Covid Safe Building

A Breath of Fresh Air: Creating COVID Safe Buildings


Controlling the spread of COVID-19 is essential – for both health reasons and business ones. As we move into 2021, we highly recommend that your practice is COVID-friendly and adheres to all current recommendations and guidelines. Here are some of the precautions we’re seeing tenants and landlords putting in place.

MERV-13 Air Filters

These trap up to 98% of airborne particles, including very fine particles, making them 30 times more effective than standard air filters. Installing and frequently changing out these filters can create a dramatic improvement in air quality.

UV Lights in Elevators

UV-C lights have germicidal properties and use irradiation to sterilize small, enclosed spaces such as elevators. When used in tandem with MERV-13 air filters and frequently cycled air, they can reduce the spread of airborne pathogens such as COVID-19.

Cycling in Outside Air

Pulling more fresh air through HVAC systems, running the system for longer, and performing a “flush” at the end of the day can help improve air quality and minimize COVID-19 spread, especially when used in tandem with high-quality filters and sanitization practices.

Sanitizing Stations

Sanitizing stations in entryways, lobbies, and high traffic areas such as elevators can help reduce the spread of pathogens while also helping to ensure that patients and staff feel safe in your building. These stations typically include hand sanitizer, wipes, and complimentary gloves and masks.

Touchless Technology

Hands-free technology can reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially when installed in high-use areas. Faucets, soap and towel dispensers, doors, and payment technologies are all areas where touchless technology can be introduced. Barriers such as plexiglass can also aid in reducing the spread of the pathogen.

Informational Signage

Signage can be a simple reminder for people to be mindful of their behavior and ensure that they’re following guidelines. Helpful COVID-19 related signage includes social distancing reminders, maximum occupancy reminders, signage that outlines potential symptoms, and signage that asks people to wear masks when inside a building.

More Frequent Cleaning

Not only are janitorial staff cleaning more frequently, but they’re also cleaning more thoroughly. We see tenants and landlords following the CDC’s COVID-19 cleaning recommendations, which include disinfecting recommendations, as well as what to do if someone in the building is diagnosed with COVID-19. Admin staff can also help perform minor cleaning functions such as wiping down common equipment.

Incorporating the above areas into your practice will help ensure that your building is COVID-friendly for staff and patients. However, if your current space can’t be retrofitted to meet current COVID-19 guidelines, or if you’re simply looking for a new space to call home, get in touch with Gittleson Zuppas Medical Realty. We can help you find the ideal COVID-friendly space for your practice.