English

ECRC Capenhurst co-operated with two firms of builders to design, build and sell four low energy houses. The houses were insulated to a high standard and fitted with mechanical ventilation. The average annual space heating energy consumption of the four houses was some 6,000 kWh, 95% of which was provided at low tariff rate by storage heaters. The whole house average temperature over the heating season ranged from 17.6 to 20.3 degrees C for the four houses.

Discusses sources of formaldehyde indoors, e.g. smoking, formaldehyde resins, and release of formaldehyde from chipboards and foam insulation, and the importance of ventilation in removing excess pollutants. Factors influencing the amount of formaldehyde release include age of materials, temperature, moisture variations, ventilation. Emphasises the importance of quality control, standards and tests such as FTM-1 and FTM-2.

Discusses building 'safe' houses, describes the decay chain of uranium 238 and the qualities of radon, and risks of developing lung cancer run by miners and householders. Figures for lung cancer in the USA are quoted. Details from three studies in Houston, Maine and Sweden are given. Discusses sources of radon, e.g. water, building materials, soil. A study of houses in Pennsylvania indicated that high radon concentrations occurred over Cambro-ordovician sediment rock. Discusses movement of radon from soil into dwellings.

Introductory talk on the indoor air quality problem. Compares risk of radon pollution in houses to the risks of smoking tobacco, and gives a definition of levels of concern. Mentions filtering of indoor air by means of an air-to-air heat exchanger, the interaction between ventilation and sources, e.g. unvented combustion heaters and carbon dioxide emissions; measurements of nitrogen dioxide are compared, and formaldehyde concentrations in 28 different commercial buildings.

Describes factors to be taken into account for air conditioning and heating in a theatre. Nature and purpose of the building call for an adequate supply of conditioned outdoor air, with a total supply air rate up to 69,000 m3/h. Economical use of energy was stressed. Detailed description of the problems involved with the auditorium and stage shaft are given.

Evacuation of people from their homes and workplaces is a standard response to the hazards created by the release of toxic gas. However, by staying indoors a person can take advantage of the clean air stored within the house volume, as well as the damping the house provides for sudden changes in outdoor toxic gas concentration. The relation between indoor and outdoor concentration is explored in this study, where it is shown that in most cases the risk of exposure to high concentration levels is substantially reduced by remaining indoors during the entire period of toxic gas release.

Notes field evidence of increased condensation in houses with reduced ventilation and increased thermal insulation installed to conserve energy. Treats the possible long term effects. Gives advice on taking into account the whole package of heating and ventilation of the property when energy conservation measures are being contemplated.