A new simplified daylight evaluation tool, description and validation against the standard method of EN 17037

A new daylight evaluation tool using a simplified assessment method to determine the daylight quantity provided to a typical room was developed. Its calculation method is based on a set of formulas integrating the main factors characterizing the indoor space and the outdoor context. The results are expressed as a corrected Glass-to-Floor ratio (GFR*) which is used as a proxy for the daylight provision. This value can then be used to attribute a rating or “Daylight score” to each space. The main finding is that the simplified method is an easy and relatively reliable estimation for daylight provision. A comparison of the tool with detailed daylight simulations according to the daylight factor method of EN 17037:2018 shows that a high correlation is obtained. The tool is applicable for any case which has conditions matching closely to the models and situations defined. Due to its easy implementation and the limited number of input parameters this evaluation method could be well suited for building passport schemes.publishedVersio

Impacts of the indoor environment in our homes and schools on child health: A novel analysis using the EU-SILC Database

Today, more than 26 million European children are living in unhealthy homes putting them at higher risk of experiencing health problems. Our research is based on analysis of the Eurostat microdata from the EUwide survey “Income and Living Conditions in Europe” (EU-SILC). The results show that mould and dampness, as well as poor ventilation, can take a child from good health to poor health with links to higher levels of asthma, allergies, eczema, and lower and upper respiratory conditions. Across Europe, the prevalence of children affected by asthma has become an increasing problem in the last few decades. Unhealthy home environments can result in higher absence from school and work, putting a greater strain on both children, parents and the economy. Tackling the unhealthy homes, poor quality schools and day-care centres is an opportunity to improve the health and quality of life of European children.publishedVersio