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Effect of Indoor Environment on Occupant Air Comfort and Productivity in Office Buildings: A Response Surface Analysis Approach

Author

Listed:
  • Amit Kant Kaushik

    (Department of Architecture and Built Environment, Faculty of Engineering & Environment, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK)

  • Mohammed Arif

    (School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering, University of Brighton, C50523 Cockroft Building, Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 4GJ, UK)

  • Matt M. G. Syal

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Planning, Design & Construction, Michigan State University, Human Ecology Building, 552 W, Circle Drive, Room 213, East Lansing, MI 4882, USA)

  • Muhammad Qasim Rana

    (School of Built Environment, University College of Estate Management, Reading RG1 4BS, UK)

  • Olugbenga Timo Oladinrin

    (School of Architecture & Built Environment, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK)

  • Ahlam Ammar Sharif

    (Department of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13133, Jordan)

  • Ala’a Saleh Alshdiefat

    (Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Philadelphia University, Amman 19392, Jordan)

Abstract

Indoor air quality is a significant factor influencing occupant comfort, health and productivity. Indoor air comfort and its relationship to occupant comfort and productivity are widely documented. Statistical correlation between the two has been highlighted in scientific literature. This paper investigates any unique correlations between non-air quality parameters (such as lux level, temperature, and noise level) and indoor air comfort and presents a study investigating the effect of indoor environmental quality on occupant air comfort and productivity. This study was conducted by collecting data on indoor environmental parameters using remote sensors and an online survey for occupant responses for twelve months. Data analysis was performed using Response Surface Analysis to present mathematical relationships between indoor environmental quality parameters and occupant air comfort. Results show that carbon dioxide up to 600 ppm, VOC up to 25% (by volume) and humidity up to 60% have a positive impact on occupant air comfort and productivity. Our research highlighted that some non-air quality parameters, such as outdoor temperature and lux levels, affect occupant air comfort. These results would enable built environment professionals to design and operate offices (subtropical desert climate) conducive to occupant comfort and productivity.

Suggested Citation

  • Amit Kant Kaushik & Mohammed Arif & Matt M. G. Syal & Muhammad Qasim Rana & Olugbenga Timo Oladinrin & Ahlam Ammar Sharif & Ala’a Saleh Alshdiefat, 2022. "Effect of Indoor Environment on Occupant Air Comfort and Productivity in Office Buildings: A Response Surface Analysis Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(23), pages 1-24, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:23:p:15719-:d:984400
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    References listed on IDEAS

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