Healthy indoor climate for the Daseinsgewerkschaft - younion, Wien (Austria)

During the two-year comprehensive renovation of the building in 2016, a mechanical ventilation system was installed. "However, even in the first winter after moving back into the building, our employees complained significantly about excessively dry air: dry mucous membranes, irritated airways, dry eyes, and headaches were frequently reported symptoms," recalls Michael Kerschbaumer, Head of Finance. The cause was the air exchange controlled by the ventilation system, which constantly draws cold, dry outside air into the offices during the winter. As the air warms, the relative humidity drops unless additional moisture is introduced. Measurements showed that the relative humidity at younion fell below 20 percent in winter.

In the search for ways to consistently increase the relative humidity to optimal levels between 40 and 50 percent, various technical solutions were considered: humidification via the ventilation system was not feasible due to insufficient space for retrofitting. "We then tested portable humidifiers in the offices, but these did not result in any significant increase in humidity, apart from requiring excessive cleaning," summarizes Michael Kerschbaumer, describing the initial considerations. Finally, a suitable solution was found through the commissioned ventilation engineer, one that is particularly well-suited for retrofitting existing buildings.

The installation of the direct room humidification system at younion took place in two phases: “We initially commissioned a field trial on the 5th floor of the building to test both employee acceptance and the system's technical functionality. The results were convincing in both respects. Just three months later, we expanded the system to all seven office floors. From the very beginning, employees rated the additional humidification very positively and appreciated it. We haven't had any complaints about dry mucous membranes or respiratory tracts since,” says Michael Kerschbaumer with satisfaction. Direct humidification also impresses technically in terms of functionality and maintenance. The rental system is seen as a particular advantage by younion. Transparent costs and the all-inclusive service package provide the operator with planning security and protect against system failure. "I am very satisfied with the solution we found. What we couldn't have known at the time we decided on the additional humidification was its importance during the coronavirus pandemic: The now optimal humidity also protects against the spread of the virus in the building and thus provides my colleagues and me with additional security," emphasizes Michael Kerschbaumer, highlighting the importance for health protection.