HEALTH AND SAFETY


Table 3. Other causes of condensation. Causes


High indoor humidity levels due to indoor processes


Lack of proper maintenance Changes in room or space function


Effects Mould growth on surfaces Mould growth due to unresolved issues


Condensation due to altered usage patterns


Vapour pressure difference across envelope


Air pressure difference across envelope due to gusting wind or stack effect


Occupant behaviour in response to thermal comfort like heavy layers of clothing


Moisture intrusion and condensation Moisture buildup and condensation


Proposed mitigations


Maintain indoor humidity below 60 per cent; use dehumidifiers


Establish regular maintenance schedule; promptly address issues


Assess and adjust MVAC and


ventilation systems; enhance insulation


Use vapour barriers; ensure proper ventilation and insulation


Enhance building envelope integrity;


consider pressure equalisation measures


Unnecessary overcooling of space


Educate occupants on proper indoor thermal comfort control and management


Indoor plants and trees release moisture Can increase indoor humidity level through a process called transpiration


Proper ventilation, moisture control,


and create a conducive environment for and regular maintenance mould to grow on surfaces


walls to address heat gain, air leakage, and condensation. These panels provide thermal resistance, prevent excessive heat, and minimise air leakage for energy efficiency. Their strategic use also curbs condensation risks by maintaining balanced temperatures and reducing moisture accumulation on surfaces. Additionally, MoH invests in staff training to raise awareness of condensation and mould risks, empowering them to promptly report potential issues. MOH Engineers are also testing an


innovative early warning system in selected hospitals to detect condensation


risks. Specialised sensors gather temperature, humidity, and dew point data, triggering alerts when condensation risk thresholds are reached. This proactive approach leverages technology to prevent moisture-related issues and ensure a healthy indoor environment in healthcare facilities.


Apart from that, MOH have been


collaborating with global experts to investigate and address condensation and mould issues. Experts’ assessments cover air quality, ventilation, and moisture sources, generating comprehensive reports with recommendations. These


reports guide MOH engineers in managing condensation and mould effectively, reflecting their commitment to high- quality healthcare infrastructure. The highlighted strategies so far have


set a precedent for healthcare facility design and operation, emphasising proper envelope design, airtight building structures, as well as meticulous ducted ventilation systems. Insulation materials like PU foam and EPS foam, along with water and vapour barriers, enhance moisture control. Predictive software was also used with building information modelling to anticipate and prevent condensation risks. Figure 7 shows the use of building modelling software which includes a built-in module for condensation risk analysis. This powerful tool allows engineers and designers to simulate and evaluate building performance in terms of condensation risks. Additionally, the software’s inclusion of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) wind pressure analysis provides insights into how air movement and pressure differentials could influence moisture distribution within the building. This approach empowers engineers to proactively identify and address condensation risks during the design phase, ensuring that building envelopes are well-prepared to manage moisture- related challenges effectively.


Figure 5. A retrofit project involving the installation of a new Air Handling Unit (AHU). 30


Conclusion In the context of MOH facilities in Malaysia, effectively managing condensation and mould is pivotal for maintaining a safe and conducive environment for patients, staff, and visitors. Through a collaborative


IFHE DIGEST 2024


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