Measuring comfort at an office workplace

Detailed view of a comfort measurement at an office workplace

During a comfort measurement, values ​​for the relative comfort (PMV = Predicted Mean Vote) and the relative discomfort (PPD = Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied) are determined (cf. e.g. ISO 7730). The mean radiant temperature is calculated from the measured variables globe temperature, ambient temperature and air speed. Since comfort is a very subjective feeling, the level of clothing and level of activity also play an important role.  

The PPD value is determined based on the measured PMV value and a standardized frequency distribution.

At the highest possible level of comfort (PMV = 0), the dissatisfied rate is still 5%. With PMV values ​​of -0,5 or +0,5, the rate of dissatisfaction is 10%. At PMV values ​​of -3,0 or +3,0, almost 100% of respondents would say they are uncomfortable. In the highest comfort class, PMV values ​​between -0,5 and +0,5 are aimed for. 

When measuring the draft rate (DR), the degree of turbulence (Tu) and the temperature are measured at three different heights. The draft is measured at the level of the thermally exposed areas such as the head and ankles, as well as the height of the thermal center of gravity at stomach level. The measuring heights are different depending on whether the person is standing or sitting.

Our Experts draw up Expert opinion for comfort in rooms and consult Happy to help with problems. If necessary, they carry out their own Measurements through or evaluate existing measured values ​​/ operating data.