What are the heating requirements in the workplace?

Here, we take a look at commercial heating, and which factors are considered before installation.

But firstly, there’s a ‘science’ to heating large commercial buildings, and that’s why you should always consult an accredited commercial heating engineer.

Let’s face it, ensuring your workplace is warm, means your workforce are likely to be more content.

And we all want happy employees!

It is, however, a legal responsibility of employers, to meet the temperature requirements set out in the ‘Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992’.

These temperature requirements are as follows:

• Minimum Temperature for sedentary workers 16 degrees C (for non-physically active workers)
• Minimum temperature for active physical workers 13 degrees C (for physically active workers)

Whether it is a commercial, retail, or industrial premises you need to heat – you will need to think about installing and maintaining a heating system(s) that meet these requirements, while also ensuring cost efficiency.

Considerations when heating a commercial building

Instructing an accredited commercial heating engineer is a must, as there are many factors specific to commercial environments that can affect cost efficiency and energy usage, as well as compliance.

Nowadays, heating systems increasingly use smart technologies that regulate temperatures in relation to the physical make-up of the premises, and which rooms/spaces are being used at which times.

For example, a commercial heating specialist will evaluate which areas get colder due to factors such as:

• Being north facing
• Being prone to drafts
• If areas experience a high footfall  (meaning that heating is let out through opening doors)

Also, if areas of the building such as the canteen or boardroom only get used at specific times, you might want to make sure the temperature is comfortable only while in use.

There are also factors that dictate the ‘design’ of commercial heating systems such as preventing condensation and mould, and improving air quality.

Ultimately, heating a commercial building, whether it’s an office, factory, or warehouse, requires a reliable and robust system that serves and supports a (sometimes very) large space.

What types of commercial heating systems are there?

There are many commercial heating systems to choose from, and there is no ‘one size fits all’, so here, we look at a couple of examples of which types of heating systems commercial businesses often use.

‘Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems’ (HVACs)

HVAC is an umbrella term for interrelated and multifunctional air control systems, and have the advantage of using multiple components that are designed to suit the size and shape of a building.

HVACs usually consist of:

• Boilers
• Air conditioning units
• Ducts
• Moisture vents

The most notable thing about an HVAC is that in addition to heating and cooling, it regulates the air quality inside a building through ventilation and ducts.

Ultimately, with a HCAV system, you will be able to ensure your employees are cool during the summer months, and warm during winter.

Heat Recovery Ventilators

Heat recovery ventilators recycle the energy in your building, helping to lower utility bills while maintaining compliancy with building regulations.

Essentially, this type of ventilation provides fresh air and climate control, while reducing energy output.

Air flow is essential, particularly for industrial and commercial facilities, but bringing in fresh air changes the temperature and humidity of your building. Your HVAC system has to compensate for these changes, the energy cost of which, can be significant.

Commercial Gas Heating systems

Commercial gas heating systems are most effective when a building requires a constant level of heating, as heaters (or radiators) can easily be positioned. Due to the versatility of the positioning of commercial gas systems, these are generally the most effective in terms of cost.

You will need to talk to an accredited and experienced commercial heating engineer, to ensure your commercial gas heating system is optimised in terms of planning, design, and cost.

Make an enquiry about commercial heating installation

If need a commercial heating system installed, or if you have one already that simply needs maintenance, then we at EESI are on hand to advise you on what your options are.

Just call our friendly team on 01453 821550 or email: info@eesi.co.uk

We look forward to hearing from you!