Analysis of the obligations for the assessment of the health risks related to the hygiene of air conditioning systems in indoor workplaces, with reference to the Risk Assessment Document (DVR) and to the microclimate conditions

GANDINI S.R.L., managing Director, Renewable Energies in HVAC & nearly Zero Energy Buildings Consulting – 37045 Legnago, Verona, Italy

^* Corresponding author: j.gandini@gandinistudio.com

Abstract

Safety in the workplace has been regulated for years in Italy in a very complete manner and very often it is identified as a set of rules governed by the Legislative Decree of 9 April 2008, n. 81: Consolidated text on health and safety at work, implementation of article 1 of the law of 3 August 2007, no. 123 regarding the protection of health and safety in the workplace. Very often, within the Risk Assessment Document (DVR– Documento di Valutazione dei Rischi), required by law for all companies that have at least one worker, the risks associated with air conditioning and ventilation systems are not always sufficiently taken into consideration, as regards to workers safety at workplace. Numerous studies have shown that microbiological and chemical contamination of the air in confined indoor spaces inside buildings can be attributable to poor hygienic conditions, overcrowding of the premises and/or situations where it is not possible to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of the aeraulic systems themselves. In this context, this research provides an interesting analysis of some of the main problems inherent in the maintenance of aeraulic systems and their implications, for the parties involved by law, in terms of non-compliance with the provisions of Legislative Decree 9 April 2008, no.81, offering useful ideas for those who want to ensure maximum energy efficiency and healthiness of air conditioning and/or ventilation systems.