Matt Dillon
The Victorian government is supporting public-facing small businesses to improve ventilation in areas accessible to customers, and thus reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Applications are now open for the Small Business Ventilation Program, which provides $500 rebates and matched grants of up to $5,000 to support eligible small businesses’ investment in equipment, works and services to improve ventilation.
“Improving ventilation helps reduce the spread of COVID-19, and provides customers with the confidence that businesses are doing everything they can to keep them safe,” the government says. “Good ventilation is important because COVID-19 is airborne and primarily spread between people breathing in very small droplets or aerosols containing the virus. The risk of aerosol transmission is higher in a poorly ventilated space because fine aerosol spray from an infected person can remain circulating, linger and spread more easily.”
The government has released a Small Business Ventilation Guide to help businesses improve ventilation and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by encouraging airflow from outside. Business owners are encouraged to read this guide before applying.
“Business owners must use their judgement and make decisions that are appropriate for their business to improve ventilation and air quality,” the Victorian government says. “This may involve seeking professional advice before committing to a purchase.”
Eligible small businesses have until June 24 to apply or until all funds are exhausted.
Learn more at Small Business Ventilation Program or contact the Business Victoria Hotline at 13 22 15.
More resources about ventilation and COVID-19 are available at AIRAH’s Indoor Air Quality Assembly.
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