Occupant satisfaction decreases exponentially with decreasing outside airflow rates. Most buildings do not operate at levels specified by ASHRAE 62. As a result, it is common for occupant dissatisfaction levels to exceed 50%. Measure and control minimum outside airflow rates with EBTRON thermal dispersion airflow measuring devices.

Acceptable IAQ can improve the owner’s bottom line

Typically if one person in an office space gets sick, the rest of the occupants will get sick. How many times have people in your office complained about headaches and fatigue? It is reasonable to assume that at least one sick day a year per person can be associated with inadequate ventilation and poor IAQ. As you can see, the costs are staggering.

Productivity studies show benefits of 3% to 20%

There are a number of productivity studies showing performance losses of 3% to 20% as a result of poor IAQ. In this study, 42% of IAQ dissatisfied workers were associated with a 5% productivity loss. Referring back to the occupant satisfaction graph, it is common for occupant dissatisfaction levels to reach 42%.

Productivity Gains are Significant

A 5% loss in productivity has a tremendous cost to an owner. Unfortunately the benefits of spending money to improve IAQ are not always obvious or instant so benefits are overlooked and under appreciated. Unlike temperature control, IAQ problems are not obvious. However, the general public is becoming more knowledgeable in this area.

Productivity or Energy

Compare the percentage of salaries and wages to total energy costs. Energy is a very small part of building operating costs yet owners and engineers focus much of their effort on energy.
We are not suggesting that energy be wasted, however it is very unfortunate that owners fail to recognize the overwhelming benefits of acceptable IAQ.

Even a small increase in productivity will quickly compensate for any additional expenses for providing proper ventilation.
“Due to the proliferation of mold in buildings, sound moisture management should take precedence over energy cost savings, according to a new position document from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).” Released 5/18/05.

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