Abstract

This paper focuses on the importance of occupant satisfaction with indoor environmental quality in buildings as well as the effect of indoor environmental quality towards occupants’ satisfaction. This research applied post-occupancy evaluation as a method to indicate the building occupants’ needs, their satisfaction and comfort level. The research is based on a case study approach whereby a questionnaire survey was conducted among 25 organizations involved in managing office buildings. A total of 115 questionnaires were returned for evaluation of occupants’ overall satisfaction from aspects of indoor environmental quality in these buildings and to determine the occupants’ satisfaction level within these buildings. The findings revealed that indoor environment factors that could contribute to occupants’ satisfaction consists of lighting, air quality and aesthetic perception. These classifications were made based on the factor analysis done with 22 attributes of the indoor environment. The majority of occupants are satisfied with their health conditions and do not face any serious health problems. However, occupants highlighted that some environmental conditions, health effects, air movement, ventilation and air freshness are important criteria for their satisfaction and comfort. This study provides insights into how occupants perceive their indoor environment and comfort, and identify problems that could arise in buildings.

Highlights

  • Building is a fundamental component which provides shelter and facilities for individuals to perform daily task

  • The air and environment can be affected by chemical, biological and physical agents resulting from the occupants’ activities and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from other contaminants and pollutants released by certain building materials or from the ambient environment (Shuang, 2011)

  • This study highlighted the needs for an assessment of indoor environment quality (IEQ) satisfaction among occupants

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Summary

Introduction

Building is a fundamental component which provides shelter and facilities for individuals to perform daily task. The quality of indoor air is very important for human health and wellbeing because most people spend their time indoors; in offices, schools and homes (Di Giulio et al, 2010). The health risks of exposure to indoor air pollution are greater than those caused by outdoor air pollution. Various aspects of the indoor environment affect human well-being and performance. Other factors affecting the indoor environment quality (IEQ) are lighting, natural ventilation, thermal quality and indoor air quality (IAQ). High-performance design and green buildings can provide a better and healthier environment for the occupants (Kamaruzzaman et al, 2011)

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