Thermal comfort is described in BS EN 7730 as ‘that condition of mind, which expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment’.
Employee health and well-being is a growing priority in the workplace. It has been proven that employees are most creative and productive when in a healthy environment that meets their needs.
If employees are uncomfortable they are less motivated and more prone to making errors, which can be costly. A workplace which is too hot, too cold or draughty can cause discomfort. Poor temperature control can result in:
- Stress
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Backaches
The majority of UK commercial buildings have mechanical heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. However, despite this, 76% of employees still perceive the temperature of their office to be ‘uncomfortable.’ (Ref 1)
Many HVAC systems can make achieving thermal comfort difficult. They usually blow air outwards from centralised grilles or units – sometimes directly onto the people below. This can create an uncomfortable draught and make some people too cold whilst others close by are still hot.
Thermal discomfort caused by air conditioning is the UK Building Research Establishment’s biggest climate control complaint.
- 74% of British workers argue with colleagues over air conditioning
- 72% of British workers feel their office never gets the temperature right, making them feel uncomfortable, cold and unproductive (Source: uSwitchforbusiness.com).
The Solution
The Ingenious Air® Small Duct System can help you achieve high levels of thermal comfort in your workplace. The system uses a unique induction method of air delivery. Warmed or cooled air is gently and evenly delivered, via unobtrusive air outlets, positioned discreetly in ‘out of traffic’ areas in floors, walls and ceilings. Treated air is not blown directly onto occupants and there are NO draughts!
De-stratification occurs naturally as a result of the induction method of air delivery. Heat that normally rises and is lost at ceiling level is re-distributed down to where it is needed at floor level. This ensures that temperatures are even, with no hot or cold spots.
In cooling mode, the system removes more moisture from the air. This reduces the relative humidity, meaning you can feel comfortable at higher temperatures. This helps resolve the office arguments between men and women over workplace temperature.
