Austin Air has donated 25 of its air purifier units to the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
The dental school was researching air purifier manufacturers and suppliers hoping to purchase some units, in keeping with COVID-19 air safety regulations from the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, when it contacted the Waterloo-based company.
“When we approached Austin Air for a quote for the purchase of the units, they said they would like to donate them instead,” said Dr. Rae Dorian, assistant director of clinical affairs.
“The owner of the company said ‘We need to make sure those dental students keep progressing forward toward graduating, and we want to help,’” Dorian said.
The Royal College requires the use of air purification systems in closed clinic rooms when aerosols are generated to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. After the procedure is completed, the room has to be vacated to allow for the air to clear.
“In older buildings with less modern ventilation, fallow time can be as long as a few hours,” Dorian said.
“However, the use of air purifiers drastically improves the air exchange rate and filters any contaminants, like viruses, in the process. Thus, the fallow time can be reduced from hours to minutes,” Dorian said.
The units improve overall air quality in the clinics during the procedures as well, the school said, making the space safer for students, staff, and patients alike.
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