Why are humidifiers so important in occupied spaces?

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a hot topic at the moment, with healthcare experts and industry publications both having their say on the matter. This follows the publication of a report from the Royal College of Physicians and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health which stated that 40,000 UK deaths a year are attributable to air pollution.

While much has been said about most aspects of IAQ, relative humidity (RH) has been somewhat ignored. This is despite the BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) stating that RH is an important factor in the thermal comfort and wellbeing of building occupants (Efficient Humidification in Buildings [AG 10/94.1 (1995)]).

Dry indoor air in the workplace can have a serious effect on the comfort, health and productivity of employees. Experts agree that the ideal indoor RH level for a comfortable working environment is between 40% and 60%. Lack of attention towards humidity means that many offices across Britain fall well outside this range.

Low RH can cause employees to experience headaches, sore throats, itchy skin and eye irritation. Persistent dryness in the nose and throat increases susceptibility to ailments such as colds and coughs – one of the reasons low RH is seen as a factor in sickness and absenteeism rates.

Most offices should have some form of humidification system installed to maintain a comfortable RH of at least 40%. A humidifier can be implemented as part of a new or existing HVAC system, but it’s important to consider Legionnaires’ disease regulations, water supply, humidifier location, control compatibility and maintenance requirements.

Gibbons Humidification offer energy-efficient rotary atomiser humidification systems, complemented by an outstanding service programme designed to maximise the performance of your equipment. We have many years’ experience in the industry and serve major multinational clients across the healthcare, chemical, pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors to name just a few.

For all enquiries relating to Gibbons’ humidification systems, call Steve Rix on 07966423165 or email steve@gibbonsgroup.co.uk.