Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Adaptive comfort is crucial in environmental design, acknowledging people's ability to adjust to thermal conditions actively. It goes beyond static metrics, guiding dynamic and more effective design practices to create environments that promote satisfaction and well-being. This study investigated thermal comfort in naturally ventilated hospital environments at the University Hospital of the Federal University of São Carlos. Thermal conditions were evaluated based on the adaptive model of ASHRAE 55 and occupants' adaptive responses during summer, considering environmental measurements and questionnaires. The results revealed that temperatures in the SADT management and main reception often exceeded the limits of the adaptive model, with average excesses of 2.6°C and 3.01°C, respectively, exacerbating thermal discomfort. Furthermore, passive thermal conditioning strategies, such as tilting ceilings and blinds, were underutilized and questioned for effectiveness by occupants. In response to thermal discomfort, occupants adopted adaptive measures, such as changing positions and consuming cold beverages. Frequent exposure to artificially controlled thermal environments may reduce people's flexibility to adapt to different temperature conditions. Applying the adaptive model of ASHRAE 55 revealed limitations in assessing thermal comfort in hospital environments, highlighting the need to consider occupants' real perceptions and needs. The results emphasize the importance of a holistic and participatory approach to improving thermal comfort in hospital environments, integrating objective parameters and occupants' experiences.
Institution: Universidade de São Paulo
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Award: G521064499
OpenAlex ID: W4415800268