for masking or other practices in private offices
versus open work areas. She noted that if leadership doesn't
consistently demonstrate compliance with the new plans, it's
quite unlikely that employees or customers would either.
MS. NUNN relayed that a well-designed hybrid plan that provides
choice in the settings individuals and groups need to work and
collaborate has been discussed in the design community for
years, but businesses and agencies have been slow to adopt a
more flexible plan. She offered her belief that the pandemic
would change that. Furthermore, she pointed out that remote
work eliminates the potential for transmission between
employees. She opined that going forward, the virtual workplace
would remain a prominent aspect of workplace design; however,
she recognized that it's critical in some situations that people
come together for collaboration and improved productivity. To
that end, she indicated that the flexible hybrid plan would
support that dual modality.
MS. NUNN continued to explain that workstation panels and
partitions are part of the discussion, but there are mixed
reviews on how much separation is helpful versus a hindrance to
safety or a contribution to employee complacency in the
infection control protocols. She emphasized her interest in
working together with allied disciplines to create healthier
interior environments without degrading the desired effects of
building improvements.
2:19:53 PM
CO-CHAIR FIELDS asked how design recommendations have evolved in
response to the emerging science about aerosolized virus
transmission.
MS. NUNN noted that there is emerging research from MIT on
interior design implications. She said ultimately, everyone
should have a mask to capture larger droplets and some of
aerosolized particles from speaking. Beyond that, she
encouraged a slightly lower level of partition because a higher
level could potentially create eddies in the air system, which
are pockets of stagnating air where viral loads could build.
She noted that the results of that research are not yet
definitive, but it indicates that lower partitions help block
the larger particles.
2:22:05 PM
MS. KNOPF resumed the presentation on slide 7, which addressed
sustainable, healthy buildings and the human factor. She stated
that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) defines indoor
environmental quality (IEG) as "the building's environment in
relation to the health and wellbeing of those who occupy space
within it." She stated that in considering returning to work,
the human factor must be considered. She reported that there
has been a major shift in work life balance, as well as
opportunities to rethink the office environment. Employers must
have protocols and policies in place to mitigate the stress,
physical, and mental safety concerns of returning to the
workplace. She said employees who see their employers care and
provide a safe environment experience much less anxiety.
Furthermore, she pointed out that healthy buildings contribute
to the health of occupants, including simplified finishes and
clean spaces clear. Additionally, life stages are a factor to
consider in determining how to return to work with reduced
occupancy. Younger employees require more structure and
mentorship while seasoned staff might prefer to work
individually.
MS. KNOPF relayed the importance of recognizing how interiors
impact indoor air quality. She explained that selecting
materials and furnishings that support a healthy environment
could impact both mental and physical health. She stated that
people spend 90 percent of their time inside; accordingly,
limiting VOCs, caustic chemicals, and plastics improves air that
is breathed. She added that select materials assist in
mitigating dust, mold, and mildew habitats. Ms. Knopf continued
to explain that thermal and acoustical comfort is impacted by
furniture configuration, which affects air circulation. She
recommended creating "private quiet respite zones" in open
offices to allow employees to take a break or complete focused
work. She said there are options to introduce acoustic
materials, such as lighting; ceiling and wall finishes; and
furniture finishes. She indicated that since 1991, studies have
affirmed the power of nature to reduce anxiety. She reported
that natural light, views, and the use of organic forms
contribute to comfortable, healthy interiors. In addition to
air flow, modifications to space configuration provides better
views to extend daylight; additionally, certain window
treatments let light and views through while reducing glare.
Lastly, she introduced several green building programs,
including the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEAD), International Living Future Institute (ILFI), and
International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). She stated that
moving forward, interior designers would continue improving and
adjusting interior solutions to provide the best possible safe
and healthy interior environments using current best practices.
2:26:53 PM
MS. NUNN turned attention to slide 8 and reviewed cleaning,
sanitizing, disinfecting, and operational interventions. She
explained that although COVID-19 is primarily transferred via
droplets and aerosols, touchpoint contamination is a factor that
can be managed with behavioral changes, effective cleaning
protocols, and hands-free solutions. She said frequent and
proper hand hygiene with basic soap and water is highly
effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19 by degrading the
virus's lipid encapsulation, essentially destroying the virus
altogether. Hand sanitizer with a high alcohol content disables
the virus, but does not destroy it; therefore, hand sanitizer is
effective, but not the "go-to" for ideal hand hygiene. She
stated that thoughtful planning of workspaces and businesses
makes it easier for people to practice the habit. She suggested
evaluating need, proximity, ease of access, and alternatives
when soap and water washing is not feasible; additionally,
accounting for supply and upkeep. She recommended minimizing
touchpoint contamination by reducing the frequency of person to
person contact and contact with high touch surfaces. Proper
cleaning/disinfection is another way to mitigate touchpoint
contamination. She emphasized the importance of understanding
the difference between cleaning and disinfecting, so that
effective procedures are developed and deployed. She explained
that cleaning reduces the number of germs, dirt, and impurities
on a surface, while disinfectant kills the germs a surface. She
noted that the CDC maintains that cleaning is necessary before
disinfection is even possible. The dual action of cleaning and
disinfecting further lowers the risk of spreading infection, she
said. She pointed out that without observing the dwell time -
the time it takes a product to work on a surface, as recommended
by the manufacturer - effective disinfection isn't possible.
Furthermore, not all disinfectants are effective against all
viruses, so it's important to verify the effectiveness of
preferred products. She recommended referencing the EPA's list
to confirm products' effectiveness and dwell time; further, to
implement the "uncluttered surface policy" to allow custodial
staff to clean and disinfect workspaces thoroughly.
MS. NUNN continued to explain that cleaning and disinfection
protocols and products have a significant impact on the
durability and life of interior finish materials and
furnishings, especially porous products, like wood finishes,
plastics, leather, and upholsteries. She noted that fogging
devices often use bleach or hydrogen peroxide, which could leave
bleach spots or come to rest on coffee cups and glassware,
posing a risk of injection. Additionally, UV light, which is
effective in the right dosage, can also rapidly degrade and fade
interior surfaces, like plastic laminate cabinetry, flooring,
paint, upholstery, artwork, or students' outerwear stored in
classroom cubbies. Ultimately, she said, the best strategy in
combatting COVID-19 and building community resilience is to
adopt an integrated approach to planning and design. She
recommended engaging stakeholders, as well as those that might
not normally be part of higher-level conversations, such as
custodial and environmental services staff, facility
maintenance, and various team leaders that would implement the
plans. Lastly, she encouraged regular communication
demonstrating commitment to plans, providing employees with
proper training, and enforcing new protocols.
2:35:48 PM
MR. ROHWER directed attention to slide 9, which provided the
following outline for the remainder of the presentation
[original punctuation provided]:
1. COVID: WHO/CDC and ASHRAE Recommendations
a. Modes of Transmission
i. Close Contact/large droplet transmission
"Most Common"
ii. Airborne/small droplet transmission
"Sometimes"
iii. Surface/contact points "less commo
2. The Four Key Areas of Indoor Air Quality
a. Dilute Increase Ventilation with outdoor air
b. Exhaust Keep exhausts running
c. Contain Control indoor humidity
d. Clean Safely use air cleaning technology
3. Mitigation Technologies
a. GOOD MERV 1-8, Electrostatic filters,
Surface Coatings
b. BETTER MERV 9-16, UV, H2O2, Air Ionization &
Ozone Generators
c. BEST HEPA, Photo Catalytic Oxidation
MR. ROHWER turned attention to slide 10 and said he would be
focusing on indoor air quality and how to clean and sterilize
that space. He continued to slide 11, which highlighted four
methods for controlling indoor air quality and read in its
entirety as follows:
Dilute
? Disable CO2 control
? Increase minimum outdoor-air airflow
? Operate air-handling equipment with 100% outdoor air
(no recirculation), when outdoor conditions allow
? Provide Temporary and Permanent Solutions for
additional capacity
? Keep ventilation systems operating 24/7, even if at
lower airflows
? Implement pre- and post-occupancy purge sequences to
flush building with outdoor air
Exhaust
? Keep restroom exhaust operating 24/7
Contain
? Modify system to maintain indoor humidity between
40% and 60% relative
? Add humidifiers where appropriate and possible to
increase humidity in winter
Clean
? Upgrade filters to MERV-13 (or higher, if possible)
and ensure effective air seals
? Add portable room air cleaners with HEPA or high-
MERV filters
? Add ultraviolet (UV) lamps in ductwork, air-handling
units, or upper region of the room
CO-CHAIR FIELDS inquired as to the appropriate number of times
to replace the air in a room or structure per hour.
2:39:57 PM
MR. ROHWER said most engineers are designing around three air
changes per hour. He recommended pushing it to six air changes
per hour for pre- and post-flushing, which may push the
boundaries of what the system can do. He added that if a system
can't do six, the recommendation is to do as much as possible to
stir up any dust or viral particles that could be suspended in
the air and help flush them out of the facility.
2:40:32 PM
MR. ROHWER returned to slide 11. He noted that multiple studies
found that viruses and bacteria propagate and spread faster
below 40 percent humidity and above 60 percent humidity;
consequently, the goal is to keep indoor humidity between that
narrow range, which can be done by adding humidifiers.
CO-CHAIR FIELDS surmised that the average Anchorage office
building cannot get above 60 percent relative humidity in the
winter even with a portable indoor humidifier. He asked if that
is a reasonable assumption.
MR. ROHWER answered yes. He anecdotally reported that most
[Anchorage] office buildings are leaky, which makes it difficult
to increase humidity above 50 percent in the summer. He
suggested studying the space to ensure that the amount of
moisture wouldn't cause condensation or other high-humidity
issues. Nonetheless, in general, he maintained that adding
humidification is not harmful to building [spaces].
2:43:19 PM
MR. ROHWER returned to slide 11 and said cleaning is the last
area of indoor air quality, which involves upgrading filtration,
adding mechanical cleaning systems, injecting air sterilization
into air streams, and UV lights. He continued to slide 12,
which outlined "good" mitigation technologies and read as
follows [original punctuation provided]:
1. GOOD:
a. MERV 1-8 Filters
a. Install filters if none are present
b. Electrostatic Filters
a. Charged filters to "attract" particulates in
the air stream
b. More costly than standard filters but can
replace existing filters or augment HEPA filtration
c. Surface Coatings
a. Potential for microbiological destruction on
surfaces such as coils, countertops, door handles,
etc.
b. Does not effectively counter airborne micro-
biologicals
MR. ROHWER explained that filters are rated in "MERV" (minimum
efficiency reporting values), which ranges from 1-16. He noted
that MERV 8 is considered the standard in office and retail
spaces. He recommended upgrading to a minimum of MERV 8 and
increasing the frequency at which filters are changed. He
continued to electrostatic filters, explaining that electricity
charges the filter and attracts particles to stick to it, which
requires a lower rated MERV filter. Lastly, Surface coatings
require an extensive input, such as titanium dioxide or silver
compounds, which are applied to a surface that has natural
microbial properties to reject or kill virus or bacterial
compounds.
2:46:22 PM
MR. ROHWER directed attention to slide 13, which depicted the
effect of MERV filters on influenza A virus. He indicated that
MERV 8 - the code standard - captured 11 percent of flu virions;
MERV 13 - ASHRAE's current recommendation - captured 46 percent
of flu virions; MERV 15 captured 71 percent of flu virions. He
pointed out that HEPA filters capture 99.97 percent of all
particles that filter through it, making it the "gold standard"
of filtration systems. Slide 14 highlighted "better" mitigation
technologies: MERV 9-16 filters and ultraviolet germicidal
irradiation (UVGI).
CO-CHAIR FIELDS asked whether it's possible to replace MERV 8
filters with HEPA filters in Anchorage office buildings.
2:50:07 PM
MR. ROHWER said HEPA filters can be used portably or building
wide. He explained that a portable air cleaner with a HEPA
filter is plugged into the wall and recirculates the air within
that space. Contrarily, replacing a MERV 8 filter with a higher
rated filter would require a quick analysis by an engineer and
the building manager to determine whether the increase in energy
is feasible.
CO-CHAIR FIELDS asked how often portable HEPA filters need to be
replaced.
MR. ROHWER said it depends. He explained that most HEPA filters
are designed to last six months; however, he suggested checking
with the manufacturer to determine the lifespan of the specific
piece of equipment. He noted that hospital facilities replace
HEPA filters on a 3-6-month cycle.
2:52:06 PM
MR. ROHWER resumed slide 14 and explained that UVGI uses UV
bulbs, or "C-band," to irradiate. He stated that the UV lights
are less effective in an air stream and more effective in a
portable system. Slide 15 continued to highlight "better"
mitigation technologies [original punctuation provided]:
2. BETTER:
a. Hydrogen Peroxide Generators
a. Introduces gas phase hydrogen peroxide
directly to the space to provide active reaction in
the zone (air does NOT need to return to air unit to
be treated)
b. Actively treats both air and surfaces
b. Bipolar Ionization & Ozone Generation
a. Ion Production - Produces both Positive and
Negative Ion b. Pathogen Control - Ions kill Virus,
Mold/Fungus and Bacteria in the plenum, ductwork & the
work/living space. c. Allergen Control - Ions allows
particles to agglomerate making particles larger for
more effective filtration. d. Odor & Smoke Control -
Odors & smoke are converted into atmospheric gases. e.
VOC's - are broken down in the Cold Plasma Field. f.
UL 867 certification for ozone production (<50ppb)
MR. ROHWER conveyed that hydrogen peroxide generators distribute
a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide into the air stream in
public places. He stated that they are highly effective and can
be implemented in any air distribution system. He explained
that bipolar ionization and ozone generators are not recommended
for highly populated areas and should be used in pre/post-
occupancy situations, such as locker rooms, where they can be
turned on after people leave to inactivate virus, bacteria, and
other odors that are in the space. He noted that there is not a
significant amount of science-based data that supports the
effectiveness of ozone or bipolar ionization; therefore, ASHRAE
does not endorse the use of the technology. He suggested
working with an engineer to determine whether it's a good fit
for a specific facility. Slide 16 outlined the "best"
mitigation technologies [original punctuation provided]:
3. BEST:
a. Technologies for Microbiological Air Cleaning
i. HEPA High Efficiency Particulate Filter 99.97%
HEPA filters, as defined by the United States
Department of Energy (DOE), remove at least 99.97% of
airborne particles 0.3 micrometers (µm) in diameter.
https://www.standards.doe.gov/standards-
documents/3000/3020-astd-2015
ii. Photo Catalytic Oxidation UV light creates
photons, photons "catalyze" by the TiO2, radicals last
1/10 second and react with carbonbased compounds
(viruses, bacteria, etc.) Organic compounds reduced to
CO2 or H20
MR. ROHWER reiterated that HEPA filters are the "gold standard"
in air filtration; nonetheless, they are not always practical or
feasible because they are costly and require higher energy
output. He stated that photo catalytic oxidation is the next
best option; however, it is costly and can be impractical.
3:00:11 PM
KEITH WRITGHTSON, Health & Safety Specialist, American
Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, urged the
legislature and Alaskan businesses to incorporate a series of
hazard prevention controls in indoor workplaces to reduce the
risk of exposure to coronavirus. In doing so, he said an
emphasis should be placed on workplace configuration,
ventilation, enhanced cleaning practices, and personal
protective equipment (PPE) to protect the health and safety of
workers indoors. He informed the committee that the CDC
recognizes three vehicles of coronavirus transmission: small
droplets from speaking or coughing, contact with contaminated
surfaced, and transmission from aerosols. Without ventilation
aerosols remain suspended in the air and become increasingly
dense the longer an infected person remains in an enclosed
space. He added that the risk of contagion is highest indoors
but can be reduced by applying all available measures to combat
infection from aerosolized respiratory droplets. He said
initially, it was believed that the main vehicle of transmission
was large droplets expelled from coughing and sneezing; however,
now, it is widely understood that shouting and singing indoors
in poorly ventilated spaces over a prolonged period also
increases the risk of exposure, as speaking in a loud voice
releases 50 times more virus particles than not speaking. He
indicated that scientists have found that those particles, which
are released into the atmosphere from breathing and can escape
from improperly worn facemasks, can infect people who spend more
than a few minutes within a 16-foot radius of an infected person
depending on the length of time and the nature of the
interaction.
MR. WRIGHTSON directed attention to a PowerPoint presentation,
entitled "COVID-19 Workplace Safety." Slide 2 examined
workplace configuration and read as follows [original
punctuation provided]:
Prior to opening the workplace, perform a detailed
review of the configuration of your workspaces.
Eliminating reception seating areas and require
clients, visitors and guests to phone ahead for a
specific time to enter the workplace.
Installing a plastic partition at the reception area
and in spaces where one-on-one meetings are conducted
to provide a barrier between the public and office
staff.
Reviewing floorplans and removing or reconfiguring
seats, furniture and workstations to achieve physical
distancing in accordance with guidelines (generally
six feet).
Reconfiguring workstations so that employees do not
face each other or installing partitions (plastic or
other material) if facing each other cannot be
avoided.
Streamlining building and office space entry and exit
points, in accordance with local building codes, to
limit and monitor clients, visitors and guests in the
building and to ensure that building capacity levels
are not exceeded.
3:08:19 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON continued to slide 3, "Meeting Rooms," which read
as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? If in-person meetings are essential, consider
limiting the size of the meetings in accordance with
local, state and federal guidelines.
? In-person meetings should only take place if
physical distancing can be achieved.
? Meeting rooms that are used should be disinfected
regularly and after each use. Disinfectant wipes or
spray should be left in each conference room, and
employees should be encouraged to wipe down all
surfaces and equipment (e.g., mouse, keyboard, phone)
touched during conference room meetings.
? Lingering and socializing before and after meetings
should be discouraged, and employees should be
encouraged to use virtual meeting tools, including
phone and virtual teleconference, in lieu of in-person
meetings, whenever possible.
MR. WRIGHTSON turned attention to slide 4, "lobby and Common
Areas," which read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
Common areas (e.g., lobby, security checkin, delivery
receiving areas) should be cleaned and disinfected at
least daily.
Occupancy limits should be established for passenger
and freight elevators (generally no more than two
individuals in the elevator cab at once) to achieve
physical distancing.
Signage should be prominently displayed encouraging
staff and visitors to:
? Follow physical distancing measures (at least six
feet).
? Practice good personal and environmental hygiene
(e.g., handwashing, respiratory etiquette, cleaning
frequently touched objects).
? Respect occupancy limits.
? Not linger or socialize in common areas and around
building entrances and exits or loading docks.
3:12:39 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON directed attention to slide 5, "Breakrooms," which
read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Breakroom areas should be cleaned and disinfected at
least twice daily. A special emphasis on cleaning
should take place after typical break times (coffee
and lunch hours).
? Congregating in kitchen areas should be discouraged.
? Kitchen equipment and utensils should also be
cleaned on a routine basis, including coffee machines,
refrigerator handles, dishwashers, microwaves,
toasters, water and beverage faucets and ice machine
handles.
? All silverware, dinnerware, utensils and coffee pots
should be cleaned in the dishwasher.
? Ice machines that require a handheld scoop should be
disconnected and taken out of service.
? If vending machines are available for employee use,
disinfecting should be required after each use.
Eliminate public access to vending machines.
MR. WRIGHTSON continued to slide 6, "Restrooms," which read as
follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Place a trash can and disposable towels by the door
if the door cannot be opened without touching the
handle.
? Place signs indicating that toilet lids (if present)
should be closed before flushing. SARS-COV-2 may be
aerosolized when flushing the toilet.
? Place signs asking employees and the public to wash
hands before and after using the restroom.
? Clean and disinfect restrooms available for public
use on an hourly basis.
? Vent separately where possible (e.g., turn exhaust
fan on if vented directly outdoors and run fan
continuously).
? Keep bathroom windows closed if open windows could
lead to reentrainment of air into other parts of the
building (i.e., if the exhausted air could re-enter
the building through air intakes or other openings).
? Have an ample supply of hand soap and sanitizer
available for use.
3:17:44 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON, skipping slide 7, turned attention to slide 8,
"Cleaning Chemicals," and expressed concern about exposure to
disinfectants, such as hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite,
peroxyacetic acid, isopropanol, and sodium chlorite, which are
commonly issued in workplaces across Alaska and the world. He
noted that the aforementioned chemicals are all listed on the
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) List N: Disinfectants
for use against SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, the U.S. Department
of Transportation (USDOT) and the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) consider materials that contain those
ingredients hazardous materials and therefore, individuals must
be trained in chemical safety. He encouraged employers to
comply with OSHA and USDOT's regulations.
3:22:08 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON directed attention to slide 9, "personal
Protective Equipment," which read as follows [original
punctuation provided]:
Workers must wear (PPE) that will protect workers
against SARS-CoV-2 and other hazards associated with
chemicals which they may be exposed during cleaning
and decontamination of surfaces and objects.
Examples of PPE that may be needed while caring for a
COVID-19 patient or during cleaning and
decontamination include:
• Nitrile gloves
• Goggles or face shields.
• Fluid-resistant or fluid-impermeable gowns, coveralls
and aprons.
• Dedicated work clothing and washable shoes with shoe
or boot covers.
3:23:53 PM
CO-CHAIR FIELDS asked to what extent KN95 masks reduce risk and
provide protection for employees; further, he asked if there are
other commercially available products similar to KN95 masks.
3:24:26 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON pointed out that OSHA uses the term "filtering
facepiece." He explained that respirators have different
ratings that speak to their efficiency and design; N, for
example, indicates that N95 respirators are not oilproof and
filter 95 percent of contaminants in the air; P100 respirators,
are designed to seal to the face and prevent contaminants from
entering; and KN95 respirators have straps that loop behind the
ears. He opined that KN95 masks are acceptable in nonhealthcare
environments.
CO-CHAIR FIELDS sought to clarify whether there are commercially
available alternatives to KN95 masks that provide a higher
degree of protection compared to a cloth or surgical mask. He
surmised that KN95 masks are the only available option because
N95 masks continue to be hard to obtain in Alaska.
MR. WRIGHTSON affirmed that.
3:27:47 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON returned to slide 9 and reviewed the proper PPE
for caring for a COVID-19 patient or during cleaning and
contamination. He continued to slide 10, "Communication," which
read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Workers and employers should collaborate and
designate an effective means of communicating
information on new workplace policies and changes
prior to reopening and upon resuming operations.
? A communication policy that establishes formal and
informal routes of communication for staff to express
concerns, questions, comments and feedback is a
necessity.
MR. WRIGHTSON said he has observed retaliation [against workers]
and strongly encouraged employers to develop communication
policies that provide an "open door" for workers to express
their concerns without retaliation. He turned attention to
slide 11, "Training," which read as follows [original
punctuation provided]:
Education and training opportunities provide
employers, managers, supervisors and workers with:
? Knowledge and skills needed to do their work safely
and avoid exposure to SARS-Cov-2 that could place
themselves or others at risk.
? Awareness and understanding of policies and
procedures and how to identify, report and control
exposure to SARS-Cov-2.
? Specialized training when their work involves unique
hazards.
MR. WRIGHTSON informed the committee that once an employee is
issued a disinfectant, he or she must be trained pursuant to
OSHA's Hazard Communication rule; furthermore, upon being issued
an N95 respirator, employees must be trained on respiratory
protection standards, which applies to all PPE that an employer
requires. He emphasized that PPE is the last line of defense
and can be accompanied by many complications.
3:32:21 PM
MR. WRIGHTSON continued to slide 12, "Flexible Work Policies,"
which read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
Employers should adopt flexible work policies that
minimize exposure to and transmission of the SARS-Cov-
2 virus by reducing the number of workers in a
workspace at the same time.
Flexible work policies also consist of staggered work
schedules that have workers in an office at different
times during a day.
This includes continuing the use of telework, either
full time or at regular intervals (e.g., every other
day).
Consideration also should be given to changes in
transportation options available to workers and CDC
guidance encouraging the use of forms of
transportation that minimize close contact with
others.
3:34:12 PM
CO-CHAIR FIELDS read the following questions submitted by
Representative Story:
Have you been asked by the state to assess state
buildings, schools, [and] public safety places,
including prisons?
What sort of private businesses have asked for this
kind of analysis regarding COVID-19 safety?
Are you aware of best practices from peers and other
states?
MS. NUNN said she has been working with state agencies,
including DOT and the Alaska Court System. She recounted
working with the court system at the outset of COVID-19 to
understand occupancy loads for courtrooms, lobbies, and jury
call spaces to establish a baseline and apply local mandates for
occupancy limitations. Additionally, she recalled her work with
DOT pertaining to pioneer homes and correctional facilities.
She noted that her firm is advises school districts,
particularly in Western Alaska, on best practices for
implementing sanitization and disinfection protocols.
CO-CHAIR FIELDS asked how to make this information available to
the public.
MS. NUNN recommended looking into the health and safety
guidelines created by the IWBI task force. She added that ASID
had a parallel task force that recently completed a literature
review and created 68 approved resources, which is currently
being collated into a usable resource for the general public.
3:42:39 PM
CO-CHAIR FIELDS pointed out that OSHA did not issue guidelines
for COVID-19 safety. He thanked the testifiers for making this
information available so that Alaskan entrepreneurs and public
building managers can make informed decisions.
3:43:35 PM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
State Affairs Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at 3:43
p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Designers Hearing Introduction Sheet 12.2.20.pdf |
HSTA 12/2/2020 2:00:00 PM |
|
| Safe Return to the Workplace and Public Buildings12.2.20.pdf |
HSTA 12/2/2020 2:00:00 PM |
|
| AFSCME Letter to the Committee 12.2.20.pdf |
HSTA 12/2/2020 2:00:00 PM |
|
| COVID-19 Workplace Safety 12.2.20.pdf |
HSTA 12/2/2020 2:00:00 PM |