The successful management of air conditioned environments for the construction industry

Investment in commercial construction in Australia is being compromised by poor environmental systems management. This paper begins by explaining how building related illness, sick building syndrome and physical discomfort may negatively impact investment in construction and property. The latest data from a unique 10 year study of 875 air-conditioned commercial buildings in Australia is presented; findings confirm the effects of widespread ignorance and poor system performance arising at all stages of the development process. While this unsatisfactory position applies to the survey sample generally, speculative low cost developments are for the first time clearly identified in the worst light. As an aid to members of the construction and property professions not expert in matters concerning air-conditioning plant and air-handling systems an explanation of proactive and remedial measures designed to ensure the successful management of commercial environments is presented with the case study data.