As spring approaches, can we look forward to another sizzling summer like last year? The flowers are beginning to bloom and soon we’ll be throwing the windows open. But as temperatures rise, things at work can become increasingly uncomfortable. Suddenly we find ourselves trying to work in the middle of a Mediterranean heatwave. For those stuck in small offices with no air conditioning, it’s no fun at all and technology can start to overheat too, including our computers, mobile phones and tablets. What can be done to help?
- Fans
Both people and machines need good circulation. Office hardware can attract dust when it heats up which could also become a fire safety risk. Position fans carefully to keep both people and server rooms dust-free and cool.
- Solar Film
Films can be applied to windows to prevent sun glare, heat gain and to lower energy costs. A solar film can help prevent the extreme discomfort experienced by staff. An additional benefit is that a film provides extra security with one-way daytime vision.
- Brise Soleil
Incorporating a brise soleil into the architecture of a building means protection from rising temperatures caused by heat gain. IT works by reflecting sunlight away from the building. For Brise Soleil, visit https://alusystems.uk
- Air conditioning
Productivity decreases when staff are hot and flustered. It can be a good investment to install air conditioning, setting it to 22 degrees C, which is the optimum temperature for indoor working and productivity. People start to feel uncomfortable at 25, hot at 28 and by 35, there is a risk of heat stress.
- Remove shoes
If your workplace is relaxed enough, encourage people to go barefoot. You’ll want to keep the area well ventilated, so it doesn’t end up smelling of sweaty feet!
- Open doors
Computers generate a lot of heat, as well as the sun beating through the window. One simple, free way to maximise any breeze or air flow is to leave the outer door open. Sometimes this isn’t always practical, due to air or noise pollution, in which case you might have to settle for just open windows.
- Consider thermal mass properties
For long term solutions, it might be necessary to examine the energy efficiency of the building itself. One effective measure to cool an environment is to increase the thermal mass properties of the building. Insulation can also be added to the exterior to slow down the heat flow even more.
- Consider planting around the exterior of the building
For ground floor workers, another long-term plan is to plant shading flowers, shrubs and trees around the building. Vegetation can act as a natural buffer to curb rising temperatures inside your building. A roof overhang will also provide useful protection from the glare of the sun.
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