IMPROVING INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ) IN HEALTH CARE FACILITIES THROUGH RETROFITTING

Abstract

Healthcare facilities ensure cure from the ailment while providing a better and clean environment. A good indoor environmental quality (IEQ) can improve the recovery process and create a pleasant working environment. And, a poor IEQ causes nosocomial diseases which are harmful for the patients as well the hospital staff. To assess the state of IEQ in selected local hospitals, current study investigates critical IEQ parameters. Based on a detailed literature synthesis, three parameters are selected (temperature, relative humidity and CO2) for IEQ assessment in four local hospitals. Four different locations (emergency room, operation theater, intensive care unit and medical ward) in each hospital are considered with respect to the existing HVAC system. Data is recorded on 5 minutes interval for 6 days uninterruptedly and mean hourly value for each location is calculated for 24 hours. Statistical analysis is performed to compare the day- and night-time IEQ trends. Significant difference is found in day- and night-time observations for operation theaters while random trends are noticed in emergency areas. The results govern that fact that occupancy rate, ambient thermal conditions, type of HVAC system and building orientation are vital drivers of IEQ. Ventilation rates for each location are calculated through three balance equations identified from the literature review. Required ventilation rates for the three selected parameters are calculated through the equation provided in ASHRAE guidelines and validated through modeling and simulation using AnyLogic 8. In conclusion, design and retrofitting recommendations are provided.