TABLE OF CONTENT

NO. CONTENT PAGE

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BUILDING SERVICES IREPORT ASSIGNMENT

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY IN

HEALTHCARE/OFFICE

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING

LECTURER: MS LIM TZE SHWAN

GROUP MEMBERS:

1. LEE FONG YEN 03219762. LOO SIAH MONG 03219953. EE HUI TENG 03225484. CHAN YI FUNG 03230575. GOH SONG KIT 03220136. YEAP PHAY SHIAN 0322243

1. Introduction 3

2. Sources of Poor Indoor Environmental Quality 4-5

3. Factors Affecting Indoor Environmental Quality 6-8

4. Sick Building Syndrome 9

5. Operation and Maintenance Phase 10

6. Integrative Design Process and IEQ Management Plan 11-13

7. Basic Installation Procedures 14-16

8. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Enhancement System 17-23

9. Advantages of Indoor Environmental Quality 24-25

10. Disadvantages of Indoor Environmental Quality 26

11. Case Study- Introduction 27-28

12. Methodology 29-31

13, Results and Findings 32-42

14. Recommendations for Future Improvements 43-44

15. Possible Problems 45-46

16. Conclusion 47

17. Learning Outcome 48

18. References 49-51

19. Appendices 52-55

INTRODUCTION TO INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

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Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) is a crucial aspect needed to be considered in every

building structure. According to United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA

(2011), the citizens of the United States spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. The

lifestyle of Malaysians can be said to be similar. With that, indoor environmental quality

really plays an important aspect in our lives.

Indoor Environmental Quality refers to the character of the air and environment that

contribute to the health and comfort of occupants inside office buildings. In other words, it is

about the building’s environment in relation to the health and wellbeing of the people who

occupy the space in the building. There are a number of factors that determine IEQ and that

are air quality, lighting thermal comfort, humidity, ventilation rate and acoustics. Besides

that, it may include the functional aspect of space for instance whether there is sufficient

space for the occupants in a building.

Indoor environments are known to be very complex. There may be exposure to different

types of contaminants to building occupants. The contaminants are in the form of gases and

particles, coming from sources such as office machines, cleaning products, construction

activities, carpets and furnishings, perfumes, cigarette smoke, water-damaged building

materials, microbial growth (fungal / mould and bacterial), insects, and outdoor pollutants.

With a clearer picture of indoor environmental sources and influences as well as the act of

controlling it can often help reduce building-related worker symptoms. Moreover, building

managers and operators are able to increase the satisfaction of building occupants

by considering all of the aspects of IEQ rather than narrowly focusing on temperature or air

quality itself.

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SOURCES OF POOR INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

As a general fact, the state and quality of indoor environment may be affected by

temperature, dust/dirt, insects, carbon monoxide (CO), ventilation, allergens (e.g. pollen) and

chemicals (e.g. formaldehyde, household cleaners, pesticides). All of these are factors that

affect the indoor environment quality in the building. Based on these general factors

mentioned earlier, the causes of poor indoor environmental quality can be explained as

follows:

i) Inadequate Ventilation

This happens at the case whereby mechanical ventilation systems do not distribute the air to

building occupants in the building effectively. Inadequate ventilation may lead to discomfort

and dissatisfaction in building occupants. The discomfort will be elaborated further in the

upcoming points. The inefficient distribution of air to people in the building can be said to be

a crucial factor in poor IEQ in the building. Since proper distribution of air to people in the

building is important, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning

Engineers (ASHRAE) has published the Ventilation Rate for Indoor Air Quality Standard

(ASHRAE 62.1). The publication of this states the provision of indoor air quality that is

acceptable to human occupants. In addition it also minimises adverse health effect.

ii) Indoor Air Pollutants

The inside of the building itself consists of pollutants. Examples of these pollutants are

adhesives, carpeting, copy machines, pesticides as well as cleaning agents that may emit

volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde. Environmental tobacco smoke

can cause high levels of VOCs and other toxic compounds. All of which are harmful to

human health.

iii) Outdoor Air Pollutants

These are pollutants whereby the air outdoor enters a building, acting as a source of indoor

air pollution. The air intake vents, windows and other openings which are poorly located may

allow the entry of pollutants from motor vehicle exhausts; plumbing vents, and building

exhausts (e.g. bathrooms and kitchens) into the building.

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iv) Biological Contaminants

Biological contaminants include bacteria, fungi and viruses. Stagnant water that has been

accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pans may cause these contaminants to breed.

Other possible places are ceiling tiles carpeting or insulation where the water has been

collected. Biological contaminants may lead to physical symptoms such as fever, chills,

cough, muscle aches and allergic responses. Allergic responses include mucous membrane

irritation and upper respiratory congestion.

v) Thermal Discomfort

Thermal discomfort occurs when there is a vertical air temperature difference between the

feet and the head by an asymmetric radiant field, by local convective cooling (draft). It can

also occur when in contact with a hot or cold floor. Generally, people tend to be more

sensitive to discomfort when their entire body is cooler than neutral and less sensitive to

discomfort when their entire body is warmer then neutral. Asymmetric radiant field can

cause local discomfort and minimize the thermal acceptability of the space. All of these

must be considered in determining conditions for creating acceptable thermal comfort for

building occupants.

To add on, draft is the unwanted local cooling of the body that is caused by air movement.

Draft can be felt the most when the entire body’s thermal sensation is cool (below neutral).

Air speed, air temperature, turbulence intensity, activity, and clothing are the depending

factor of draft sensation.

vi) Acoustic Discomfort

The acoustic discomfort is caused by the sound generated from the mechanical, electrical

and lighting equipment. All these have an effect on the overall acoustical environment in an

office building. The noise is transmitted through the air distribution duct systems, the

structure and the combination of paths. Thus, causing discomfort in building occupants.

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FACTORS AFFECTING INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

i) Thermal Comfort

Thermal comfort is the state of mind which expresses satisfaction with the thermal

environment. Thermal conditions indoors, along with the occupant’s activity and clothing,

determine occupant thermal comfort, which will then play an impact in the occupant’s

productivity and perceptions of air quality. The factors to be considered for thermal comfort

are air flow, temperature and humidity. Extra attention should be given to material moisture

dynamics due to the fact that building moisture from rainwater or excessive humidity is able

to facilitate mould growth. As a result of this, occupants may feel uncomfortable and there

will be poor indoor air quality. An environment that has stable thermal comfort brings a lot of

benefits besides making the building occupants feel more comfortable. These benefits

include savings on operating and maintenance over the life of a building by controlling the

temperature and humidity carefully. Moreover, buildings that are thermally comfortable are

more likely to retain employees as well as occupants, thus raising property values and

income.

With this goal in mind to be achieved, a number of published standards for thermal comfort

are used.

- ASHRAE 55-1992: Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, sets

an 80% satisfaction quota as a target for human comfort

- Cal/OSHA Minimum Ventilation Standard, Title 8, Sec. 5142

ii) Acoustical Comfort

Sound is also part of the factor affecting indoor environmental quality. Mechanical vibration

and vibration-induced noise are most likely the major sources of occupant complaints in

modern buildings nowadays. The noise which comes from the office room is called internal

noise. The consequences of having poor acoustical qualities will lead to an increase in

stress and fatigue. Plus, it also hinders verbal communication as the verbal communication

cannot be heard and conveyed clearly. Therefore, monitoring and regulating background

noise levels with sound-dampening mechanisms (if necessary) must be done with carefully.

To allow privacy in certain spaces, sound absorption materials and acoustic barriers should

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be installed. Another aspect to consider is to avoid placing sources of sound (for example

HVAC compressors) nearby area where low acoustic levels are a concern. Internal noise

level throughout the building must be maintained at an acceptable and tolerable level.

Through the surveys of indoor environmental comfort, the results identified that acoustics is

an area of largest dissatisfaction. Actions such as sound absorption, zoning, and masking

strategies have to be taken to mitigate disturbances caused by noises.

a) Absorption

To help provide acoustic comfort, acoustic ceiling tiles, carpeting, furniture

finishes, curtains and hanging acoustical plasters can be implemented to

mitigate the distribution of sound in the building. Absorption technologies are

able to prevent sound transmission from one space to another and generally

require a relatively low cost. Take note in choosing materials with a high noise

reduction coefficient (NRC).

b) Zoning or blocking

The separation of spaces or acoustical zoning provides workers that need

concentrative quietness and some privacy to complete tasks and allow those who

need vocal interaction. Blocking sound waves prevents noise from traveling to

undesired occupants.

c) Masking

Masking strategies "cover" the unwanted sound. This is done by providing a low and

uniform level of background noise in order to provide contrast to sporadic and

distracting interruptions to the quiet workplace. Sound masking technologies can be

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electronic, with speakers providing artificial white noise. It can also be part of a well-

planned ductwork and diffuser system.

iii) Lighting

Having access to natural light is very important to human health. Spaces with natural light

tend to be gathering places because it is likely to enhance social interactions. According to

the a White Paper written by Andersen Window’s Advanced Design Research Group, group

behaviour studies repeatedly show that given a choice of occupancy, 75% of people prefer

to work in areas illuminated by natural light. As for artificial lighting with regards to the indoor

environment, the requirements for it are minimizing glare on computers, render appropriate

colour and providing adequate occupant control. Proper lighting increases productivity and

efficiency in offices.

iv) Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

The term indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air within a space. IAQ is a

measure of the building’s interior air in terms of the occupant’s potential health and comfort.

A space with good indoor air quality is low in toxins, contaminants and odours. Good air

quality can occur when the spaces are well ventilated and protected from pollutants.

Examples of potential contaminants include dust, cigarette smoke, carbon dioxide, carbon

monoxide, ozone, radon, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and several other chemical

compounds. Numerous research studies have shown links between poor IAQ and Sick

Building Syndrome. “Sick building syndrome” is the name that has been commonly used for

illnesses that occur among building occupants due to poor indoor air quality in building.

Creating good IAQ consist of having good ventilation system, maintaining appropriate

exhaust systems, complying with ASHRAE Standard 62.1, utilizing high efficiency MERV

filters in the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

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SICK BUILDING SYNDROME

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is the name used to describe a situation whereby the

occupants of a building experience acute health or comfort related effects that seems to be

linked directly to the time spent in the building. It is a result of poor indoor air quality in the

building.

SBS often manifests as cold or flu-like symptoms after breathing stale or being exposed to

contaminated air. It harms worker productivity and morale. It may also increase absenteeism

and worker turnover.

There are times when building occupants experience symptoms that do not fit the pattern of

any particular illness and it is hard to trace to any specific source. This phenomenon has

been known as sick building syndrome.

The symptoms of SBS may include:

headaches and dizziness

nausea

aches and pains

fatigue

poor concentration

shortness of breath or chest tightness

eye and throat irritation

irritated, blocked or runny nose

skin irritation

The symptoms of SBS can occur on their own or in combination with others. There are

possibilities that different individuals in the same building may experience different

symptoms. The symptoms usually improve or disappear when one leaves the building and

often return when one re-enters the building.

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OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PHASE

It is important to be able to maintain good IEQ. This requires consistent attention towards the

building’s ACMV system. The building’s ACMV system consists of the design, layout and

pollutant source management or air filtration. The absence of proper operation and

maintenance of ACMV systems is a common issue that impact workplace IEQ. Coming back

to ACMV systems itself, ACMV systems is a source of pollutants. Ventilation air filters can

become saturated and consequently leading to potential microbial growth and odour

concerns if these systems are not maintained properly.

A post occupancy indoor air quality may be carried out to a building that is newly constructed

to assist in the reduction of indoor air quality problems and also minimizing any health issues

of building occupants that may happen from the construction process.

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INTEGRATIVE DESIGN PROCESS

A combined IEQ team can involve the workplace specialist, interior designer, facility manager, owner, occupant, maintenance staff and mechanical, lighting and acoustical engineers with an aim which is to maximize the comfort and health for occupants.

a) Facility Manager

Facility manager plays an important role in improving the overall indoor quality of a building

or space. He/she is in charge of managing occupants satisfaction surveys in order to identify

IEQ categories of greater interest, saving money and time for the benefits of the space.

Alongside with the mechanical engineer and maintenance staff, the facility manager should

ensure a process is in place to track and respond to complaints regarding occupant’s

discomfort. In addition to that, a robust tracking process can ensure green maintenance

procedures are done consistently.

b) Interior Designer

An interior designer works within the interactive team to create interior spaces that can

enhance opportunities in engaging social encounters balanced with both the designs and

functions, with the aim to create a space or workplace to support human needs. The

suitability may be in terms of the function of spaces, healthy material selection, sensory and

visual connections, and ability to maintain and control personal comfort. Therefore, in

collaboration with the mechanical, acoustical and lighting engineers as well as the architect,

they will be able to provide the highest level of human comfort and satisfaction.

c) Occupant

As an occupant’s health and productivity is directly affected by IEQ, thus, their well-being or

opinions should be considered throughout the integrative design process. Bringing the

occupant to the integrative table can help maintain a good IEQ and to ensure the

requirements needed for the lighting and acoustical are enough to meet the functions of the

space. With a good and maintained IEQ, there is no doubt that there will be a boost in the

worker’s performance and productivity as well as reducing utility consumptions.

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d) Maintenance Staff

Maintenance staffs are important in ensuring the ongoing indoor environmental performance.

It is important that they follow and implement detailed green cleaning and purchasing plans,

which includes schedules and guidelines for any necessary trainings or certifications. They

can also provide input on making systems easier to maintain such as convenient access to

filters or vales, and usage of non-absorbent materials in high traffic areas.

e) Mechanical Engineer

Providing sufficient levels of ventilation and filtration in circulation of air, as well as proper

humidity and temperature levels is the responsibility of the mechanical engineer. He/she has

to ensure that all ASHRAE standards are met and the space is safe and comfortable to be

occupied. The mechanical engineer should work closely with other members of the

integrative team to provide comfort and satisfaction to occupants.

f) Lighting Engineer

The lighting engineer plays an essential role in creating a lighting strategy that provides both

an equally distributed illumination level and additional opportunities for occupant

controllability. He/ she is trained to ensure maximum allowance of natural daylight into a

space and to prevent glare and direct exposure to sunlight, as this conditions may affect the

comfort of building occupants.

g) Acoustical Engineer

There are often complaints about occupant’s dissatisfaction with building acoustical

performance. Therefore, the acoustical engineer is in charge of creating a productive

acoustic environment through a combination of blocking designs, masking strategies and

sound absorption technologies. Distractions and sound transfers can be limited through the

co-operation with Interior Designer, Mechanical Engineer and Architect.

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h) Owner

The owner comes into the picture as what they focus most is their return on their investment

as the overall building’s market value. With a good indoor environmental quality, their

worker’s performance can be increased and property value coupled with reduction in

associated liability concerns of an unhealthy building can greatly offset any upfront

investments in IEQ renovations. Together with the integrative team, the owner will develop

the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) to establish prioritization of important designs and

functions.

i) Workplace Specialist

Workplace Specialist is vital in the integrative team, as he/she is closely engaged with the

human behaviour aspect of creating a healthy and functional space. He/she ensures the

project is not only a nice space but also focuses on human interactions, health, and safety.

IEQ MANAGEMENT PLAN

An IEQ management plan should:-

a) Include strategies to maintain air quality during construction or renovation projects.

- Pre occupancy flush outs and proper management of building materials can limit

human exposure during use as exposure to dust particulates, VOCs and mould

can lead to health issues during occupancy.

b) Integrate a green cleaning and integrated pest management programme

- Management of indoor pests through preventative measures, monitoring and

maintenance of identified pets, as well as minimizing the use of least-toxic

chemical pesticides in targeted areas can protect human health and surrounding

environment.

c) Incorporates occupant feedback for continuous evaluation.

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BASIC INSTALLATION PROCEDURES

The establishment procedure will be distinctive for every employment, contingent upon

HVAC contractual worker, the kind of unit we buy and the home's exceptional needs and

elements. Be that as it may, there are some essential techniques we can depend on while

having our framework introduced. Getting comfortable with the procedure will help us

comprehend the work going ahead in our home. Here are some broad establishment steps

that we ought to have:

1. Dismantle and haul away existing air conditioner materials, and clear all related debris

before starting the new install.

2. Acquire proper permits and schedule required inspections from the city where we live.

3. Install new ductwork (if indicated in proposal), or prepare existing ductwork for use with the

new system. 

4. Properly position and place outdoor air conditioning unit.

5. Make proper and safe connections and determine the correct sizing for the electrical and

refrigeration lines and piping.

6. Install a new thermostat or reuse the existing thermostat. 

7. Charge and start the new system according to manufacturer specifications.

8. Conduct a post-installation check or inspection before final inspection.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioning System

An estimator ought to start with an ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) Manual

J Load Calculation. Utilizing the ACCA Manual J handle, they will decide add up to warmth

misfortune through outside dividers furthermore break down the warm attributes for the

dividers, floors, windows and entryways with the estimation of the warmth pick up that

occurs during warm months.

The recommendation of the installation system will be based on the home analysis, including

the configuration of a home's existing ductwork (if any). The following is a brief depiction of

the general types of air conditioning systems can be considered.

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A) Split Systems- A split framework is an air-conditioning or warmth pump framework

that utilizations refrigerant as the warmth trade liquid and has an evaporator,

compressor, and condenser as independent parts. In most present day business

applications, the compressor and condenser are consolidated into a solitary bit of

hardware called a gathering unit

On the off chance that the home as of now has a heater and ventilation work set up, a split

framework will be the most widely recognized cooling choice. With a split framework, the

condenser and compressor are housed outside. An indoor bureau has the evaporator loop.

There is additionally an air handler that is typically part of the heater. This handler sends the

warm or cool air through the ventilation work.

Bundled units have the condenser, compressor, evaporator loop, and air handler housed

together in one bureau. It is basic that the unit be level for the HVAC framework to work

appropriately and proficiently. The outside condenser unit is normally not situated close

room windows since it makes some clamor while working. It should be in a range with

sufficient wind current and far from bushes.

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Figure 1: Split/Ductless AC system

Figure above shows an example of a packaged unit HVAC System.

B) Packaged Units- A package unit is the all-in-one heating and cooling system for

homes that don't have a lot of room indoors for either a furnace and coil, or an air

handler. Package units will contain all of their parts in one outdoor unit that sits on

either the roof or to the side of a building.

Mini-split frameworks are a possibility for homes with a base sum or absence of ventilation

work or for room increases that can't suit ventilation work. These versatile frameworks have

an open air compressor:

1) One or more indoor wall mount units

2) One or more compact duct units inside. 

Refrigerant is cycled through the lines from the outdoor condensing unit to the indoor unit or

vents, where air is distributed to the living space.

Adding central air conditioning inside the house is a decision that can add comfort and long-

term value to our home. Contracting the privilege HVAC expert and knowing the means

required in the establishment procedure can spare additional time and cash now and for a

considerable length of time to come.

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INDOOR ENVIRONMENT QUALITY (IEQ) ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM

Air conditioner

Air conditioner, in short AC, it is considered as mechanical ventilation. The main function of

an air conditioning system is mainly to produce cool ventilation inside the building in which

the heat is taken out from a certain location to give a chilled air effect. The main process is

that the air circulation is drawn to the condenser containing refrigerant gas.

In the business world nowadays, air conditioners have become commonplace in a lot of

places such as office, vehicles, houses, health care centre and etc. This is because most

offices/healthcare are high rise building and since the wind speed increases significantly with

altitude, natural ventilation is impractical for tall building. Therefore, installing air conditioner

can overcome ventilation problem. Although the HVAC industry has a standardized process

and calculation for properly sizing equipment, many contractors use inaccurate methods

such as sizing based on the square footage of the building, the size of previous equipment

or worse, rules of thumb. Improper sizing is one of the most common mistakes made and will

lower the efficiency of equipment and shorten its life expectancy. 

Besides, air conditioners don’t just provide a comfortable temperature in an enclosed place,

but also to control the humidity of the space. There are six types of air conditioning system

that are:

a) Cooling Only Packaged System

b) Cooling Only Split System

c) Heat Pump

d) Chilled Water System

e) Packaged Terminal Heat Pump

f) Window Air Conditioners

How an air conditioner works is by allowing the heat out of the indoor air. The coolant or

refrigerant runs through the HVAC system that includes a condenser, compressor and an

evaporator. When the coolant passes the system, it compresses the gas to liquid. As the

liquid is cooled, it is turned back into gas. Through the principle of expansion and

compression of gas and liquid, there are several ways to cool the buildings, depending on

the size and condition of the building.

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The following diagram above illustrates the basic function of a HVAC system

When the air outside is brought in and pushed through the coils, it is either heated or

cooled before being released into the living area. Moreover, the air will be displaced from

the area back into the system.

The main components of this system are the condenser, compressor and an evaporator.

The condenser is the device that pushes the heat that has built up inside the refrigerant

into the outside air. The compressor acts as the system’s heartbeat. It created the

energy and thrust to move refrigerant around the system. Lastly, the evaporator is the

device that takes away heat from the space by exchanging it for a boiling refrigerant.

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Daylight System

It has been proved that daylight is desired in observations of human behaviours’ and the

arrangement of spaces/or working areas. Daylight is desired because it fulfils two very basic

requirements which are, to be able to see both a task and space well and to experience

environmental situation. Working long term in electric lighting is believed to be deleterious to

health, and working by daylight is believed to less stress and discomfort.

Benefits of Daylighting

Improved interior environment: The correct placement of daylighting and view glazing can

make an interior space more pleasing. Not only that, results has shown that there is an

increase in work productivity and performance when there is presence of daylight

Improved Health: There is strong relationship between light and health. When there is

presence of daylight, our body tend to function better, as the quality of the indoor

environmental is also good.

A daylighting system consists of not only daylight apertures, such as skylights and windows

but also comes with w daylight responsive lighting control system. When there is sufficient

lighting provided from daylight alone, this system has the ability to reduce lighting power.

These are some examples of components that may be present in a daylighting system or

design:-

- Daylight optimized building footprint

- Climate responsive window to wall area ratio

- High performance glazing

- Daylight-optimized fenestration design

- Skylights (passive or active)

- Tubular Daylight devices

- Solar Shading devices

- Daylight-responsive electric lighting controls

- Daylight optimized interior design

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Among all, Skylights and Tubular Daylight is the most common systems used in

Malaysia. As Malaysia has tropical climate and receives an average amount of

sunlight every year, these systems has been used mostly in high-rise building,

healthcare centres and other types of building.

Light pipe systemLight pipe systems are linear devices that channel daylight into the core of a building.

This system brings daylight into deep of a building without producing extreme

warmth. It is also known as tubular skylights.

Tubular daylight devise employ a highly reflective film on the interior tube to channel

light from a lens at the roof, to a lens at the ceiling plane. It tend to much smaller than

a typical skylight, yet still has the capability to deliver adequate daylight.

The light pipe systems consist of:-

- A collector

It is made of clear domes light to accept sunlight from the sky and is usually located

at roof level

- A light tube

Light tube transports light into the room to be day lighted. The tube, with 95-99% of

reflectance just like an aluminium sheet, increases the efficiency.

- A diffuser

How does it work?

1. The low-profile, durable acrylic dome captures sunlight from sunup through noon to

sundown.

2. The sunlight then travels downward through a highly reflective, mirror-like tube.

3. The light rays bounce back and forth inside the tube with 98% efficiency until the rays

reach the diffuser which disperses the sunlight evenly throughout the room.

4. Occupants will get light without heat of incandescent bulbs or interior colour fading

associated with windows.

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Picture above shows the collection of sun throughout the day.

Diagram shows how a tubular skylight works

Names of the components of the light pipe daylighting system

Fibre Optic Skylight System

 Fibre-optic daylighting systems have been shown to be a promising and effective way to

transmit sunlight in the interior space whilst reducing electric lighting energy consumption.

This technology has the ability to bring sunlight much deeper into buildings without impacting

space layout or inviting the glare, lighting variability and heat gain issues that complicate

most daylighting strategies.

Fibre Optic Skylight System consists of:-

- A solar collector to capture direct sunlight and channel it into one or more optical

fibres

- Reflectors

- Filters

- Lenses to direct light to the fibre optic cables

- Fixture to distribute the light

The daylight is gathered and concentrated by collectors using parabolic mirrors or Fresnel

lenses that track the sun as it moves through the sky.  UV and IR light is filtered as the

visible light is collected and transmitted into the building. The system may provide stand-

alone daytime lighting or be part of a hybrid solar lighting system that is integrated with

electric lighting and controls to make the same fixtures usable at times of low or no daylight.

Benefits of fibre Optic Daylighting system

Filling our indoor areas with healthy sunlight brings positive effects to our health and

wellbeing.

Flicker-free natural sunlight that contains the full visible spectrum

Filters out all non-visible radiation, reducing the need for cooling our indoor

environments

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How does it work?

Sunlight is captured on the outside of the building. Optical fibres transfer the sun light

through the building structure and into the indoor environment. Inside, natural sunlight flows

out of the fixtures.

1. On the roof or an outside wall, there’s a collector with separate lenses that track the sun

as it moves across the sky.

2. The collector uses electricity to operate this tracking, which is controlled by a photo sensor

and microprocessor.

3. Each of the lenses concentrates the sunlight into a tiny optical fibre which is aggregated

into cables. These cables bring natural light to interior space quite distant from roof or

windows.

4. In the spaces where light is to be delivered, various fixtures are available. These include

spotlights, fairly conventional-looking ceiling fixtures, and some hybrid fixtures that include

both daylighting and high-efficiency fluorescent lighting. Some fixtures are served by just one

optical cable; others by two or four.

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Diagrams above explains how does a fibre optic daylighting system works.

The components of a fibre optic lighting system and how is it installed

ADVANTAGES OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) is most simply described as the conditions inside the

building. It includes air quality, but also access to daylight and views, pleasant acoustic

conditions, and occupant control over lighting and thermal comfort. It may also include the

functional aspects of space such as whether the layout provides easy access to tools and

people when needed and whether there is sufficient space for occupants. Building managers

and operators can increase the satisfaction of building occupants by considering all of the

aspects of IEQ rather than narrowly focusing on temperature or air quality alone.

1. Increase comfort

- By the chance of having a better indoor environment quality in any healthcare/ office

will leads to a better comfort zone in the building.

2. Decrease absence rates

- With the better Indoor Environment Quality in healthcare/ office, workers would tend

to have higher working performance which leads to the decrease of absence rates.

3. Increase work performance

- By optimize the level of thermal comfort helps in maximizing productivity and working

performance.

4. Pollutant inside building can be diminished

- When indoor environment quality is maximized, the pollution shall automatically

decrease as it controls the pollutions from entering the building.

5. Maintain optimum temperature for workers

-The purpose of having indoor environment quality is to maintain the finest

temperature to the workers as well as deceasing sick building. As the lower rate of

sick building will leads to higher rate of the indoor environment quality.

6. Improve overall thermal comfort

- The factors that affect overall thermal comfort includes temperature, humidity, air

movement, radiation and subjective factors. Thermal comfort is the condition of mind

that expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment.

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7. Decrease sick building syndrome

- As we all know that, Sick building syndrome is occurred when more than 20% of

the occupant feels discomfort within the same room. By having a better indoor

environmental quality, the risk of getting sick building is decreased as indoor

environmental provides a better comfort to the people in the building.

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DISADVANTAGES OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENT QUALITY

1. Cost of construction will be high

-Due to the need of specific design from architect and engineer and material are

required to complete of indoor environment quality is also very high.

2. Maintenance cost is high

-Maintenance is a very important factor to be considered before constructing the

indoor environment quality in the building. Maintenance is usually needed to

maintain there is no malfunction part for indoor environment quality in

healthcare/office.

3. Hard to satisfy everyone’s desired temperature

-Sometimes, having an optimum temperature in the building is always not enough as

it is hard to satisfy everyone at the same time. For example, personal factors such as

clothing insulation may be a primary cause of heat stress even if the environment is

not considered warm or hot of an individual could feel discomfort at certain

temperature.

4. Once the building is built, changing the existing construction is very hard

-When the designer failed to create the best possible indoor environmental quality for

the users, it is hard to redesign the existing construction once it is built.

26

CASE STUDY

i)               Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus

Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus is a private university located in Subang Jaya,

Selangor, Malaysia. It offers a variety of courses in tertiary education, from foundation,

undergraduate studies, post-graduate studies to professional programmes. The construction

of this campus is commenced in 2007 and completed in 2010. The university had received a

number of achievements and recognition such as recognition from the Malaysia Legal

Profession Qualifying Board, Champion of the 2016 Research Chefs Association Student

Culinology Competition, ranked Top 200 University in Asia and received Gold award in the

“Education& Learning” category in Putra Brand Awards 2016.

Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus consist a total of 6 blocks, 1 commercial block, 2 office

blocks and education blocks. It also has a 5.5 acre man-made lake. Other than education

facilities such as the anatomy laboratories, design studios, wine lab and moot court, it also

provides a variety of service facilities such as the career services centre, counseling and

psychological services centre, experimental theatre, gym and hostel for students.

27

ii)               Assunta Hospital

Assunta Hospital was founded in 1954 by a group of missionary sisters from the Franciscan

Missionaries of Mary (FMM). It first started out to serve the underprivileged for their

healthcare needs. It is located in Jalan Templer, Petaling Jaya. The hospital had received

numerous accreditations and awards over the years for its high quality and professional

service such as MSQH Hospital Accreditation Performance Award Full Certificate for 3

Cycles, ISO 9001:2008, Hospital Management Asia 2010 & 2013 and Brand Laureate Award

2008 & 2009.

The building is divided into two parts namely Old Wing and New Win. Thus, it has a total

capacity of 300 beds. It offers a wide variety of medical services to its patients such as

anesthesiology, cardiology, dermatology and radiology. It also provides various facilities and

services such as 24-Hour Accident & Emergency Centre, Outpatient Specialist Clinics,

Clinical Laboratory and Maternal and Child Care Services.

28

METHODOLOGY

We have conducted a survey at two of the locations stated above to study about the indoor

air quality of healthcare and office. A survey form is distributed out to the users of the

building, 15 each to both male and female at each location. A total of 60 survey forms were

filled in this case study. The questionnaire consists of 15 questions as below:

Worker Gender:

  MALE

  FEMALE

Job duration at work place:

  Morning to afternoon

  Morning to evening

  Morning to night

  Afternoon to evening

  Afternoon to night

1. The symptom that you face: headache, drowsiness, dizziness and irritation, cause by the

working environment?

  Yes

  No

2. Existence of odour within the building?

  Yes

  No

3. Inadequate Ventilation within the building?

  Yes

  No

4. Uneven temperature within the building?

  Yes

  No

29

5. Blocked vents due to dust, files, and etc.?

  Yes

  No

6. Air Freshness within the building consider acceptable?

  Yes

  No

7. Is the indoor temperature in the building regulated by thermostats?

  Yes

  No

8. Is there any discomfort of heat radiation from visual display unit and window surfaces?

  Yes

  No

9. Are there furniture, finishing, carpets that emit noticeable odours or chemical and

contaminants?

  Yes

  No

10. Has there been any renovations that were carried out throughout the building?

  Yes

  No

11. Is the building adequately cleaned?

  Yes

  No

12. Are there any office equipment giving off gases or furnishes such as copying machines,

blueprint machines, and other office machines?

  Yes

  No

30

13. Is outdoor air actually getting into the building?

  Yes

  No

14. Is there a regular schedule for cleaning and maintenance of the air-conditioning system

in the building?

  Yes

  No

15. Overcrowding during peak season causes the rise of the temperature in building?

  Yes

  No

31

32

DATA ANALYSIS:

Healthcare

Office

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

15

15

15

15

FEMALE Column1

Morning to afternoon Morning to evening Morning to night Afternoon to evening Afternoon to nightr0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

Office

Male Female

Morning to afternoon Morning to evening Morning to night Afternoon to evening Afternoon to nightr0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 1.1 Job Duration

33

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 1.2: Symptom that cause by working environment

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 1.3: Existence of odour within the building

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 1.4: Inadequate ventilation within the building

34

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Figure 1.5: Uneven temperature within the building

Figure 1.6: Blocked vents due to dust, files, and etc.

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Figure 1.7: Acceptable of air Freshness within the building

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

35

Figure 1.8: The indoor temperature in building regulated by thermostats

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 1.9: Discomfort of heat radiation from visual display unit and window surfaces

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

36Figure 2.0: The furniture, finishing, carpet that emit noticeable odours or chemical contaminants

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 2.3: Any office equipment giving off gases or furnishes

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 2.1: Any renovation been taking place

Figure 2.2: Is the building adequately cleaned

37

Figure 2.5: Cleaning and maintenance of the air-conditioning system in the building

Figure 2.6: Overcrowding during peak season

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Figure 2.4: Is the outdoor air actually getting into the building

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Office

Male Female

Yes No0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Healthcare

Male Female

Based on the survey that we have conducted, sick building syndrome do exist in both building Block C level 5 and Hospital Assunta level 4 (Mariam ward). This is because more than 20 percent of workers suffer from SBS symptoms caused by the working environment. For Block C level 5 office, 43.3 percent of lecturers suffer from SBS symptoms compared to Hospital Assunta level 4 (Mariam ward) which has 26.7 percent. The reason for both of the

buildings to have more than 20 percent of workers to suffer from sick building syndrome is because buildings that are equipped with air-conditioning will be more likely to have workers complaining about discomfort due to the working environment. The other reason for hospital

38

Overall Result:

Does sick building syndrome exists in both office and healthcare?

Healthcare

NoYes

26.7%

73.3%

Office

NoYes43.3%

56.7%

to have  26.7 percent of workers suffering from sick building symptom is because of the odour that consists of the mixture of medicine and food, both of our group members who visited the hospital felt emesis while conducting the survey in the ward.

The reason why the percentage of workers suffering from sick building syndrome in hospital

is lesser compared to office is because the workers in the hospital do fulfill the requirement;

the workers themselves can resist the odour and has been through training in order to work.

On the other hand, the reason that the office will have high percentage of lecturers suffering

from sick building syndrome is due to the fact that the indoor environmental quality is not in

its best condition and the lecturers work in the office for a long period of time. Moreover,

some of the lecturers themselves don’t have good health conditions. Due to all these

reasons, it would trigger sick building syndrome and sick building symptom within the office.

39

Discussion

Worker

Block C level 5 is an office for lecturers. The lecturers spent most of their time walking in and

out the office or having discussions with other lecturers. Most of the lecturers that had

conducted this survey work from morning to evening. Part time lecturers spend lesser

amount of time in the office compared to full time lecturers.

In Assunta Hospital old wing Mariam ward, most of the workers spend their time walking in

wards, checking the patient’s condition, delivering food to patient wards, sitting in the front

desk to do some paper work and so on. Most of the workers tend to work from morning to

evening and only a minority of them works from morning to afternoon due to time shifting

reason. There are a few male workers who tend to work from morning to night due their job

responsibility and safety reasons.  

Block C level 5 Office

Block C level 5 office is an office for lecturers in Taylor University. More than half of the

lecturers didn’t feel any discomfort caused by the working environment. Most of the male

lecturers feel that the odour exists within the building, but it’s the other way round for the

majority of females as they can’t really feel the existence of the odour within the building.

Ventilation within the building is inadequate for male lecturers but for the female lecturers

they felt that the ventilation within the office is adequate. Majority of the male and female

lecturers feel that there is an even temperature within the building and their remark is the

office is too cold. A number of male lecturers didn’t notice the vents are blocked due to dust,

files and etc. However, the female lecturers did notice that the vents contain dust and are

block by files.

An amount of male lecturers feel that the indoor temperature is regulated by thermostat but

majority of the females felt that the indoor temperature wasn’t regulated by thermostats.

Based on our observation, there is a thermostat but the temperature fixed was too low.

Nearly an equal amount of lecturers from both genders felt that there is no discomfort of heat

radiation from visual display unit and window surfaces. Majority of the lecturers didn’t smell

any noticeable odour or chemical and contaminants emit by furniture, finishes and carpet.

However, minority of the lecturers did smell some noticeable odour. There isn’t any major

renovation that took place in the office, perhaps just some minor renovation such as drilling

or nailing. Almost all of the lecturers agree that the building is adequately cleaned because

there are cleaners to clean the building.

40

Office equipment or furnishes rarely give off gases that will make the lecturers in the office

experience discomfort. The outdoor air was not ventilating in the office due to the office

height and there are constructions going on near the campus. Only lecturers with their own

office room will obtain ventilation from outdoor. Most of the lecturers are aware that there is a

regular schedule for cleaning and maintenance of air-conditioning system in the office, which

is why the air-conditioning did not create any noises and overheating issues. Majority of the

females were able to accept the air freshness within the building but there are some male

lecturers felt that the air freshness within the building was not considered fresh. Most of the

lecturers felt that the overcrowded office during peak seasons did not cause the rise of the

temperature in the office.

Assunta Hospital Old Wing Level 4 (Mariam Ward)

Mariam ward is located in Assunta hospital in old wing level 4. Majority of the male and

female worker didn’t face any discomfort symptom cause by the working environment.  Most

of the male workers felt the existence of odour within the building. On the other hand,

majority of female workers did not really feel the existence of the odour within the building.

Two of our group members (a male and a female) went in the ward for survey purposes. The

result is that both of them do feel the existence of the odour within the ward. Based on our

observations, the odour comes from the food and medicine in the ward. More than half of the

male and female workers agree that the ventilation within the ward is adequate. Majority of

the male and female workers complain that there is an uneven temperature within the ward.

The remarks made include the fact that the temperatures in the wards are usually cold. The

vents in the ward are not blocked by dust, files and so on. The number of vent in the wards

is considered less. A huge amount of male and female workers are able to accept the air

freshness within the ward because those workers have been working in the ward for a period

of time.

On the other hand, a few workers aren’t used to the air freshness due to their high sensitivity

towards the air quality. The temperature is regulated by thermostat throughout the building.

A large amount of workers didn’t feel the any discomfort caused by the heat radiation from

visual display unit and window surfaces. The reason behind is because the workers in the

ward are usually walking around for work purposes, they don’t really face the visual display

in the front desk for hours and the window surface are usually located in the ward room,

open space of the ward and outside of the ward. Majority of the male and female workers

41

didn’t feel any odour that comes from the furniture, finishing and carpet that may emit

noticeable odours or chemical and contaminants. This is because the furniture, finishing and

carpets used by hospital has to fulfill the requirements. There has been a renovation taking

place in the new wing at level 6 Mawar ward. The building is adequately cleaned because

dusty and unhygienic environment is strongly unacceptable in hospitals as it will affect the

health condition of the patients.

Most of the male workers didn’t feel any office equipment giving off gases or furnishes such

as copying machines, blue print machines and other office machines but the female worker

didn’t feel the same way as make do. This is because the male workers rarely work with

those office equipment, they usually do menial jobs and for female worker they usually do

paper work. Majority of male workers feel that the outdoor air didn’t get into the building but

majority of the female workers didn’t feel the same as the male workers. We believe this is

because of the male workers move around ward to ward very frequently and that is why they

don’t feel it but female workers usually stay in the ward. The air-conditioning systems in the

building are regularly scheduled for cleaning and maintenance because the hospital cannot

afford to let the air-conditioning systems fail and allow unclean air to the ward. Almost all of

the male and female workers do agree that overcrowding during peak seasons causes the

rise of temperature in the building, which is during visiting hours in the afternoon.

42

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS

Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus Block C Level 5

The followings are suggestions for future improvements:

1. Upgrade thermostat

The thermostat in the office is used to control the temperature and the workers adjust it. We

have received complaints from the lecturers that the office is always too cold. However, they

are always reluctant to adjust the thermostat because they don’t stay in the office for long

hours as they leave the office to conduct lectures from time to time. Moreover, the lecturers

are too occupied with their daily tasks that they don’t have time to look at or adjust the

thermostat. Upgrading the thermostat to automatic system could solve this problem. The

automatic system would increase the temperature accordingly if the office is too cold or too

hot and will bring thermal comfort of the occupants.

2.     Installation of more windows

After conducting our survey, we discovered that the windows in the office are insufficient to

provide adequate air ventilation. The office should not rely fully on mechanical ventilation, as

it would cause the growth and accumulation of bacteria in the space. The bacteria would

cause unpleasant odour in the office. Installation of more operable windows or vents to allow

outdoor airflow into the office is needed. Window frames that come with trickle ventilation

would be ideal. Windows installed should not have any obstacles blocking its ventilation and

cross ventilation. Other than that, natural air ventilation could help to save electricity, as

mechanical ventilation is not needed during days with fair weather. For instance, the office

can open the doors and windows to allow natural air ventilation during raining season. This

could also work as backup ventilation if the air-conditioning system or electricity breaks

down.

3.     Installation of air purifier

From the survey that we have conducted, it is reported that the office had unpleasant odour.

This may be due to some lecturers eating in the office, as the smell of the food will be stuck

on the carpet and the air-conditioner. Therefore, the installation of air purifier in the office is

required to clear the odour by filtering out the odour particle in the air. Air purifier can also

prevent the transmission of sickness through air.

43

ASSUNTA HOSPITAL OLD WING LEVEL 4 (MARIAM WARD)

1. Upgrade thermostat

The temperature in the hospital should thermostat system to automatic. It will help to control

the temperature to fit workers thermal comfort as workers in ward complaint uneven

temperature, the complaint are usually too cold. With automatic thermostat systems, it will

control the temperature depending on the environment of the ward, for example when it is

crowded during peak seasons. By upgrading automatic thermostat systems, it can overcome

the condition of uneven temperature easily.

2. Odour control

In the ward, odour is mainly transmitted from the food. The smell from the food tank

insulation is very strong. As such, it would be better if the in charge department can upgrade

their food distribution system and wash the food tank insulation regularly to prevent

transmission of food odour.  

3. HVAC System

According to our observations made after conducting a survey in Assunta Hospital, we’ve

noticed the inadequacy of HVAC system in the building.  HVAC system plays an important

role in maintaining indoor air quality. The lack of HVAC system in buildings can cause

serious indoor air pollution. Therefore, improvement of HVAC system is recommended.

Regular cleaning and increasing of HVAC system can increase the frequency of air

regulation. Consequently, dust, bacteria and germs trapped can be removed almost

immediately. Patients receiving treatment in this hospital will no longer be at risk of inhaling

polluted air.

44

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS IN THE SYSTEM

Block C Level 5 office

Transmission of Sickness – Block C Level 5 office is mainly depend on mechanical

ventilation, air-conditioning. The only way to let the air flow is through the door and the

window in the office. The amount of air flow is too small. There is a possibility that if a

lecturer having sickness, the sickness might transmit through the air. The transmission of

sickness within the office is very common. This will cause the efficiency of the worker to

drop.

In addition, possible problem that lead to sick building syndrome is the lack of cleaning.

Maintenance and regular housekeeping is the key to ensure effectiveness of this system.

However, irregular cleaning in personal spaces had greatly reduced the indoor air quality by

providing a dusty environment the reason is due to the cleaner do not have the permission to

touch the belonging of lecturers. Objects that are not in used and are set aside for a long

time are the sources of dust collection. Dust consists of particles in the atmosphere that

come from various sources like soil and pollution. Needless to say, the air flow into our

buildings consist of dust. Unengaged objects therefore will be overlaid by dust. For instance,

assignment boards created during group or individual assignments that are left aside once

the assignments are over will turn out to be dusty.

Furthermore, sick building syndrome is also caused by existing machineries in office

buildings. Photocopy machines are essential in the modern office. However as we focus on

the machines’ high performance functionality and good quality printing, we neglect to

consider how potentially risky they can be to our health. Photocopy machines emits ozone to

the atmosphere which is highly reactive, unstable and colorless gas with distinctive odour.

As it is highly reactive, any sites of initial contact like the respiratory tract, the lungs and eyes

will be affected. Powder form toner used can escape and get into the air and hence causing

an issue to human health. Photocopiers raise the temperature of a room and indirectly

increasing the stress on nearby workers.

45

Assunta Hospital

Besides, ongoing constructions at nearby places or the building itself results in Sick Building

Syndrome.  High levels of formaldehyde off gas are formed from particle board. Carpeting is

another major source of VOCs in many buildings since a large number of chemicals are

used in their manufacture in the form of glues, backing materials, flame retardants, and

dyes. Individuals nearby that inhale the contaminated air might cause lungs infection hence

experience difficulty in breathing. Some cases may cause death especially in hospitals

where all the patients have lower immune system. The construction process will cause noise

pollution and it will disturb the patient mentality. Hence, patient that are on their recovery

pathway will feel uneasy and stress. For the time ahead, if any health care centre have

planned to renovate their places, they would have to make better arrangements in terms of

ventilation and also quarantine their patients from renovating areas.

In addition, flaws in the HVAC system can lead to SBS. Heating, ventilation and air

conditioning (HVAC) is the one of the most intricate systems to provide thermal comfort and

acceptable indoor air quality. HVAC system is designed based on the principles of

thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. According to survey, malfunction of

HVAC system had increased indoor air pollution. Dirty filters and poor maintenance of HVAC

system reduces air ventilation in the building. Hence, trapping dust, bacteria and germs.

46

CONCLUSION

Based on the survey that we have conducted, sick building syndrome do exist in both

building Block C level 5 and Hospital Assunta level 4 (Mariam ward). This is because more

than 20 percent of workers suffer from SBS symptoms caused by the working environment.

For Block C level 5 office do have 43.3 percent of lecturers suffer from SBS symptoms

compared to Hospital Assunta level 4 (Mariam ward) only have 26.7 percent. The reason for

both of the building to have more than 20 percent of worker to suffer from sick building

syndrome  because buildings that are equipped with air-conditioning will be more likely to

have workers complaining about discomfort because of the working environment. The other

reason for hospital to have  26.7 percent of worker suffer from sick building symptom

because of the odour is the mixture of medicine and food, both of our group member do felt

emesis while conducting the survey in the ward. Why is the percentage of worker that suffer

from sick building syndrome in hospital is lesser compare to office because the worker in

hospital do fulfill the requirement that the worker itself can resist the odour and been through

training in order to work. On the other hand, the reason office will have high percentage of

lecturers suffer from sick building syndrome because of the indoor environment quality

wasn’t on it best condition and lecturers work in the office for a long term of period. Some of

the lecturers itself are sensitive to bad indoor environment quality or not in the good

condition of health. Due to all the reasons it would trigger sick building syndrome and sick

building symptom within the office.

47

LEARNING OUTCOME

Upon completion of this Building Services I assignment, we have gained new insights about

our selected topic, that is Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). Thus, we have a better

understanding of how the IEQ of the building can affect building occupants. From the

knowledge that we have studied about IEQ, we were able to apply our understanding and

relate it to our case study. It has given us an exposure of how IEQ works in real life

situations as we went to our selected healthcare centre and office to understand the location

as well as to be more familiar with it. As such, we are now able to explain what IEQ is all

about better.

Throughout this assignment, we have also gained soft skills. Stronger interpersonal skills

were developed within us as we learned to respect one another’s opinions and perspectives.

Carrying this group assignment also strengthened our team working skills such as

leadership and motivating others. Furthermore, our productivity increased as we were able

to achieve so much more as a whole rather than doing it individually.

48

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Quality? Retrieved on 26th October 2016 from http://www.usgbc.org/articles/green-building-

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APPENDICES

Photos taken in Block C level 5 office:

Air-conditioning vents in C5 office

Windows in C5 office room

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Pathway in C5 office

Photos taken in Hospital Assunta old wing level 4 (Mariam ward) and new wing level 6 (Mawar ward)

Air conditioning system in Mariam ward

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Air-conditioning vents in Mariam ward

Window in patient room for Mariam ward

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Windows in the open space for hospital

Renovation material in Mawar ward

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