INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN A RETAIL STORE

Abstract

This dissertation explores the relationship between Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and customer and employee well-being in small retail stores. The study investigates how IAQ responds to environmental changes and its impact on occupant comfort and shopping experiences.

The study analyses six key IAQ parameters—Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5), Formaldehyde (CH2O), Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs), Air Temperature, and Relative Humidity (RH)—in comparison to SS554:2016 Code of Practice for IAQ in Air-Conditioned Buildings (SS554:2016 Standards). Initial measurements during the baseline period revealed disparities in IAQ, prompting IAQ enhancement strategies.

Hypothesis testing aimed to identify actionable improvements for IAQ parameters. While not all hypotheses yield statistical significance, interventions such as optimising cleaning products and implementing air purifiers show promise in reducing PM2.5, CH2O, and TVOCs levels, ultimately improving IAQ.

Subjective assessments evaluated thermal comfort, Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms, and humidity perceptions, highlighting the positive impact of IAQ improvements on occupant well-being. However, limitations include the focus on a single retail store limits the generalisability of findings, equipment constraints that prevented the measurement of certain IAQ parameters, and subjective assessments introduced subjectivity into the analysis.

In conclusion, this study underscores the dynamic nature of IAQ in small retail stores and its influence on customer and employee well-being. The recommendations derived from the findings aim to create a healthier indoor environment, emphasising the critical role of IAQ within the retail setting.