Examination of thermal comfort in a hospital using PMV–PPD model

In this study, the performance of air conditioning system and the level of thermal comfort are determined in a state hospital located in Kermanshah city in the west of Iran in winter and summer using the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) model which has been presented by ISO-7730 (2005). The Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and the Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied (PPD) indices were computed using the data acquired from the experimental measurements performed in the building. The results showed that the values of PMV in some parts of the building, both for men and women, are not within the standard acceptable range defined by ISO. It was found that the most thermal problems in winter occur in morning work shift, and the worst thermal conditions in summer occur in noon work shift. The t-test results revealed that there is no noticeable difference between the thermal conditions of some rooms and those of the surroundings.

► We found that the thermal comfort is affected on work performance in a hospital.
► The PMV–PPD indices are able to accurately assess air conditioning system performance.
► The result of PMV–PPD index can be used for adjusting cooling and heating system.
► Thermal comfort is one of the most important problems in medical center old building.