Analysis of thermal comfort in free-running and mixed-mode office buildings during summer season: A case study of Kathmandu Valley
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I.O.E. Pulchowk Campus
Abstract
Nepal is witnessing a more rapid temperature increase compared to the global average,
heightening concerns about potential thermal discomfort and its impact on the workplace
environment. Addressing this, there is a critical need to prioritize improvements in the
indoor thermal conditions of office buildings to mitigate potential adverse effects on
occupants. The indoor environmental quality, encompassing thermal comfort and indoor
air quality, holds substantial sway over occupants' well-being and productivity in office
settings. Therefore, fostering a comfortable and productive working environment is
paramount for effective work outcomes. The scientific community, particularly in building
analysis, has shown increased interest in issues related to thermal comfort and indoor air
quality, evident in recent revisions to the Directive 2018/844/EU on the energy
performance of buildings.
This study aims to report on the thermal environment conditions in free-running and mixedmode
office buildings and assess the thermal perception of office employees during the
summer season. Through physical parameter monitoring and survey questionnaires
conducted in Kathmandu Valley during June-July 2023, the study determined the comfort
temperature using Griffiths' method. The results indicate comfort temperatures of 27.21 °C
Description
Nepal is witnessing a more rapid temperature increase compared to the global average,
heightening concerns about potential thermal discomfort and its impact on the workplace
environment. Addressing this, there is a critical need to prioritize improvements in the
indoor thermal conditions of office buildings to mitigate potential adverse effects on
occupants. The indoor environmental quality, encompassing thermal comfort and indoor
air quality, holds substantial sway over occupants' well-being and productivity in office
settings.