Clearing the air
Purifiers to improve circulation, fight virus at schools
Staff writer
Marion school board made an investment they hope will clear the air of dust motes, mold, bacteria, and possibly viruses.
Air purifiers ordered from Emporia-based DCS services are expected this week and will be installed at all of the district’s schools. Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas funds will cover the $118,528 cost.
Many school districts are improving air circulation to foster a safe environment, superintendent Aaron Homburg said.
COVID-19 primarily spreads through contact with droplets from a sick person’s mouth and nose.
However, in July, the World Health Organization acknowledged the virus could be airborne, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
Purifiers have the ability to reduce indoor air pollutants, including some germs, Homburg said.
“If we can improve our air quality it’s not only going to help us during this pandemic, it’s going to help us with flu. It’s going to help us with everything,” he said.
The purifiers will be installed in the HVAC systems and air conditioners.
They are portable, so if the air conditioners break down, they can be removed and installed in any new system.
“Once they are there they basically cleanse the air of dust, mold, viruses, food, bugs, whatever,” he said. “Once we have these in place, the quality of our air is going to improve drastically.”