In the UK, we tend to associate the concept of humidity with holidays abroad. It’s not something we usually consider in terms of workplace comfort, except on the most extreme of summer days.

However, with businesses placing greater emphasis on indoor air quality, construction and building services organisation BSRIA has highlighted the importance of keeping humidity levels in the right range.

BSRIA asset performance team leader Blanca Beaato-Arribas explained low humidity levels lead to eye irritation and dry throats, which has obvious implications for comfort and productivity.

High humidity, meanwhile, affects indoor air quality by encouraging bacterial and mould growth, as well as increasing chemical emissions from building varnish and paint.

With recent research showing better workplace environments can boost productivity by up to 8%, adding £20 billion to UK GDP, BSRIA warned of the discomfort humidity extremes can cause. In an office, a range of 40% to 60% is normal, with long periods of exposure to levels under 35% likely to cause problems.

“Controlling the humidity levels and regular maintenance of the systems in an office building will avoid future costly problems related to mould growth and also contribute to the wellbeing and productivity of the occupants,” said Ms Beato-Arribas.

She also noted that low humidity creates a risk to equipment, particularly in data centres, as it increases the likelihood of static electricity.

For more information on maintenance of thermal comfort levels in your workplace, contact the 361 Servicing team.