Air conditioning at Work

Air conditioning and heating issues are common in the workplace, as people can often have different perceptions of what is an acceptable temperature based on their individual levels of personal comfort. However while temperature is a factor in how people feel, humidity and air movement also play a role too. In Queensland, there are no WH&S regulations specifying standards for minimum temperatures, air flow or humidity in the workplace.

What is air conditioning?

Air conditioning simply refers to the process for changing the air temperature and humidity within an area for either cooling or heating purposes, typically using a refrigeration cycle (moving heat from one area to another), but also sometimes utilising evaporation (cooling air through the evaporation of water).

How does it work?

Air conditioning systems do not ‘make’ cold air; instead they remove heat from the air, which then leaves this air colder than it was before. The heat is then removed to another location, normally outside the area being cooled. While various air conditioning systems use different methods to achieve this, the basic concept is the same.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

There are various types of air conditioning systems in use, several of which found at CQUniversity are shown below:

Window/wall units

Window/wall units otherwise known as box units, have all their components together in one unit which is permanently mounted through an external wall or window. Some models can be connected to standard power points. However with all models the flow must not be obstructed during operation.

Split systems

Split systems are permanently mounted systems with the compressor unit located externally and a separate condenser inside the room. These are joined together by piping, which carries the refrigerant. The remote location of the compressor makes these units significantly quieter than window/wall models.

Ducted systems

Ducted systems are designed to centrally heat and cool a large number of rooms or an entire home. They are suitable for areas with open plans, and/or for heating and cooling all or most rooms simultaneously. They are more expensive to run than other types as they heat and cool larger areas. Where possible ducted systems are zoned, which divides the area into two or more sections that can be heated or cooled separately.

Thermal comfort

Comfort is influenced by clothing, the job being undertaken, temperature, humidity and air flow. People may feel uncomfortable if the temperature within an office is either too low or too high. High humidity can create a stuffy, sticky atmosphere and contribute to feelings of tiredness. There are considerable individual differences between people regarding what is comfortable and it is unlikely that a single temperature or level of humidity will suit everybody.

Identifying thermal comfort issues

There are some simply ways to identify if there are thermal comfort issues in your work area. Ask yourself or your co-workers the following questions:

• Do you find the atmosphere hot, cold, stuffy or draughty?
• When do you notice these conditions?
• What effect do these conditions have on your work?
• How do you deal with them?
• Where do you notice these conditions?

Controlling thermal comfort issues

Some general suggestions for improving thermal comfort include:

• Regulate air conditioning for temperature and humidity.
• Avoid locating workstations directly in front of or below air conditioning outlets.
• Install deflectors on air vents to direct airflow away from people. These measures will help prevent staff being annoyed by draughts (see Figure 3.7 above).
• Control direct sunlight (radiant heat) with blinds, louvers and window treatments.
• Minimise draughts and thermal differences between the head and the feet (thermal gradients). 
• Ensure adequate air flow. Feelings of stuffiness can result when the air flow is low, and draughts occur when air flow is high.

Vents (ducted systems only)

Ceiling vents should be located centrally in a room or between the centre and external walls. Placing vents near internal walls should be avoided as air circulation will be impeded. ‘Four directional’ ceiling vents, or vents with adjustable louvers should be directed downwards rather than sideways, providing optimum heat distribution.

Who do I contact?

Air conditioning systems and related hardware at CQUniversity fall under the control of the Facilities Management Directorate (DFM). If you have an issue in your area first speak to your supervisor or manager, who can either lodge an online request through MEXops, or contact DFM as per below:

Phone: (07) 4930 9241
Fax: (07) 4930 9122
Email: facmg@cqu.edu.au

Address: Building 37, Level 1, CQUniversity Rockhampton, Bruce Highway Rockhampton QLD 4700

Further resources

Ergon energy:

Home air conditioner cost calculator

Six ways you can save on your home air conditioning

Contributions

(Fact sheets - Sustainability Victoria and ‘Officewise’ – WorkSafe Victoria were used in the production of this article)