Microclimate

In accordance with the authorization from the Ministry of Labor and Veterans' Protection, the Institute for Protection and Ecology of the Republic of Srpska performs microclimate measurements (temperature, airflow velocity, relative humidity, and thermal radiation) in the work environment.

Microclimate testing in the work environment is a key activity that contributes to improving the health and well-being of employees, as well as enhancing overall productivity. The microclimate encompasses climatic conditions within a specific space, such as offices, production facilities, or public buildings, with its basic parameters including temperature, airflow velocity, relative humidity, and thermal radiation.

What is microclimate? Microclimate refers to the internal climatic conditions in a workspace that can significantly affect the work efficiency and health of employees. An optimal microclimate improves the work atmosphere and the psychophysical condition of workers, reducing the risk of developing illnesses that arise as a result of unfavorable working conditions.

How is microclimate measured? Microclimate testing is performed using specialized instruments that measure the following parameters:

• Air temperature is measured with thermometers or thermal sensors, which allow the determination of temperature in the workspace and the implementation of measures to adjust it if it deviates from the recommended values.
• Relative humidity of the air is determined using hygrometers, which measure the moisture level in the air, important for achieving optimal conditions in the space.
• Airflow speed is measured with anemometers, and ensuring adequate air circulation is important for improving the quality of the working environment.
• Heat radiation is measured with pyrometers, which allow precise determination of the heat radiation level in the space. Ensuring control of heat radiation is crucial for maintaining comfort in the work environment and reducing the risk of health issues that may arise from excessive exposure to heat sources.

Air temperature: Air temperature is one of the most important parameters of the microclimate in the work environment. The optimal temperature depends on the nature of the work, the physical activity of employees, and other factors such as airflow velocity and relative humidity. A work environment with the appropriate temperature ensures comfort, improves productivity, and reduces the risk of health issues such as heat stress or hypothermia.

Air temperature measurement is performed using thermometers or thermal sensors, which enable precise determination of the conditions in the space. Recommended temperatures for various work environments are defined by national regulations and international standards.

If the temperature deviates from the recommended values, corrective measures must be taken, such as installing air conditioning systems, ventilation devices, or heating. These measures aim to maintain optimal conditions for the health and productivity of employees.

Relative humidity: A sufficient amount of moisture in the air is an important condition for achieving comfort in a space, especially for people with respiratory health issues. However, the air can absorb a certain amount of moisture (relative humidity, expressed as a percentage), which depends on the temperature. The higher the temperature, the more water vapor the air can hold. By heating, we dry cold and humid air and increase its ability to absorb water vapor. When the temperature of moisture-saturated air drops, the excess moisture condenses. If such conditions persist for a long time, mold develops on walls, floors, wooden windows, and doors. Mold significantly compromises the health of individuals in such spaces.

Studies on indoor air quality show that in 54% of cases, inadequate ventilation is the cause of poor air quality. Water vapor is generated in every household through daily activities (cooking, showering, washing, etc.), drying of building construction and materials, and breathing by the occupants. For example, a family of four produces, or releases into their living space, an average of 10 liters of water in the form of water vapor daily.

Airflow velocity: Airflow velocity is one of the key parameters of the microclimate in the work environment, as it significantly affects the comfort of employees and heat exchange between the body and the surrounding environment. Excessively high airflow velocity can cause discomfort, body cooling, and drafts, while very low velocity leads to a feeling of stuffiness and a decrease in air quality.

Airflow velocity measurement is performed using specialized devices such as anemometers. When deviations from the prescribed values occur, corrective measures such as improving the ventilation system, redistributing air flow openings, or installing additional air conditioning equipment should be taken.

Ensuring adequate airflow velocity improves the quality of the working environment, reduces the risk of harmful substances accumulating in the air, and contributes to better health conditions for employees.

Thermal radiation: Thermal radiation is the process of transferring thermal energy from a radiation source to the surrounding environment in the form of electromagnetic waves, without direct contact. In the workplace, sources of thermal radiation can include industrial furnaces, heated surfaces of machines, electric heaters, or solar radiation in rooms with large glass surfaces.

Excessive exposure to thermal radiation can lead to discomfort, reduced productivity, heat stress, and even long-term health problems. Symptoms include fatigue, excessive sweating, dehydration, and the possibility of heat stroke.

Thermal radiation measurement is performed using pyrometers, radiometers, or thermal imaging cameras. These devices allow for accurate determination of the intensity of thermal radiation in a specific area.

Preventive measures to reduce the impact of thermal radiation include:

• Installation of thermal insulation materials or protective barriers.
• Use of cooling systems such as air conditioners or ventilation systems.
• Provision of appropriate personal protective equipment, such as reflective vests or thermal insulation clothing.
• Organizing breaks in cooler areas for workers exposed to high heat radiation.
• Control of heat radiation in the working environment contributes to greater safety and health of employees, as well as improving their work efficiency and well-being.

The significance of microclimate testing: Regular testing and monitoring of the microclimate are essential to ensure optimal working conditions and compliance with regulations. If deviations from standards are detected, corrective measures can be taken, such as improving ventilation or regulating temperature.

Equipment for microclimate testing

Microclimate testing is conducted using the following equipment:

• Thermometers for measuring temperature.
• Hygrometers for determining humidity.
• Anemometers for measuring air flow speed.
• Pyrometers for measuring thermal radiation.

This equipment allows precise monitoring of conditions in the workplace and taking appropriate steps to improve them in accordance with standards.

Who needs microclimate testing? Microclimate testing is necessary in various industries, from manufacturing facilities to office spaces, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, where conditions directly impact the health and safety of employees. Regular microclimate checks improve the overall working environment, reduce the risk of illness, and enhance productivity. This service is particularly useful for all types of organizations aiming to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.