Overheating Risks and Impacts on Occupant Well-Being of Covid Lock-down in UK Apartment Blocks

Overheating in buildings is increasing in both domestic and commercial situations. This arises from a combination of climate change, urban heat island effect, and the ways in which buildings are used. In climates which already experience hot climates the provision of air conditioning can help reduce impacts. In more temperate climates reliance is more likely to be on natural ventilation and fans. The benefits of these can be limited in cities due to noise and pollution/dust infiltration. An important impact of the Covid pandemic was to drive the urban population to inhabit dwellings for even longer periods in indoor environments, because of needs for isolation or curfews. Occupancy patterns also shifted to include greater residence during warmer daytime hours. These factors substantially increased the risk of excessive temperatures and health impacts on occupants during the summer season. Increased morbidity and even deaths can result yet there is little guidance available. The research described in this paper uses computer simulations of typical building arrangements to identify risks and contributing factors. Reference to standard guidance in the UK is made for comparison though the concerns are important for many other countries. Awareness of the problem can lead to better future guidance.