Background
All staff in an office must be aware of how the building operates and how each individual can manage his or her local environment. Some buildings are furnished with air conditioning; others rely on radiators for heating, and natural ventilation by opening windows and air vents. So what can you do to help?
Self Regulation
Self regulation, as opposed to office-wide air conditioning, means that you should open the windows to allow a cross flow of air. The use of high screens between desks can lead to ventilation problems. By removing these screens, or at least replacing them with half-height screens, you can improve the cross movement of air and adhere to the ideals of an open plan building.
Prevent Overheating
You can use venetian blinds to cut down on glare or to stop the workplace getting really hot in the summer. Make full use of openable windows to allow cooler air into the building. If you do open a window please make sure you turn down radiators first to avoid wasting energy. Colleagues depend on those sitting next to openable windows to use this facility to benefit others. Remember that fans do not cool air but simply move it around, using valuable energy in the process, and if the office is unoccupied, for example during lunchtimes, fans should not be left switched on.
Mechanical Ventilation Ducts
Some buildings are fitted with vents on the floor - these can usually be adjusted to allow cooler air to enter the workspace. Please remember to avoid placing furniture over these vents.
Meetings
Why not consider your staff restaurant or a break area for your more informal meetings?
Switch off IT equipment
By switching off PCs, photocopiers, printers and other electrical items when they're not in use, you can reduce both the heat gain and the energy consumed by these items. Computers can generate a surprising amount of heat.
Remote light switching
Your building might also be fitted with a telephone or computer-based light switching system. All staff should familiarise themselves with its operation and make full use of the increased control which it offers.
Whatever you do, please think about your colleagues. Compromises sometimes have to be made: one person's ventilation is another person's draught, but if we act together, the building should be a more comfortable place in which to work.