Overview
Prior to Covid, Statistics Netherlands (CBS) Big Data Center in Heerlen
started experimenting on the IoT devices - indoor air quality sensor services- provided for free by
sustainably.io under our social entrepreneurship programme. The sensor measured readings such as
CO2, Temperature, Humidity, Atmospheric Pressure inside the location and Particulate Matter above
2.5 microns and above 10 microns. The frequency of readings was about one reading per 5 minute. The
device recorded the air quality inside a spacious room (with height more than 3 meters) designed for
flexible office, i.e., an office organization system which involved multiple workers using same
space, desk etc.
The office space had full glass on walls with good amount of lighting. The two doors at the location
is closed (all times) unless an employee comes in or out.
The building had a HVAC system which is
one way, i.e., exhausts the air from the building, and is heated with underground hot water.
The research involved some of the following questions:
- How are the air quality conditions and the health of the employees? Are there any possible problems that might lead to decrease of welfare and productivity of employees of CBS?
- Are there patterns in the data that are worth noting? Could these be used to create policy and advice on the work routine of CBS?
- Are there particular problems in the air-quality that could be solved with other technologies?
- Is it possible to improve the HVAC or heating system of CBS?
