What is BS EN 16798-7:2020?

BS EN 16798-7:2020 is a technical standard that focuses on energy performance, indoor environmental quality, and the indoor air quality of buildings. It provides guidelines and requirements for assessing and improving the energy efficiency and comfort of buildings, with the aim of creating healthier and more sustainable indoor environments.

Key Elements of BS EN 16798-7:2020

The standard covers various aspects related to building performance, including thermal environment, indoor air quality, lighting, acoustics, and occupant comfort. It emphasizes the need to consider these parameters holistically, rather than in isolation, to ensure optimal building performance.

Assessing Energy Performance

One important aspect of BS EN 16798-7:2020 is the assessment of energy performance. This involves evaluating the energy consumption of a building and identifying areas where energy efficiency can be improved. The standard provides methods for measuring and calculating energy performance, as well as criteria for setting energy targets.

Improving Indoor Environmental Quality and Air Quality

BS EN 16798-7:2020 emphasizes the importance of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and indoor air quality (IAQ). It includes criteria for assessing IEQ factors such as temperature, humidity, ventilation, and contaminant levels. By ensuring adequate ventilation and controlling pollutants, the standard aims to create healthier indoor environments and reduce the risk of health problems.

In addition, the standard provides guidance on minimizing exposure to indoor pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and biological agents. It offers recommendations for source control, filtration, and maintenance practices to improve IAQ.

Creating Comfortable and Sustainable Buildings

BS EN 16798-7:2020 not only focuses on energy efficiency and indoor air quality, but also on occupant comfort. It considers factors such as thermal comfort, visual comfort, and acoustic comfort to ensure that buildings provide a pleasant and productive environment for occupants.

Moreover, the standard promotes sustainability by encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient equipment and systems, and sustainable building materials. It highlights the importance of lifecycle analysis in evaluating the environmental impact of buildings and encourages the adoption of sustainable practices throughout the building lifecycle.

In conclusion, BS EN 16798-7:2020 is a comprehensive technical standard that addresses various aspects of building performance, energy efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. By following the guidelines and requirements outlined in this standard, buildings can be designed, constructed, and operated in a way that prioritizes occupant health, comfort, and sustainability.