I. Temperature
Risk Level:
– Low: 22-25°C (72-77°F)
– Moderate: 20-21°C (68-71°F) or 26-27°C (79-81°F)
– High: <20°C (68°F) or >27°C (81°F)
Health Effects:
– Low: Comfortable, no health risks
– Moderate: Mild discomfort, potential for heat stress or hypothermia
– High: Severe heat stress or hypothermia, increased risk of illness
II. Relative Humidity (RH)
Risk Level:
– Low: 30-60%
– Moderate: 20-29% or 61-70%
– High: <20% or >70%
Health Effects:
– Low: Comfortable, no health risks
– Moderate: Mild discomfort, potential for respiratory issues
– High: Severe respiratory issues, increased risk of illness
III. Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Risk Level:
– Low: <800 ppm
– Moderate: 800-1200 ppm
– High: >1200 ppm
Health Effects:
– Low: No health risks
– Moderate: Mild cognitive impairment, potential for respiratory issues
– High: Severe cognitive impairment, increased risk of illness
IV. Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Risk Level:
– Low: <12 μg/m³
– Moderate: 12-35 μg/m³
– High: >35 μg/m³
Health Effects:
– Low: No health risks
– Moderate: Potential for respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease
– High: Increased risk of respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, cancer
V. Formaldehyde (HCHO)
Risk Level:
– Low: <20 ug/m3
– Moderate: 20-40 ug/m3
– High: >40 ug/m3
Health Effects:
– Low: No health risks
– Moderate: Eye, nose, and throat irritation, potential for cancer
– High: Severe eye, nose, and throat irritation, increased risk of cancer
VI. Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC)
Risk Level:
– Low: <200ug/m³
– Moderate: 200-400 ug/m³
– High: >400 ug/m³
Health Effects:
– Low: No health risks
– Moderate: Eye, nose, and throat irritation, potential for neurological issues
– High: Severe eye, nose, and throat irritation, increased risk of neurological issues
Risk Assessment Matrix
ASHRAE 170 Requirements
– Temperature: 22-25°C (72-77°F)
– RH: 30-60%
– CO2: <800 ppm
– PM2.5: <12 μg/m³
– Formaldehyde: <20 ug/m3
– TVOC: <200 ug/m³
Note:
- This guideline is based on ASHRAE 170 and is specific to hospitals.
- The risk levels and health effects listed are general guidelines and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
- It’s essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine the appropriate risk assessment and mitigation strategies for your specific environment.