CHICAGO– “You are the body that needs to start warning people about what it’s going to take to control this virus in terms of inspections and the severity of the disease. Thank you Patty for creating this open space where people have the confidence to speak their minds. That’s the point of coming together because it can spark something in someone else’s mind and forever change the way we move forward together,” said Dr. Deborah Birx, a renowned physician, infectious disease expert, diplomat, and former White House coronavirus response coordinator, during her opening remarks at the GBAC 2022 symposium, which focused on air considerations.
That’s the power of face-to-face meetings, and that’s exactly what 75 leaders did at the inaugural GBAC 2022 Symposium, held August 16-17 at the Chicago Hyatt Regency, a GBAC-accredited property. Best practices, innovation, and new programs and processes were highlighted.
In addition to Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. John McKeon, Dr. Mark Hernandez, Dr. Paul Meechan and others provided their scientific insights. Also in attendance were those who are on the front lines fighting infectious diseases every day.
“We had an incredible representation of engaged people at the symposium. Key experts like Dr. John McKeon, Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. Mark Hernandez, and many others. Members of Allergy Standards Ltd., the American Air Duct Cleaners Association, service providers, and business owners. It was great – they were all engaged in the discussions. Our vendors in attendance engaged with people and shared information about what they’ve seen in indoor air quality for healthy homes and spaces and how we can do better in the future,” said Patty Olinger, GBAC Executive Director.
In the midst of the pandemic, the focus has been on the transmission of infectious diseases, bacteria and others through surfaces. According to experts, air purification is the next step in protection against infectious diseases.
RELATED. Infectious Disease Expert to Deliver Keynote Address at GBAC Symposium
“With the emergence of new technologies in the cleaning industry, such as air purification and monitoring systems, we must find ways to educate individuals on the importance and implementation of these technologies in facilities such as schools, convention centers, stadiums, healthcare facilities, and more, to prepare for an infectious disease outbreak or future pandemic,” said Sydney Schauer, GBAC technology and program manager and symposium organizer.
During the symposium, Allergy Standards Limited, the international standards and certification body, launched its educational programme, Healthier Buildings Awareness, specially designed in partnership with GBAC and ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association for facility managers, to help fill the knowledge gap around healthy buildings and indoor air quality.
Given the success of the GBAC 2022 Air Considerations Symposium, the organization is already focused on hosting another symposium in 2023. “We now have a reputation for hosting a great symposium, and that will help us for the next one,” Olinger said.
Throughout her speech, Dr. Birx referenced her new book.Silent Invasion: The Untold Story of the Trump Administration, Covid-19, and Preventing the Next Pandemic Before It’s Too Latewhich offers an inside account of the Trump administration’s response to the coronavirus crisis, including its work with CDC Director Robert Redfield, Dr. Anthony Fauci and others.
Contact Patty Olinger at(847) 982-0800Orpattyo@issa.com