Ventilation systems, Air quality and Stress levels: Relationship of ventilation systems, air quality and occupant stress levels

This comprehensive study examines Singapore Changi Airport's innovative hybrid ventilation system, which strategically combines natural and mechanical ventilation to optimise indoor air quality and thermal comfort in a challenging tropical climate. The system adheres to both local Singapore Standards SS 554:2015 and international benchmarks such as ASHRAE, successfully maintaining indoor temperatures between 22°C to 24°C, significantly cooler than the external tropical conditions of 25°C to 31°C.
The centrepiece of this environmental design is the iconic Rain Vortex, which serves multiple functions beyond its aesthetic appeal. As water cascades down the vortex, it generates a cooling mist that naturally filters and circulates air throughout the airport, while simultaneously creating a biophilic element that enhances traveller well-being. The feature's acoustic properties help mask disruptive airport noise, contributing to a more serene environment.
This research demonstrates that this integrated approach significantly impacts occupant health and comfort. The system effectively addresses both physical and psychological aspects of human comfort, with natural elements reducing cortisol levels and improving cognitive function. Temperature control through the hybrid system helps mitigate physiological effects of heat-induced stress, including elevated heart rate and blood pressure, which are particularly concerning in hot and humid environments.
The airport's design includes careful zoning within terminals, allowing for precise control of air temperature in areas with higher densities, such as check-in counters and security checkpoints. This approach to environmental management has positioned Singapore Changi Airport as a global benchmark for sustainable infrastructure design. The findings emphasise how thoughtful environmental design in high-density spaces can successfully balance operational efficiency with human comfort, offering valuable insights for future sustainable infrastructure development in public spaces.