Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 93-0846-2386, Providence Ambulatory HealthCare Foundation, Inc., Central Health Care Center, Providence, Rhode Island

摘要

In response to a request from the Providence Ambulatory Health Care Foundation(SIC-8011), an investigation was begun into the ventilation system at the Central Health Care Center, Providence, Rhode Island, and the suitability of the system for minimizing tuberculosis transmission. The building was served by four single zone, heating ventilating, and air conditioning package units on the roof as well as an additional air conditioning unit for perimeter offices, laboratory, and conference room. The units were operated in an automatic mode which resulted in no supply air being delivered to the examination rooms and laboratory when the temperature set points on the system were reached. In some of the enclosed offices there were no supply diffusers to provide supply air. A tuberculin screening program was in place for clients but none for employees. The author concludes that the deficiencies noted in the ventilation system could increase the risk of tuberculosis transmission and cause other indoor environment problems.