IoT Sensing and Occupant Surveys Key to Assessing Resiliency

Wildfires and associated emissions of particulate matter pose significant environmental and health concerns. IoT-enabled measurements, in combination with occupant surveys, can be used to evaluate building resilience to extreme episodes of outdoor particulate matter. A recent study1 sponsored by CITRIS at University of California Berkeley, demonstrated the application of those tools on two buildings with different modes of ventilation during the Chico Camp fire event.

Wildfires and associated emissions of particulate matter pose significant environmental and health concerns. There is clear evidence that wildfire smoke, which includes particulate matter with 2.5 μm diameter (PM2.5), is linked to respiratory health implications, morbidity, and mortality.

The study proposed tools to characterize the resilience of the buildings on different temporal and spatial scales using the well-established I/O ratio and a newly proposed E-index that evaluates indoor concentration in the context of adopted 24-hour exposure thresholds (e.g., WHO), and can identify “safe” buildings or spaces within buildings. Similarly, it will identify buildings with high air pollutant exposure or hotspots within buildings. 

Senseware is excited to see their IoT platform solution deliver real-time particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and contact monitor data needed for this study.  

IoT Sensing and Occupant Surveys: Essential Tools for Evaluating Building Resilience

In a world where wildfires and their associated particulate matter emissions are becoming an increasing concern, it's important to find ways to assess the resilience of buildings in these extreme conditions. That's where the power of IoT sensing and occupant surveys comes in.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, and sponsored by CITRIS showed that IoT-enabled measurements and occupant surveys can be used to evaluate a building's ability to withstand high levels of outdoor particulate matter. 

During the Chico Campfire event, the researchers tested two buildings with different ventilation modes. They used these tools to assess the resilience of each building on various temporal and spatial scales.

The study proposed two tools for evaluating building resilience: the well-established I/O ratio and a newly proposed E-index. The I/O ratio measures the ratio of indoor to outdoor particulate matter. At the same time, the E-index evaluates the indoor concentration of particulate matter in the context of adopted 24-hour exposure thresholds, such as those established by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

Using these tools, the researchers were able to identify "safe" buildings or spaces within buildings, as well as those with high levels of air pollutant exposure.

The Attune IoT Sensing and Occupant Survey Difference

Here at Attune, we are excited to see our IoT platform solution deliver real-time data on particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and contact monitors for this study. Our sensors provide the critical information needed to assess building resilience during extreme events like wildfires, making it easier for building managers and occupants to take the necessary steps to protect their health and safety.

In conclusion, IoT sensing and occupant surveys are essential tools for evaluating building resilience during extreme conditions. By leveraging these tools, building managers can make informed decisions to keep occupants safe and healthy.

1 Pantelic J, Dawe M, Licina D (2019) Use of IoT sensing and occupant surveys for determining the resilience of buildings to forest fire generated PM2.5. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0223136.