Questionnaire reports on symptoms and sensations from 4943 office workers, measurements of indoor climate from 540 office rooms in 160 buildings, and measurements of TVOC in 85 rooms were used in an analysis of the role of indoor air humidity and the sensation of dryness as risk indicators of SES (Sick Building Syndrome) symptoms. The sensation of dryness was strongly associated with the prevalence of SBS symptom reports. There were no associations between measured indoor air humidity and the prevalence of SBS symptoms or the sensation of dryness.

The focus of this review is on natural ventilation strategies and systems, highlighting design features and associated research. It outlines relevant papers dealing with: the main elements of natural ventilation research; the fundamental equations, driving forces and associated factors; the design and utilisation of windows, purpose provided openings, passive stacks and advances natural systems, with any design guidance where applicable; and case studies showing where such systems can be effectively installed, e.g. industrial buildings and libraries.

A "fungal index" is proposed as a new climate parameter for the characterization of the indoor environment. The index quantifies the environmental conditions in relation to the ability of fungi to grow by means of the response of a xerophilic fungus Eurotium herbarioriun. The growth response of this fungus was found to be climate-dependent. The indoor environment in a residential building in Japan (1991-1992) was quantitatively assessed by this approach. In the assessment, the variation in microclimate, which differs greatly within and between rooms, could be demonstrated.

A field experiment evaluated the effect of a furniture-integrated breathing-zone filtration (BZF) system on indoor air quality, worker comfort, health, and productivity. The BZF system tested filters office air to remove volatile organic compounds and airborne particulates. The BZF system was installed on one floor of a 29 story air-conditioned office building. Another floor of the building served as a control.