bankjae.blogg.se - Improving comfort in clothing pdf

The most commonly used indicator of thermal comfort is measuring air temperature but it isn’t only air temperature that affects whether people feel comfortable – there are a range of environmental and personal factors that are involved. PCBUs should also consider seasonal variances within their workplaces – whether they are air-conditioned or not. Non air-conditioned environments can pose their own challenges because they can be more exposed to outdoor environmental conditions but have limited options for natural airflow and ventilation. For example, thermostats may be set a little higher in summer and lower in winter.

Also, temperatures can vary between different areas of a building depending on time of day, the season the number of windows/doors etc.Īir-temperature readings in air-conditioned workplaces may vary according to outside conditions so PCBUs must have systems in place to ensure thermostats are always be set within accepted levels to maintain thermal comfort.

Older buildings can have out-dated heating and cooling systems that can lead to different temperatures within the one building and even in areas that are adjacent to each other. Problems with air-conditioning and heating in workplaces are very common. This means the work environment must be comfortable for workers and not place them at risk, it must suit the work they are doing and enable them to function efficiently both physically and mentally. While the work health and safety legislation does not mention thermal comfort specifically, persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) are required to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, they provide a work environment (including layout and ventilation) that is without risk to a worker’s health and safety. In addition, worker complaints and absenteeism can increase. Prolonged exposure can lead to fatigue, lowered concentration and productivity. Thermal discomfort can seriously impact a worker’s overall morale and work performance.

The risk to workers’ health increases as the thermal conditions move further away from those considered as comfortable.Įssentially, the more extreme the environment, the higher the risk is to workers of being exposed to serious illnesses and injuries – even death.

There is little likelihood of a diagnosable medical condition developing as a result of thermal discomfort.

There is a significant difference between thermal discomfort and being exposed to extreme heat or cold: Essentially, thermal comfort can be identified by the number of workers complaining of thermal discomfort. The term ‘thermal comfort’ describes a person’s state of mind in terms of whether they feel too hot or too cold.