[holding answer 25 February 2008]: Building regulations require that all enclosed workspaces be ventilated by either natural or mechanical means. The Department's detailed guidance documents, “Health Technical Memorandum 03-01: Specialised ventilation for healthcare premises (parts A and B)” provide comprehensive advice and guidance to health care management, design engineers, estates managers and operations managers on the legal requirements, design implications, maintenance and operation of specialised ventilation in all types of health care premises. Copies of both documents have been placed in the Library.
Ventilation is used extensively in all types of health care premises to provide a safe and comfortable environment for patients and staff. It can include filtration and purification systems that are aimed at diluting and controlling airborne pathogenic material.