MISSION UPDATE
Memo

As President speaking on behalf of Safer Buildings, Stronger Security Advocacy Group, we should take a moment and celebrate our success in laying down foundational processes and procedures for evaluating building technologies that contribute to a safer and healthier building environment, where occupants spend a major portion of their time. In addition, we recognize the success of our engagement process with various industries in building trust and confidence through empirical data and test pilots that valid through verification the effectiveness of the solutions we advocate. These comprehensive solutions range from Indoor Air Quality to Building Points of Entry Safety and everything in-between.

As we continue this journey executing on our mission, we will be standing up our digital presence as we tackle the next phase that will allow us to educate and engage the public about advancing Safer Buildings with Stronger Security.  With gratitude, we thank Virexit for their groundbreaking Passive Portal and MaxClean 756 Presentation and allowing us to put the solutions through our rigorous evaluation process. We appreciate the assist in kicking off our digital presence by allocating space on your website.

We are currently facilitating education sessions and test pilots across various industries. Now, let’s build on this momentum. Our ongoing mission is to extend our proven evaluation process, empowering building owners nationwide, both in public and private sectors.  Together, we’ll ensure these transformative products become standard in every building across the country.

Our commitment remains steadfast: safeguarding every occupant and fostering safer, healthier, and more secure environments for every industry across the nation to protect the vulnerable and optimize buildings for optimal occupant productivity leading to higher realized value for building/business owners.

Warmest,
Michael Smith, President
Safer Buildings, Stronger Security Advocacy

 

Safe School Technologies (SST) Advocacy Page Menu

Safer Schools, Stronger Futures

Where Safety and Security Seed Success

FOLLOW OUR IMPACT

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SAFE SCHOOL TECHNOLOGIES ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S OPEN LETTER TO US SCHOOL BOARDS

With profound concern for the safety and well-being of our school communities, I urgently appeal to US School Boards across the nation to allocate resources to two critical areas: Firstly, invest in cutting-edge weapons detection technology to prevent the devastating impact of mass shootings. Secondly, prioritize the improvement of indoor air quality and pathogenic mitigation measures to safeguard against potential health hazards.

The alarming prevalence of mass shootings in schools has shaken us to our core, demanding immediate action to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Simultaneously, the ongoing health risks posed by poor indoor air quality and potential pathogenic threats exacerbate our collective anxiety.

In addressing both these pressing issues, we affirm our unwavering commitment to protecting the sanctity of our educational environments. Let us unite in purpose, investing in safety measures that uphold the well-being of every individual within our school walls.

With heartfelt urgency,

– Philippa Callalily
    Executive Director, Safe School Technologies Advocate Group

Mission Statement

At Safe School Technologies (SST) Advocacy, our mission is to champion the urgent need for improved indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions to mitigate the proliferation of pathogenic threats within aging school infrastructures across the United States.

Focused on safeguarding the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff, we advocate for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to combat the detrimental effects of poor IAQ on academic performance, learning environments, and overall productivity.

The Urgent Need for Action

Decades of neglect and underinvestment have left many educational facilities grappling with deteriorating infrastructure, including inadequate ventilation systems and the presence of harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, mold, fungi, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Numerous studies, including those conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have unequivocally demonstrated the adverse health effects of poor IAQ on occupants. Short-term consequences range from respiratory issues and allergies to headaches and fatigue, while long-term exposure has been linked to chronic conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, and even cognitive impairment.

IAQ / pm school audits reveal concerning trends

Safe School Technologies IAQ/PM Audits

Our extensive IAQ/PM Schools Audits of US Schools have confirmed several indoor air quality (IAQ) and pathogenic mitigation (PM) problems commonly found in majority of US schools. These issues can impact the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff.

See how our advocates are educating and guiding Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) District, the largest school system in Virginia and one of the largest in the country towards optimizing IAQ/PM with effective technologies.

FCPS maintains over 220 facilities comprised of 198 schools, 11 centers, and other support buildings while nurturing processes and mandates that are grounded in intentional partnerships, shared responsibility for equitable resource allocation, and data-driven continuous improvement and innovation.

This high priority effort is part of the overall White House Clean Air in Buildings Challenge that calls on all building owners and operators, schools, colleges and universities, and organizations of all kinds to adopt key strategies to improve indoor air quality in their buildings. The goal is to mitigate the build-up and spread of harmful pathogenic microorganisms that occurs in closed environments with active occupants, in close-proximity, in areas of high turnover throughout the day as seen in buildings like schools.

Many of these occupants are high risk occupants susceptible to the harmful physical and mental effects of not optimizing IAQ/PM. As a nation we must ensure equity of opportunity for students to maximize the long term socio-economic benefits by optimizing productivity and academic performance vital in public education. In addition, it provides a confident environment for teachers for all occupants of school buildings.  

Source:
– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairfax_County_Public_Schools
– https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanindoorair/

Fighting the Invisible Threat

IAQ/PM Mission Plan for Buildings

Endorsed Technological Edge in IAQ/PM

White House National Preparedness

The White House’s National Preparedness Plan has outlined a critical initiative, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to enhancing indoor air quality and mitigating pathogenic risks in buildings. As esteemed members of School Board and administrators continue understand the breathe and depth of the IAQ/PM problem plaguing schools across the US, your foresight in making it a priority to take action has proven to be a pivotal decision, aligning with the nation’s overarching goals.

This includes, in summary: 

Catalyzing science and technology innovation to reduce indoor disease transmission. The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), in coordination with other partners, is identifying opportunities to drive innovation and implementation of technologies to support clean indoor air in buildings and reduce disease transmission. OSTP will also host a series of public engagements to provide the latest science, tools, and best practices on improving indoor air quality.

Our endorsement of the Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM comprehensive solution, backed by thorough research, is instilling confidence among educational institutions like yours. By implementing Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM Technology, FCPS will not only further safeguard the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff but also demonstrated prudent stewardship of public funds.

What sets Maxclean 756 apart is its unparalleled effectiveness and sustainable value. Through our advocacy’s rigorous evaluation processes and proven track records of success, we ensure that this investment translates into tangible, long-term benefits for school budgets. The cost savings realized year over year empower school districts to redirect resources towards other vital initiatives, amplifying the impact on student learning and safety. We have worked in conjunction with Maxclean 756 in creating a test-pilot program specifically for schools. 

Moreover, Maxclean 756’s seamless integration into any HVAC configuration underscores its commitment to meeting and surpassing evolving safety standards. With Maxclean 756’s advanced IAQ/PM implementation framework and robust third-party lab testing protocols, Maxclean 756 consistently exceeds established benchmarks, ensuring optimal air quality and pathogenic mitigation 24/7 that is cost effective, energy effecient and require low operational costs.

As passionate advocates for Safe School Technologies, we are proud to be witnessing and tracking the transformative role that Maxclean 756 plays in safeguarding indoor environments. Its alignment with the White House’s Clean Air in Buildings Initiative further underscores its significance in the broader context of national priorities.

School boards and administrators that we present to continue to embrace Maxclean 756’s transformational IAQ/PM Technology which reflects the unwavering commitment to creating healthy and conducive learning environments. Together, we are shaping a future where every student can thrive in an environment that prioritizes safety, well-being, and academic excellence.

Causes of Poor IAQ/PM Schools and THere IMPACT

Click Each tab for details

  • Issue: Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of indoor pollutants and a lack of fresh air circulation.
  • Impact: Increased concentrations of airborne contaminants and reduced oxygen levels can contribute to respiratory issues and discomfort.
  • Issue: Water leaks and excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
  • Impact: Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems, affecting the health of occupants.
  • Issue: Accumulation of pollutants such as dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
  • Impact: Reduced air quality can lead to respiratory discomfort, headaches, and difficulty concentrating
  • Issue: Insufficient or poorly maintained HVAC filters may allow particles to circulate freely.
  • Impact: Allergens, dust, and pollutants remain in the air, contributing to respiratory issues and discomfort.
  • Issue: Insufficient measures to address airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.
  • Impact: Increased risk of infectious diseases spreading among students and staff, leading to absenteeism.
  • Issue: Poor cleaning and maintenance of surfaces contribute to the buildup of contaminants. Reuse of rags leads to cross contamination. No surface testing.
  • Impact: Increased risk of illness due to the presence of germs and pathogens on surfaces.
  • Issue: Improper control of indoor humidity levels.
  • Impact: Excessive humidity can contribute to mold growth, while low humidity can lead to discomfort and respiratory issues.
  • Issue: Outdated or inefficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
  • Impact: Inconsistent temperature control, poor air circulation, and increased energy consumption.
  • Issue: Limited awareness among school occupants about the importance of indoor air quality.
  • Impact: Difficulty in implementing preventive measures and addressing IAQ concerns proactively.
  • Issue: Overcrowded classrooms or common areas with insufficient ventilation.
  • Impact: Increased transmission risk of airborne infections and discomfort for students and staff.

Addressing these common IAQ and pathogenic mitigation problems in schools requires a comprehensive approach, including proper ventilation, regular maintenance, implementation of modern, effective, 3rd party tested air purification technologies, and education initiatives to promote a healthier indoor environment. It is vital that school districts keep open communication and transparency.

Impact on Academic Performance and Learning:

The ramifications of subpar IAQ extend beyond physical health; they infiltrate the very fabric of education. Research consistently underscores the correlation between healthy indoor environments and enhanced cognitive function, concentration, and academic achievement. Conversely, contaminated air exacerbates absenteeism rates among both students and faculty, disrupts classroom dynamics, and impedes the learning process. By addressing IAQ concerns, we aspire to create conducive environments that optimize student learning and promote holistic well-being.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SCHOOL FISCAL HEALTH RISKS

Poor IAQ in Schools Negatively Impacts Academic Performance

iaq/pm alert: SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS HEALTH RISK

Approximately 3% of the adult population (~ 7 million people) in the United States is immunocompromised [] and less capable of fighting infections due to alterations in the immune system [, ]. Immunocompromising conditions can arise through a multitude of causes, and the underlying reason for immunosuppression can result in drastically different responses to infection and vaccination. Specifically, individuals can be considered immunocompromised for reasons related directly to:

  • Underlying medical conditions
  • Immunomodulatory therapies that alter the immune system [].
  • Primary immunodeficiencies caused by genetic abnormalities affecting immune system cells
  • Secondary immunodeficiencies develop from conditions that are extrinsic to the immune system but subsequently cause an impaired immune response [].
  • Metabolic diseases such as diabetes and chronic kidney disease can also lead to secondary immunodeficiencies [, ].
  • Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory medications given to recipients of organ transplants, individuals with cancer, or those with autoimmune conditions [].

IAQ/PM ALERT:  Due to weakened immune responses, immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to severe outcomes and complications of infectious disease [].

More of a reason to to address the IAQ/PM school crisis is immunocompromised students’ immune responses elicited by recommended vaccines can be insufficient due to the impaired immune systems [, , ].

The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 that caused the global COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the vulnerability to infection and the complexity of vaccination in this population.

Early in the pandemic, some countries developed criteria to assist with identifying those individuals at high risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19 who should be appropriately shielded from exposure (clinically extremely vulnerable [CEV]; Figure 1 below) [, ].

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10401620/

Immunocompromised School Children, Students, and Staff Carry Substantial Comparative Health Risk
Risk of Severe Outcome Related to Pathogenic Respiratory Viruses
 

Immune Deficiency Foundation support

The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) improves the diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life of people affected by primary immunodeficiency through fostering a community empowered by advocacy, education, and research.

Primary immunodeficiencies (PI) are a group of more than 450 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body’s immune system is missing or functions improperly. PI is caused by genetic defects in immune response pathways and can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender.

IAQ/PM ALERT: PI results in high susceptibility to infections. Illnesses such as repeated bouts of pneumonia, persistent skin abscesses, and sepsis, or blood infections, are common and can lead to permanent organ damage. Antibiotics often have little effect on the infections long term. The infections can become chronic and develop into life-threatening conditions requiring hospitalization. PI is also linked to autoimmune disorders and increased risk of certain cancers.

According to the National Institutes of Health, there are approximately 500,000 individuals in the U.S. with a primary immunodeficiency. Every year, thousands go undiagnosed. Individuals affected by PI often find it difficult to receive proper diagnosis, treatment, and specialized healthcare. They experience difficulties financing healthcare, finding educational materials, and locating others who share their experiences.

Susceptibility to Infection

Even with regular medical treatment, frequent infections are a possibility in students with most types of primary immunodeficiency (PI). These students may be more susceptible to developing an infection and tend to become sicker than their classmates when an infection develops.


One of the most significant things a student with a PI can do to stay healthy is to minimize exposure to germs. Schools must create a safety moat for students. Safety and well-being needs to take on a layered approach.

Effective air and surface purification technologies that are 3rd party verified must be mandated for implementation in schools across the US to ensure optimization of Indoor Air Quality and Pathogenic Mitigation (IAQ/PM).

The school community also has a role to play in minimizing a student with PI’s exposure to germs. 
Good ventilation in school buildings can also reduce exposure to germs. In the past, improving air quality and pathogenic mitigation was as simple as opening a window, plugging in a HEPA filter, and or increase air exchanges per hour. However, the covid-19 pandemic exposed school buildings’ underlying risk and amplified the devastating and costly outcome from nation wide long term school closures.

 

It is an act of malpractice for School District Superintendents and Board Members across the US to not heed the lessons of the pandemic. Transformational, 3rd party lab verified, IAQ/PM changes utilizing today’s IAQ/PM technologies should be mandated to create a safety moat to protect students from sudden public health crisis, seasonal outbreaks, and poor IAQ/PM  .

 

Advocates like Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group is one group that is leading the charge:

  • auditing schools IAQ/PM practices and protocols
  • generating confidential reports and gifting the results and recommendations to decision makers
  • facilitating test pilots with rigorously evaluated IAQ/PM comprehensive solutions like the Maxclean 756 System
  • following up and monitoring school IAQ/PM progress to be shared with community stakeholders (students, teachers, staff, etc)
  • reaching out to local and national press for school recognition for setting a new benchmark in metrics-based IAQ/PM.

iaq/pm alert: School Building Induced Asthma Episodes

 

Think at about it.  Asthma is a leading cause of chronic disease-related school absenteeism in the U.S., associated with >10 million missed school days annually and is linked to lower academic performance. 
* (Asthma Related Absenteeism)
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4914465/

School Administrators should consider that they may be providing reasonable accommodations for asthmatic school children, students, and staff without realizing the poor IAQ/PM in the school building itself is linked to exacerbating the the frequency and intensity of asthmatic episodes that triggered the request for reasonable accommodations in the first place. This liability risk should raise a red flag.
* (Immunocompromised Students)
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352710222009202 

– Medical Advisor to Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group

 

School Administrators should also consider if they continue to fail at meaningful and comprehensive 3rd party lab verified IAQ/PM optimization for physical well-being, mental health, and productivity, willfully or not, a formal 504 request is an option for concerned parents and kids. School Building Facility decision makers have a bigger impact on student well-being over the course of a school career than their doctor.

safe school Technology evaluation Approach:

As advocates for IAQ and pathogenic mitigation, our first call to action was born out of the covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic exposed just how vulnerable and at risk building (schools, commercial, and public) occupants (especially the young, elderly and immunocompromised) were nationwide were with regards to disease transmission that was amplified by:

  • antiquated HVAC systems
  • no utilization of latest IAQ/PM Technologies
  • poorly established IAQ/PM practices protocols
  • no 3rd party lab testing to baseline IAQ/PM with empirical data   
  • over-capacity issues
  • aging school building crisis (avg age ~ 50)

Our advocates, upon establishment, brought together volunteers with decades of intellectual expertise in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) provided valuable insights into the latest IAQ technologies.

” Evaluating Tomorrow’s IAQ/PM Technologies to Resolve Today’s IAQ Issues in Schools ” is our mission statement. The Working Group leveraged decades of intellectual expertise in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

To date, our team’s independent assessment has resulted in the hard work being completed on the school’s behalf, allowing us to connect School District Superintendents and Board Members to the most effective IAQ Technologies employing industry best practices across the industry. “

– STEM Working Group

The outcome was a STEM Working Group that researched and rigorously evaluated various IAQ/PM technologies to identify the most effective solution for safeguarding school environments. Through comprehensive assessments and comparative analyses, the Maxclean 756 system has emerged as the gold standard in providing unparalleled long-term value and efficacy.

ASHRAE: 3rd Party Lab Testing, Air Monitoring Safety

UPDATED ASHRAE Standard 241-2023

The Advocacy Team at Safe School Technologies understands the updated IAQ/PM Strategies expected to be implemented driven by effective and targeted utilization of the Billions of Dollars of Federal Grants to make schools safer from internal and external threats.

Third-party lab testing is a critical tool in confirming IAQ and pathogen mitigation and control protocols effectiveness by providing:

  • independent verification
  • accurate measurement
  • compliance with standards
  • validation of protocols
  • transparency to building stakeholders

(see chart below for details)

Third-party lab testing can help create confidence in the quality of the indoor environment for those who occupy and work in buildings daily. MaxClean 756 Mitigates IAQ/PM Problem 24 Hrs A Day in School Buildings.

The only way to be certain your improvements are effective is to use our custom testing protocol to test surfaces and air by our 3rd party lab to prove your buildings are protected.

IAQ/PM ALERT: POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND MENTAL HEALTH RISK

Maxclean mitigates poor health and low productivity risks. School children, students, and staff are at significant short and long-term health and productivity risk from daily exposure to unsafe levels of irritating toxic molds, pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and fungi, and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds. Long term school closures lead to decrease in mental well-being and increase in learning gap in reading and math leading to poorer test taking out-comes.

Today, a majority of school districts in the country have published ESSER plans for public review and stakeholder input on the most effective and impactful ways to utilize ARP funds. This same majority lacks 3rd Party Lab Verification of IAQ/PM Protocols and Strategies required to protect the and future health and safety of students, teachers, and staff, which is of utmost importance to you and your community.

Safe School Advocacy group has seen a pattern among many schools (Fairfax County Schools’ Challenges, and how we are in the process of setting up a test-pilot) and can lead to higher student attendance, reduced teacher absence, and cleaner, safer buildings.

 

you can't manage what you can't measure

3rd Party Lab Testing, Air Monitoring Safety
 

(click to expand)

Onsite 3rd Party Lab IAQ/PM Testing

3rd-Party Lab Testing is a Critical Tool in Confirming IAQ/PM and Control Protocols Effectiveness.

School Budgets: Every Dollar counts

School Board Members:

It’s Time to Prioritize and Optimize Long-Term Indoor Air Quality Solutions!

In the realm of school budgets, every dollar allocated counts. It requires a measurable return on investments that:

  • adds proactive, IAQ/PM investment to exceed elevated ASHRAE standards per White House Clean Air Initiative, resulting in long term value in educating our students.
  • eliminates reactively spending money on quick IAQ/PM fixes that only address immediate problems, after student harm is done to uncover the IAQ issue and ends up being expensive and ineffective in the long run.

 

Therefore, a moral and ethical obligation to ensure every dollar invested towards the health and well-being of our students and staff is paramount. There is no greater underlying issue contributing to seeding success than investing into optimizing to the fullest extent indoor air quality and pathogenic mitigation as the foundation to building stronger futures for students.

After rigorous review of IAQ/PM Technologies, Safe School Technologies Advocates have endorsed Maxclean 756  – the ultimate advocate for long term, measurable effectiveness, school budget optimizing, cleaner indoor air quality in our schools to increase student success. 

Maxclean 756 stays well ahead of the rapidly evolving, more stringent ASHRAE standards for optimal IAQ/PM environment.

Here’s why Maxclean 756 deserves your attention:

  • Comprehensive IAQ/PM Technology: Maxclean 756 goes beyond mere air purification. It’s a comprehensive in-air and on-surface solution designed to combat indoor pollutants effectively, ensuring the long-term health and productivity of everyone within our school walls.
  • Cost-Effective: While budget constraints are a reality, compromising on indoor air quality shouldn’t be an option. Maxclean 756 offers a cost-effective approach to cleaner air, providing excellent value without compromising quality.
  • Energy Efficient: As stewards of our school’s resources, it’s crucial to consider the energy efficiency of any solution we implement. Maxclean 756 not only cleans the air but does so in an energy-efficient manner, ensuring sustainability without sacrificing performance.
  • 3rd Party Lab Tested: Skeptical about claims? Maxclean 756’s efficacy is backed by rigorous third-party lab testing. Rest assured, you’re investing in a solution that has been proven effective in improving indoor air quality.

By prioritizing Maxclean 756, we’re not just investing in air purification – we’re investing in the health, well-being, and future success of our students and staff. Let’s make the smart choice for our school community and pave the way for a healthier learning environment. Reach out today to learn more about how Maxclean 756 can benefit our schools!

OPTIMIZING INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) AND PATHOGENTIC MITIGATION (PM)

HVAC IMPROVMENTS ALONE FAIL TO MEET IAQ/PM OPTIMIZATION GOALS
 

MaxClean 756’s Transformational Impact for US Schools

Creating IAQ/PM confidence among Superintendents and Administrators, School Board Members, school children, students, staff, and teachers with on-site 3rd party lab verification is the MaxClean 756 Mission, meeting new safety standards. Their proven technology is why Safe School Technologies announced our endorsement after rigorous evaluation by our Stem Working Group.

Schools Cannot Manage What Schools Do Not Measure! Reactive IAQ/PM Stances Result in Long Term Downstream Inefficient Fiscal Budget Allocation.

MaxClean 756 has a comprehensive testing protocol tailored for US Schools. Just because schools do not proactively access all the impactful categories of IAQ/PM issues does not mean they do not exist. The days of reactive IAQ/PM school practices need to transition from these antiquated IAQ/PM practices. Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group is here to help.

Maxclean 756 Benefits and Cost Savings

Click Each Tab: Well-being, Productivity, and school admin budget saving

Ways Reduced Absenteeism Saves Money for US School Districts:

  • Reduce Absenteeism Among Students and Staff:
    By mitigating pathogens and improving indoor air quality, MaxClean 756 can help reduce absenteeism among students and staff due to illnesses, resulting in cost savings associated with substitute teachers and lost productivity.
    • Example: A school district implements MaxClean 756 and observes a decrease in absenteeism rates among students and staff members. As a result, the district saves money on substitute teacher wages and avoids disruptions to the learning schedule.
  • Maximized Funding Utilization: By contributing to lower absenteeism rates, MaxClean 756 ensures that schools can maximize their funding allocations tied to attendance rates.
    • Example: A school district implementing MaxClean 756 units observes higher attendance rates, allowing them to optimize the utilization of available funding resources.
  • Minimized Impact on Instructional Time: MaxClean 756 helps maintain continuity in classroom instruction by reducing the frequency of absences due to illness.
    • Example: In a school where MaxClean 756 units are installed, teachers experience fewer interruptions to their lesson plans, ensuring that students receive uninterrupted instruction and maximize their learning opportunities, mitigating learning gaps or shutdowns.
  • Decreased Administrative Burden: With MaxClean 756 contributing to reduced absenteeism, there is a decrease in the administrative burden associated with managing absenteeism-related tasks.
    • Example: School administrators spend less time tracking attendance, contacting parents about absences, and managing paperwork related to missed assignments, allowing them to focus on other important administrative duties.

Benefits of Reduced Absenteeism for Students, Teachers, and Staff:

  • Improved Academic Performance: MaxClean 756 contributes to improved academic performance by creating a healthier indoor environment that supports student attendance and engagement.
    • Example: Students in classrooms in schools equipped with MaxClean 756 units exhibit higher academic achievement due to reduced absenteeism and increased focus on learning.
  • Enhanced Student Well-Being: MaxClean 756 promotes student well-being by reducing absenteeism and creating a healthier school environment.
    • Example: Students experience fewer instances of illness and are able to maintain a regular routine of attending school, participating in activities, and socializing with peers, contributing to their overall well-being and social development.
  • Increased Teacher Effectiveness: MaxClean 756 enhances teacher effectiveness by supporting consistent attendance and reducing interruptions to classroom instruction.
    • Example: Teachers are better able to deliver instruction and provide support to students when they have fewer instances of student absences due to illness, leading to more effective teaching and learning outcomes.
  • Boosted Staff Morale: MaxClean 756 fosters a positive school culture by reducing absenteeism among both students and staff, leading to increased staff morale and job satisfaction.
    • Example: Staff members feel valued and supported in their educational and professional endeavors when absenteeism rates decrease, contributing to a more cohesive and positive school environment.

MaxClean 756 units are designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance, reducing the need for frequent servicing and associated labor costs.

  • Example: With MaxClean 756 units installed throughout the school, maintenance staff spend less time and resources on filter replacements and system upkeep, leading to reduced maintenance expenses for the school district.

MaxClean 756 units feature energy-efficient components and smart controls, optimizing performance while minimizing energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills for the school.

  • Example: A school implements MaxClean 756 units and observes a decrease in energy usage compared to conventional HVAC systems and noise polluting HEPA plug-ins that require frequent filter changes that spread microbes around when changed. As a result, the school saves money on electricity bills, contributing to long-term cost savings.

By maintaining cleaner indoor air and reducing strain on HVAC systems, MaxClean 756 can help extend the lifespan of equipment, delaying the need for costly repairs or replacements.

  • Example: With MaxClean 756 units in place, the school’s HVAC systems experience reduced wear and tear, leading to fewer breakdowns and prolonging the lifespan of costly equipment, ultimately saving the school district money on repairs and replacements.

MaxClean 756 units mitigate pathogens and allergens, leading to improved indoor air quality and reduced respiratory issues among students, teachers, and staff.

  • Example: A teacher with asthma notices a decrease in asthma flare-ups and respiratory symptoms after MaxClean 756 units are installed in the school, allowing them to focus on teaching without interruptions.

Cleaner air provided by MaxClean 756 units creates a more comfortable and conducive learning environment, leading to increased focus and productivity among students and teachers.

  • Example: Students in a classroom with MaxClean 756 units exhibit improved concentration and academic performance, as they are less distracted by respiratory discomfort or airborne allergens.

MaxClean 756 units eliminate odors and maintain a fresh indoor environment, enhancing the comfort and well-being of everyone in the school.

  • Example: Teachers and staff members in a school cafeteria notice a significant reduction in food-related odors after MaxClean 756 units are installed, creating a more pleasant environment for lunchtime activities.

IAQ/PM ALERT on aging school buildings

” A recent survey by the National Center for Education Statistics highlights aging infrastructure of U.S. schools. The average age of main buildings is 49 years, with 38% built before 1970.  After 40 years, school buildings begin rapid deterioration with toxins that impact students’ well-being and performance. “
Source: https://nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/press_releases/2_15_2024.asp

Learn Why MaxClean756 Cares About Onsite 3rd Party Tested IAQ/PM Solutions for Student Well-Being and Performance in Schools of Any Age.

MaxClean756

THE WHITE HOUSE INDOOR AIR QUALITY INITIATIVE

The White House Indoor Air Quality Initiative is a comprehensive effort aimed at addressing the critical issue of indoor air quality (IAQ) in various settings, including schools, businesses, and public places. This initiative involves multiple strategies and actions to improve IAQ standards and promote healthier indoor environments. Some key components of the initiative include:

Clean Air and Building Challenge: This initiative calls on building owners and operators across the United States to make improvements to ventilation, filtration, and facilities to enhance indoor air quality.

American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding: The American Rescue Plan allocated significant funding to help schools improve ventilation and filtration systems. Nearly half of school districts have committed to using ARP funds for this purpose.

Government Action: The government, as a major building operator, is taking steps to improve indoor air quality in its own facilities. This includes efforts to upgrade systems and incorporated proven air purification technologies that meet higher safety organizations like ASHRAE’s updated standards.

References:
Clean Indoor Air Benefits Everyone
Gov Agencies Commit To Cleaner Indoor
Summit On Improving Indoor Air Quality

” Now in my mind, indoor air is that next frontier when it comes to thinking about public health for humanity. “

– Dr. Ashish K. Jha / Dean of the Brown School of Public Health

Dr. Ashish Jha

White House Pandemic Response Coordinator

” We spend 90 percent of our time indoors. The person who manages your building has a greater impact on your health than your doctor. Think about that. “

– Joe Allen, Harvard School of Public Health

Joe Allen, Harvard

School of Public Health, Healthy Buildings Initiative.

A TIPPING POINT FOR AMERICA’S AGING SCHOOL BUILDINGS

Special Report on the State of the Nation’s School Buildings

  • Children need safe places to learn, and research has shown that the right school setting can boost student achievement.   A thoughtful design can also buoy students’ and teachers’ mental health. 
  • Lack of consistent, equitable investment in the nation’s school buildings is showing.  Buildings in most school districts require major system upgrades, federal data have shown.
  • School districts are struggling to find the staff needed to maintain their existing facilities, much less secure the funding to make major improvements.
    Source: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/a-tipping-point-for-americas-aging-school-buildings       

How Big is The Problem?

Large percentage of educators and administrators nationwide aren’t satisfied with the buildings where they are tasked with facilitating learning—they’re too small, outdated, toxic, unconducive to instruction, and often ill-equipped for students’ . . .

Leaks from the Roof

A trash can and pink kiddie pool are used to collect water that leaks from the roof
into the media center at Green County High School in Snow Hill, N.C.

Dismal State of School Infrastructure, in Charts

How Big is the Problem?

Millions of children travel to and from school in environmentally hazardous, diesel-fueled buses. Those kids then spend their days in buildings that are outdated, overcrowded and unsafe.

Chart: Aging School Infrastructure crisis

Chart: current state of School Infrastructure crisis

Federal, State, and Local Call to Action

Federal, state and local lawmakers collectively need to invest more money in order for schools to be deemed safe.

Chart: current state of School Infrastructure Investment

How Did We Get Here?

School buildings have evolved to serve a growing list of functions for a ballooning number of students. But policy makers have little up-to-date data on the condition of those buildings, making it difficult for them to strategically target taxpayers’ money.

Why so Little Governmental Financial Support?

Aside from a handful of small grant programs, the federal government hasn’t invested in school infrastructure in a major way since 1935. Some states have invested far more in construction costs than others.

Overall, states invest little in school building improvements, leaving local governments to foot most of the bill. School districts in property-rich areas have a far easier time raising money to build and maintain their schools, meaning that wealthier families have more access to safer school buildings than poor families.

With minimal state and federal support, many school districts fund infrastructure projects by seeking voter approval to issue bonds and go into debt. The more debt a district has, the more interest it has to pay on that debt—money that could otherwise go toward classroom costs.

Will Biden’s infrastructure plan help?

Biden has proposed to invest more than $100 billion in America’s school infrastructure. School funding advocates say those dollars would go a long way, but they wouldn’t be enough to solve all the existing problems. That money could, however, lay the groundwork for a more concerted nationwide effort to more actively maintain school buildings for the long haul.

SST ADVOCATES RECOGNIZE MAXCLEAN756

After completing a rigorous evaluation process, the Working Group recognizes the Maxclean756 System as providing the best foundational long-term IAQ/PM value based on pandemic driven updated ASHRAE safety standards. 

– Safe School Technologies Working Group

 

MaxClean 756 is a specialty service company that designs and installs sustainable organic environmental and pathogen control systems for all building types and uses.  We understand in today’s world that there is a requirement to evolve current, antiquated practices to include capabilities that offer sustained performance 24/7 in the air and on surfaces in occupied buildings. The MaxClean 756 system is effective against a broader range of microorganisms, including resistant pathogens and  complements EPA required cleaning and disinfection protocols.

 

Effective, 3rd Party Lab Tested, Cost and Energy Efficient

Overview of Benefits of MaxClean 756 Commerical Air and Surface Purification System

MaxClean 756 employs advanced filtration and purification technology to remove pollutants, allergens, and pathogens from in-room air and direct on-surface, ensuring a healthier environment for occupants.

(click to enlarge)

Pathogenic Mitigation with Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS) Technology:

MaxClean 756 utilizes RoS technology to mitigate pathogens both in the room air and on surfaces, providing comprehensive protection against harmful microorganisms.

Here’s how it works:

  • In-Room Air Treatment: Integrated HVAC Units generates RoS, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-), through photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. These highly reactive species effectively neutralize airborne pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, mold spores, fungi, VOC’s, and Odors by breaking down their molecular structures upon contact.

  • Surface Disinfection: The RoS generated extends their pathogenic mitigation capabilities to surfaces within the indoor environment. When the photocatalytic surface coating is exposed to UV light, it initiates a continuous process of oxidation on surfaces, effectively breaking down organic contaminants, including pathogens, into harmless byproducts.

  • Continuous Protection: As long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air, the RoS generation and oxidation process remain active, providing continuous protection against pathogens in both the room air and on surfaces. This ensures a constantly sanitized environment, reducing the risk of infectious diseases and promoting a healthier indoor space for occupants.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s RoS technology offers dual-action pathogenic mitigation by treating both the in-room air and directly on surfaces, effectively neutralizing pathogens and contributing to improved indoor air quality and overall hygiene within the environment.

MaxClean 756 utilizes RoS technology to effectively eliminate odors from the indoor environment, providing a fresher and more pleasant atmosphere.

Here’s how it works:

  • RoS Generation: MaxClean 756 employs photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) to generate RoS, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-), when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. These highly reactive species are capable of breaking down organic molecules responsible for unpleasant odors.

  • Odor Neutralization: When airborne odorous molecules come into contact with the RoS generated by the integrated HVAC Unit, oxidation reactions occur, leading to the decomposition of the molecules into harmless byproducts. This process effectively neutralizes the odors, eliminating their presence in the indoor air.

  • Surface Treatment: Additionally, the units released RoS treats surfaces within the indoor environment stemming from the unit’s photocatalytic surface coating. This ensures that not only the air but also the surfaces contribute to odor elimination. As RoS continue to be generated and react with organic contaminants on surfaces, any lingering odors are effectively eliminated.

  • Continuous Action: The RoS generation and oxidation process provided by AirROS are continuous as long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air. This ensures a constant and ongoing process of odor elimination, maintaining a fresh and clean indoor environment for occupants.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s use of RoS technology offers effective odor elimination by treating both the indoor air and surfaces, neutralizing odorous molecules and ensuring a more comfortable and pleasant atmosphere within the environment.

Maxclean 756 utilizes RoS designed with energy efficiency in mind, providing optimal performance while minimizing energy consumption.

Here’s how it achieves energy efficiency:

  • Smart Controls: Maxclean 756 units are equipped with smart controls that monitor indoor air quality and adjust operation accordingly. These controls optimize energy usage by adjusting fan speeds and system operation based on real-time air quality data, ensuring that the unit operates at the most efficient levels.

  • Variable Speed Fans: The system utilizes variable speed fans that can adjust airflow based on demand. During periods of lower occupancy or air quality improvement, the fans can operate at lower speeds, consuming less energy while still providing adequate ventilation.

  • High-Efficiency Components: Maxclean 756 units are built with high-efficiency components, including motors, filters, and UV-C lamps. These components are selected for their energy-saving capabilities, ensuring that the unit operates efficiently while delivering superior performance.

  • Energy-Saving Modes: Maxclean 756 units may feature energy-saving modes or scheduling options that allow users to customize operation based on occupancy patterns or specific usage scenarios. These modes help further reduce energy consumption during periods of lower demand.

  • Compliance with Energy Standards: AirROS units may be designed to meet or exceed energy efficiency standards set by regulatory bodies, such as ENERGY STAR or ASHRAE. Compliance with these standards ensures that the units are optimized for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

In summary, RoS Units prioritize energy efficiency through smart controls, variable speed fans, high-efficiency components, energy-saving modes, and compliance with energy standards. These features ensure that the units operate efficiently while maintaining superior performance, ultimately reducing energy consumption and lowering operating costs.

MaxClean 756’s units are engineered for quiet operation, ensuring minimal disruption to occupants while maintaining superior indoor air quality. Here’s how it achieves quiet operation:

  • Sound-Insulated Design: MaxClean 756 units feature a sound-insulated design that effectively minimizes noise transmission from internal components to the surrounding environment. This design helps reduce the overall noise level produced by the unit, creating a quieter indoor environment.

  • Vibration-Dampening Features: The unit is equipped with vibration-dampening features that mitigate vibrations generated by internal components, such as fans and motors. By reducing vibrations, MaxClean 756 units minimizes noise caused by mechanical movement, further enhancing its quiet operation.

  • Low-Noise Components: MaxClean 756 utilizes low-noise components, including motors, fans, and air handling units, selected for their quiet operation. These components are specifically designed to produce minimal noise while maintaining optimal performance, ensuring a quieter indoor environment.

  • Noise Reduction Technologies: MaxClean 756 may incorporate noise reduction technologies, such as advanced fan blade designs or sound-absorbing materials, to further minimize noise levels during operation. These technologies help attenuate noise generated by airflow and other system functions, contributing to a quieter overall experience.

  • User-Friendly Design: MaxClean 756 units are designed with user comfort in mind, featuring intuitive controls and interfaces that allow users to adjust settings easily. By providing a user-friendly experience, MaxClean 756 helps minimize user-induced noise disturbances, ensuring a peaceful indoor environment.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s units achieve quiet operation through a combination of sound-insulated design, vibration-dampening features, low-noise components, noise reduction technologies, and user-friendly design. These features work together to minimize noise levels and create a more comfortable and tranquil indoor environment for occupants.

MaxClean 756’s commercial units are engineered for straightforward installation and minimal maintenance, catering to the needs of commercial settings.

Here’s how they excel in facilitating easy installation and maintenance:

  • Modular Design: Designed with a modular architecture, MaxClean 756 ROS commercial units utilized boast easy assembly and installation. Each component is crafted to seamlessly integrate, simplifying the installation process and reducing reliance on specialized tools or skills.

  • Plug-and-Play Integration: MaxClean 756 commercial units feature plug-and-play integration, allowing seamless connection to existing HVAC systems or standalone use. This feature eliminates the complexities of wiring and configuration, expediting the installation process.

  • Intuitive Controls: Equipped with user-friendly interfaces, MaxClean 756 commercial units empower users to navigate settings, monitor performance, and conduct routine maintenance effortlessly. Simple controls ensure that operation and upkeep tasks are accessible to personnel with varying levels of expertise.

  • Remote Management Capabilities: MaxClean 756 commercial units may offer remote management functionalities, enabling users to monitor performance and diagnose issues remotely. This capability facilitates proactive maintenance, reduces downtime, and minimizes the need for onsite visits.

  • Component Accessibility: MaxClean 756 commercial units prioritize accessibility to key components, such as filters and UV-C lamps, ensuring ease of replacement and maintenance. By simplifying routine upkeep tasks, these units minimize disruption to commercial operations and sustain optimal performance.

In essence, MaxClean 756 utilize commercial units that streamline installation and maintenance through their modular design, plug-and-play integration, intuitive controls, remote management capabilities, and accessible components.

These features empower businesses to swiftly deploy and maintain high-performance air purification systems, fostering a conducive environment for productivity and well-being.

MaxClean 756 RoS commercial air & surface purifiers utilize high voltage and high frequency-controlled pulses, but very low amperage to create non-thermal plasma and generate ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). ROS are the sanitation/cleaning agents that prevent and destroy Molds (including Powdery Mildew), Viruses, Pathogens and controls/eliminates Odor. Unit’s utilizes Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS) to clean surfaces through a process called photocatalytic oxidation (PCO).

Here’s how it works:

  • Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS): The MaxClean 756 system incorporates a photocatalyst, typically titanium dioxide (TiO2), onto surfaces within the HVAC system or air purifier. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, typically UV-C light, the photocatalyst becomes activated.

  • Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): Activated photocatalysts initiate a reaction in the presence of moisture from the air and UV light, leading to the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS), such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-).

  • Surface Cleaning Action: The generated RoS are highly reactive and powerful oxidizing agents. When they come into contact with organic molecules, such as bacteria, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or other contaminants present on surfaces, they initiate oxidation reactions.

  • Oxidation of Contaminants: RoS react with and break down organic molecules on surfaces, effectively destroying them at a molecular level. This process leads to the decomposition of contaminants into harmless byproducts, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide.

  • Continuous Surface Cleaning: The photocatalytic oxidation process is continuous as long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air. Therefore, surfaces treated with the photocatalyst continue to undergo cleaning action over time, helping to maintain cleanliness and reduce the presence of harmful pathogens and pollutants.

In summary, MaxClean 756 harnesses the power of Reactive Oxygen Species generated through photocatalytic oxidation to clean surfaces by breaking down organic contaminants into harmless byproducts, thereby contributing to improved indoor air quality and overall cleanliness within the environment.

Acceptance and Standards

Indoor surface & air treatment to ensure health and safety of employees and customers. Organic sanitation that continually operates 24/7 while people are present to reduce viruses, bacteria and odors plus:

  • Destroys viruses such as Coronavirus, Infuenza, H1N1)
  • Destroys pathogens such as: mRSA, Botrytis, E.Coli, Listeria, Salmonella, Serratia Marcescens, Candida, and Powdery Mildew
  • Reduces HAI Risk (Healthcare-Associated Infections)
  • Defend against virus spread and contagion
  • Ensure safe sanitized PPE (personal protection equipment) for employees
  • Avoid exposure to litigation and related costs
  • Provides better sanitation in hard-to-reach areas
  • Lowers cost of sanitation with measurable results and lower labor costs
  • Increases IAQ / PM awareness with SAFE environment
  • Reduces Cross-Contamination
  • Provides Odor Control / smoke removal
  • Destroy off-gas odor from rubber mats 

Provides schools the latest in science and technology to quickly and effectively sanitize all indoor areas the air touches, including surfaces!

Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM System Recognized as Best Long Term Value

IAQ/PM Advocacy Group Recognizes Maxclean 756 as Best Long Term IAQ/PM Solution for US Schools

Maxclean756 System process

Maxclean756 System process includes on-site pre and post 3rd Party Level II Lab Verification of IAQ/PM issue and resolution documented in a detailed lab report. MaxClean 756 has developed a robust testing protocol with a 3rd party lab specializing in IAQ and microorganisms. 

MaxClean756 creates confidence for school decision makers. We have no interest in solving problems that do not exists. On-site 3rd party pre-testing builds trust based on empirical data.

– Brian Oliver, CEO and Owner of MaxClean756

Most of the school systems that made improvements never performed any pre-testing to determine each buildings exact problems that require resolution, nor determined the species and levels detected. Each building needs post testing to validate the improvements are effective and comprehensive for each buildings use, type and age.

Maxclean756 has many years of use cases

Summary Chart: Some of Many Use Cases
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MaxClean756 detailed Use Case - School

Setting a New IAQ/PM Standard with MaxClean756
Transformational Metrics Based Improvements

Pre / Post 3rd Party School Lab Results

AIR TEST SAMPLES

 

MaxClean 756 Results
Pre-Treatment Sampling vs In-Treatment Sampling
(See #1, black circle below)

 

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summary of results
 

3/28/23 – Pre-Treatment Sampling:
Bio-burden Air Samples are much above > 300 cfu/m3 which fall in “not acceptable range and require corrective action.”

5/01/23 – (Maxclean756), In-Treatment Sampling:
Bio-burden Air Samples show 90% reduction and < 100 cfu/m3, which falls in the clean and acceptable

(See #2, black circle below)

 

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OBSERVATIONS

 

Outside Air Samples Range:
“1400 to 1567 cfu/m3 shows significant amount of Bio-burden coming from outside air that falls in the “not acceptable/needs corrective action range.”

 
Conclusion

The (Maxclean756) Treatment System is having a noticeable and measurable impact on reducing this bio-burden.

(Target Air Quality Scale: #3, Black Circle Above)

SURFACE TEST SAMPLES

MaxClean 756 Results
Pre-Treatment Sampling vs In-Treatment Sampling
(See #1, black circle below)

summary of results

3/28/23 – Pre-Treatment Sampling:   
Average 43.5 cfu/cm2; Range 25.0/70.0 cfu/cm2; SD 12.9

5/01/23 – (Maxclean756) In-Treatment Sampling:   
Average 4.3 cfu/cm2; Range 2.5/7.0 cfu/cm2; SD 1.3


CONCLUSION:

(Maxclean756 Treatment) Resulted in % Reduction of 90.1%

 

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Maxclean756 System Protection

Maxclean756 System 24/7 protection is effective at air and on surface mitigation of all infectious disease transmission modes vs HVAC ventilation improvements alone.

These modes of transmission include:

  • Aerosol Transmission
    Virus is transmitted through the air by aerosols within the inspirable size range or smaller; aerosol particles are small enough to be inhaled into the nasopharynx and distally into the trachea and lung.
  • Direct Transmission
    Virus is transferred by contact from an infected person to another person without a contaminated intermediate object (fomite).
  • Indirect Transmission
    Virus is transferred by contact with a contaminated intermediate object (fomite).
  • Droplet Spray Transmission
    Virus is transmitted through the air by droplet sprays (such as those produced by coughing or sneezing); a key feature is deposition of droplets by impaction on exposed mucous membranes.

Study: Modes of Transmissions of Respiratory Viruses

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30096894/

Transmission of Influenza A in a Student Office Based on Realistic Person-to-Person Contact and Surface Touch Behavior

Abstract – Influenza A viruses result in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide each year. In this study, influenza A transmission in a graduate student office is simulated via long-range airborne, fomite, and close contact routes based on real data from more than 3500 person-to-person contacts and 127,000 surface touches obtained by video-camera.

  • The long-range airborne, fomite and close contact routes contribute to 54.3%, 4.2% and 44.5% of influenza A infections, respectively.
  • For the fomite route, 59.8%, 38.1% and 2.1% of viruses are transmitted to the hands of students from private surfaces around the infected students, the students themselves and other susceptible students, respectively.
  • The intranasal dose via fomites of the students’ bodies, belongings, computers, desks, chairs and public facilities are 8.0%, 6.8%, 13.2%, 57.8%, 9.3% and 4.9%, respectively. . . . .

Observations:

“Close contact” route transmission plays a significant role in the spread of pathogenic viruses and bacteria within school buildings.

The Maxclean756 System addresses this dynamic pathogenic problem 24/7 in a seamless, energy efficient, cost-effective way requiring minimal year to year operational costs compared to other standalone IAQ technologies. (see analysis) The Maxclean756 results are verified via an independent third party level II lab assessment report to CREATE CONFIDENCE!

Conclusions:

Best Pathogen Mitigation Solution for All Respiratory Transmission Modes

MaxClean 756 vs HVAC:

HVAC Alone: 

  • Good Mitigation of Aerosol Transmission (many HVAC variables to maintain)
  • Poor Mitigation of Direct Transmission
  • Poor Mitigation of Indirect Transmission
  • Poor Mitigation of Droplet Spray Transmission

Maxclean 756 + HVAC:

  • Good Mitigation of Aerosol Transmission 
  • Good Mitigation of Direct Transmission
  • Good Mitigation of Indirect Transmission
  • Good Mitigation of Droplet Spray Transmission

(click to expand)

Maxclean756 System Has A Small Footprint

Maxclean756 System has a small footprint and integrates seamlessly into existing HVAC Units.

Maxclean756 has many finance/grant partners

Maxclean756 Partners with federal and state grant writing group to fund projects.

Maxclean756 is superior IAQ/PM technology

Maxclean756 IAQ/PM Technology has been used successfully in food processing and grow industry for over a decade.

Maxclean756 has years of use cases

Maxclean756 provides several use cases along with empirical lab data to verify effectiveness.

Maxclean756 mitigates many microorganisms

Maxclean756 mitigates mold, viruses, bacteria, fungus, smells, and VOC’s to maintain safe levels. They have a rigorous testing protocol with a wide range of microorganisms.

Our Advocacy PROCESS TO US SCHOOL BOARDS:

As Advocates for Safe School Technologies, we have rigorously evaluated various technologies to identify the most effective solution for safeguarding school environments. Through comprehensive assessments and comparative analyses, the Maxclean 756 system has emerged as the gold standard in providing unparalleled long-term value and efficacy.

The mission of the Safe School Technologies advocacy group is to give voice and raise awareness about the White House driven Clean Indoor Air Crisis impacting tens of millions of students, teachers, and staff.

school board engagement process includes:

  • Reviewing school district’s current IAQ/PM protocols and practices.
  • Generate audit reports to identify “areas of IAQ/PM opportunity” to mitigate threats to the well-being and productivity of students and staff.
  • Conduct review and analysis of the most cost effective, energy efficient, environmentally safe, 24/7 protection, 3rd party tested IAQ/PM comprehensive solutions that align with and resolve “areas of IAQ/PM opportunities identified in audit report. The MaxClean756 System fits all of the updated requirements and standards set by CDC and ASHRAE.
  • Present and gift the IAQ/PM advocacy audit report and final recommendations at school district board meetings to members-at-large, superintendents, administration leadership and/or facility directors.
  • Advocates facilitate MaxClean756 test pilots/proof of concept progress, playing role of monitoring progress after initial engagement between IAQ/PM solution provider and school district facilities decision maker point of contact delegated by the school board/superintendent.
  • Advocates maintain open communication about IAQ/PM improvement progress with school district’s community stakeholders (students, staff, employees, taxpayers)
  • Advocates work with local press to provide updates to negative IAQ/PM school district stories and share the actions taken or any resistance to actions.

The overall measure of success for the IAQ/PM advocacy group is to promote the effective and targeted use of billions of school district allocated federal and state grants.

This includes:

  • The implementation of transformational 3rd party lab tested IAQ/PM technological improvements such as the MaxClean756 System.
  • Updated IAQ/PM protocols and practices.
  • Evaluate increases in consistent community engagement regarding monitoring IAQ/PM issues and resolutions implemented. Solutions must be communicated in the form of an onsite pre and post 3rd Party Lab Test Report.

This will result in a comprehensive “safety moat” to help mitigate precipitous public health pathogenic outbreaks of virulent, bacterial, or fungal origin at schools, which show a strong correlation to spread through the greater community, including the elderly and immunocompromised. 3rd party testing also monitors the ubiquitous toxic mold issues effecting all schools. 

The overall goal of IAQ/PM improvements is to decrease risk for prolonged shutdowns, which creates a negative learning gap, leading to detrimental effects on the physical health, mental well-being, and productivity of students and staff, particularly immunosuppressed and special needs students.

IAQ/PM ALERT: VA Gov Issues IAQ/PM Executive order

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

Executive Order

ORDER OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY ONE

“School districts should marshal any resources available to improve inspection, testing, maintenance, repair, replacement and upgrades of equipment to improve the indoor air quality in school facilities, including mechanical and non-mechanical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, filtering, purification, fans, control systems and window and door repair.”

Needs of VA School Buildings

Prepared for the Commission on School
Construction and Modernization June 2021″

safe school advocates in action at FCPS

USE CASE: Ways our advocates are facilitating
transformational IAQ/PM change to Fairfax Public Schools

FAST FACTS: FCPS DISTRICT

Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid
FCPS School Board Members

Demographics and Buildings

  • one of the largest school divisions in the U.S. with 225 facilities, including 200 schools and centers
  • more than 28 million square feet of school buildings and office space
  • diverse student population of more than 182,000 students
  • Over 33.4% of our total student population is economically disadvantaged
  • 15.5% are reported as Students with Disabilities
  • one of the largest employers in Virginia with 25,175 full-time employees
  • recognized annually by education columnist Jay Mathews as among most challenging high schools in the U.S

Budget Resources

Capital Projects

Approximately two out of every three Capital Improvement Program dollars are earmarked for:

  • renovations
  • modular classrooms
  • additions of existing school facilities
  • construction of new schools

This is a significant expenditure that reflects both the age of the facilities and the commitment of the FCSB to ensure that all schools are able to accommodate current educational programs.

Ideally, renovations should occur on a 20 – to 25-year cycle to protect capital investment; however, the current renovation cycle occurs once every 37 – 42 years.

FCPS has never performed an asset-level facility condition assessment (FCA) to adequately validate the deferred maintenance backlog and to assist with prioritization of capital renewal needs.
–(FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit)
Source: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/Adopted-CIP-2024-28.pdf

safe school advocates address FCPB

2023-04-27: FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Advocate Greg Presents MaxClean 756 Comprehensive IAQ/PM Solution to FCPS

FCPS Board Members are presented with Safe School Technologies STEM Working Group’s Selection of The MaxClean 756 System as providing best foundational long-term value based on pandemic driven updated ASHRAE safety standards, most important being On-site 3rd Party Lab verification.

2023-09-28: FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Fairfax County Public School Employee Speaks on Toxic Mold in School Buildings

Mold in schools jeopardizes employee health, causing respiratory issues, allergies, and infections. Prolonged exposure leads to chronic conditions, skin and eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue. Prioritizing mold prevention and remediation is crucial to ensure a safe working environment and protect employee well-being.

2023-09-28: FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Advocates Presents MaxClean 756 Update and Submit Final IAQ/PM Audit to Board

Safe School Advocates successfully reignite the MaxClean 756 Test-Pilot, prioritizing student and staff well-being. Their relentless efforts and engagement ensure the FCPS commitment, marking a crucial step towards safer, healthier school environments. With determination, they pave the way for transformative IAQ/PM solutions at FCPS.

2022-02-24: FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

FCPS Student Tells Board her School’s Poor IAQ/PM Triggers her Asthma.

FCPS’s poor IAQ/PM exacerbate this student’s asthma symptoms, triggering respiratory distress and reducing lung function. Asthma attacks are more frequent and severe in environments with high levels of allergens, pollutants, and pathogens. Improving IAQ/PM is essential to manage asthma effectively and ensure better respiratory health.

safe school Submits IAQ/PM AUDIT

SAFE SCHOOL TECHNOLOGIES ADVOCATES PROVIDE DETAILED IAQ/PM AUDIT AND RECOMMEDATIONS TO FCPS BOARD AND IS FACILITATING A TEST PILOT BETWEEN MAXCLEAN 756 AND FCPS TO DEMONSTRATE THE LONG TERM IAQ SOLUTION PROVIDED.

FCPS District funding resources

Ways our advocates are facilitating transformational IAQ/PM change AT Fairfax Public Schools

IAQ/PM Related Asset Management

Click Tabs Below: charts - FCPS District IAQ/PM major shortfall

Source: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/Adopted-CIP-2024-28.pdf (pg.198-199)

The Department of Facilities and Transportation Services, Office of Facility Management (OFM) instituted an asset management program in the early 2000s as part of its core mission.

The program inventories major building systems, as well as associated equipment, and develops analytics to identify lifecycle expectations and optimize service life by application of an effective maintenance and replacement strategy.

Along with lifecycle analysis, OFM has implemented a process to perform and assign a base condition and mission criticality rating to each asset. The asset condition and criticality rating are combined to provide an industry accepted asset assessment index (AI) value, which allows staff to prioritize resources for maintenance and replacement. The program provides a foundation to ensure FCPS meets its Strategic Plan Goal for Resource Stewardship but needs additional investment to develop a comprehensive facility condition assessment (FCA) of all assets.

In FY 2018, the Office of Auditor General (OAG) provided the following definition for a FCA,

“Facilities condition assessment is the process of developing a comprehensive picture of physical conditions and the functional performance of buildings and infrastructure; analyzing the results of data collection and observations; and reporting and presenting findings.”

The main objective of the facilities condition assessment is to measure the condition and functionality factors that make sure both the building and its infrastructure are of adequate condition and appropriate for intended functions.

FCPS has never performed an asset-level facility condition assessment (FCA) to adequately validate the deferred maintenance backlog and to assist with prioritization of capital renewal needs. 
– (FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit)

OAG recommends further elevation and escalation of the need to initiate an asset-level facility condition assessment based on the latest industry standards.

The goal is to provide objective, consistent, accurate, and repeatable results to generate a more precise capital renewal funding forecast. This will also provide credibility in defending the balanced and equitable distribution of funding among FCPS schools.

This effort will allow FCPS to have regular assessments of schools, identify specific projects, and allow the Fairfax County School Board (FCSB) and staff to ensure most urgent requirements are being addressed in a timely manner.

OFM should adopt an asset level FCA program to adequately validate backlogs of deferred maintenance and prioritize capital renewal needs.

During the summer of 2008, at the request of the FCSB, the Department of Facilities and Transportation Services, Office of Design and Construction Services (D&C) dispatched an independent third-party engineering consultant firm to evaluate the school renovation queue based on factors such as fundamental educational requirements and facility condition (building envelope) assessment. However, the survey did not entail an adequate detail assessment of capital assets within each facility. Critical building systems and components have been inventoried at all FCPS facilities, except for the schools currently under renovation. There are other capital assets that remain to be inventoried or completed, such as finished flooring, plumbing fixtures, exterior buildings, that will require capital investment to replace. Inventorying these assets will also increase existing financial requirements both in future needs and current deferred replacement backlog.

The OAG FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit also states, “It shall be the further goal of the Fairfax County School Board to provide for the systematic maintenance of major and critical building infrastructure components, primarily through the comprehensive building renovation program and, additionally, through the establishment of infrastructure maintenance programs in annual planning and budgeting.

Infrastructure maintenance programs shall be based on the life cycle expectancy of building systems and components and shall assure that mechanical, electrical, electronic, and structural systems will support the effective and efficient operation of buildings.”

As schools are renovated, D&C replaces and updates all building systems that have reached the end of their useful life. Useful life of school facilities and building assets require renovation of buildings every 20 to 25 years – a requirement that is detailed in FCSB Policy 8258.2. The current cycle between renovations is approximately 37 years; however, infrastructure investments in building assets are needed at shorter intervals to support system life expectancy (see Figure 1). These replacements are needed to keep the building functional, maintain a satisfactory learning environment, and avoid expensive maintenance and repair.

IAQ/PM Related (HVAC Infrastructure) Total Assets

  • Total IAQ/PM Related (HVAC) Assets – 33,847
  • Asset Past Useful Life -11,641
  • Average IAQ Related Life Expectancy – 21 years
  • Average IAQ Related Asset Age -17 years

According to the National Research Council (NRC) report entitled ‘Committing to the Cost of Ownership: The Maintenance and Repair of Public Building’ and referenced in the ‘2012 Final Report for Performance Management Assessment,’ conducted by Facility Engineering Associates (FEA)

“The appropriate level of Maintenance and Repair spending should be, on average, in the range of 2 to 4 percent of Current Replacement Valve (CRV).”

  • The current replacement value for FCPS is $6.6 billion.
  • IAQ/PM Related Assets (HVAC Infrastructure) CRV is $385,947,548)
    Therefore, 2-4% of HVAC CRV is from $7,718,950.96 to 15,437,901.92 spending on IAQ/PM Related Maintenance, Repair, or Enhancement.
  • FY2023 – Allocated Funding for IAQ/PM Related Asset Replacement and Maintenance Repair was $6.125m raised to $8.1m
  • FCPS’ operating budget of $44.1 million represents about 0.67 percent of the total CRV. ($44.1m/$6600m)
  • FCPS’ capital renewal budget, including major maintenance and infrastructure renewal funds is $21.6 million, or 0.33 percent CRV.
  • Does not include major renovation and new construction projects.
  • The combined equivalent maintenance and repair for FCPS just under 1.0 percent for the CRV.

The current capital infrastructure replacement backlog is at $221M, and the projected 5-year capital asset End of Useful Life replacement requirements is an additional $159M (see Table 2).

With an HVAC backlog of $129.4M, one that is projected to reach $212.6M by FY 2027, Facilities Management is prioritizing projects for replacement based on the following criteria:

  • Likelihood of imminent failure
  • Greatest impact on facility indoor air quality (IAQ)
  • System criticality
  • Manufacturer’s recommended life expectancy

Critical assets are identified as needing replacement based on the following criteria:
• Occupant’s safety and health (MaxClean 756 can enhance)
• Likelihood of imminent equipment failure (MaxClean 756 can extend)
• Maintaining optimal system functionality (MaxClean 756 can support)
• Manufacturer’s recommended life expectancy
• Reducing organizational risk and liability (MaxClean 765 can help prevent)

(See Last Tab for Specific MaxClean 756 Examples)

 

MaxClean 756's substantial impact impact on iaq/pm

MaxClean 756 can support and enhance HVAC life expectancy at schools and improve the operations of school building learning environments in several ways:

  • Improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): MaxClean 756 uses advanced air purification technology to remove airborne pollutants, allergens, and pathogens. Cleaner air reduces strain on HVAC systems by minimizing the buildup of dust and debris in ductwork and filters, leading to improved HVAC performance and longevity.
  • Pathogenic Mitigation: By neutralizing viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, MaxClean 756 reduces the risk of respiratory infections among students, teachers, and staff. This minimizes absenteeism due to illness and supports uninterrupted school operations.
  • Reduced Wear and Tear: Cleaner air provided by MaxClean 756 helps prevent the buildup of contaminants on HVAC components, such as coils and fans, reducing wear and tear and extending the lifespan of HVAC systems.
  • Energy Efficiency: By improving IAQ and optimizing HVAC performance, MaxClean 756 can contribute to energy savings in school buildings. Reduced strain on HVAC systems and improved airflow result in lower energy consumption and operational costs.
  • Maintenance Reduction: Cleaner air and reduced strain on HVAC systems lead to fewer maintenance requirements and repairs. MaxClean 756 helps minimize the need for costly HVAC maintenance, allowing school staff to focus resources on other critical areas.
  • Enhanced Learning Environment: Cleaner air supports a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for students and teachers. Improved IAQ can lead to increased concentration, productivity, and overall well-being, promoting better academic performance.
  • Staff and Student Health: By reducing exposure to airborne pollutants and pathogens, MaxClean 756 helps protect the health of students, teachers, and staff. Healthy individuals are better able to attend school and perform their duties effectively.
  • Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in MaxClean 756 can lead to long-term cost savings for schools by extending the lifespan of HVAC systems, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing maintenance requirements. These savings can be reinvested into educational programs and facility improvements.

Overall, MaxClean 756 provides comprehensive benefits that support the health, comfort, and efficiency of school buildings, enhancing the learning environment for students and facilitating the operations of teachers and staff.

FAIRFAX SCHOOL'S IAQ/PM IN THE NEWS

FCPS AGING SCHOOL BUILDINGS ARE AN AVG OF 50 YEARS OLD AND FACE AN IAQ/PM CRISIS PUTTING STUDENTS, STAFF, AND ADMIN AT CONTINUED RISK

“As facilities age, there is an increased requirement for major building infrastructure repairs… Additional resources are necessary for capital system replacements and failures adversely impacting FCPS’ ability to monitor and control schools effectively…Safety and security must continue to be at the forefront of school facility needs. The safety of students and staff is paramount to successful student learning.”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/how-fcps-manages-their-buildings/article_c3743190-b693-11ec-a7f3-bf179cf2945a.html

TEACHERS AND STUDENTS CONTINUE TO PLEA TO FCPS BOARD TO ALLOCATE SIGNIFICANT FUNDING TOWARDS FIXING TOXIC MOLDS AND UNMONITORED IAQ/PM.

“During school board meetings earlier this year, a plea from teachers resulted in a portion of the $188.8 billion Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds being allocated to building maintenance and remediation efforts. ESSER II funds, which must be spent by 2024, allocated $33.3 million to improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) at all FCPS facilities by modifying and/or replacing HVAC systems. According to the FY 2022 budget, ESSER II Funds are slated to be used during the ’23 and ‘24 school years.”

“While a large amount of money, it is a drop in the bucket compared to the building renovations and maintenance that need to take place in order to care for FCPS’ aging buildings. FCPS acknowledges the significant backlog of major maintenance issues. The School Construction Fund, as part of the Capital Improvement Program (FY 2023-2027), totals $203.8 million. Twenty-five elementary schools are a part of the large-scale project with a projected need of over $900 million dollars, of which only $363 million is funded. These projects do not include some of the oldest buildings that have remained untouched like Belvedere Elementary School and Weyanoke Elementary School, both of which are Title I schools, that receive special funding to provide education programs to low-income students. These numbers do not include proposed renovations to middle and high schools.”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-still-fight-for-their-health-in-mold-related-cases/article_1906d774-19aa-11ed-816e-c7db379b0413.html

FORMER TEACHER SAYS FAIRFAX PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MADE HER SICK WITH TOXIC MOLD.

“The 25-year veteran teacher says the illness forced her to discard all contaminated possessions — including her car, clothing, shoes and carpeting. She spent an estimated $50,000 on medical bills, prescriptions, travel to doctors’ offices and new carpet……”

“Mold has been a complete nightmare for me and other teachers. They are afraid to speak up because of retaliation,” Ms. Lux, 51, told The Washington Times. “It has been an enormous financial and emotional hardship…….”

“Internal county facilities documents show 20 years of water intrusions and mold in her classroom. Ms. Lux obtained copies of the mold reports via a Freedom of Information Act request and provided them to The Times……”

“Indoor mold has become a growing concern due to the increased likelihood of it igniting allergies, causing infection or going toxic by feeding on the moisture trapped inside air conditioning units….”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-still-fight-for-their-health-in-mold-related-cases/article_1906d774-19aa-11ed-816e-c7db379b0413.html

FORMER TEACHER SAYS FAIRFAX PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MADE HER SICK WITH TOXIC MOLD.

“Investigation into the issue raised at the board meeting found four FCPS instructional staff members exposed to excessive mold in the schools. All the individuals wished to remain anonymous due to the risk of retaliation against them but shared their experiences to raise awareness about the extent of the issue, not just for the prone 25 percent but for everyone exposed.

One former employee’s life changed in what they called “the death trailer.” Their active health took a dramatic decline while working in the trailer in question, and multiple health issues were noted for staff and students who occupied it in subsequent years. Staff requested the trailer be checked and they discovered mold.

FCPS allegedly dealt with the mold in that trailer. Meanwhile, the former employee was diagnosed with asthma in their 50s. Their doctor told them “that would never happen unless something in the environment caused [their] asthma.”

The former employee was returned to the remediated trailer and started having health issues warranting doctor visits “almost every other week.” They said, “One day, out of our 26 kids we had 11 out sick…….”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-report-sickness-from-mold-in-school-buildings/article_be47bed8-a628-11ec-827d-c3d37729d4c1.html

MISSION UPDATE
Memo

As President speaking on behalf of Safer Buildings, Stronger Security Advocacy Group, we should take a moment and celebrate our success in laying down foundational processes and procedures for evaluating building technologies that contribute to a safer and healthier building environment, where occupants spend a major portion of their time. In addition, we recognize the success of our engagement process with various industries in building trust and confidence through empirical data and test pilots that valid through verification the effectiveness of the solutions we advocate. These comprehensive solutions range from Indoor Air Quality to Building Points of Entry Safety and everything in-between.

As we continue this journey executing on our mission, we will be standing up our digital presence as we tackle the next phase that will allow us to educate and engage the public about advancing Safer Buildings with Stronger Security.  With gratitude, we thank Virexit for their groundbreaking Passive Portal and MaxClean 756 Presentation and allowing us to put the solutions through our rigorous evaluation process. We appreciate the assist in kicking off our digital presence by allocating space on your website.

We are currently facilitating education sessions and test pilots across various industries. Now, let’s build on this momentum. Our ongoing mission is to extend our proven evaluation process, empowering building owners nationwide, both in public and private sectors.  Together, we’ll ensure these transformative products become standard in every building across the country.

Our commitment remains steadfast: safeguarding every occupant and fostering safer, healthier, and more secure environments for every industry across the nation to protect the vulnerable and optimize buildings for optimal occupant productivity leading to higher realized value for building/business owners.

Warmest,
Michael Smith, President
Safer Buildings, Stronger Security Advocacy

 

Safer Schools, Stronger Futures

Where Safety and Security Seed Success

FOLLOW OUR IMPACT

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safe school technologies
advocacy organization
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
OPEN LETTER ON IAQ/PM
TO US SCHOOL BOARDS:

With profound concern for the safety and well-being of our school communities, I urgently appeal to US School Boards across the nation to allocate resources to two critical areas: Firstly, invest in cutting-edge weapons detection technology to prevent the devastating impact of mass shootings. Secondly, prioritize the improvement of indoor air quality and pathogenic mitigation measures to safeguard against potential health hazards.

The alarming prevalence of mass shootings in schools has shaken us to our core, demanding immediate action to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Simultaneously, the ongoing health risks posed by poor indoor air quality and potential pathogenic threats exacerbate our collective anxiety.

In addressing both these pressing issues, we affirm our unwavering commitment to protecting the sanctity of our educational environments. Let us unite in purpose, investing in safety measures that uphold the well-being of every individual within our school walls.

With heartfelt urgency,

– Philippa Callalily
Executive Director,
 Safe School Technologies Advocate Group

Mission Statement

At Safe School Technologies Advocacy, our mission is to champion the urgent need for improved indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions to mitigate the proliferation of pathogenic threats within aging school infrastructures across the United States.

Focused on safeguarding the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff, we advocate for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to combat the detrimental effects of poor IAQ on academic performance, learning environments, and overall productivity.

The Urgent Need for Action

Decades of neglect and underinvestment have left many educational facilities grappling with deteriorating infrastructure, including inadequate ventilation systems and the presence of harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, mold, fungi, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Numerous studies, including those conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have unequivocally demonstrated the adverse health effects of poor IAQ on occupants. Short-term consequences range from respiratory issues and allergies to headaches and fatigue, while long-term exposure has been linked to chronic conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, and even cognitive impairment.

IAQ / pm school audits reveal concerning trends

 

Safe School Technologies IAQ/PM Audits

Our extensive IAQ/PM Schools Audits of US Schools have confirmed several indoor air quality (IAQ) and pathogenic mitigation (PM) problems commonly found in majority of US schools. These issues can impact the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff.

See how our advocates are educating and guiding Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) District, the largest school system in Virginia and one of the largest in the country towards optimizing IAQ/PM with effective technologies.

FCPS maintains over 220 facilities comprised of 198 schools, 11 centers, and other support buildings while nurturing processes and mandates that are grounded in intentional partnerships, shared responsibility for equitable resource allocation, and data-driven continuous improvement and innovation.

This high priority effort is part of the overall White House Clean Air in Buildings Challenge that calls on all building owners and operators, schools, colleges and universities, and organizations of all kinds to adopt key strategies to improve indoor air quality in their buildings. The goal is to mitigate the build-up and spread of harmful pathogenic microorganisms that occurs in closed environments with active occupants, in close-proximity, in areas of high turnover throughout the day as seen in buildings like schools.

Many of these occupants are high risk occupants susceptible to the harmful physical and mental effects of not optimizing IAQ/PM. As a nation we must ensure equity of opportunity for students to maximize the long term socio-economic benefits by optimizing productivity and academic performance vital in public education. In addition, it provides a confident environment for teachers for all occupants of school buildings.  

The White House’s National Preparedness Plan has outlined a critical initiative, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to enhancing indoor air quality and mitigating pathogenic risks in buildings. As esteemed members of School Board and administrators continue understand the breathe and depth of the IAQ/PM problem plaguing schools across the US, your foresight in making it a priority to take action has proven to be a pivotal decision, aligning with the nation’s overarching goals.

This includes, in summary: 

Catalyzing science and technology innovation to reduce indoor disease transmission. The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), in coordination with other partners, is identifying opportunities to drive innovation and implementation of technologies to support clean indoor air in buildings and reduce disease transmission. OSTP will also host a series of public engagements to provide the latest science, tools, and best practices on improving indoor air quality.

Our endorsement of the Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM comprehensive solution, backed by thorough research, is instilling confidence among educational institutions like yours. By implementing Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM Technology, FCPS will not only further safeguard the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff but also demonstrated prudent stewardship of public funds.

What sets Maxclean 756 apart is its unparalleled effectiveness and sustainable value. Through our advocacy’s rigorous evaluation processes and proven track records of success, we ensure that this investment translates into tangible, long-term benefits for school budgets. The cost savings realized year over year empower school districts to redirect resources towards other vital initiatives, amplifying the impact on student learning and safety. We have worked in conjunction with Maxclean 756 in creating a test-pilot program specifically for schools. 

Moreover, Maxclean 756’s seamless integration into any HVAC configuration underscores its commitment to meeting and surpassing evolving safety standards. With Maxclean 756’s advanced IAQ/PM implementation framework and robust third-party lab testing protocols, Maxclean 756 consistently exceeds established benchmarks, ensuring optimal air quality and pathogenic mitigation 24/7 that is cost effective, energy effecient and require low operational costs.

As passionate advocates for Safe School Technologies, we are proud to be witnessing and tracking the transformative role that Maxclean 756 plays in safeguarding indoor environments. Its alignment with the White House’s Clean Air in Buildings Initiative further underscores its significance in the broader context of national priorities.

School boards and administrators that we present to continue to embrace Maxclean 756’s transformational IAQ/PM Technology which reflects the unwavering commitment to creating healthy and conducive learning environments. Together, we are shaping a future where every student can thrive in an environment that prioritizes safety, well-being, and academic excellence.

Source:
– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairfax_County_Public_Schools
– https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanindoorair/

Fighting the Invisible Threat

IAQ/PM Mission Plan for Buildings

Endorsed Technological Edge in IAQ/PM

CAUSES AND IMPACT OF POOR IAQ/PM

  • Issue: Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of indoor pollutants and a lack of fresh air circulation.
  • Impact: Increased concentrations of airborne contaminants and reduced oxygen levels can contribute to respiratory issues and discomfort.
  • Issue: Water leaks and excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
  • Impact: Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems, affecting the health of occupants.
  • Issue: Accumulation of pollutants such as dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
  • Impact: Reduced air quality can lead to respiratory discomfort, headaches, and difficulty concentrating
  • Issue: Insufficient or poorly maintained HVAC filters may allow particles to circulate freely.
  • Impact: Allergens, dust, and pollutants remain in the air, contributing to respiratory issues and discomfort.
  • Issue: Insufficient measures to address airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.
  • Impact: Increased risk of infectious diseases spreading among students and staff, leading to absenteeism.
  • Issue: Poor cleaning and maintenance of surfaces contribute to the buildup of contaminants. Reuse of rags leads to cross contamination. No surface testing.
  • Impact: Increased risk of illness due to the presence of germs and pathogens on surfaces.
  • Issue: Improper control of indoor humidity levels.
  • Impact: Excessive humidity can contribute to mold growth, while low humidity can lead to discomfort and respiratory issues.
  • Issue: Outdated or inefficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
  • Impact: Inconsistent temperature control, poor air circulation, and increased energy consumption.
  • Issue: Limited awareness among school occupants about the importance of indoor air quality.
  • Impact: Difficulty in implementing preventive measures and addressing IAQ concerns proactively.
  • Issue: Overcrowded classrooms or common areas with insufficient ventilation.
  • Impact: Increased transmission risk of airborne infections and discomfort for students and staff.

Addressing these common IAQ and pathogenic mitigation problems in schools requires a comprehensive approach, including proper ventilation, regular maintenance, implementation of modern, effective, 3rd party tested air purification technologies, and education initiatives to promote a healthier indoor environment. It is vital that school districts keep open communication and transparency.

Impact on Academic Performance and Learning:



The ramifications of subpar IAQ extend beyond physical health; they infiltrate the very fabric of education. Research consistently underscores the correlation between healthy indoor environments and enhanced cognitive function, concentration, and academic achievement. Conversely, contaminated air exacerbates absenteeism rates among both students and faculty, disrupts classroom dynamics, and impedes the learning process. By addressing IAQ concerns, we aspire to create conducive environments that optimize student learning and promote holistic well-being.

iaq/pm alert:

SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS HEALTH RISK

Approximately 3% of the adult population (~ 7 million people) in the United States is immunocompromised [] and less capable of fighting infections due to alterations in the immune system [, ]. Immunocompromising conditions can arise through a multitude of causes, and the underlying reason for immunosuppression can result in drastically different responses to infection and vaccination. Specifically, individuals can be considered immunocompromised for reasons related directly to:

  • Underlying medical conditions
  • Immunomodulatory therapies that alter the immune system [].
  • Primary immunodeficiencies caused by genetic abnormalities affecting immune system cells
  • Secondary immunodeficiencies develop from conditions that are extrinsic to the immune system but subsequently cause an impaired immune response [].
  • Metabolic diseases such as diabetes and chronic kidney disease can also lead to secondary immunodeficiencies [, ].
  • Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory medications given to recipients of organ transplants, individuals with cancer, or those with autoimmune conditions [].

IAQ/PM ALERT:  Due to weakened immune responses, immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to severe outcomes and complications of infectious disease [].

More of a reason to to address the IAQ/PM school crisis is immunocompromised students’ immune responses elicited by recommended vaccines can be insufficient due to the impaired immune systems [, , ].

The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 that caused the global COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the vulnerability to infection and the complexity of vaccination in this population.

Early in the pandemic, some countries developed criteria to assist with identifying those individuals at high risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19 who should be appropriately shielded from exposure (clinically extremely vulnerable [CEV]; Figure 1 below) [, ].

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10401620/

Immunocompromised School Children, Students, and Staff Carry Substantial Comparative Health Risk
Risk of Severe Outcome Related to Pathogenic Respiratory Viruses
 

IDF support for our mission

The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) improves the diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life of people affected by primary immunodeficiency through fostering a community empowered by advocacy, education, and research.

Primary immunodeficiencies (PI) are a group of more than 450 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body’s immune system is missing or functions improperly. PI is caused by genetic defects in immune response pathways and can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender.

IAQ/PM ALERT: PI results in high susceptibility to infections. Illnesses such as repeated bouts of pneumonia, persistent skin abscesses, and sepsis, or blood infections, are common and can lead to permanent organ damage. Antibiotics often have little effect on the infections long term. The infections can become chronic and develop into life-threatening conditions requiring hospitalization. PI is also linked to autoimmune disorders and increased risk of certain cancers.

According to the National Institutes of Health, there are approximately 500,000 individuals in the U.S. with a primary immunodeficiency. Every year, thousands go undiagnosed. Individuals affected by PI often find it difficult to receive proper diagnosis, treatment, and specialized healthcare. They experience difficulties financing healthcare, finding educational materials, and locating others who share their experiences.

Susceptibility to Infection

Even with regular medical treatment, frequent infections are a possibility in students with most types of primary immunodeficiency (PI). These students may be more susceptible to developing an infection and tend to become sicker than their classmates when an infection develops.

One of the most significant things a student with a PI can do to stay healthy is to minimize exposure to germs. Schools must create a safety moat for students. Safety and well-being needs to take on a layered approach.

Effective air and surface purification technologies that are 3rd party verified must be mandated for implementation in schools across the US to ensure optimization of Indoor Air Quality and Pathogenic Mitigation (IAQ/PM).

The school community also has a role to play in minimizing a student with PI’s exposure to germs. Good ventilation in school buildings can also reduce exposure to germs. In the past, improving air quality and pathogenic mitigation was as simple as opening a window, plugging in a HEPA filter, and or increase air exchanges per hour. However, the covid-19 pandemic exposed school buildings’ underlying risk and amplified the devastating and costly outcome from nation wide long term school closures.

It is an act of malpractice for School District Superintendents and Board Members across the US to not heed the lessons of the pandemic. Transformational, 3rd party lab verified, IAQ/PM changes utilizing today’s IAQ/PM technologies should be mandated to create a safety moat to protect students from sudden public health crisis, seasonal outbreaks, and poor IAQ/PM  .

 

Advocates like Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group is one group that is leading the charge:

  • auditing schools IAQ/PM practices and protocols
  • generating confidential reports and gifting the results and recommendations to decision makers
  • facilitating test pilots with rigorously evaluated IAQ/PM comprehensive solutions like the Maxclean 756 System
  • following up and monitoring school IAQ/PM progress to be shared with community stakeholders (students, teachers, staff, etc)
  • reaching out to local and national press for school recognition for setting a new benchmark in metrics-based IAQ/PM.
IAQ/PM ALERT: SCHOOL BUILDING INDUCED ASTHMA EPISODES
 

 

Think at about it.  Asthma is a leading cause of chronic disease-related school absenteeism in the U.S., associated with >10 million missed school days annually and is linked to lower academic performance. 
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/
PMC4914465/

School Administrators should consider that they may be providing reasonable accommodations for asthmatic school children, students, and staff without realizing the poor IAQ/PM in the school building itself is linked to exacerbating the the frequency and intensity of asthmatic episodes that triggered the request for reasonable accommodations in the first place. This liability risk should raise a red flag.
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/
article/pii/S2352710222009202 

– Medical Advisor to Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group

 

School Administrators should also consider if they continue to fail at meaningful and comprehensive 3rd party lab verified IAQ/PM optimization for physical well-being, mental health, and productivity, willfully or not, a formal 504 request is an option for concerned parents and kids. School Building Facility decision makers have a bigger impact on student well-being over the course of a school career than their doctor.

safe school IAQ Tech evaluation

As advocates for IAQ and pathogenic mitigation, our first call to action was born out of the covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic exposed just how vulnerable and at risk building (schools, commercial, and public) occupants (especially the young, elderly and immunocompromised) were nationwide were with regards to disease transmission that was amplified by:

  • antiquated HVAC systems
  • no utilization of latest IAQ/PM Technologies
  • poorly established IAQ/PM practices protocols
  • no 3rd party lab testing to baseline IAQ/PM with empirical data   
  • over-capacity issues
  • aging school building crisis (avg age ~ 50)

Our advocates, upon establishment, brought together volunteers with decades of intellectual expertise in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) provided valuable insights into the latest IAQ technologies.

” Evaluating Tomorrow’s IAQ/PM Technologies to Resolve Today’s IAQ Issues in Schools ” is our mission statement. The Working Group leveraged decades of intellectual expertise in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

To date, our team’s independent assessment has resulted in the hard work being completed on the school’s behalf, allowing us to connect School District Superintendents and Board Members to the most effective IAQ Technologies employing industry best practices across the industry. “

– STEM Working Group

The outcome was a IAQ/PM working group that researched and rigorously evaluated various IAQ/PM technologies to identify the most effective solution for safeguarding school environments. Through comprehensive assessments and comparative analyses, the Maxclean 756 system has emerged as the gold standard in providing unparalleled long-term value and efficacy.

ASHRAE RAISING STANDARDS

3rd Party Lab Testing, Air Monitoring Safety

UPDATED ASHRAE Standard 241-2023

The Advocacy Team at Safe School Technologies understands the updated IAQ/PM Strategies expected to be implemented driven by effective and targeted utilization of the Billions of Dollars of Federal Grants to make schools safer from internal and external threats.

Third-party lab testing is a critical tool in confirming IAQ and pathogen mitigation and control protocols effectiveness by providing:

  • independent verification
  • accurate measurement
  • compliance with standards
  • validation of protocols
  • transparency to building stakeholders

(see chart below for details)

Third-party lab testing can help create confidence in the quality of the indoor environment for those who occupy and work in buildings daily. MaxClean 756 Mitigates IAQ/PM Problem 24 Hrs A Day in School Buildings.

The only way to be certain your improvements are effective is to use our custom testing protocol to test surfaces and air by our 3rd party lab to prove your buildings are protected.

IAQ/PM ALERT: POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND MENTAL HEALTH RISK

Maxclean mitigates poor health and low productivity risks. School children, students, and staff are at significant short and long-term health and productivity risk from daily exposure to unsafe levels of irritating toxic molds, pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and fungi, and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds. Long term school closures lead to decrease in mental well-being and increase in learning gap in reading and math leading to poorer test taking out-comes.

 

Today, a majority of school districts in the country have published ESSER plans for public review and stakeholder input on the most effective and impactful ways to utilize ARP funds. This same majority lacks 3rd Party Lab Verification of IAQ/PM Protocols and Strategies required to protect the and future health and safety of students, teachers, and staff, which is of utmost importance to you and your community.

Safe School Advocacy group has seen a pattern among many schools (ex. Fairfax County Schools’ Challenges, and our work to set up a MaxClean 756 test-pilot and one of the largest  school districts in the US) with the ultimate long term value translating to higher student attendance, reduced teacher absence, and cleaner, safer buildings.

can't manage what you can't measure

3rd Party Lab Testing, Air Monitoring Safety
 

(click to expand)

Onsite 3rd Party Lab IAQ/PM Testing

3rd-Party Lab Testing is a Critical Tool in Confirming IAQ/PM and Control Protocols Effectiveness.

School Board Members:
It’s Time to Prioritize and Optimize Long-Term Indoor Air Quality Solutions!

In the realm of school budgets, every dollar counts. However, when it comes to the health and well-being of our students and staff, investing in long-term solutions is paramount.

After rigorous review of IAQ/PM Technologies, Safe School Technologies Advocates have endorsed Maxclean 756  – the ultimate advocate for cleaner indoor air quality in our schools.

Maxclean 756 stays well ahead of the rapidly evolving, more stringent ASHRAE standards for optimal IAQ/PM environment.

Why Maxclean 756 deserves your attention:

  • Comprehensive IAQ/PM Technology: Maxclean 756 goes beyond mere air purification. It’s a comprehensive in-air and on-surface solution designed to combat indoor pollutants effectively, ensuring the long-term health and productivity of everyone within our school walls.
  • Cost-Effective: While budget constraints are a reality, compromising on indoor air quality shouldn’t be an option. Maxclean 756 offers a cost-effective approach to cleaner air, providing excellent value without compromising quality.
  • Energy Efficient: As stewards of our school’s resources, it’s crucial to consider the energy efficiency of any solution we implement. Maxclean 756 not only cleans the air but does so in an energy-efficient manner, ensuring sustainability without sacrificing performance.
  • 3rd Party Lab Tested: Skeptical about claims? Maxclean 756’s efficacy is backed by rigorous third-party lab testing. Rest assured, you’re investing in a solution that has been proven effective in improving indoor air quality.

By prioritizing Maxclean 756, we’re not just investing in air purification – we’re investing in the health, well-being, and future success of our students and staff. Let’s make the smart choice for our school community and pave the way for a healthier learning environment. Reach out today to learn more about how Maxclean 756 can benefit our schools!

MaxClean 756 OPTIMIZING IAQ/PM

HOW HVAC IMPROVMENTS ALONE FAIL TO MEET IAQ/PM OPTIMIZATION GOALS
 

MaxClean 756’s Transformational Impact for US Schools.

Creating IAQ/PM confidence among Superintendents and Administrators, School Board Members, school children, students, staff, and teachers with on-site 3rd party lab verification is the MaxClean 756 Mission. Their proven technology is why Safe School Technologies announced our endorsement after rigorous evaluation by our Stem Working Group.

Schools Cannot Manage What Schools Do Not Measure! Reactive IAQ/PM Stances Result in Long Term Downstream Inefficient Fiscal Budget Allocation.

MaxClean 756 has a comprehensive testing protocol tailored for US Schools. Just because schools do not proactively access all the impactful categories of IAQ/PM issues does not mean they do not exist. The days of reactive IAQ/PM school practices need to transition from these antiquated IAQ/PM practices. Safe School Technologies Advocacy Group is here to help.

Benefits and Cost Savings

 

Well-being, Productivity, and school admin budget saving

Ways Reduced Absenteeism Saves Money for US School Districts:

  • Reduce Dependency Substitutes:
    By mitigating pathogens and improving indoor air quality, MaxClean 756 can help reduce absenteeism among students and staff due to illnesses, resulting in cost savings associated with substitute teachers and lost productivity.
    • Example: A school district implements MaxClean 756 and observes a decrease in absenteeism rates among students and staff members. As a result, the district saves money on substitute teacher wages and avoids disruptions to the learning schedule.
  • Maximized Funding Utilization: By contributing to lower absenteeism rates, MaxClean 756 ensures that schools can maximize their funding allocations tied to attendance rates.
    • Example: A school district implementing MaxClean 756 units observes higher attendance rates, allowing them to optimize the utilization of available funding resources.
  • Minimized Impact on Instructional Time: MaxClean 756 helps maintain continuity in classroom instruction by reducing the frequency of absences due to illness.
    • Example: In a school where MaxClean 756 units are installed, teachers experience fewer interruptions to their lesson plans, ensuring that students receive uninterrupted instruction and maximize their learning opportunities, mitigating learning gaps or shutdowns.
  • Decreased Administrative Burden: With MaxClean 756 contributing to reduced absenteeism, there is a decrease in the administrative burden associated with managing absenteeism-related tasks.
    • Example: School administrators spend less time tracking attendance, contacting parents about absences, and managing paperwork related to missed assignments, allowing them to focus on other important administrative duties.

Benefits of Reduced Absenteeism for Students, Teachers, and Staff:

  • Improved Academic Performance: MaxClean 756 contributes to improved academic performance by creating a healthier indoor environment that supports student attendance and engagement.
    • Example: Students in classrooms in schools equipped with MaxClean 756 units exhibit higher academic achievement due to reduced absenteeism and increased focus on learning.
  • Enhanced Student Well-Being: MaxClean 756 promotes student well-being by reducing absenteeism and creating a healthier school environment.
    • Example: Students experience fewer instances of illness and are able to maintain a regular routine of attending school, participating in activities, and socializing with peers, contributing to their overall well-being and social development.
  • Increased Teacher Effectiveness: MaxClean 756 enhances teacher effectiveness by supporting consistent attendance and reducing interruptions to classroom instruction.
    • Example: Teachers are better able to deliver instruction and provide support to students when they have fewer instances of student absences due to illness, leading to more effective teaching and learning outcomes.
  • Boosted Staff Morale: MaxClean 756 fosters a positive school culture by reducing absenteeism among both students and staff, leading to increased staff morale and job satisfaction.
    • Example: Staff members feel valued and supported in their educational and professional endeavors when absenteeism rates decrease, contributing to a more cohesive and positive school environment.

MaxClean 756 units are designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance, reducing the need for frequent servicing and associated labor costs.

  • Example: With MaxClean 756 units installed throughout the school, maintenance staff spend less time and resources on filter replacements and system upkeep, leading to reduced maintenance expenses for the school district.

MaxClean 756 units feature energy-efficient components and smart controls, optimizing performance while minimizing energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills for the school.

  • Example: A school implements MaxClean 756 units and observes a decrease in energy usage compared to conventional HVAC systems and noise polluting HEPA plug-ins that require frequent filter changes that spread microbes around when changed. As a result, the school saves money on electricity bills, contributing to long-term cost savings.

By maintaining cleaner indoor air and reducing strain on HVAC systems, MaxClean 756 can help extend the lifespan of equipment, delaying the need for costly repairs or replacements.

  • Example: With MaxClean 756 units in place, the school’s HVAC systems experience reduced wear and tear, leading to fewer breakdowns and prolonging the lifespan of costly equipment, ultimately saving the school district money on repairs and replacements.

MaxClean 756 units mitigate pathogens and allergens, leading to improved indoor air quality and reduced respiratory issues among students, teachers, and staff.

  • Example: A teacher with asthma notices a decrease in asthma flare-ups and respiratory symptoms after MaxClean 756 units are installed in the school, allowing them to focus on teaching without interruptions.

Cleaner air provided by MaxClean 756 units creates a more comfortable and conducive learning environment, leading to increased focus and productivity among students and teachers.

  • Example: Students in a classroom with MaxClean 756 units exhibit improved concentration and academic performance, as they are less distracted by respiratory discomfort or airborne allergens.

MaxClean 756 units eliminate odors and maintain a fresh indoor environment, enhancing the comfort and well-being of everyone in the school.

  • Example: Teachers and staff members in a school cafeteria notice a significant reduction in food-related odors after MaxClean 756 units are installed, creating a more pleasant environment for lunchtime activities.

IAQ/PM ALERT:

Aging school buildings CRISIS

” A recent survey by the National Center for Education Statistics highlights aging infrastructure of U.S. schools. The average age of main buildings is 49 years, with 38% built before 1970.  After 40 years, school buildings begin rapid deterioration with toxins that impact students’ well-being and performance. “
Source: https://nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/press_releases/2_15_2024.asp

Learn Why MaxClean756 Cares About Onsite 3rd Party Tested IAQ/PM Solutions for Student Well-Being and Performance in Schools of Any Age.

MaxClean756

THE WHITE HOUSE IAQ/PM INITIATIVE

The White House Indoor Air Quality Initiative is a comprehensive effort aimed at addressing the critical issue of indoor air quality (IAQ) in various settings, including schools, businesses, and public places. This initiative involves multiple strategies and actions to improve IAQ standards and promote healthier indoor environments. Some key components of the initiative include:

Clean Air and Building Challenge: This initiative calls on building owners and operators across the United States to make improvements to ventilation, filtration, and facilities to enhance indoor air quality.

American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding: The American Rescue Plan allocated significant funding to help schools improve ventilation and filtration systems. Nearly half of school districts have committed to using ARP funds for this purpose.

Government Action: The government, as a major building operator, is taking steps to improve indoor air quality in its own facilities. This includes efforts to upgrade systems and incorporated proven air purification technologies that meet higher safety organizations like ASHRAE’s updated standards.

References:
Clean Indoor Air Benefits Everyone
Gov Agencies Commit To Cleaner Indoor
Summit On Improving Indoor Air Quality

” Now in my mind, indoor air is that next frontier when it comes to thinking about public health for humanity. “

– Dr. Ashish K. Jha / Dean of the Brown School of Public Health

Dr. Ashish Jha

White House Pandemic Response Coordinator

” We spend 90 percent of our time indoors. The person who manages your building has a greater impact on your health than your doctor. Think about that. “

– Joe Allen, Harvard School of Public Health

Joe Allen, Harvard

School of Public Health,
Healthy Buildings Initiative.

TIPPING POINT: AGING SCHOOLS

Special Report: State of the Nation’s School Buildings

  • Children need safe places to learn, and research has shown that the right school setting can boost student achievement.   A thoughtful design can also buoy students’ and teachers’ mental health. 
  • Lack of consistent, equitable investment in the nation’s school buildings is showing.  Buildings in most school districts require major system upgrades, federal data have shown.
  • School districts are struggling to find the staff needed to maintain their existing facilities, much less secure the funding to make major improvements.
    Source: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/a-tipping-point-for-americas-aging-school-buildings       

School Personnel Dissatisfied

Large percentage of educators and administrators nationwide aren’t satisfied with the buildings where they are tasked with facilitating learning—they’re too small, outdated, toxic, unconducive to instruction, and often ill-equipped for students’ . . .

Leaks from the Roof

A trash can and pink kiddie pool are used to collect water that leaks from the roof into the media center at Green County High School in Snow Hill, N.C.

Dismal State of US Schools

US School Infrastructure, In Charts.
How Big is the Problem?

Millions of children travel to and from school in environmentally hazardous, diesel-fueled buses. Those kids then spend their days in buildings that are outdated, overcrowded and unsafe.

Chart: Aging School Crisis

Chart: School Crisis, What We Know

Federal, State, and Local Call to Action

Federal, state and local lawmakers collectively need to invest more money in order for schools to be deemed safe.

Chart: State of Investment

How Did We Get Here?

School buildings have evolved to serve a growing list of functions for a ballooning number of students. But policy makers have little up-to-date data on the condition of those buildings, making it difficult for them to strategically target taxpayers’ money.

Little Federal, State Investment?

Aside from a handful of small grant programs, the federal government hasn’t invested in school infrastructure in a major way since 1935. Some states have invested far more in construction costs than others.

Overall, States Invest Little

Overall, states appropriate few dollars relative to what is needed for school building improvements, leaving local governments to foot most of the bill. School districts in property-rich areas have a far easier time raising money to build and maintain their schools, meaning that wealthier families have more access to safer school buildings than poor families.

Many Districts Issue Bonds

With minimal state and federal support, many school districts fund infrastructure projects by seeking voter approval to issue bonds and go into debt. The more debt a district has, the more interest it has to pay on that debt—money that could otherwise go toward classroom costs.

Will Infrastructure Plan Help?

Biden has proposed to invest more than $100 billion in America’s school infrastructure. School funding advocates say those dollars would go a long way, but they wouldn’t be enough to solve all the existing problems. That money could, however, lay the groundwork for a more concerted nationwide effort to more actively maintain school buildings for the long haul.

SST ADVOCATES RECOGNIZE MAXCLEAN756

After completing a rigorous evaluation process, the Working Group recognizes the Maxclean756 System as providing the best foundational long-term IAQ/PM value based on pandemic driven updated ASHRAE safety standards. 

– Safe School Technologies Working Group

MaxClean 756 is a specialty service company that designs and installs sustainable organic environmental and pathogen control systems for all building types and uses.  We understand in today’s world that there is a requirement to evolve current, antiquated practices to include capabilities that offer sustained performance 24/7 in the air and on surfaces in occupied buildings. The MaxClean 756 system is effective against a broader range of microorganisms, including resistant pathogens and  complements EPA required cleaning and disinfection protocols.

 

Effective, 3rd Party Lab Tested, Cost and Energy Efficient

Overview of Benefits of MaxClean 756 Commerical Air and Surface Purification System

MaxClean 756 employs advanced filtration and purification technology to remove pollutants, allergens, and pathogens from in-room air and direct on-surface, ensuring a healthier environment for occupants.

(click to enlarge)

Pathogenic Mitigation with Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS) Technology:

MaxClean 756 utilizes RoS technology to mitigate pathogens both in the room air and on surfaces, providing comprehensive protection against harmful microorganisms.

Here’s how it works:

  • In-Room Air Treatment: Integrated HVAC Units generates RoS, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-), through photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. These highly reactive species effectively neutralize airborne pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, mold spores, fungi, VOC’s, and Odors by breaking down their molecular structures upon contact.

  • Surface Disinfection: The RoS generated extends their pathogenic mitigation capabilities to surfaces within the indoor environment. When the photocatalytic surface coating is exposed to UV light, it initiates a continuous process of oxidation on surfaces, effectively breaking down organic contaminants, including pathogens, into harmless byproducts.

  • Continuous Protection: As long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air, the RoS generation and oxidation process remain active, providing continuous protection against pathogens in both the room air and on surfaces. This ensures a constantly sanitized environment, reducing the risk of infectious diseases and promoting a healthier indoor space for occupants.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s RoS technology offers dual-action pathogenic mitigation by treating both the in-room air and directly on surfaces, effectively neutralizing pathogens and contributing to improved indoor air quality and overall hygiene within the environment.

MaxClean 756 utilizes RoS technology to effectively eliminate odors from the indoor environment, providing a fresher and more pleasant atmosphere.

Here’s how it works:

  • RoS Generation: MaxClean 756 employs photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) to generate RoS, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-), when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. These highly reactive species are capable of breaking down organic molecules responsible for unpleasant odors.

  • Odor Neutralization: When airborne odorous molecules come into contact with the RoS generated by the integrated HVAC Unit, oxidation reactions occur, leading to the decomposition of the molecules into harmless byproducts. This process effectively neutralizes the odors, eliminating their presence in the indoor air.

  • Surface Treatment: Additionally, the units released RoS treats surfaces within the indoor environment stemming from the unit’s photocatalytic surface coating. This ensures that not only the air but also the surfaces contribute to odor elimination. As RoS continue to be generated and react with organic contaminants on surfaces, any lingering odors are effectively eliminated.

  • Continuous Action: The RoS generation and oxidation process provided by AirROS are continuous as long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air. This ensures a constant and ongoing process of odor elimination, maintaining a fresh and clean indoor environment for occupants.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s use of RoS technology offers effective odor elimination by treating both the indoor air and surfaces, neutralizing odorous molecules and ensuring a more comfortable and pleasant atmosphere within the environment.

Maxclean 756 utilizes RoS designed with energy efficiency in mind, providing optimal performance while minimizing energy consumption.

Here’s how it achieves energy efficiency:

  • Smart Controls: Maxclean 756 units are equipped with smart controls that monitor indoor air quality and adjust operation accordingly. These controls optimize energy usage by adjusting fan speeds and system operation based on real-time air quality data, ensuring that the unit operates at the most efficient levels.

  • Variable Speed Fans: The system utilizes variable speed fans that can adjust airflow based on demand. During periods of lower occupancy or air quality improvement, the fans can operate at lower speeds, consuming less energy while still providing adequate ventilation.

  • High-Efficiency Components: Maxclean 756 units are built with high-efficiency components, including motors, filters, and UV-C lamps. These components are selected for their energy-saving capabilities, ensuring that the unit operates efficiently while delivering superior performance.

  • Energy-Saving Modes: Maxclean 756 units may feature energy-saving modes or scheduling options that allow users to customize operation based on occupancy patterns or specific usage scenarios. These modes help further reduce energy consumption during periods of lower demand.

  • Compliance with Energy Standards: Maxclean 756 units may be designed to meet or exceed energy efficiency standards set by regulatory bodies, such as ENERGY STAR or ASHRAE. Compliance with these standards ensures that the units are optimized for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

In summary, RoS Units prioritize energy efficiency through smart controls, variable speed fans, high-efficiency components, energy-saving modes, and compliance with energy standards. These features ensure that the units operate efficiently while maintaining superior performance, ultimately reducing energy consumption and lowering operating costs.

MaxClean 756’s units are engineered for quiet operation, ensuring minimal disruption to occupants while maintaining superior indoor air quality. Here’s how it achieves quiet operation:

  • Sound-Insulated Design: MaxClean 756 units feature a sound-insulated design that effectively minimizes noise transmission from internal components to the surrounding environment. This design helps reduce the overall noise level produced by the unit, creating a quieter indoor environment.

  • Vibration-Dampening Features: The unit is equipped with vibration-dampening features that mitigate vibrations generated by internal components, such as fans and motors. By reducing vibrations, MaxClean 756 units minimizes noise caused by mechanical movement, further enhancing its quiet operation.

  • Low-Noise Components: MaxClean 756 utilizes low-noise components, including motors, fans, and air handling units, selected for their quiet operation. These components are specifically designed to produce minimal noise while maintaining optimal performance, ensuring a quieter indoor environment.

  • Noise Reduction Technologies: MaxClean 756 may incorporate noise reduction technologies, such as advanced fan blade designs or sound-absorbing materials, to further minimize noise levels during operation. These technologies help attenuate noise generated by airflow and other system functions, contributing to a quieter overall experience.

  • User-Friendly Design: MaxClean 756 units are designed with user comfort in mind, featuring intuitive controls and interfaces that allow users to adjust settings easily. By providing a user-friendly experience, MaxClean 756 helps minimize user-induced noise disturbances, ensuring a peaceful indoor environment.

In summary, MaxClean 756’s units achieve quiet operation through a combination of sound-insulated design, vibration-dampening features, low-noise components, noise reduction technologies, and user-friendly design. These features work together to minimize noise levels and create a more comfortable and tranquil indoor environment for occupants.

MaxClean 756’s commercial units are engineered for straightforward installation and minimal maintenance, catering to the needs of commercial settings.

Here’s how they excel in facilitating easy installation and maintenance:

  • Modular Design: Designed with a modular architecture, MaxClean 756 ROS commercial units utilized boast easy assembly and installation. Each component is crafted to seamlessly integrate, simplifying the installation process and reducing reliance on specialized tools or skills.

  • Plug-and-Play Integration: MaxClean 756 commercial units feature plug-and-play integration, allowing seamless connection to existing HVAC systems or standalone use. This feature eliminates the complexities of wiring and configuration, expediting the installation process.

  • Intuitive Controls: Equipped with user-friendly interfaces, MaxClean 756 commercial units empower users to navigate settings, monitor performance, and conduct routine maintenance effortlessly. Simple controls ensure that operation and upkeep tasks are accessible to personnel with varying levels of expertise.

  • Remote Management Capabilities: MaxClean 756 commercial units may offer remote management functionalities, enabling users to monitor performance and diagnose issues remotely. This capability facilitates proactive maintenance, reduces downtime, and minimizes the need for onsite visits.

  • Component Accessibility: MaxClean 756 commercial units prioritize accessibility to key components, such as filters and UV-C lamps, ensuring ease of replacement and maintenance. By simplifying routine upkeep tasks, these units minimize disruption to commercial operations and sustain optimal performance.

In essence, MaxClean 756 utilize commercial units that streamline installation and maintenance through their modular design, plug-and-play integration, intuitive controls, remote management capabilities, and accessible components.

These features empower businesses to swiftly deploy and maintain high-performance air purification systems, fostering a conducive environment for productivity and well-being.

MaxClean 756 RoS commercial air & surface purifiers utilize high voltage and high frequency-controlled pulses, but very low amperage to create non-thermal plasma and generate ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). ROS are the sanitation/cleaning agents that prevent and destroy Molds (including Powdery Mildew), Viruses, Pathogens and controls/eliminates Odor. Unit’s utilizes Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS) to clean surfaces through a process called photocatalytic oxidation (PCO).

Here’s how it works:

  • Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS): The MaxClean 756 system incorporates a photocatalyst, typically titanium dioxide (TiO2), onto surfaces within the HVAC system or air purifier. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, typically UV-C light, the photocatalyst becomes activated.

  • Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): Activated photocatalysts initiate a reaction in the presence of moisture from the air and UV light, leading to the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (RoS), such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide ions (O2•-).

  • Surface Cleaning Action: The generated RoS are highly reactive and powerful oxidizing agents. When they come into contact with organic molecules, such as bacteria, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or other contaminants present on surfaces, they initiate oxidation reactions.

  • Oxidation of Contaminants: RoS react with and break down organic molecules on surfaces, effectively destroying them at a molecular level. This process leads to the decomposition of contaminants into harmless byproducts, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide.

  • Continuous Surface Cleaning: The photocatalytic oxidation process is continuous as long as there is exposure to UV light and moisture from the air. Therefore, surfaces treated with the photocatalyst continue to undergo cleaning action over time, helping to maintain cleanliness and reduce the presence of harmful pathogens and pollutants.

In summary, MaxClean 756 harnesses the power of Reactive Oxygen Species generated through photocatalytic oxidation to clean surfaces by breaking down organic contaminants into harmless byproducts, thereby contributing to improved indoor air quality and overall cleanliness within the environment.

Acceptance and Standards

Indoor surface & air treatment to ensure health and safety of employees and customers. Organic sanitation that continually operates 24/7 while people are present to reduce viruses, bacteria and odors plus:

  • Destroys viruses such as Coronavirus, Infuenza, H1N1)
  • Destroys pathogens such as: mRSA, Botrytis, E.Coli, Listeria, Salmonella, Serratia Marcescens, Candida, and Powdery Mildew
  • Reduces HAI Risk (Healthcare-Associated Infections)
  • Defend against virus spread and contagion
  • Ensure safe sanitized PPE (personal protection equipment) for employees
  • Avoid exposure to litigation and related costs
  • Provides better sanitation in hard-to-reach areas
  • Lowers cost of sanitation with measurable results and lower labor costs
  • Increases IAQ / PM awareness with SAFE environment
  • Reduces Cross-Contamination
  • Provides Odor Control / smoke removal
  • Destroy off-gas odor from rubber mats 

Provides schools the latest in science and technology to quickly and effectively sanitize all indoor areas the air touches, including surfaces!

Maxclean 756 IAQ/PM System Recognized as Best Long Term Value

IAQ/PM Advocacy Group Recognizes Maxclean 756 as Best Long Term IAQ/PM Solution for US Schools

Maxclean756 System process

Maxclean756 System process includes on-site pre and post 3rd Party Level II Lab Verification of IAQ/PM issue and resolution documented in a detailed lab report. MaxClean 756 has developed a robust testing protocol with a 3rd party lab specializing in IAQ and microorganisms. 

MaxClean756 creates confidence for school decision makers. We have no interest in solving problems that do not exists. On-site 3rd party pre-testing builds trust based on empirical data.

– Brian Oliver,
 CEO and Owner of MaxClean756

Most of the school systems that made improvements never performed any pre-testing to determine each buildings exact problems that require resolution, nor determined the species and levels detected. Each building needs post testing to validate the improvements are effective and comprehensive for each buildings use, type and age.

Decade of use cases

Summary Chart: Some of Many Use Cases
(click chart to expand)

MaxClean756 Use Case

Setting a New IAQ/PM Standard with MaxClean756

Transformational Metrics Based Improvements

Pre / Post 3rd Party School Lab Results

AIR TEST SAMPLES

 

MaxClean 756 Results
Pre-Treatment Sampling
vs
In-Treatment Sampling
(See #1, black circle below)

 

(click to enlarge)
 
summary of results
 

3/28/23 – Pre-Treatment Sampling:
Bio-burden Air Samples are much above > 300 cfu/m3 which fall in “not acceptable range and require corrective action.”

5/01/23 – (Maxclean756), In-Treatment Sampling:
Bio-burden Air Samples show 90% reduction and < 100 cfu/m3, which falls in the clean and acceptable

(See #2, black circle below)

 

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OBSERVATIONS

Outside Air Samples Range:
“1400 to 1567 cfu/m3 shows significant amount of Bio-burden coming from outside air that falls in the “not acceptable/needs corrective action range.”

 
Conclusion
The (Maxclean756) Treatment System is having a noticeable and measurable impact on reducing this bio-burden.

(Target Air Quality Scale: #3, Black Circle Above)

SURFACE TEST SAMPLES

 

MaxClean 756 Results
Pre-Treatment Sampling
 vs
 In-Treatment Sampling
(See #1, black circle below)

summary of results

 

3/28/23 – Pre-Treatment Sampling:   
Average 43.5 cfu/cm2; Range 25.0/70.0 cfu/cm2; SD 12.9

5/01/23 – (Maxclean756) In-Treatment Sampling:   
Average 4.3 cfu/cm2; Range 2.5/7.0 cfu/cm2; SD 1.3

CONCLUSION:

 

(Maxclean756 Treatment) Resulted in % Reduction of 90.1%

 

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Maxclean756 System Protection

Maxclean756 System 24/7 protection is effective at air and on surface mitigation of all infectious disease transmission modes vs HVAC ventilation improvements alone.

These modes of transmission include:

  • Aerosol Transmission
    Virus is transmitted through the air by aerosols within the inspirable size range or smaller; aerosol particles are small enough to be inhaled into the nasopharynx and distally into the trachea and lung.
  • Direct Transmission
    Virus is transferred by contact from an infected person to another person without a contaminated intermediate object (fomite).
  • Indirect Transmission
    Virus is transferred by contact with a contaminated intermediate object (fomite).
  • Droplet Spray Transmission
    Virus is transmitted through the air by droplet sprays (such as those produced by coughing or sneezing); a key feature is deposition of droplets by impaction on exposed mucous membranes.

Study: Modes of Transmissions

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30096894/

Respiratory Viruses

Transmission of Influenza A in a Student Office Based on Realistic Person-to-Person Contact and Surface Touch Behavior

Abstract – Influenza A viruses result in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide each year. In this study, influenza A transmission in a graduate student office is simulated via long-range airborne, fomite, and close contact routes based on real data from more than 3500 person-to-person contacts and 127,000 surface touches obtained by video-camera.

  • The long-range airborne, fomite and close contact routes contribute to 54.3%, 4.2% and 44.5% of influenza A infections, respectively.
  • For the fomite route, 59.8%, 38.1% and 2.1% of viruses are transmitted to the hands of students from private surfaces around the infected students, the students themselves and other susceptible students, respectively.
  • The intranasal dose via fomites of the students’ bodies, belongings, computers, desks, chairs and public facilities are 8.0%, 6.8%, 13.2%, 57.8%, 9.3% and 4.9%, respectively. . . . .

Observations:

“Close contact” route transmission plays a significant role in the spread of pathogenic viruses and bacteria within school buildings.

The Maxclean756 System addresses this dynamic pathogenic problem 24/7 in a seamless, energy efficient, cost-effective way requiring minimal year to year operational costs compared to other standalone IAQ technologies. (see analysis) The Maxclean756 results are verified via an independent third party level II lab assessment report to CREATE CONFIDENCE!

Conclusions:

Best Pathogen Mitigation Solution for All Respiratory Transmission Modes

MaxClean 756 vs HVAC:

HVAC Alone: 

  • Good Mitigation of Aerosol Transmission (many HVAC variables to maintain)
  • Poor Mitigation of Direct Transmission
  • Poor Mitigation of Indirect Transmission
  • Poor Mitigation of Droplet Spray Transmission

Maxclean 756 + HVAC:

  • Good Mitigation of Aerosol Transmission 
  • Good Mitigation of Direct Transmission
  • Good Mitigation of Indirect Transmission
  • Good Mitigation of Droplet Spray Transmission

(click to expand)

Maxclean756 System Has A Small Footprint

Maxclean756 System has a small footprint and integrates seamlessly into existing HVAC Units.

Maxclean756 has finance/grant partners

Maxclean756 Partners with federal and state grant writing group to fund projects.

Maxclean756 is superior IAQ/PM technology

Maxclean756 IAQ/PM Technology has been used successfully in food processing and grow industry for over a decade.

Maxclean756 has years of use cases

Maxclean756 provides several use cases along with empirical lab data to verify effectiveness.

Maxclean756 mitigates many microorganisms

Maxclean756 mitigates mold, viruses, bacteria, fungus, smells, and VOC’s to maintain safe levels. They have a rigorous testing protocol with a wide range of microorganisms.

Our Advocacy PROCESS

As Advocates for Safe School Technologies, we have rigorously evaluated various technologies to identify the most effective solution for safeguarding school environments. Through comprehensive assessments and comparative analyses, the Maxclean 756 system has emerged as the gold standard in providing unparalleled long-term value and efficacy.

The mission of the Safe School Technologies advocacy group is to give voice and raise awareness about the White House driven Clean Indoor Air Crisis impacting tens of millions of students, teachers, and staff.

school board engagement

  • Reviewing school district’s current IAQ/PM protocols and practices.
  • Generate audit reports to identify “areas of IAQ/PM opportunity” to mitigate threats to the well-being and productivity of students and staff.
  • Conduct review and analysis of the most cost effective, energy efficient, environmentally safe, 24/7 protection, 3rd party tested IAQ/PM comprehensive solutions that align with and resolve “areas of IAQ/PM opportunities identified in audit report. The MaxClean756 System fits all of the updated requirements and standards set by CDC and ASHRAE.
  • Present and gift the IAQ/PM advocacy audit report and final recommendations at school district board meetings to members-at-large, superintendents, administration leadership and/or facility directors.
  • Advocates facilitate MaxClean756 test pilots/proof of concept progress, playing role of monitoring progress after initial engagement between IAQ/PM solution provider and school district facilities decision maker point of contact delegated by the school board/superintendent.
  • Advocates maintain open communication about IAQ/PM improvement progress with school district’s community stakeholders (students, staff, employees, taxpayers)
  • Advocates work with local press to provide updates to negative IAQ/PM school district stories and share the actions taken or any resistance to actions.

The overall measure of success for the IAQ/PM advocacy group is to promote the effective and targeted use of billions of school district allocated federal and state grants.

This includes:

  • The implementation of transformational 3rd party lab tested IAQ/PM technological improvements such as the MaxClean756 System.
  • Updated IAQ/PM protocols and practices.
  • Evaluate increases in consistent community engagement regarding monitoring IAQ/PM issues and resolutions implemented. Solutions must be communicated in the form of an onsite pre and post 3rd Party Lab Test Report.

This will result in a comprehensive “safety moat” to help mitigate precipitous public health pathogenic outbreaks of virulent, bacterial, or fungal origin at schools, which show a strong correlation to spread through the greater community, including the elderly and immunocompromised. 3rd party testing also monitors the ubiquitous toxic mold issues effecting all schools. 

The overall goal of IAQ/PM improvements is to decrease risk for prolonged shutdowns, which creates a negative learning gap, leading to detrimental effects on the physical health, mental well-being, and productivity of students and staff, particularly immunosuppressed and special needs students.

IAQ/PM ALERT:

VA Gov Issues IAQ/PM Executive order

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

Executive Order

ORDER OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY ONE

“School districts should marshal any resources available to improve inspection, testing, maintenance, repair, replacement and upgrades of equipment to improve the indoor air quality in school facilities, including mechanical and non-mechanical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, filtering, purification, fans, control systems and window and door repair.”

Needs of VA School Buildings

Prepared for the Commission on School Construction and Modernization June 2021″

SST IN Action AT FCPS

USE CASE: Ways our advocates are facilitating transformational IAQ/PM change to Fairfax Public Schools

FAST FACTS: FCPS DISTRICT

Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid
FCPS School Board Members

Demographics and Buildings

  • one of the largest school divisions in the U.S. with 225 facilities, including 200 schools and centers
  • more than 28 million square feet of school buildings and office space
  • diverse student population of more than 182,000 students
  • Over 33.4% of our total student population is economically disadvantaged
  • 15.5% are reported as Students with Disabilities
  • one of the largest employers in Virginia with 25,175 full-time employees
  • recognized annually by education columnist Jay Mathews as among most challenging high schools in the U.S

Budget Resources

  • FY 2024 Approved Budget of $3.5 billion
    Fairfax County (68.9%)
    Virginia (26.6%)
    Other sources (4.5%).
  • More than 86% of the budget goes toward instruction, and the average cost per student is $19,795
    Flash IAQ/PM Fact: One time IAQ/PM investment for school buildings and centers with MaxClean 756’s in-air and on-surface IAQ/PM technology can play a vital metrics based role in cost per student reductions.
    LEARN HOW  
    (* MaxClean 756 is on-site 3rd party lab verification report)

Capital Projects

Approximately two out of every three Capital Improvement Program dollars are earmarked for:

  • renovations
  • modular classrooms
  • additions of existing school facilities
  • construction of new schools

This is a significant expenditure that reflects both the age of the facilities and the commitment of the FCSB to ensure that all schools are able to accommodate current educational programs.

Ideally, renovations should occur on a 20 – to 25-year cycle to protect capital investment; however, the current renovation cycle occurs once every 37 – 42 years.

FCPS has never performed an asset-level facility condition assessment (FCA) to adequately validate the deferred maintenance backlog and to assist with prioritization of capital renewal needs.
– (FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit)
Source: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/Adopted-CIP-2024-28.pdf

SST advocates address FCPB

+

2023-04-27
FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Advocate Greg Presents MaxClean 756 Comprehensive IAQ/PM Solution to FCPS

FCPS Board Members are presented with Safe School Technologies STEM Working Group’s Selection of The MaxClean 756 System as providing best foundational long-term value based on pandemic driven updated ASHRAE safety standards, most important being On-site 3rd Party Lab verification.

2023-09-28
FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Fairfax County Public School Employee Speaks on Toxic Mold in School Buildings

Mold in schools jeopardizes employee health, causing respiratory issues, allergies, and infections. Prolonged exposure leads to chronic conditions, skin and eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue. Prioritizing mold prevention and remediation is crucial to ensure a safe working environment and protect employee well-being.

2023-09-28: FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

2023-09-28
FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Advocates Presents MaxClean 756 Update and Submit Final IAQ/PM Audit to Board

Safe School Advocates successfully reignite the MaxClean 756 Test-Pilot, prioritizing student and staff well-being. Their relentless efforts and engagement ensure the FCPS commitment, marking a crucial step towards safer, healthier school environments. With determination, they pave the way for transformative IAQ/PM solutions at FCPS.

2022-02-24
FCPS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

FCPS Student Tells Board her School’s Poor IAQ/PM Triggers her Asthma.

FCPS’s poor IAQ/PM exacerbate this student’s asthma symptoms, triggering respiratory distress and reducing lung function. Asthma attacks are more frequent and severe in environments with high levels of allergens, pollutants, and pathogens. Improving IAQ/PM is essential to manage asthma effectively and ensure better respiratory health.

SST Submits IAQ/PM AUDIT

SAFE SCHOOL TECHNOLOGIES ADVOCATES GIFT DETAILED IAQ/PM AUDIT AND RECOMMEDATIONS TO FCPS BOARD.

SAFE SCHOOL TECHNOLOGIES ADVOCATES IS FACILITATING A TEST PILOT BETWEEN MAXCLEAN 756 AND FCPS TO DEMONSTRATE THE LONG TERM IAQ SOLUTION PROVIDED PLUS DOWNSTREAM LONG TERM BENEFITS TO FISCAL BUDGET.

 

FCPS funding resources

Ways our advocates are facilitating transformational IAQ/PM change AT Fairfax Public Schools

FCPS Capital Investment 24'-28'

FCPS IAQ/PM Related Asset Management Opportunities for Improvements
Click Tabs Below:
charts: FCPS District IAQ/PM OPPORTUNITIES FOR FISCAL SAVINGS VIA IAQ/PM OPTIMIZATION

Source: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/Adopted-CIP-2024-28.pdf (pg.198-199)

The Department of Facilities and Transportation Services, Office of Facility Management (OFM) instituted an asset management program in the early 2000s as part of its core mission.

The program inventories major building systems, as well as associated equipment, and develops analytics to identify lifecycle expectations and optimize service life by application of an effective maintenance and replacement strategy.

Along with lifecycle analysis, OFM has implemented a process to perform and assign a base condition and mission criticality rating to each asset. The asset condition and criticality rating are combined to provide an industry accepted asset assessment index (AI) value, which allows staff to prioritize resources for maintenance and replacement. The program provides a foundation to ensure FCPS meets its Strategic Plan Goal for Resource Stewardship but needs additional investment to develop a comprehensive facility condition assessment (FCA) of all assets.

In FY 2018, the Office of Auditor General (OAG) provided the following definition for a FCA,

“Facilities condition assessment is the process of developing a comprehensive picture of physical conditions and the functional performance of buildings and infrastructure; analyzing the results of data collection and observations; and reporting and presenting findings.”

The main objective of the facilities condition assessment is to measure the condition and functionality factors that make sure both the building and its infrastructure are of adequate condition and appropriate for intended functions.

FCPS has never performed an asset-level facility condition assessment (FCA) to adequately validate the deferred maintenance backlog and to assist with prioritization of capital renewal needs. 
– (FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit)

OAG recommends further elevation and escalation of the need to initiate an asset-level facility condition assessment based on the latest industry standards.

The goal is to provide objective, consistent, accurate, and repeatable results to generate a more precise capital renewal funding forecast. This will also provide credibility in defending the balanced and equitable distribution of funding among FCPS schools.

This effort will allow FCPS to have regular assessments of schools, identify specific projects, and allow the Fairfax County School Board (FCSB) and staff to ensure most urgent requirements are being addressed in a timely manner.

OFM should adopt an asset level FCA program to adequately validate backlogs of deferred maintenance and prioritize capital renewal needs.

During the summer of 2008, at the request of the FCSB, the Department of Facilities and Transportation Services, Office of Design and Construction Services (D&C) dispatched an independent third-party engineering consultant firm to evaluate the school renovation queue based on factors such as fundamental educational requirements and facility condition (building envelope) assessment. However, the survey did not entail an adequate detail assessment of capital assets within each facility. Critical building systems and components have been inventoried at all FCPS facilities, except for the schools currently under renovation. There are other capital assets that remain to be inventoried or completed, such as finished flooring, plumbing fixtures, exterior buildings, that will require capital investment to replace. Inventorying these assets will also increase existing financial requirements both in future needs and current deferred replacement backlog.

The OAG FY 2018 Facilities Maintenance Audit also states, “It shall be the further goal of the Fairfax County School Board to provide for the systematic maintenance of major and critical building infrastructure components, primarily through the comprehensive building renovation program and, additionally, through the establishment of infrastructure maintenance programs in annual planning and budgeting.

Infrastructure maintenance programs shall be based on the life cycle expectancy of building systems and components and shall assure that mechanical, electrical, electronic, and structural systems will support the effective and efficient operation of buildings.”

As schools are renovated, D&C replaces and updates all building systems that have reached the end of their useful life. Useful life of school facilities and building assets require renovation of buildings every 20 to 25 years – a requirement that is detailed in FCSB Policy 8258.2. The current cycle between renovations is approximately 37 years; however, infrastructure investments in building assets are needed at shorter intervals to support system life expectancy (see Figure 1). These replacements are needed to keep the building functional, maintain a satisfactory learning environment, and avoid expensive maintenance and repair.

IAQ/PM Related (HVAC Infrastructure) Total Assets

  • Total IAQ/PM Related (HVAC) Assets – 33,847
  • Asset Past Useful Life -11,641
  • Average IAQ Related Life Expectancy – 21 years
  • Average IAQ Related Asset Age -17 years

According to the National Research Council (NRC) report entitled ‘Committing to the Cost of Ownership: The Maintenance and Repair of Public Building’ and referenced in the ‘2012 Final Report for Performance Management Assessment,’ conducted by Facility Engineering Associates (FEA)

“The appropriate level of Maintenance and Repair spending should be, on average, in the range of 2 to 4 percent of Current Replacement Valve (CRV).”

  • The current replacement value for FCPS is $6.6 billion.
  • IAQ/PM Related Assets (HVAC Infrastructure) CRV is $385,947,548)
    Therefore, 2-4% of HVAC CRV is from $7,718,950.96 to 15,437,901.92 spending on IAQ/PM Related Maintenance, Repair, or Enhancement.
  • FY2023 – Allocated Funding for IAQ/PM Related Asset Replacement and Maintenance Repair was $6.125m raised to $8.1m
  • FCPS’ operating budget of $44.1 million represents about 0.67 percent of the total CRV. ($44.1m/$6600m)
  • FCPS’ capital renewal budget, including major maintenance and infrastructure renewal funds is $21.6 million, or 0.33 percent CRV.
  • Does not include major renovation and new construction projects.
  • The combined equivalent maintenance and repair for FCPS just under 1.0 percent for the CRV.

The current capital infrastructure replacement backlog is at $221M, and the projected 5-year capital asset End of Useful Life replacement requirements is an additional $159M (see Table 2).

With an HVAC backlog of $129.4M, one that is projected to reach $212.6M by FY 2027, Facilities Management is prioritizing projects for replacement based on the following criteria:

  • Likelihood of imminent failure
  • Greatest impact on facility indoor air quality (IAQ)
  • System criticality
  • Manufacturer’s recommended life expectancy

Critical assets are identified as needing replacement based on the following criteria:
• Occupant’s safety and health (MaxClean 756 can enhance)
• Likelihood of imminent equipment failure (MaxClean 756 can extend)
• Maintaining optimal system functionality (MaxClean 756 can support)
• Manufacturer’s recommended life expectancy
• Reducing organizational risk and liability (MaxClean 765 can help prevent)

(See Last Tab for Specific MaxClean 756 Examples)

 

MaxClean 756's substantial impact impact on iaq/pm

MaxClean 756 can support and enhance HVAC life expectancy at schools and improve the operations of school building learning environments in several ways:

  • Improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): MaxClean 756 uses advanced air purification technology to remove airborne pollutants, allergens, and pathogens. Cleaner air reduces strain on HVAC systems by minimizing the buildup of dust and debris in ductwork and filters, leading to improved HVAC performance and longevity.
  • Pathogenic Mitigation: By neutralizing viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, MaxClean 756 reduces the risk of respiratory infections among students, teachers, and staff. This minimizes absenteeism due to illness and supports uninterrupted school operations.
  • Reduced Wear and Tear: Cleaner air provided by MaxClean 756 helps prevent the buildup of contaminants on HVAC components, such as coils and fans, reducing wear and tear and extending the lifespan of HVAC systems.
  • Energy Efficiency: By improving IAQ and optimizing HVAC performance, MaxClean 756 can contribute to energy savings in school buildings. Reduced strain on HVAC systems and improved airflow result in lower energy consumption and operational costs.
  • Maintenance Reduction: Cleaner air and reduced strain on HVAC systems lead to fewer maintenance requirements and repairs. MaxClean 756 helps minimize the need for costly HVAC maintenance, allowing school staff to focus resources on other critical areas.
  • Enhanced Learning Environment: Cleaner air supports a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for students and teachers. Improved IAQ can lead to increased concentration, productivity, and overall well-being, promoting better academic performance.
  • Staff and Student Health: By reducing exposure to airborne pollutants and pathogens, MaxClean 756 helps protect the health of students, teachers, and staff. Healthy individuals are better able to attend school and perform their duties effectively.
  • Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in MaxClean 756 can lead to long-term cost savings for schools by extending the lifespan of HVAC systems, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing maintenance requirements. These savings can be reinvested into educational programs and facility improvements.

Overall, MaxClean 756 provides comprehensive benefits that support the health, comfort, and efficiency of school buildings, enhancing the learning environment for students and facilitating the operations of teachers and staff.

FCPS IAQ/PM IN THE NEWS

FCPS AGING SCHOOL BUILDINGS ARE AN AVG OF 50 YEARS OLD AND FACE AN IAQ/PM CRISIS PUTTING STUDENTS, STAFF, AND ADMIN AT CONTINUED RISK

“As facilities age, there is an increased requirement for major building infrastructure repairs… Additional resources are necessary for capital system replacements and failures adversely impacting FCPS’ ability to monitor and control schools effectively…Safety and security must continue to be at the forefront of school facility needs. The safety of students and staff is paramount to successful student learning.”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/how-fcps-manages-their-buildings/article_c3743190-b693-11ec-a7f3-bf179cf2945a.html

TEACHERS AND STUDENTS CONTINUE TO PLEA TO FCPS BOARD TO ALLOCATE SIGNIFICANT FUNDING TOWARDS FIXING TOXIC MOLDS AND UNMONITORED IAQ/PM.

“During school board meetings earlier this year, a plea from teachers resulted in a portion of the $188.8 billion Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds being allocated to building maintenance and remediation efforts. ESSER II funds, which must be spent by 2024, allocated $33.3 million to improve Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) at all FCPS facilities by modifying and/or replacing HVAC systems. According to the FY 2022 budget, ESSER II Funds are slated to be used during the ’23 and ‘24 school years.”

“While a large amount of money, it is a drop in the bucket compared to the building renovations and maintenance that need to take place in order to care for FCPS’ aging buildings. FCPS acknowledges the significant backlog of major maintenance issues. The School Construction Fund, as part of the Capital Improvement Program (FY 2023-2027), totals $203.8 million. Twenty-five elementary schools are a part of the large-scale project with a projected need of over $900 million dollars, of which only $363 million is funded. These projects do not include some of the oldest buildings that have remained untouched like Belvedere Elementary School and Weyanoke Elementary School, both of which are Title I schools, that receive special funding to provide education programs to low-income students. These numbers do not include proposed renovations to middle and high schools.”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-still-fight-for-their-health-in-mold-related-cases/article_1906d774-19aa-11ed-816e-c7db379b0413.html

FORMER TEACHER SAYS FAIRFAX PUBLIC SCHOOLS MADE HER SICK WITH TOXIC MOLD.

“The 25-year veteran teacher says the illness forced her to discard all contaminated possessions — including her car, clothing, shoes and carpeting. She spent an estimated $50,000 on medical bills, prescriptions, travel to doctors’ offices and new carpet……”

“Mold has been a complete nightmare for me and other teachers. They are afraid to speak up because of retaliation,” Ms. Lux, 51, told The Washington Times. “It has been an enormous financial and emotional hardship…….”

“Internal county facilities documents show 20 years of water intrusions and mold in her classroom. Ms. Lux obtained copies of the mold reports via a Freedom of Information Act request and provided them to The Times……”

“Indoor mold has become a growing concern due to the increased likelihood of it igniting allergies, causing infection or going toxic by feeding on the moisture trapped inside air conditioning units….”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-still-fight-for-their-health-in-mold-related-cases/article_1906d774-19aa-11ed-816e-c7db379b0413.html

FORMER TEACHER SAYS FAIRFAX PUBLIC SCHOOLS MADE HER SICK WITH TOXIC MOLD.

“Investigation into the issue raised at the board meeting found four FCPS instructional staff members exposed to excessive mold in the schools. All the individuals wished to remain anonymous due to the risk of retaliation against them but shared their experiences to raise awareness about the extent of the issue, not just for the prone 25 percent but for everyone exposed.

One former employee’s life changed in what they called “the death trailer.” Their active health took a dramatic decline while working in the trailer in question, and multiple health issues were noted for staff and students who occupied it in subsequent years. Staff requested the trailer be checked and they discovered mold.

FCPS allegedly dealt with the mold in that trailer. Meanwhile, the former employee was diagnosed with asthma in their 50s. Their doctor told them “that would never happen unless something in the environment caused [their] asthma.”

The former employee was returned to the remediated trailer and started having health issues warranting doctor visits “almost every other week.” They said, “One day, out of our 26 kids we had 11 out sick…….”

Source: https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/fairfax_county/fcps-staff-members-report-sickness-from-mold-in-school-buildings/article_be47bed8-a628-11ec-827d-c3d37729d4c1.html