Low RH will also cause various materials to dry out very quickly. These are air temperature, mean radiant temperature, ventilation, humidity, air velocity, climatic and seasonal variations in outdoor temperatures and solar intensity. These issues are reflected in the environmental variables identified in HSE Guidance note 194 (4) - in relation to maintaining workplace health, safety and welfare. Allergic reactions are influenced by RH too. This is because the RH affects the distribution rate of these gases and there may be reactions between these chemicals and the water in the air. The survival rate of this virus is at its lowest at 40-60% RH at a temperature of 21☌.įurthermore, poor RH control has been linked with Sick Building Syndrome and the intensity of chemical pollution caused by gases from materials used inside the buildings. Low RH also increases the spread rate of pathogens such as the influenza virus. This can make the eyes become dry and itchy, especially for contact lens wearers, and respiratory surfaces start to dry out, leading to dehydration. When there are problems with humidity control in industrial and commercial environments it is usually because the RH is too low. In addition, RH can affect the integrity of stored materials and impair the reliability of machinery, resulting in disruption to the manufacturing process. Relative humidity (RH) can also impact the building fabric, for example by encouraging condensation on cold surfaces that potentially leads to corrosion or mould growth (depending on the type of material) – or can create slip hazards. It is well accepted that humidity control is an essential element in maintaining a healthy environment with good indoor air quality, and this is something that applies to any space where people are living or working. John Barker of Humidity Solutions explains.

Maintaining effective control of humidity is essential in industrial environments for both the health of the building and its occupants and, very often, supporting optimum performance of manufacturing processes.

Textile humidity sensor