Thermal Comfort Measurement in the Workplace: Work Efficiency

Thermal Comfort Measurement in the Work Environment

What is Thermal Comfort?

Thermal comfort is when a person's body temperature is stabilized by the temperature, humidity, air movements and other factors of the surrounding environment and the individual does not feel discomfort. When a worker is thermally comfortable, their body temperature is maintained at a regular level, which means less stress and fatigue.

Why is Thermal Comfort Measurement Important?

Measuring the thermal comfort level in the workplace helps to prevent various health and performance problems:

1. Contribution to Employee Health
• Excessive heat: High temperatures can lead to health problems such as dehydration, dehydration and heat stress.
• Low temperature: Cold environments can increase the risk of muscle tension, cold shock and illness.
2. Work Efficiency
• Uncomfortable environmental conditions can lead to distraction and loss of concentration. This leads to a decrease in productivity.
• A comfortable environment allows employees to work more efficiently, focus for longer periods of time and improve overall performance.
3. Legal and Regulatory Requirements
• According to occupational health and safety regulations, workplaces must provide certain levels of thermal comfort. International and local legislation mandates the maintenance of appropriate temperature levels in workplaces.

What are the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort?

• Ambient Temperature
• Nem
• Air Flow Rate
• Thermal Radiation
• Nature of the work performed
• Physical structure of the employee
• Gender of the employee
• Health status of the employee
• Employee's state of dress

Parameters Used in Thermal Comfort Measurement

1. Air Temperature (Dry Bulb Temperature): Ambient air temperature is one of the main indicators of thermal comfort. Temperature is one of the leading environmental factors and an ambient temperature between 20-24°C is generally considered ideal.
2. Relative Humidity: Air humidity affects the body's capacity to sweat and remove heat. High humidity levels make it difficult for sweat to evaporate and cause discomfort. Generally, between 40% and 60% humidity is considered comfortable.
3. Air Velocity: Air movement can help accelerate sweating and heat removal in the body. However, too much air movement can also cause discomfort. Low air velocity usually creates a comfortable environment.
4. Heat Radiation (Mean Radiant Temperature - MRT): Heat radiated from surfaces can also affect thermal comfort. Sunlight, hot machinery or other heat sources radiate some of the ambient heat, resulting in a warmer environment.
5. Clothing Insulation: The clothing worn by workers can also affect thermal comfort. More clothing leads to more heat being trapped in the body. The suitability of clothing should be adjusted according to the ambient temperature.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Thermal Comfort Measurement in the Workplace. We also provide services in Lighting Measurements.

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