WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released new guidelines for protecting ventilation systems in commercial and government buildings from chemical, biological, and radiological attacks. The guidelines provide recommendations on the physical security of ventilation systems, airflow and filtration, systems maintenance, program administration, and maintenance staff training.
“These guidelines offer practical advice to building owners, managers, and maintenance staffs on the steps they can take to protect their ventilation systems,” stated HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson. “This new guidance is an example of the many steps we have taken since last fall’s terrorist attacks to strengthen our capabilities to protect public health.”