Overview
Notes the gradual re-emergence of the use of passive ventilation and cooling techniques with some mechanical ventilation for peak loads (mixed mode). Penetration in the private sector is held back apparently because clients and developers do not believe such buildings will provide acceptable comfort conditions.
Reports on an assessment of three headquarters type buildings with mixed mode ventilation to determine whether these concerns are valid. The building indoor environment was assessed in a monitoring programme over two two-week periods (one winter, one summer).
An occupant questionnaire was distributed, based on the BRE/RSH questionnaire for studies of sick building syndrome. Presents and discusses the findings. Among the conclusions states that the owner/operator must embrace the concept and practices of mixed-mode ventilation to achieve low energy usage and effective building operation and that proper design and use of the building should be augmented by training and instruction of occupants.