JKR

STANDARD
JKR/SIRIM X:2021
ICS: XXXXXXX

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) for

office buildings

© Copyright 2021
Jabatan Kerja Raya &
SIRIM Berhad
JKR
Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) Malaysia is a federal government department in Malaysia under Ministry of
Works Malaysia which is responsible for construction and maintenance of public infrastructure in
Malaysia such as roads, government buildings, schools, hospitals, airports, harbors, piers and related
engineering works.

JKR Malaysia vision is to become a world-class service provider and centre of excellence in asset
management, project management and engineering services for the development of the nation’s
infrastructure through creative and innovative human capital and state-of-the-art technology.

SIRIM
SIRIM Berhad is a premier total solutions provider in quality and technology innovations that helps
industries and businesses to compete better through every step of the business value chain.

SIRIM Berhad is the centre of excellence in standardisation, facilitating industries and businesses in
enhancing their production and competitiveness, protecting consumers’ health and safety, and giving
them the choice for quality products and services.

JKR STANDARD
JKR Standard is developed according to SIRIM standardisation procedures, which are in line with
international practices that ensure appropriate notification of work programmes and participation of
interested parties. As a standards development organisation, SIRIM Berhad has extensive expertise
in standards research and consultancy which helps industries and businesses meet local and
international requirements and practices.

JKR Standard is developed from JKR Malaysia initiatives as a technical advisory in infrastructure
development for the Government of Malaysia through collaboration with SIRIM which provides
requirements, specifications, guidelines or characteristics that can be used to ensure that materials,
products, processes and services are fit for their purpose.

JKR Standard is developed through consensus by established committee, which consists of experts in
the subject matter. The use of this standard is voluntary, and it is open for adoption by regulators,
government agencies, associations, industries, professional bodies, etc.

© Copyright 2021

For further info or enquiries on JKR Standard, please contact:

Training Standards and Consultancy OR Cawangan Kejuruteraan Mekanikal

Development Ibu pejabat Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia
SIRIM STS Sdn Bhd Tingkat 27, Menara Kerja Raya, Blok G,
1, Persiaran Dato’ Menteri Jalan Sultan Salahuddin
Section 2, P.O. Box 7035 50480, Wilayah Persekutuan
40700 Shah Alam Kuala Lumpur
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Tel: 60 3 2610 8888
Tel: 60 3 5544 5179/6909 Fax: 60 3 2618 9510
Email: [email protected] Website: www.jkr.gov.my
http://www.sirimsts.my
 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Contents

Page

Foreword............................................................................................................................... ii

0 Introduction .................................................................................................................. 1

1 Scope ........................................................................................................................... 1

2 Normative references ................................................................................................... 1

3 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................... 2

4 General ........................................................................................................................ 3

5 Requirements on Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) .................................................. 5

6 Housekeeping of buildings ......................................................................................... 17

7 Safety and health ....................................................................................................... 18

8 Assessment................................................................................................................ 19

Annex A Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) elements summary……………………..……21

Annex B Operation and maintenance schedule for IEQ elements……...……………..……22

Annex C Mould prevention tests ....................................................................................... 29

Annex D Cleaning activities .............................................................................................. 32

Annex E Pre-occupancy evaluation.................................................................................. 34

Annex F Post-occupancy evaluation ................................................................................ 37

Bibliography ........................................................................................................................ 44

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved i

Foreword

This standard was developed by the Project Committee on Indoor Environmental Quality
(IEQ) established by SIRIM Berhad.

This standard was developed with the following objectives:

a) to provide general guidance on improving the indoor environmental quality of air-

conditioned office buildings based on selected parameters in accordance with the current
technical requirements and best practices for better comfort and wellbeing of occupants; and

b) to educate, promote and create awareness among the stakeholders on indoor

environmental quality of air-conditioned office buildings.

This standard will be subjected to review to reflect current needs and conditions. Users and
other interested parties may submit comments on the contents of this standard for
consideration into future versions.

Information to assist users of the standard

For the purposes of this standard, the following ISO definitions have been adopted regarding
verbal forms for the expression of provisions:

a) “shall” indicates an auditable requirement: it is used to indicate requirements strictly to

be followed in order to conform to the document and from which no deviation is
permitted;

b) “should” indicates a recommendation: it is used to indicate that among several

possibilities one is recommended as particularly suitable, without mentioning or
excluding others, or that a certain course of action is preferred but not necessarily
required, or that (in the negative form) a certain possibility or course of action is
deprecated but not prohibited;

c) “may” indicates a permission: it is used to indicate a course of action permissible within

the limits of the document; and

d) “can” indicates a possibility or a capability: it is used for statements of possibility and

capability, whether material, physical or causal.

Compliance with this standard does not by itself grant immunity from legal obligations.

ii © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) for office buildings

0. Introduction

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) plays an important role in the health and comfort of
building occupants. Good indoor air quality can lead to improved productivity at the
workplace, while poor indoor air quality will reduce productivity due to discomfort and illness.
Consequences of poor indoor environmental quality have long been recognised as sick
building syndrome and implicate life threatening risks.

The ultimate success or failure of a project rests on its IEQ. Without proper design,
construction, operation and maintenance, buildings can quickly become a source of
distraction, discomfort and even illness. Effective management of the IEQ in buildings with
an appreciation of the importance of providing high-quality interior environments for all users
are essential to the maintenance of occupant health, comfort results in higher satisfaction
and productivity. Understanding the indoor environmental sources and influences and
controlling them can often help prevent or resolve building-related worker symptoms.

1. Scope

This standard specifies the requirements of air-conditioned office buildings to achieve good
indoor environmental quality (IEQ) that includes the indoor air quality, acoustic comfort,
thermal comfort, visual comfort, safety and health, housekeeping, and assessments. It is
applicable for new and existing building projects in all phases, i.e. design, construction, and
operation and maintenance.

2. Normative references

The following normative references are indispensable for the application of this standard. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of
the normative reference (including any amendments) applies.

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 111, Measurement, Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Building

HVAC Systems

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55, Thermal environmental conditions for human occupancy

JKR Guidelines on the Prevention of Mould Growth in Buildings

Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (DOSH)

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

MS 1525, Energy Efficiency and Use of Renewable Energy for Non-residential Buildings -
Code of Practice Garispanduan Berjadual Penyenggaraan Bangunan Kerajaan

3. Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1 Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

Character of the indoor environment that contribute to the health and comfort of occupants
inside office buildings.

3.2 outdoor air

Ambient air and ambient air that enters a building through a ventilation system, through
intentional openings for natural ventilation, or by infiltration.

3.3 indoor air

Air in an enclosed occupiable space.

3.3.1 indoor air quality

Air quality in an enclosed occupiable space within a building, that relates to the health,
comfort, and ability to work of building occupants.

3.4 thermal comfort

Condition of mind which expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment.

NOTE. The environmental conditions required for comfort are not the same for everyone. When a space is
occupied by a group of people, it is beyond the bound of possibilities to satisfy everyone’s thermal comforts due
to differences in their physiological and psychological needs.

3.5 air handling unit (AHU)

Component of an ACMV system that distributes cooled air into the building space through a
duct.

3.6 Legionella

Genus of pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria that includes the species L. pneumophila,

causing legionellosis (all illnesses caused by Legionella) that commonly associated with
outbreaks linked to poorly maintained artificial water systems, particularly cooling towers or
evaporative condensers associated with air conditioning and industrial cooling, hot and cold
water systems in public and private buildings, and whirlpool spas.

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3.7 building flush-out

Process whereby outdoor air is forced through a building to force indoor air out for a period
of time during unoccupied period in order to remove or reduce pollutants and to improve
indoor air quality.

3.8 air-conditioned office buildings

Buildings or any part of the building or totally enclosed areas served by air conditioning and
mechanical ventilating system (ACMV) including unitary unit where there are occupants at
work.

NOTE. Excluding building only with mechanical ventilated system.

3.9 Building owner

Person(s), company, corporation, authority, commission, board, governmental entity,

institution, owner, lessee, or any other entity that holds title to the subject building or facility.

3.10 Facility manager

Person or company appointed by building owner who is responsible for the security,
maintenance and services of work facilities to ensure that they meet the needs of the
building owner and its occupants.

3.11 End-user

Occupant who uses the building on a permanent or long-term basis.

3.12 artificial lighting

Human-made light and can emanate from sources including fire, candlelight, gaslight,
electric lamps etc.

4. General

4.1 Design phase

During the planning and design process, all projects shall have a comprehensive, integrated
perspective that seeks the followings:

a) facilitate quality IEQ through good design practices;

b) external factors/environment, such as ambient temperature, moisture content, site

location, brownfield, air velocity, soil condition etc;

c) value aesthetic decisions, such as the importance of views and the integration of natural
and man-made elements;
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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

d) provide thermal comfort with a maximum degree of personal control over temperature,
humidity and airflow;

e) supply adequate levels of ventilation and outside air to ensure indoor air quality;

f) prevent airborne bacteria and other fungi/mould through air-conditioning and mechanical
ventilation (ACMV) system designs that are effective at controlling indoor humidity and
building envelope design that prevents the intrusion of moisture;

g) avoid the use of materials high in pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
or toxins, and use low emitting materials;

h) assure acoustic privacy and comfort through the recommended internal noise levels
which can be achieved using sound absorbing material and equipment isolation;

i) control disturbing odours through contaminant isolation and selection, and appropriate
air cleaning products; and

j) create a high-performance luminous environment through the integration of natural and

artificial light sources.

4.2 Construction phase

4.2.1 During construction phase, environmental factors that can influence IEQ shall always
be taken into consideration. Critical matters need to be considered are as below.

a) Building, material and equipment to be constructed shall be or should be? as per

approved design and materials.

b) Construction dust and debris in the building and components shall be removed regularly.

c) All floor shall be constructed to be watertight. Water leakage in the building shall be
voided. The leakage can be caused by improper materials, process and workmanship in
construction, especially in water proofing works.

4.3 Operation and maintenance phase

4.3.1 Building owner or facility manager shall plan, operate and maintain the building to
ensure good IEQ through:

a) application of good operational practices;

b) using low emitting material;

c) establishment of appropriate periodic maintenance;

d) appropriate arrangement of furniture;

e) establishment of relevant standard operating procedure;

4 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

f) ongoing awareness activity; and

g) periodic self-assessment.

5. Requirements on indoor environmental quality (IEQ)

IEQ elements are as the following:

a) indoor air quality;

b) acoustic comfort;

c) thermal comfort; and

d) visual comfort.

5.1 Indoor air quality

5.1.1 The building design should follow ASHRAE on Indoor Air Quality Guide.

5.1.2 The quality of indoor air shall meet the requirements of Industry Code of Practice on
Indoor Air Quality.

5.1.3 Air ventilation

5.1.3.1 Ventilation rate of outdoor air intake shall comply with the requirements specified in
Schedule 3, Uniform Building by Laws (UBBL) or the ASHRAE Standard 62.1 Ventilation for
acceptable indoor air quality, whichever higher.

5.1.3.2 The outdoor air intake shall be properly located to avoid taking in contaminated
outdoor air, but not limited to, kitchen exhaust, cooling tower, toilet, refuse collector, fume
cupboard exhaust, waste disposal area for the purpose of ventilation.

NOTE. Outdoor air intakes need to be located:

a) at least 25 ft (7.6 m) from plume discharges and upwind (prevailing wind) of cooling towers, evaporative
condensers, and fluid coolers; and

b) at least 15 ft (4.6 m) away from intakes or basins of cooling towers, evaporative condensers and fluid
coolers.

5.1.3.3 All air conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) design shall meet the
minimum ventilation rates and other measures intended to provide Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
that is acceptable to occupants and that minimise adverse health effects as specified in
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1. The ventilation rate procedure shall be done to identify the
value of the design outdoor intake flow (VOT) for a ventilation system in accordance to
appropriate procedure and calculations as specified in the standard.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021
5.1.3.4 The installation of ACMV system shall be supervised, properly tested and
commissioned to ensure it operates as intended.

5.1.3.5 Air conditioning system shall be maintained, control and monitor to ensure
adequate air ventilation. The system should be periodically tested in accordance with
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 111.

5.1.3.6 Building owner shall have effective operation and maintenance schedule for
maintaining the outdoor air performance in the building as described in Annex B. The
procedure shall be properly documented and maintained.

5.1.3.7 In situation where unitary air-conditioners (without ventilation features) are

installed and infiltration of outdoor air into the air-conditioned space is deemed to be
insufficient against acceptable limit specified in ICOP IAQ, additional ventilation system
should be introduced. The system ventilation rate shall be determined in accordance to
Schedule 3 of UBBL or ASHRAE Std 62.1, whichever is higher.

5.1.3.8 Alternatively, for improvement of ventilation, the total number of occupants in the
air-conditioned space could also be reduced accordingly to comply with the acceptable limit
listed in Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality. The schedule 3 of UBBL or
ASHRAE Std 62.1, whichever is higher, could be used to estimate the maximum number of
occupants.

5.1.4 Mould prevention

5.1.4.1 All building design system(s) such as architectural, structural and mechanical shall
reachto the extent that the potential of mould growth and its associated risk on occupant’s
health is reduced and controlled in accordance with JKR Guideline on the Prevention of
Mould Growth in Buildings and DOSH Guidelines on Control of Molds Contamination and
Remediation.

5.1.4.2 Skilled and experienced worker shall adhere to predetermined procedures during
building construction in eliminating the mould growth in a building.

5.1.4.3 Building materials and equipment shall be of good quality and does not promote
mould growth (e.g. materials with low moisture absorption rate, porous materials etc.).

5.1.4.4 ACMV equipment and accessories shall be selected and installed according to
approved specification and design requirements.

NOTE. Establishing a comprehensive ACMV equipment installation on the element such as equipment selection,
proper duct installation, excessive infiltration of outside air, approved sealant, drain pan gradient, collar joint and
control valve and signal will ensure the achievement of good mould control for a building project.

5.1.4.5 Upon completion of building construction, testing and commissioning procedure

shall be established. The testing and commissioning for the building shall be done and
specifically covers the elements as follows. Refer Annex C.

a) air balancing;

b) water balancing;
6 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved
c) air tightness test;

d) control system;

e) water leakage test; and

f) building envelope.

5.1.4.6 Building owner and/or facility manager shall establish an effective maintenance
program to avoid mould growth in the building. A preventive maintenance program shall
include:

a) regular inspection of all critical components of ACMV system such as dampers, fans,
belts, ductwork, diffusers and control system;

b) regular inspections for conditions such as water leaks or stagnant water pools that would
promote the growth of micro-organisms;

c) correction of any deficiencies found during inspections;

d) repair or replace malfunctioned and consumable components such as filters and

cleaning of air distribution systems, ducts and dampers;

e) adequate treatment of open loop water system associated with ACMV equipment, such
as cooling tower and humidifiers, to control biological growth;

f) regular housekeeping scheduling of all furniture and carpet;

g) adjustment and calibration of control system components; and

h) conduct assessment and sampling test annually or when required in accordance to

Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (DOSH)

5.1.4.7 Building owner and/or facility manager shall have an effective operation and
maintenance schedule for preventing mould growth in the building as described in Annex B.
The procedure shall be properly documented and maintained.

5.1.5 Indoor air pollutants control

5.1.5.1 Indoor air pollutants control shall be done properly to reduce risk on occupant’s
health from furnishes, moisture, odours, smoke, heat, dust, airborne bacteria, carbon
monoxide and/or carbon dioxide and to replenish oxygen that emit internal pollutants.

5.1.5.2 Floors, walls, ceiling, equipment, fittings and fixtures, furnishings and finishes used
shall be safe and shall not possess any chemical substance that are harmful to the
occupant.

5.1.5.3 Requirements for effective indoor air pollutants shall be adhered to Table 1.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Table 1. Requirements for effective indoor air pollutants control

Type of air pollutant Requirements

Volatile organic compound a) Use either zero or low VOC materials for floors (e.g. heavy-
(VOC) duty flooring at mechanical and electrical rooms etc.), walls (e.g.
paint, coating, adhesive materials etc.), ceiling, equipment (e.g.
duct insulation etc.), fittings and fixtures, furnishings and finishes.

b) Avoid using VOC materials without site-applied paints or

coatings.

c) Whenever the paint remover is applied, make sure that paint

stripper does not contain methylene chloride.
Formaldehyde Avoid using building materials that contain formaldehyde for
example composite products, furniture and furnishings etc.
Environmental tobacco a) Prohibition of smoking in office buildings.
smoke (ETS)
b) Appropriate signage for prohibition of smoking shall be
displayed in the office area.
Legionella a) Proper maintenance and monitoring of cooling tower water
quality parameter shall be conducted regularly.

b) Open cooling tower system, closed cooling tower and

evaporate condenses water shall be treated with chemical or non-
chemical treatment to limit the growth of microbiological
contaminants.
Odour a) Use either zero or low odour indoor paints, coatings, primers
and adhesives in internal areas.

b) Waste disposal area is designed properly and located at

suitable location to avoid unpleasant odour from entering the
building.
Ozone a) Avoid using office equipment (e.g. photocopiers, printers, air-
purifier, ozoniser etc.) that generate high ozone level or isolate
the equipment from the occupants in dedicated room with proper
ventilation.

b) Usage of eco-friendly office equipment should be considered.

8 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 Type of air pollutant Requirements

Radon Establish appropriate mitigation plan/activity that can control entry

of radon such as the following.

a) Installation of active soil depressurisation (ASD) system.

b) Sealing radon entry routes, e.g. ground contact joints, cracks,

penetrations and below-grade concrete masonry units wall etc.

c) Using ACMV system to maintain positive building pressure in

ground-contact rooms and to provide dilution ventilation as an
adjunct to ASD and sealing of radon entry route.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) a) Provide carbon dioxide monitoring and/or control system for
office area including meeting room.

b) The number of occupants in the room shall be based on

schedule 3 of UBBL or ASHRAE Standard 62.1 whichever is
higher.
Carbon monoxide (CO) Provide CO monitoring system to monitor the amount of CO for
office area including basement carpark.
Air-borne infectious aerosols Building owners shall control the outbreaks using engineering
and virus outbreak control techniques to prevent the virus and control of the air
quality such as increasing the ventilation rates, using filter with
minimum efficiency reporting values 13 (MERV) as recommended
in ASHRAE 52.2, provide equipment with air treatments systems.

Guidance Note on Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) During

Pandemic and any other guidance documents issued by relevant
authorities by should also be referred to.

Preventive measures to reduce disease transmission (e.g. wear

personal protective equipment, temperature checks, frequently
washing hand, and carrying out regular disinfection of high-touch
points within the building etc.) shall be in place as specified in the
public health guidance.

5.1.6 Building flush-out

5.1.6.1 Building flush-out shall be conducted by the:

a) building owner or contractor prior to building occupancy of a new building;

b) building owner, facility manager or end-user for unoccupied existing building; and

c) building owner, facility manager or end-user for newly renovated buildings.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

5.1.6.2 Building flush-out should also be conducted by the building owner, facility
manager or end-user periodically to remove odors and/or respirable particulate/ indoor air
pollutants, whenever necessary.

5.1.7 Air treatment

5.1.7.1 The air-conditioned area shall be treated by appropriate air treatment system to
eliminate pollutants, e.g. ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, electronic air cleaner, cooling coil
treatment, magnetised air filtration, ioniser, oxidiser, gas phase air filtration, carbon filters,
etc.

5.1.7.2 The air treatment system shall be installed either within the AHU, FCU or ductwork
to provide a complete air purification and sterilisation by supplying clean and healthy air to
the space.

5.1.7.3 The installation of air treatment system shall be supervised, properly tested and
commissioned to ensure it operate as intended.

5.1.7.4 Maintenance of air treatment system components in the AHU/FCU shall be carried
out by ACMV contractor registered with CIDB or equipment specialists for the following but
not limited to:

i) regular inspection of air treatment system components such as filter, UV light, ballast,
multiple-enzyme coating, carbon processor etc.;

ii) correction of any deficiencies found during inspections;

iii) repair or replacement of malfunctioning and consumable components such as filter, UV

light, ballast, multiple-enzyme coating, carbon processor etc.;

iv) adjustment and calibration of control system components; and

v) cleaning of internal duct to prevent dust and particulates from getting into the air and
landing on clean surfaces.

5.1.8 Indoor air quality requirements

5.1.8.1 Prohibition of smoking in government building premises shall be adhered to as

specified in The Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004.

5.1.8.2 Exposure to formaldehyde or any carcinogen sourced from equipment or building

materials shall not exceed the acceptable limit specified in Industry Code of Practice on
Indoor Air Quality.

5.1.8.3 Acceptable limit for other air pollutants, physical parameters (i.e. temperature,
relative humidity and air movement) and biological parameters in a building shall comply with
Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality.

10 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

5.2 Acoustic comfort

Noise exposure in office building shall comply to Occupational Safety and Health (Noise
Exposure) Regulations 2019 and Industry Code of Practice for Management of Occupational
Noise Exposure and Hearing Conservation.

5.2.1 Internal noise and vibration control

5.2.1.1 Adequate noise and vibration control should be as specified in ASHRAE

Application Handbook within Chapter on Noise/Sound and Vibration Control where
applicable and as a minimum performance requirement.

5.2.1.2 Internal noise level throughout the building should be maintained at an acceptable
and tolerable level as specified in Table 2 below. While achieving the required noise level,
the noise spectrum shall also be free from any tonal spectrum content.

Table 2. Recommended internal noise level limit

Maximum desirable levels

Area LAeq
NC-RC level
(dBA)*
Board rooms 30 35
Conference rooms 35 40
Teleconference rooms 25 30
Executive offices 40 45
General offices 40 45
Reception rooms 45 50
General open offices 45 50
Drafting rooms 45 50
Halls and corridors 60 65
Tabulation and computation area 50 55
Multi-purpose halls 30 35
Musalla/ praying room 35 40
Cafeterias 50 55
Gymnasiums 45 50
Outside mechanical plant room 70 75
NOTE. *Maximum permissible limits: Background existing levels + 5 dBA

SOURCE. ASHRAE Application Handbook, Sound and Vibration Control

5.2.1.3 Actions below should be adopted to reduce noise sourced from office equipment
and external sources.

a) Noise generating plant and equipment is located away from sensitive areas such as
meeting rooms, teleconference rooms etc.
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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

b) Low emitting noise office equipments is used in office building.

c) Centralised printer, fax and photocopier is located in a specific zones.

d) Double glazing of windows and walls to reduce radiated noise.

e) Ventilation inlets on the sides of the building is located away from the principal noise
sources.

f) Sound absorption and acoustic barriers is used to provide privacy, where needed.

5.2.1.4 Acoustic treatment shall be done in office rooms especially sensitive areas such as
meeting rooms, teleconference rooms etc., to avoid sound resonance and/or echo. Walls
insulation shall be appropriate to reduce outside noises, noises from room to room and
between different levels of the building whilst not compromising the appearance and
aesthetics of the room.

5.2.1.5 Mechanical and electrical rooms that produce low frequency noise and/or vibration
that consequently causing vibration of building elements or structures, shall be located away
from sensitive areas such as meeting rooms, teleconference rooms etc.

5.2.1.6 Attenuation devices should be installed at the source of low frequency noise (e.g.
exhaust stacks, blowout points, etc.) of all new or retrofitted building.

5.2.1.7 The use of solid/heavier/higher density material that able to decrease sound
transmission shall be considered during design stage to improve acoustic performance in
noise generating rooms.

5.2.1.8 Acoustic block as load bearing units should be incorporated with reinforcement
design.

5.2.1.9 Building owner shall provide effective operation and maintenance schedule for
maintaining good acoustic performance in the building as described in Annex B. The
procedure shall be properly documented and maintained.

5.2.1.10 Building owner or facility manager shall conduct noise level assessment using
appropriate measurement tools such as sound level meter and vibration meter. Maximum
limit of noise level should comply with Table 2.

5.3 Thermal comfort

5.3.1 ACMV shall be designed with a high level of thermal comfort system controlled by an
individual occupant or by specific groups in multi-occupant spaces to enhance the
productivity, comfort and well-being of occupants.

5.3.2 Physical parameters that can affect thermal comfort (i.e. temperature, relative
humidity and air movement) shall comply with ICOP requirements and should comply with
MS 1525. Other best practices and standards such as ASHRAE Standard 55 – Thermal
Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy may be referred to.

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NOTE. Mean radiant temperature (MRT) also has a significant effect on thermal comfort. The adjacent area to
the perimeter wall may have higher mean radiant temperature than the rest of the place.

5.3.3 Regular inspection of waterside and airside conditions/components of ACMV (e.g.

chilled water temperature, chilled water pump, motorised valve, cooling coil temperature, air
filter, AHU fan, thermostat, duct air speed, volume and balancing, control signal cabling
/wiring); and adjustment and calibration of control system components shall be conducted as
in ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 111. Repair or replacement shall be done if the system found to
be faulty or malfunctioned.

5.3.4 Re-balancing of ACMV air distribution system shall be conducted after changing of
internal partition design and/or function of the space occurred.

5.3.5 Building owner shall establish an effective operation and maintenance schedule for
maintaining the good thermal comfort in the building as described in Annex B. The
procedure shall be properly documented and maintained.

5.4 Visual comfort

5.4.1 Daylighting

5.4.1.1 In achieving visual comfort, optimum and equal distribution of daylighting to

prevent severe direct glare and encourage diffuse light into the building shall be
emphasised. Best design practice for daylight factor should be as described in MS 1525.

5.4.1.2 Appropriate strategies shall be established for allowing light to penetrate deeper,
preventing severe direct glare and high brightness ratios, and encouraging diffuse light.

5.4.1.3 The recommended daylight factor in the building can also be achieved by the
following strategies.

a) Orient the building to the North-South for better light quality and to avoid glare.

b) If a North-South orientation is not possible, fenestration, shading devices, and internal

blinds should be installed to prevent direct solar radiation and glare.

c) Install windows on more than one wall to improve light distribution, and the windows
should face adjacent interior walls to reduce strong daylighting directionality.

d) Use a narrow building layout to ensure even distribution of daylight. If it is unavoidable,

use central atria or courtyards that are proportionate to the building's height.

e) For maximum daylighting and visual comfort, an open plan concept with low internal
partitions is recommended. Non-habitable spaces should be kept away from the
building's façade.

f) Provide roof lighting strategies to allow uniform daylight illumination into deep building
plans.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021
g) Use external and internal light shelves to deflect daylight from the outside while also
smoothing it deeper into the space.

h) To reflect more light into the building, use light colors on both indoor and outdoor walls.

5.4.1.4 The average illuminance level for visual comfort in the building when performing
task are as recommended in MS1525 and it is best to achieve by utilising daylight into the
building.

5.4.1.5 Computer simulation may be used during design stage to simulate the illuminance
level as required.

5.4.2 View

5.4.2.1 The view towards external of the building may help in promoting occupant’s health
and wellbeing during working hours. Therefore, open office layout should be zoned nearer to
the building parameter.

5.4.2.2 Non-usable space or storage area should be located far from window/facade in
order to get maximum daylight and external views.

5.4.2.3 The use of night or blackout curtain is not recommended to avoid blockage of
daylight and view.

5.4.3 Glare control

5.4.3.1 Main building façade should be designed to avoid facing east and west, and to
emphasise facing north and south. If facing east and west unavoidable, window-to-wall ratio
(WWR) for the façade shall be as specified in MS 1525.

5.4.3.2 Shading devices and light shelves should be used to create diffuse light and
control glare into the building. Use of blinds, removable screen, curtains or tinted film/glass
can also be considered.

5.4.3.3 Internal glare from highly reflective materials or equipment should be avoided or
positioned appropriately.

5.4.4 Artificial lighting

5.4.4.1 Artificial lighting shall satisfy the quantitative and qualitative aspects demanded by
the occupant as follows.

a) Visual comfort, where the occupant has a feeling of well-being.

b) Visual performance, where the occupant can perform visual tasks, speedily and
accurately, even under difficult circumstances and during long periods.

c) Visual safety, where occupant able to detect hazards.

14 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

5.4.4.2 The criteria below shall be considered to ensure good artificial lighting design.

a) Luminance distribution

Well-balanced luminance distribution shall be met to avoid glare, visual fatigue and dull and
non-stimulating working environment which affects task visibility.

b) Illuminance

All luminance should meet the illumination level stated in MS 1525.

c) Glare

Open luminaries shall be fitted with louvers whose cut off angle is sufficient to prevent the
lamp being seen at normal angle of view.

d) Lighting flicker

High frequency ballasts should be used to eliminate the 50 Hz lamp flicker to ensure visual
comfort.

e) Colour aspects

The colour qualities of a near-white light source or transmitted daylight are characterised by
two attributes as below.

i) colour appearance of the light; and

ii) colour rendering capabilities, which affect the colour appearance of objects and
persons.

Suitable color aspects of lighting should be considered because it may affect the colour
appearance of objects and persons.

f) Colour appearance

The colour appearance of a light source refers to the apparent colour (chromaticity) of the
light emitted. It is quantified by its correlated colour temperature (TCP). Colour appearance
of daylight varies throughout the day. Colour appearance of artificial light can also be
described as in Table 3.

Table 3. Light source colour appearance groups

Colour appearance Correlated colour temperature TCP

Warm < 3 300 K
Intermediate 3 300 to 5 300 K
Cool > 5 300 K

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

The choice of colour appearance is a matter of psychology, aesthetics and what is

considered to be natural. The choice will depend on illuminance level, colours of the room
and furniture, surrounding climate and the application. In warm climates generally a cooler
light colour appearance is preferred, whereas in cold climates a warmer light colour
appearance is preferred.

g) Colour rendering

For visual performance and the feeling of comfort and well-being colours in the environment,
of objects and of human skin, shall be rendered with sufficient accuracy according to the
task requirements.

To provide an objective indication of the colour rendering properties of a light source the
general colour rendering index color rendering index (CRI) is used. The minimum value of
CRI 70 shall be considered.

5.4.4.3 Design values for quantifiable parameters of illuminance, discomfort, glare and
colour rendering shall comply with Table 4.

Table 4. Requirements for parameters of illuminance, discomfort, glare and colour

rendering

Factor Flourescent LED

Wattage 14 - 54 8 - 22

Output (lumens) 1 200 - 4 450 1 000 - 3 000

Efficacy (lumen/watt) 60 - 105 100 - 150

Lumen maintenance 70 70

Lamp life (hours) 12 000 - 24 000 40 000 - 50 000

CRI 70 - 90 70 - 90

5.4.4.4 The luminance of all surfaces is important and will be determined by the
reflectance of and the illuminance of the surfaces. The range of useful reflectance for the
major interior surfaces shall meet the requirements given in Table 5 below.

Table 5. Range of useful reflectance for major interior surfaces

Interior surfaces Range of useful reflectance

Ceiling 0.6 - 0.9
16 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved
Wall 0.3 - 0.8
Working plane 0.2 - 0.6
Floor 0.1 - 0.5

5.4.4.5 Maintenance of artificial lights

5.4.4.5.1 The lighting scheme should be designed with recommended maintenance factor
not less than 0.7, calculated for the selected lighting equipment, space environment and
specified maintenance schedule.

5.4.4.5.2 Building owner or building manager should maintain the illuminance of artificial
lighting as per the design assumptions.

6. Housekeeping of buildings

6.1 Housekeeping refers to the general internal cleaning of buildings, including the floors,
walls, ceiling, equipment, fittings and fixtures, furnishings, finishes and other surfaces.
Housekeeping activities shall be as below.

a) Actions to prevent dust and dirt through housekeeping activities such as carpet
vacuuming, removal of dust at surfaces and air grilles etc.

b) Use products and methods that minimise the introduction of pollutants into the building.
Less harmful chemicals, such as low VOC chemicals, shall be used according to safety
data sheet. Chemical health risk assessments shall be conducted prior to use of
chemicals hazardous to health during housekeeping. Green/eco certified cleaning
materials should be considered to use.

c) Tasks related to housekeeping activities shall be safe to the person who perform the
activity and to the occupants and follow occupational safety and health requirements.

d) Training, planning, scheduling and monitoring performance to ensure the housekeeping

activities being done in proper manner.

6.2 The safe working procedure and frequency of housekeeping shall be established and
documented based on the building operation and usage. The procedure shall be properly
documented and maintained.

6.3 Housekeeping equipment, materials and chemicals shall be kept properly in a

designated area.

6.4 Whenever chemicals are used in housekeeping activity, the housekeeping team shall
liaise with building facility manager to increase the air ventilation rate of the space. Building
flush-out may be conducted, if necessary.

6.5 General cleaning of the building’s surrounding area should be conducted to prevent
pathway of pollution into the building.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021
6.6 Prior to commissioning of the building, major housekeeping shall be performed by the
contractor. The entire building especially the ACMV parts and equipment (such as air duct,
AHU, filter, diffuser, etc.) shall be cleaned properly before operation starts.

6.7 Daily housekeeping activities during renovation of buildings shall be done to ensure
cleanliness and comfort of the occupants by keeping the work area clean and dry. Sweeping
of dirt/dust shall be avoided.

6.8 To remove indoor air contamination, specific cleaning activities shall be conducted as
described in Annex D.

6.9 Pest control

6.9.1 Effective pest control measures shall be in place for inside and outside of the
building surrounding area to ensure the comfort and health of the building occupants.

6.9.2 Determination of pest control measures shall be based on the size of the
building/area, type and volume of pest potentially occurs in the area, selection of pesticides
(i.e. organic or non-toxic pesticides etc.) and frequency of pest control activity.

6.9.3 All pest control activities shall be in accordance with the requirements of Poisons Act
1952 and Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 to ensure safety and health of occupants
and workers.

6.9.4 Pesticides/baits shall not be placed in AHU room to avoid the spread of harmful
materials inside the building.

6.9.5 Chemical pest control activities shall be done during unoccupancy period.

7. Safety and health

7.1 General

7.1.1 Renovation works shall follow a minimum requirement of Occupational Safety and
Health Act 1994 with regards to safety and health to ensure safety and health of occupants
and workers.

7.1.2 Specific area within an occupied building that undergoes renovation shall be properly
isolated from the other zones. The ventilation system of the affected space shall be isolated
from the main system, if necessary, to maintain good indoor air quality within the building.

7.1.3 ACMV system that has been affected by the renovation work (e.g. by partitioning of
office space) shall undergo duct cleaning and rebalancing of the air distribution after
renovation work completed.

7.2 Dust control

18 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

7.2.1 To control dust, the following action shall be given specific priority to ensure a safe
and healthy environment:

a) Use temporary barriers to separate renovation work areas from occupied areas and
contain renovations activities that produce lots of dust.

b) Provide walk-off mats for workers to prevent tracking dust and contaminants from the
renovation area.

c) Cover ductwork, cover open grilles to protect dust from spreading.

d) Regular sweeping and mopping.

e) Arrange renovation works schedule to limit occupant exposure to renovation area (low
occupancy).

7.2.2 The particles permissible limit for dust generated from renovation works shall below
the Particles Permissible Limit stipulated in Schedule 1: Occupational Safety & Health Act
(Use and Standards of Exposure of Chemicals Hazardous to Health Regulations 2000).

7.3 Noise control

7.3.1 Noise pollution is unwanted sounds that can affect occupant’s health and productivity
such as stress, aggression, high blood pressure, sleep loss and hearing loss. To prevent
negative effect of noise, owners or managers should:

a) properly planned and scheduled any renovation works (e.g. carry out the renovation
works on holiday or after office hours); and

b) administer noise buffer measures.

7.3.2 The permissible limit for noise generated from renovation works shall follow the
minimum requirement of Noise Permissible Limit under the First Schedule of the Factories
and Machinery (Noise Exposure) Regulations 1989 and Guideline for Environmental Noise
Limits and Control (2004 establish by Department of Environment (DOE).

8. Assessment

8.1 General

8.1.1 Building owners shall establish proper assessment of indoor air quality performances
of the building. It shall be carried out in an organised and systematic manner, based on
established sampling method.

8.1.2 Assessment shall use appropriate sampling techniques (e.g. full period sampling, full
period consecutive sampling, grab sampling) and tools (e.g. temperature meter, humidity
meter, air velocity meter, noise and vibration meter, volatile organic compound meter,

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved 19

JKR/SIRIM X:2021
formaldehyde meter, lux meter, moisture meter, dust meter) to measure all related indoor
environmental quality parameters based on the limits specified in this standard.

8.1.3 Data obtained from the exercise shall be analysed to ensure proper corrective action
is taken to maintain good indoor environmental quality within the building.

8.2 Pre-occupancy evaluation

8.2.1 Before building occupancy, indoor air quality elements shall be assessed prior of
issuing certificate of practical completion and/or building handover. Refer Annex E.

8.2.2 The pre-occupancy indoor air quality test which consists of assessment and
sampling shall be done before handing over of the building to verify and reduce indoor air
quality problems and minimising any health issues of the occupants occupying the building.

8.3 Post occupancy evaluation

8.3.1 Periodic post occupancy evaluation shall be conducted to evaluate the level of
acceptance on indoor environmental quality over a period of time. The evaluation shall be
based on the limits specified in this standard.

8.3.2 Evaluation shall be using the questionnaire as in Annex F.

20 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 Annex A
(informative)

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) elements summary

NO IEQ ELEMENTS SUB ELEMENTS PARAMETER

1 Indoor air quality Outdoor air performance CO2 monitoring and control
Mould prevention Relative humidity
Temperature
Air velocity
Indoor air pollutants control Low VOC formaldehyde material
Tobacco smoke
Air treatment
Legionella
Odour
Non-carcinogenic material
Component of furniture
Floor finishes
Building flush out
Ozone
Radon
CO2 monitoring
Indoor air quality Pre-occupancy air quality test
assessment Post-occupancy air quality test
2 Acoustic comfort Internal noise and vibration General system
control Lighting and noise
Acoustic treatment
3 Thermal comfort - Clothing insulation
Air temperature
Air speed
Humidity
4 Visual comfort Daylighting Building orientation
Window design
View and sufficient Building orientation
daylighting
Glare control Shading device
Light shelves
Artificial lighting Illumination
Artificial lighting glare
Lighting flicker
5 Housekeeping Construction Clean site
Operation and maintenance Cleaning services
Pest control
6 Safety and health Renovation Dust control
Noise control

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 JKR/SIRIM X:2021
Annex B
22

(normative)

Operation and maintenance schedule for IEQ elements

Frequency Checklist
NO Description Comments
D M 3M 6M Y Yes No

IEQ ELEMENTS

The building owner shall operate all IEQ elements

according to specifications and shall generally carry
© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

out the following, but not limited to:

1. GENERAL

a. Assign staff with clear responsibility(ies) and give

adequate training

b. Records and update IEQ related policy(ies)

c. Collect and maintain data from buildings, ACMV, and

electrical design, testing & balancing reports, operating
instructions and manuals

d. Check, update and review ACMV maintenance and

© SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

Frequency Checklist
NO Description Comments
D M 3M 6M Y Yes No

calibration records, testing reports, adjustment,

replacement, control settings and operating schedules

e. Provide inventory of locations where occupancy,

equipment, or building use has changed

f. Record zone/room information of positive or negative

pressure and function

g. Record and update safety data sheet for supply and

hazardous substances which are stored or used in the
building

h. Record proper safety and health procedures for all IEQ

elements
i. Conduct a walkthrough inspection as described in Industry
Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality at location that needs
monitoring or correction and record all findings. Any
deficiencies found during inspections shall be corrected

JKR/SIRIM X:2021
accordingly
2 Indoor air quality

a. Regularly inspect and maintain all ACMV equipment and

ensure filters, cooling coil, supply ducts and supply grill are
clean and unobstructed. Repair and replace any
malfunctioned ACMV components due to wear and tear/life ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
23
 JKR/SIRIM X:2021
Frequency Checklist
NO Description Comments
24

D M 3M 6M Y Yes No

span based on manufacturer recommendation

b. Monitor and measure minimum quantity of outdoor air

intake (CO2 level). Make necessary adjustment should
minimum quantity of minimum quantity of outdoor air intake
is not met. Refer Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air
Quality

c. Regular inspection of outdoor air intake components e.g.

air grilles, ducting, dampers, bird screen, etc. to ensure
clear air paths. Repair and replace if necessary

d. Adjustment and calibration of variable air volumes

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

(VAVs), dampers, sensors and control system components

including records of data

e. Regular monitoring, measurement, and ensuring of indoor

air pollutant (e.g. formaldehyde, total volatile organic
compound, ozone, carbon monoxide, radon and respirable
particulates) are within acceptable limit by ICOP or other
authorities.
3. Acoustic Comfort

a. Measure and ensure noise level throughout the building

are according to recommended range
© SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

Frequency Checklist
NO Description Comments
D M 3M 6M Y Yes No

b. Inspect and ensure noise generating plant, ventilation

inlets and equipment are according to recommended
range

c. Inspect and ensure sound absorption and acoustic

barriers used to avoid any excessive noise transmission

4. Thermal Comfort

a. Monitor, measure and ensure the physical parameter (i.e.

relative humidity, air movement, and dry bulb
temperature) are within acceptable limit
b. Inspection and ensure chilled water temperature and
room temperature is within acceptable limit

c. Regular inspection and maintenance of all ACMV and

ancillary equipment related to thermal comfort. Repair and
replace any malfunction ACMV components due to wear
and tear/life span and based on manufacturer

JKR/SIRIM X:2021
recommendation

d. Monitor, adjust and calibrate control system components

related to thermal comfort (i.e. thermostat, damper,
controller, control valve, etc.)
25
 JKR/SIRIM X:2021
Frequency Checklist
NO Description Comments
26

D M 3M 6M Y Yes No

5. Visual Comfort

a. Monitor, measure and adjust average illuminance level for

visual comfort in the building as recommended in MS
1525

b. Inspect and ensure all lighting and glare controls are in

good working condition (i.e. light switch, light dimmer,
windows blind, or shades)

c. Measure and ensure the reflectance for the ceiling, walls,

working planes, and floor is within the acceptable limit

d. Measure and ensure the lighting scheme of maintenance

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

factor not be less than 0.7

e. Monitor, measure and calculated the glare index. Should

the glare index is greater than the limiting value, the
following adjustment might be necessary.

i. Change the orientation of the luminaire

ii. Change the type of luminaire

iii. Change the room surface reflectance

© SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

6. Housekeeping

a. Inspect the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceiling, equipment,

fittings and fixtures, furnishings, finishes and other surfaces
from dust, dirt and debris

b. Ensure the products and methods that minimise the

introduction of pollutants into the building

c. Ensure cleaning materials selection is made of low VOC

materials, proven by Safety Data Sheet

d. Ensure containers containing VOCs are sealed properly

and stored outside the building

e. Provide a proper storage for housekeeping equipment

and cleaning materials

f. Increase air ventilation rate of the space if chemical

substances are used in housekeeping activity

JKR/SIRIM X:2021
7. Pest Control

a. Bait stations or other pest control devices is appropriately

located inside and outside of the building, and maintained

b. Baits are not to be placed in AHU room to avoid the

spread of harmful materials inside the building
27
 JKR/SIRIM X:2021
c. Monitor and ensure pest control activities shall be in
accordance with the requirements of Poisons Act 1952 and
28

Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved
 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Annex C
(normative)

Mould prevention tests

Premise :
Date of
:
Inspection
Checked by :
Components : All air conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems

This checklist shall be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule.
The building owner shall operate all ACMV system to specifications and shall generally
carry out the following, but not limited to:

No Item Yes No Comments

1 Monitor the temperature of room / area /
space systematically and periodically.
Ensure the temperature is within the
design range.
2 Monitor the relative humidity (RH) of the
room / area / space systematically and
periodically. Ensure the relative humidity
is within design range.
3 Monitor the temperature of chilled water
supply (CHWS) and chilled water return
(CHWR) readings on the chiller. Ensure
the temperature is within the design
range.
4 Ensure the face velocity reading on the
AHU and the total airflow of the
AHU/FCU are according to the design
value. Moisture eliminators should be
installed inside the AHU if the face
velocity exceeds 550 fpm.
5 Make sure the air distribution and air
change rate for each room / area are
according to the design range.
6 Monitoring the temperature of chilled
water supply on the AHU / FCU
systematically and periodically. Ensure
the temperature is within the design
range.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

7 Ensure the control and monitoring

system (BAS / local control) operates as
the original design.
8 Inspect the record of chiller maintenance.
Ensure condensers shell, tube, cooler
tubes are washed as per schedule.
9 Inspect the record of AHU maintenance.
Ensure air filters are cleaned or replaced
periodically.
10 Inspect the record of AHU maintenance.
Ensure cooling coil are cleaned and
washed periodically.
11 Inspect the operation of all sensors
(thermostat, humidity, flow, modulating
valve, etc.). Repair or replace, if
necessary.
12 Inspect the condition of piping and
insulation. Ensure they are in good
conditions.
13 Inspect all sources of
infiltration/openings such as doors and
windows in air-conditioned spaces are
always closed. Ensure no infiltration of
outside air.
14 Check the air movement in office room.
Ensure the air movement is within the
acceptable range (0.15-0.5 m/s).
15 Inspect all use spaces based on original
design, without functional changes.

16 Inspect and ensure there is no cross

ventilation between two zones that use 2
different ventilation/air conditioning
systems.
17 Inspect and ensure a space (mould
into the building
problem) is cleaned, repainted and
replaced, if necessary.

30 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

:
Premise
Date of Inspection :
Checked by :
Components : Building Envelope

No Item Yes No Comments

1 All sources of infiltration/openings such
as doors and windows in air-
conditioned spaces are always closed.

2 Natural ventilation occurs effectively (if

any).
3 All spaces are used as original design
(without functional changes).

4 No cross ventilation between two zones

that use two different ventilation/air
conditioning systems.

5 Fungus cleaning is done at any spaces

with fungus problem (e.g. repainting the
walls, replacing the ceiling, cleaning the
furniture, etc.).

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Annex D
(informative)

Cleaning activities

Premise :
Date of Inspection :

NO DESCRIPTION YES NO COMMENTS

1. General
1.1 Record and update housekeeping
schedules and procedures

1.2 Evaluate cleaning schedules and

procedures; modify if necessary

1.3 Review, record and display Safety Data

Sheet (SDS) for all chemicals (cleaning
materials and fresheners)

1.4 Confirm proper use and storage of materials

1.5 Provide staff with proper personnel

protective equipment (PPE)

1.6 Provide adequate training related to indoor

air contamination control, chemical handling
and best practice of cleaning activities to
staff in charged.

2. Activities
2.1 Cleaning activities that will use products and
methods that introduce pollutants into the
building to be done during unoccupied
periods

2.2 Relocate pollutant producing equipment to

an occupied space with good ventilation
2.3 Use less harmful chemicals, such as low
VOC chemicals for cleaning

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 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

2.4 Housekeeping equipment, materials and

chemicals is kept properly in a designated
area. Avoid storing housekeeping
equipment, materials and chemicals in office
area and AHU rooms.

2.5 Use green/eco certified cleaning materials in

housekeeping activities.
2.6 Remove dirt/dust using vacuum cleaners or
wet cloth. Sweeping of dirt/dust is to be
avoided.
2.7 Strictly follow manufacturer instructions for
mixing and diluting of disinfectants to ensure
the effectiveness.

2.8 Safe and appropriate cleaning procedure

and frequency is established, properly
documented and maintained.

2.9 Waste is collected and disposed in

accordance with appropriate disposal
procedure to avoid indoor air contamination.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Annex E
(informative)

Pre-occupancy evaluation

Premise :
Date of Assessment :

Checklist
NO Description
Yes No

1. General

a. Submission of related documents as follows.

i. Testing, Adjusting, Balancing and Commissioning Reports

ii. Operation and Maintenance Manuals

iii. As-built Drawings

b. IEQ assessment result (if any).

2. Indoor Air Quality

a.Volatile organic compound (VOC) less than 3.0 ppm.

b.Formaldehyde less than 0.1 ppm.

c. Ozone less than 0.05 ppm.

d.Carbon monoxide less than 10 ppm.

34 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 JKR/SIRIM X:2021
Checklist
NO Description
Yes No
e. Respirable particulates less than 0.15 mg/m3’

f. Carbon Dioxide less than 1,000 ppm.

3. Acoustic comfort

a. Noise level throughout the building is according to Table 2,

Recommended internal noise level limit

b. Noise level from mechanical equipment (i.e. AHUs, FCUs)

are within recommended design range.

4. Thermal comfort

a. Relative humidity is within acceptable range

(55 - 70 %).

b. Air movement is within acceptable range (0.15 m/s – 0.5

m/s)

c. Room dry bulb temperature is within acceptable design

range (23 - 26 ºC)

d. Chilled water temperature and cooling coil temperature is

within acceptable range.

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

5. Visual comfort

a. The average illuminance level for visual comfort in the

building is as recommended in MS 1525.

b. The range of useful reflectance for the ceiling is within

acceptable range.

c. The range of useful reflectance for the walls is within

acceptable range.

d. The range of useful reflectance for the working planes is

within acceptable range.

e. The range of useful reflectance for the floor is within

acceptable range.

f. The uniformity of the illuminance for task area is not less

than 0.7 and immediate surrounding areas are not less
than 0.5.

6. Housekeeping

a. The floors, walls, ceiling, equipment, fittings and fixtures,

furnishings, finishes and other surfaces are clean.

b. Internal and external of mechanical and electrical

equipment are clean.

c. AHUs room and ACMV parts and equipment (such as air

duct, AHU, filter, diffuser, etc.) is cleaned properly.

d. Above ceiling is cleaned properly.

7. Pest control

a. Bait stations or other pest control devices is appropriately

located inside and outside of the building, except AHU
room.

36 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Annex F
(informative)

Post-occupancy evaluation

PART A: GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Ministry/department

2. Building block/level

3. Name of department

4. Gender

Male
Female

5. Age

< 25 Years
25 - 39 Years
40 - 45 Years
45 - 55 Years
> 55 Years

6. Occupation/Designation:

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

PART B: WORKPLACE INFORMATION

7. Period of service in the current workplace.

< 1 Year
1 - 3 Years
3 - 5 Years
> 5 Years

8. The amount of time spent in a day in the workspace.

< 1 hour
1 - 5 hours
5 - 9 hours
> 9 hours

9. Workstation type

Enclosed room
Open concept

10. Please indicate how often you work requires you to use or be near to the following
equipment.

Scale
No. Item Everyday 2-3 times Never
Weekly
10.1 Printer machine

10.2 Photo copier machine

10.3 Video display unit/computer

10.4 Fax machine

11. Types of air conditioning used in the workspace

Centralised
Split unit

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 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

12. Does your organisation display any policies related to indoor environmental quality?

Yes
No

PART C: INDOOR AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

1. Have you experienced the following discomfort at work in the past three (3) months?

Scale
No. Item YES, YES NEVER
Often Sometimes
a. High room temperature

b. Varying room temperature

c. Low room temperature

d. Stuffy ‘bad air’

e. Dry air

f. Unpleasant odour

g. Passive smoking

h. Dust and dirt

2. Have you had asthma in the last one (1) year?

Yes
No

3. Have you ever had sinusitis in the last one (1) year?
Yes
No

4. Have you ever had eczema problem in the last one (1) year?
Yes
No

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JKR/SIRIM X:2021

5. Have you experienced any of the following symptoms at work in the last three (3)
months?
*** if your answer is ‘YES’ please answer questions in sections 16 and 17
Scale
No. Item YES, YES NEVER if YES, is it
Often Sometimes due to work
environment.
a. Headache
Feeling heavy
b.
headed
c. Fatigue/lethargy

d. Dizziness

e. Drowsiness

f. Nausea/vomiting

g. Cough

h. Irritated, stuffy nose

i. Hoarse, dry throat

j. Skin rash/itchiness

k. Irritation of the eyes

Scaling/itching scalp
l.
or ears

6. When did the problem period in question 15 occurred to you?

Morning
Afternoons
No noticeable trend

7. When did you feel relieve of the problem in question 15?

After I leave my workstation
After I leave the building
No noticeable trend

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 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

8. What is your overall perception of the air quality and ventilation system at your
workplace in the last six months as a whole?
Very good
Good
Satisfying
Not good
Not very good

PART D: INTERNAL LIGHTING QUALITY ASSESSMENT

9. Does the lighting cause you to feel glare at your place of work?
Yes
No

10. Does the outdoor lighting cause you to feel glare at your place of work?
Yes
No

11. What is your overall perception of the lighting in your place of work in the last six
months?
Very good
Good
Satisfying
Not good
Not very good

PART E: ACOUSTIC QUALITY ASSESSMENT

12. Have you experienced noise discomfort contributed by mechanical equipment at your
workplace in the last three months?
Yes
No

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved 41

JKR/SIRIM X:2021

13. The length of time in a day you are exposed to noise in your workspace.
< 1 Hours
1 - 5 Hours
5 - 9 Hours
> 9 Hours

14. Do you have hearing problems contributed by noise disorder?

Yes
No

15. What is your overall perception of acoustic comfort in your workplace for the past six
months?
Very good
Good
Satisfying
Not good
Not very good

PART F: HOUSEKEEPING

1. Do you feel stuffy whenever chemical cleaning activity is done at your workplace?
Yes
No

2. Does your workstation is fitted with air freshener unit?

Yes
No

3. Does the building management handle the cleaning work while you are at workplace?
Yes
No

42 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 JKR/SIRIM X:2021

4. What is your overall perception of the cleanliness in your workplace for the past six
months?
Very good
Good
Satisfying
Not good
Not very good

PART G: PEST CONTROL

1. Is there any pesticides/baits placed in your workspace?

Yes
No

2. Does the building management perform chemical pest control activities while you are at
workstation?
Yes
No

3. What is your overall perception of the pest control activities in your workplace for the
past six months?
Very good
Good
Satisfying
Not good
Not very good

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved 43

JKR/SIRIM X:2021

Bibliography

[1] JKR Guideline on the Prevention of Mould Growth in Buildings

[2] https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/introduction-indoor-air-quality

[3] MS ISO 8995, Lighting of indoor work places

44 © JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

Acknowledgements

SIRIM Berhad would like to thank the members of the Project Committee on Indoor
Environmental Quality (IEQ) who have contributed their ideas, time and expertise in the
development of this standard.

Ir Zulkifli Abdul Rashad (Chairman) Jabatan Kerja Raya

Ms Nor Azian Duriat (Technical Secretary) SIRIM STS Sdn Bhd
Mr David Yap AECCOM
Ir Zailani Nagin/ Cawangan Kejuruteraan Mekanikal, IPJKR
Ts Azrul Nizam Adenan/ Malaysia
Mr Muhammad Abdillah Alwi/
Ir Muhammad Fadzli Muhammad Saleh/
Ir Mohamed Fathul Hakimi Mohamed Hanan
Mr Wan Mohd Zurin Wan Sapiansori Cawangan Alam Sekitar dan Kecekapan
Tenaga, Jabatan Kerja Raya

Dr Azlina Aziz Cawangan Arkitek, Jabatan Kerja Raya

Ir Dr Tn Suhaimi Salleh Pusat Kecemerlangan Kejuruteraan
& Teknologi JKR (CREaTE)
Mr Mohd Ainor Yahya Cawangan Kejuruteraan Elektrik, Jabatan Kerja
Raya
Ir Mokhtar Sabtu Department of Safety and Health
Dr Malarvili/ Institut Kimia Malaysia
Ts Dr Yeoh Beng Hoong
Mr Aidil Fahmi Shadan/ Jabatan Kimia Malaysia
Pn Zawiyah Zainal
Ir Ng Yong Kong/ MASHRAE
Mr Den Low
Mr Nor Mohd Razif Noraini NIOSH
Ar Dr Mohd Firrdhaus Mohd Sahabuddin Universiti Malaya

© JKR and SIRIM Berhad 2021 - All rights reserved

 © Copyright 2021

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this standard may be reproduced or utilised in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written
permission from Jabatan Kerja Raya and SIRIM Berhad.