The term “microclimate” refers to the climate of a specific, narrow area within a larger environment that exhibits unique thermo-hygrometric characteristics compared to the surrounding region.

A microclimate can be influenced by various factors, such as a small garden or courtyard where the presence of trees and plants creates constant shade and lowers the temperature compared to the surrounding environment, or by activities conducted within.

Similarly, a densely urbanized city can have a microclimate characterized by higher temperatures compared to the surrounding rural areas due to the urban heat island effect generated by the concentration of concrete, asphalt, and heavy vehicular traffic.

Understanding the concept of microclimate is crucial for regulating human comfort and creating healthier and more functional environments.

Key Factors Influencing Microclimate in Various Settings

In environments like factories, shopping centers, gyms, livestock farms, or greenhouses, several key parameters can influence the microclimate within the structure:

TEMPERATURE

Temperature can be affected by external factors as well as heat generation from machinery, production processes, heating or cooling systems, and the thermal insulation of the building. It can vary significantly depending on the industrial sector, with high or low-temperature environments.

HUMIDITY

Relative humidity must be controlled and adjusted to meet the specific needs of production processes and to ensure worker comfort or, in the case of livestock, the well-being of the animals.

VENTILATION

Ventilation is essential for ensuring adequate oxygenation and proper air circulation. Ventilation can be regulated with mechanical systems, such as extraction systems, or through natural methods, like opening doors and windows to allow air exchange.

AIR POLLUTION

In industrial and agricultural environments, it is easy for emissions of pollutants such as dust, fumes, gases, or chemical vapors to be generated. Controlling, reducing, and managing these emissions is essential to ensure indoor air quality and prevent potential health risks for workers and animals as well as environmental pollution.

AIR PRESSURE

Regulating and controlling air pressure is important for ensuring the proper functioning of production processes and machinery and creating an ideal thermal comfort state for workers and animals. Correct air pressure regulation is achieved through ventilation systems, filtration, and airspeed control.

In some sectors, it may be necessary to create positive pressure environments that expel contaminants while preventing the entry of particles, pathogens, and pollutants from outside. Higher internal pressure creates a constant airflow outward, preventing these elements from entering more sensitive or sterile areas, especially in hospital and pharmaceutical industry settings.

In other industrial processes (e.g., painting or woodworking), it may be necessary to maintain negative pressure to prevent the spread of dust or harmful substances within the environment, which are expelled through mechanical extraction systems.

In certain industrial sectors, ventilation and pressurization systems play a crucial role in worker safety and accident prevention. Proper air pressure management not only reduces the risk of incidents but also ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations, in accordance with Legislative Decree 15 June 2015, No. 81.