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Office environment (nothing to do with loo rolls)
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Posted By Martin Taylor
I'm not sure that this simple question deserves a place in the forum discussing safety of loo rolls - here we go anyway.
What guideance exists on suitable humidity for office environments populated by various PC users.
thanks
Martin
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Posted By Heather Aston
Martin
A quick Google search gives lots of references - most say between 40 and 70% is advised.
Heather
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Posted By Martin Taylor
thanks Heather - I am running at 50% at present so your figures indicate as I though - OK - does anybody have different guideance?
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Posted By Shelagh O'Sullivan
Martin
Above guidance is similar to mine (40-60%) - but some info to support it, may be of interest.
High levels of humidity - (excess of 80% RH) -can impede the evaporation of sweat, thus restricting the body's ability to lose heat
Low humidity - usually below 30% RH - can dry out mucous membranes, e.g. in throat and eyes,.Symptoms = soreness and a higher susceptibility to coughs and colds as a result of the loss of protection from the mucous membranes.
Low humidity in offices can cause higher levels of airborne dust. This can exacerbate health problems by affecting bodily defences, creating a greater risk of respiratory illness. Also can increase static electricity from carpets and furniture. Not a serious hazard, but can cause discomfort, if the static discharges as a spark when touching metal objects, such as filing cabinets, door handles, etc.
Previous threads on this forum on how to combat low humidity have helped me. Watch out when weather is very cold and dry. We have recorded <30%RH.
Shelagh
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Posted By Heather Aston
Martin
There was something about needing to be above 55 to avoid static shocks in certain types of carpets.
Most of our offices run about the same as yours. I understand that below 40, people start to feel dry eyes and this can increase problems with eyestrain.
Heather
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