Building design standards could be changed post-Covid: BCA

Singapore

DESIGN standards for new buildings could change as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) looks into whether rules on air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation need to be revised in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The aim of any such move is to boost ventilation in crowded spaces and improve air quality for situations like public health emergencies, the regulator's spokesman told The Straits Times.

It has started discussions with other agencies and industry experts on whether new rules are necessary, the spokesman said.

The regulations are spelt out in the code of practice for air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation in buildings.

Asked if the new rules will apply for existing buildings, the BCA spokesman replied: "We will likely start with new building designs as ex…