Epistemic evaluation of policy influence on workplace indoor air quality of Hong Kong in 1996—2005

Abstract

Long-term measurement results of indoor air quality (IAQ) over a general community can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures for IAQ improvement of premises. However, this approach requires considerable measurement efforts and thus the complete data sets are not available in many circumstances. This study proposes an epistemic approach in estimating the probable influences of an IAQ policy for Hong Kong offices, using the regional IAQ measurement databases of offices in 1996, 1998—2001 and 2004—2005. After the implementation of the IAQ policy in 1997—1999, measurement results of IAQ in offices were collected and were used to quantify the IAQ improvement for Hong Kong offices. It is noted that IAQ dissatisfaction due to air pollutants predominated by indoor emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) might need additional attentions for an effective IAQ improvement programme. Practical application: This study provides updated information on the forecasts of IAQ in air-conditioned offices of Hong Kong due to the influence of the IAQ policy implemented in 1997—1999. It is a useful source of reference for policymakers and decision makers in evaluating an indoor air pollution control policy for air-conditioned offices.