Automated infection risks assessments (AIRa) for decision-making using a blockchain-based alert system: A case study...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Building Science
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and inadequate ventilation significantly increase airborne virus transmission in enclosed spaces.
• Existing ventilation systems are often insufficient for pandemic conditions, leading to indoor environments becoming transmission hotspots.
• Current infection risk assessments lack integrated data sharing and smart sensor capabilities for real-time decision support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and prototype a system that integrates IAQ monitoring with infection risk assessment for enhanced airborne virus transmission control.
• To address the gap in smart building solutions that support informed decision-making for building owners and stakeholders.
• To propose a post-pandemic approach to managing infection risks in indoor environments.

Main Methods:

• Designed a blockchain-based prototype system named AIRa.
• Integrated CO2 smart sensor data with infection risk assessments.
• Developed two alert types (P-Alert and R0-Alert) for building owner decision-making.

Main Results:

• The AIRa prototype demonstrates benefits over existing infection-control alert systems.
• Information shared includes timestamps and room numbers, prioritizing privacy over personal data.
• The system enables track and trace functionality without requiring QR codes or mobile app downloads.

Conclusions:

• AIRa offers a privacy-preserving, integrated solution for assessing and managing airborne virus transmission risks in smart buildings.
• The system supports timely interventions like adjusting ventilation rates or initiating contact tracing.
• Further multidisciplinary research is essential for advancing alert formulation and system capabilities in smart environments.