An exploratory study of office building evaluation for the standard compliance and wind catcher preference during winter in subtropics

Abstract

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.