Making sense of air quality sensors

Air quality sensors are not fit and forget – they require maintenance and will drift over time. Arup’s James Hare explains how to specify accurate monitoring devices and ensure they remain accurate over time

Air of authority: interview with Professor Catherine Noakes

Professor Catherine Noakes’ knowledge of ventilation and infection transmission has made her one of the government’s key scientific advisers on Covid-19. In recognition of her work, she was made an OBE last month. Alex Smith talks to her about the challenge of winter and the impact of infection control going mainstream

Case study: retrofit of Fairfield Halls theatre

Fairfield Halls theatre in Croydon is a prime example of 1960s public architecture, so when Max Fordham was asked to devise a services strategy during a major refurbishment, it had to stay faithful to the original while maintaining 21st-century comfort and efficiency. Andy Pearson reports

Understanding Hepa filters

An appropriately specified Hepa filter can be used in mechanically ventilated spaces and recirculating systems to practically remove small airborne particulates. CIBSE Journal technical editor Tim Dwyer looks at what must be considered when integrating them into HVAC systems

Clear guidance: TR40 Best practice for exhaust ventilation

The risk of death and illness because of exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace can be cut by following the best practice guidance in ILEVE and BESA’s new TR40 publication. Alex Smith summarises the guidance aimed at the safe design and installation of local exhaust ventilation

Calculating Covid-19 risk according to activity and indoor space

A group of UK researchers has attempted to quantify the transmission risk of airborne Covid-19 infection according to activity and type of indoor space. Chris Iddon describes the methodology and how the risk of infection falls as ventilation rates are increased

Taking the heat out of the ICT classroom

Increased use of computing in schools is causing a rise in cooling loads that can results in air conditioning being in conflict with heating. Science teacher Chris Baker looks at four methods of reducing cooling requirements at Parrs Wood High School