Indoor climate

The indoor climate is made up of a number of measurable physical, chemical and biological factors. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has defined "indoor climate" as including:

• Thermal environment (heat, cold, draughts and humidity)
• Atmospheric environment (pollution, air quality and volume of fresh air)
• Acoustic environment (noise, perception of speech and sound)
• Actinic environment (lighting, radiation and electrical/magnetic fields)
• Mechanical environment (ergonomics, anti-slip protection and vibrations, etc.)

In buildings where health problems such as headaches, abnormal fatigue and irritation of the skin and mucous membranes (eyes, upper respiratory tract) are more prevalent than normal, there will be a need to initiate measures to counter this.

The above symptoms may be due to one or more factors as mentioned at the beginning. In addition, various types of stress and individual circumstances – such as allergies or other hypersensitivity issues – may affect or exacerbate the problems.

The occupational hygienist can provide information and help during HSE mappings and carry out measurements and assessments of the indoor climate. Measures to be taken are discussed in collaboration with the users and the Estate and Facilities Management Division.

Measures the individual can carry out:

• Keep the office/desk tidy to make cleaning easy.
• Store as little paper and books as possible in the workplace.
• Store paper and books in shelves with doors.
• Notify the Real Estate Department via Demaned notice (LYDIA) if you think there is something wrong with the ventilation in the office.

The Occupational health service can carry out measurements and assessments is cases where employees are experiencing problems or health challenges relating to the indoor climate. It is important that the immediate manager is informed before the occupational health service carries out measurements and assessments.

The Occupational health service should be contacted if employees have had the following problems/challenges relating to the indoor climate for a prolonged period of time:

• Itching, dryness or irritation of the eyes or nose
• Blocked or runny nose
• Dryness or irritation of the throat, hoarseness or coughing
• Attacks of shortness of breath
• Dry skin on the hands, arms or face
• Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, difficulties with concentration or a feeling of tightness in the head