A Study on Thermal Comfort Performance in Shared Facility Multi-Purpose Hall (MPH), Pagoh Educational Hub

Abstract

Thermal comfort significantly affects students' productivity and health 
in university’s environment, particularly during examinations. This 
study focuses on evaluating thermal comfort in the Multi-Purpose Hall 
of the Shared Facility in Pagoh Educational Hub, addressing student 
complaints about excessively cold conditions during exams. The 
objectives of this study are to evaluate occupants' perception of thermal 
comfort and to assess the thermal conditions of the Multi-Purpose Hall.
There were two method approach was employed, integrating physical 
measurements (air temperature, humidity, air velocity) with subjective 
data from questionnaires. Thermal comfort parameters were analyzed 
using tools like the CBE Thermal Comfort Tool and compared against 
MS 1525-2014 and ASHRAE Standard-55 guidelines. The results 
indicate that air temperature and air velocity are below the 
recommended standards, with respondents predominantly 
experiencing "cool" or "slightly cool" sensations. PMV and PPD values 
from physical measurements (0.1 and 5.7%) suggest higher comfort 
levels compared to subjective perceptions (-1.5 and 53%), highlighting 
discrepancies between measured data and occupant feedback. In 
conclusion, the Multi-Purpose Hall's thermal conditions are not fully 
aligned with comfort standards. To enhance thermal comfort, indoor 
temperatures should be adjusted to 23–26°C with relative humidity 
maintained between 40–60%, ensuring compliance with ASHRAE 
standards and occupant satisfaction.