Effect of the Activities Inside a Hospital Theatre of its IAQ

Abstract

A close relationship can be observed between the building performance and the activities associated with the building. Since those activities have a great impact on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) of the building, it is necessary to consider the activities that would take place inside a building, at its design stage. In this research study, the effect of the activities associated with a hospital theatre, on its IAQ has been studied since the theatre staff of a leading hospital in Sri Lanka, experience some discomfort while being inside the theatre. In order to evaluate this, variation of Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) and Particulate Matter less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) concentrations inside the theatre were measured and analysed. Significant variations were observed in the concentrations of CO2, TVOC and CO inside the operation theatre. CO2 concentration inside the room increased at the beginning and end of the surgeries due to high occupant density and also during Laparoscopic surgeries. TVOC concentration was affected by the usage of different chemicals during the surgery. Major effect to the CO concentration was by Diathermy.