Clarifying thermal comfort of healthcare occupants in tropical region: A case of indoor environment in Thai hospitals

The results showed that the PMV model mismatched thermal comfort for healthcare occupants in the tropics, particularly for medical staff. The preferred temperature for the thermal comfort of tropical occupants was slightly colder than neutral, although patients preferred warmer temperatures than other occupants. The acceptable temperature range for patient, visitor, and medical staff are at 21.8-27.9, 22.0-27.1, and 24.1-25.6 °C respectively, which is warmer than suggested by the Thai standard. As a result, to optimally enhance the comfort and health of occupants in a healthcare facility in tropical regions, the standard used for hospital environments must be carefully integrated and revised in accordance with the different requirements for the thermal comfort of various healthcare occupants.