How do temperature and relative humidity affect the health and comfort of school staff and students?
During the months when schools are artificially heated and many rooms become too hot and dry (indicating low relative humidity), some staff and students experience symptoms similar to those associated with sick building syndrome. These may include eye irritation, dry nose and throat, and even nose bleeds. There is some evidence that low relative humidity also may be associated with reduced resistance to colds and flu. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers recommends that in winter indoor temperatures be maintained between 68 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit, and in summer indoor temperatures be maintained between 73 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Relative humidity levels should be maintained between 30 and 60 percent. (Relative humidity is a ratio that compares the amount of water vapor in the air to the maximum amount of moisture the air could hold at a particular temperature.) If your classroom or work area does not have its own thermostat, you can help t
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