Article navigation
Purpose

This study aimed to inform office employees about the negative health effects of high carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and the preference for wind catchers as a filtration in building assessments during winter.

Design/methodology/approach

The study statistically analyzed temperature, relative humidity (RH), CO2, using correlation, regression and employees’ subjective comfort votes. Three standards given in the Center for Built Environment were evaluated for thermal sensation in offices.

Findings

Compliance with American Society of Heating, Refrigerating Engineers (ASHRAE) 55 and adaptive standards was achieved for thermal sensation of “electric heater” (Predicted Mean Vote −0.3, Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied 6.90%), “wind chimney and gas heater” (80% comfortable) and “no heater” (80% to 90% comfortable). However, the CO2 concentration in offices was 2.7-4.7 times higher than the World Health Organization recommendations.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to an exploratory analysis of environmental monitoring and employees’ responses toward the impact of wind catchers in building evaluation across three heating modes.

Practical implications

Employees can predict indoor comfort for passive, active heating and building controls during winter, reducing office syndrome. Increased awareness of wind catchers, “tower and scoop”, suggested that stakeholders use it as an energy-efficient solution in offices.

Social implications

The study aims to establish building practices to ensure compliance and promote the use of wind catchers’ natural ventilation.

Originality/value

The relationship between temperature, RH, CO2 concentration and employee satisfaction in “electric, gas, and no heater” scenarios were investigated to ensure standard compliance during the building evaluation.

Licensed re-use rights only
You do not currently have access to this content.
Don't already have an account? Register

Purchased this content as a guest? Enter your email address to restore access.

Pay-Per-View Access
$39.00
Rental

or Create an Account

Close subscription notice
Close access options