Environmental Conditions in a Recently Constructed Office Building Before and After the Implementation of Energy Conservation Measures

Abstract

Abstract This study documents environmental changes in a new office complex during the period of initial occupancy and before and after the implementation of energy conservation measures. The parameters measured as part of a comprehensive monitoring program were ambient air temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, total volatile organic chemicals (TVOCs), airborne particulates, noise, illumination, air velocity, and outdoor air supply. Three separate surveys were conducted during the first 18 months of occupancy. Energy conservation measures were introduced prior to the third survey. The changes in thermal conditions, the increase in carbon dioxide and TVOC concentrations, and the rise in occupant complaints during this period all attested to a deterioration of the indoor environment due to the ventilation systems' inability to accommodate the building's increased population and the implementation of energy conservation measures. Facility design engineers and...