HVAC Systems

Water fountains are considered a source of COVID-19 transmission, and health agencies have recommended minimizing the use and touching of water fountains. Students may bring bottled water from home or use one of the reusable water bottles provided by the school system. Water fountains will not be used by staff and students. The district has entered into a contractual agreement with Crystal Springs to provide water and bottle filling stations until the district can source and install permanent bottle filling stations for every facility within the district.

HVAC Systems

SARS-CoV-2 present in the coughs, sneezes, and exhaled breath of an infectious person can be transported in the air to disperse throughout a room and remain aloft for hours. This long-range airborne virus can infect even people who have not had close contact with the infectious person if they inhale enough of the virus. Bringing fresh outdoor air into a room can dilute and displace any present airborne virus, which reduces the probability that someone breathes enough infectious air to become infected. Heating and air conditioning systems functioning at optimal levels are critical in providing a safe and clean building environment. In addition, a properly designed and functioning HVAC system can mitigate the transmission of the virus. The Twiggs County School district has made several investments to improve the air quality and ventilation within district facilities. ● The district will follow the Center for Disease Control recommendation and increase the filter rating throughout the district from MERV 8 to MERV 13; this change will vastly reduce the number of airborne particles, including viruses, that pass through the ventilation system thus improving air quality within facilities. ● The district has purchased an Ionic air-purification system for every classroom as well as the cafeterias. These units can kill bacteria, viruses, control odors, and reduce air-born particles and allergens. ● The HVAC system at Jeffersonville Elementary has been upgraded with eight new 20-ton units and air handlers, and all units have been inspected. ● The exhaust fans in the restrooms have undergone upgrades to ensure that they provide proper ventilation. ● The maintenance staff has received updated training on how to maintain the district's HVAC systems.

Improved air–quality and an effective cleaning program are the major components in a layer defense strategy to mitigate and reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

Plexiglass Barriers

The district has installed Plexiglass Wellness Barriers in selected areas where there are fixed interactions with the public. Wellness Barriers can be found at the Main office counters and each reception desk within the district.