»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË

It’s the time of year where the weather is considerably colder and will impact on our thermal comfort both inside and outside of buildings. Whilst »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË makes every effort to ensure comfortable temperatures are maintained in all of our spaces, it is important that we continue to ensure ventilation is adequate to proactively manage risks presented by COVID-19.

UCL has worked to ensure that all ventilation arrangements are optimised as well as putting in place a range of measures to help reduce the risk of transmission.  

Areas with mechanical ventilation

In rooms with mechanical ventilation, the systems have been set to supply as much fresh air as possible and recirculation modes turned off where appropriate. Ventilation systems are also being turned on earlier in the morning and being left on later in the evening.

Areas without mechanical ventilation

In spaces without mechanical ventilation, a fresh supply of air will be provided by leaving windows and doors open where appropriate.  As a result, these spaces may be cooler in winter months and staff and students may wish to wear warmer clothing as well as take the following steps to help maintain a comfortable work environment.

Steps to combat the cold

A problem with very low temperatures should be reported to the Estates Customer Helpdesk. Raising an Estates Service Request will trigger a more detailed examination for the area which should be carried out by the local manager with support from the Estates team.

A number of factors can then be considered:

• The actual temperature in the space
• Weather forecast and the duration of cold temperature (will the low temperatures continue for prolonged periods)
• The amount of time people need to work in the area and/or need access to the area for resources e.g. libraries
• Whether it would be practical to organise for windows and doors to be opened for short periods at frequent intervals to maintain a suitable fresh air supply without the temperature dropping too low
• Activities of occupants (sedentary or otherwise)
• Additional capability of the heating system

Where inadequate temperatures are found to exist, a number of options will be considered by Estates colleagues and the local area to improve comfort:

• Introduction of safe systems of work to ensure the amount of time individual workers are exposed to uncomfortable temperatures is limited e.g. extension of lunch breaks, access to warmer environments/hot food/drink
• Relaxation of dress codes so people can wear extra layers and warmer clothing
• Increase the heating to maintain a comfortable temperature
• Providing additional sources of heating
• Removing rooms from use where both temperature and ventilation are inadequate

Contacting the Estates Customer Helpdesk

> Web: 
> Email: efdservices@ucl.ac.uk
> Tel: 020 7679 0000 or extension 30000

It is appreciated that the comfort of all staff and students needs to be a primary consideration. However, our priority remains in protecting staff and student safety and wellbeing from the COVID-19 virus. If you have specific concerns relating to room temperatures contact your line manager or Safety Services. 

> Email Safety Services