The Fitwel Viral Response module provides annual, third-party certification of policies and practices informed by the latest public health research on mitigating the spread of contagious diseases. The module is informed by notable industry leaders, academic advisors, and our Research to Action resource series that was developed in response to the current pandemic.
Click here to download our fact sheet, and learn more here. Get started on a Viral Response Certification today at app.fitwel.org.
The global spread of COVID-19 has heightened awareness of the pressing importance of Fitwel’s mission of building health for all®. With people around the world spending an increasing amount of time indoors and in their local neighborhoods, the spaces where we live, work, study, and play have shifted dramatically.
The Center for Active Design has published content to respond to this demand, using the best available evidence to date. Each chapter is designed to contribute to an ever-evolving conversation, and we will stay abreast of new science and update the resource periodically as the research base expands. Your feedback is appreciated--please reach out to covid19@fitwel.org with comments, questions, and insights for future updates. We look forward to continued collaboration to discover the best ways to meet the challenge of COVID-19.
Download all five Research to Action chapters now →Strategies to limit airborne transmission within buildings include ventilation, humidity, and filtration.
This chapter provides an overview of the basics of viral transmission, as well as strategies to mitigate transmission—including limiting physical interactions, handwashing, regular cleaning, ventilation, filtration, and humidity. (Date of Issue: May 6)
Download Now →66% of the world’s population do not have confidence that current leaders will be able to successfully address their country’s challenges.
This chapter provides guidance for cultivating employee and tenant trust, and enhancing perceptions of safety once office buildings are ready to re-open. Topics covered include but not limited to, emergency preparedness, communication, surveying, and signage. (Date of Issue: May 9)
Download Now →This resource focuses on the importance of considering mental health during crises, and how residential environments can be optimized to promote feelings of well-being. Strategies covered include greenery, outdoor spaces, high quality indoor air, sleep environments, and health-promotion programming. (Date of Issue: May 16)
Download Now →Overcrowding can accelerate the spread of COVID-19.
This chapter focuses on the unique benefits of density, and how dense communities can enhance resilience and protect public health, concentrating on decreasing energy use, increasing walkability and bikeability, optimizing outdoor spaces, increasing access to nature, and enhancing communication. (Date of Issue: June 1)
Download Now →A 10% increase in neighborhood poverty rate is associated with a 1.7% reduction in green space coverage
This resource explores the interconnected relationships between COVID-19, the social determinants of health, and chronic disease. Topics covered include healthcare access, food access, housing quality, job roles, among others. This resource also digs into specific strategies that can help address many of the inequities associated with negative COVID-19 outcomes, such as pollution, food environments, access to outdoor space, and community resiliency. (Date of Issue: June 16)
Download Now →Hosted by the Urban Land Institute
August 26, 2020