How to Calculate Thermal Comfort

Thermal comfort is a personal measure of satisfaction with the temperature of an environment. Employers and business owners monitor thermal comfort as a means to encourage productivity in the workplace. Specifically, thermal comfort in a space is at its peak when body heat can dissipate into the surroundings and occupants can maintain a constant and comfortable thermal balance. Thermal comfort can be calculated using a computerized mathematical algorithm or by monitoring the answers to a few basic questions.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Humidity gauge

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Instructions

• 1

  Measure the air temperature. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the air and to monitor its fluctuations. Thermal comfort is maximized by a room temperature that does not feel warm or cool on bare skin, and by ensuring that a comfortable temperature is maintained throughout the workday. Fluctuations in temperature will decrease the space's thermal comfort.

• 2

  Measure the humidity level of the room. A humidity gauge that shows a thermal comfort level can be used to ensure that the room's humidity is in an acceptable range. Air that is too dry or too moist will decrease the thermal comfort of the room. The humidity level of a space should not be affected by the weather, heating system or production operations.

• 3

  Identify positive and negative forms of air movement in the space. Positive air movement includes air circulation created by ceiling fans and effective venting. Negative air movement includes air blown by a heating and cooling vent directly on the work space, draftiness, and blowing winds from fans or open windows.

• 4

  Interview employees and customers to determine thermal comfort satisfaction based on work pace and clothing. Consider the ability to change attire to adjust personal comfort and the effect of physical labor on body temperature.

• 5

  Calculate the number of positive and negative thermal comfort indicators in the space. Make changes to minimize the negatives in order to maximize thermal comfort.