Preparedness to Promote Equity: Safeguarding Vulnerable Populations through Healthier Buildings and Policy Proposals
Putting people and resilience at the center of building health
Health risks don’t affect everyone equally–we know this all too well. Poor indoor air quality, lack of cleaning practices and inadequate emergency planning can disproportionately harm vulnerable populations–those including the elderly, immunocompromised, with preexisting conditions, limited access to healthcare and beyond. Risks to vulnerable populations can be exacerbated when considering climate change as well. These groups are more likely to experience severe consequences from pathogens, chemical sensitivities and other environmental hazards, underscoring the need for proactive strategies that protect their health.
Getting to the Root of the Issue
IWBI has consistently championed science-backed strategies that aim to reduce health risks, improve indoor environments and promote resilience. The WELL Health-Safety Rating, grounded in the evidence-based strategies of the WELL Standard, provides a practical framework for organizations to prioritize the health and safety of their occupants. By focusing on interventions such as air filtration, water quality and effective sanitization practices, buildings can create safer spaces for everyone while prioritizing those most at risk. In addition, the WELL Equity Rating empowers organizations to create healthier, more inclusive spaces by addressing health disparities among marginalized groups. It provides a clear framework to enhance access to well-being, celebrate diversity, prioritize inclusivity and promote sensitivity, fostering equitable environments for all.
The International Healthy Building Accord triply reinforces this commitment. Shaped by contributions from leading health authorities and extensive research, the Accord outlines the imperative for healthy buildings and strategic policy actions to accelerate their adoption worldwide. It highlights health equity as a core focus, recognizing that advancing equity through better buildings enables everyone to feel welcome, seen and heard. Inclusive design strategies and equitable access to healthier spaces can help reduce health disparities and extend the benefits of healthy buildings to marginalized populations.
The Role of Pathogen Mitigation
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the urgent need to address pathogen spread in shared spaces. Pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, travel quickly through air, water, surfaces and human contact. Without proper safeguards, buildings can become transmission hubs, amplifying health threats.
Advanced technologies, like those developed by PathogenFocus and others highlighted in the WELL directory, offer effective solutions to address these challenges. Air disinfection technologies play a significant role in reducing the spread of harmful microorganisms, offering enhanced air quality for vulnerable populations in schools, hospitals and other high-traffic spaces. These approaches can also minimize reliance on harsh chemical disinfectants, reducing exposure to toxins that may pose risks to individuals with respiratory conditions or chemical sensitivities. This sentiment aligns with WELL’s emphasis on reducing harmful chemical exposure while supporting healthier, more sustainable cleaning practices.
Designing for Resilience
Beyond technological solutions, how we design and operate buildings significantly impacts vulnerable populations. Strategies like upgraded ventilation, high-performance filtration systems and operable windows help improve indoor air quality and reduce the concentration of airborne pathogens.
Proactive design can also mitigate risks during emergencies. Clear evacuation protocols, access to emergency resources and robust communication systems provide support to occupants in moments of crisis. These measures are particularly important for vulnerable groups, who may face greater barriers to safety and recovery.
Equity and preparedness are inextricably linked. The WELL Health-Safety Rating, WELL Equity Rating and International Healthy Building Accord provide actionable roadmaps for organizations to take a stand and integrate health and safety into their operations, fostering a future where every space prioritizes the well-being of its occupants.
Investing in health and safety measures not only can save lives but also can help reduce disparities, creating a built environment that better supports equity and resilience.
Together, we can advance a future where every space offers opportunity, protection and health for all.
