Accredited Microclimate Measurements at Workplaces
Workplace microclimate is assessed using three different sets of indices, depending on thermal conditions — WBGT for hot environments, PMV/PPD for moderate, and IREQ/WCI for cold. OIKOS laboratory (AB 934) covers all three thermal regimes under a single accreditation. Reports are issued under PCA accreditation No. AB 934 (PN-EN ISO/IEC 17025) and accepted by the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP).
Why OIKOS for Microclimate Measurements
Three reasons our microclimate assessment stands out — covering all three thermal regimes:
- Full scope of all three thermal regimes from one laboratory: cold (IREQ), moderate (PMV/PPD), hot (WBGT)
- AB 934-accredited results — accepted by regulatory authorities
- We run PT-M — the proficiency testing programme for microclimate (PMV, WBGT)
Three Thermal Regimes — One Accredited Laboratory
Hot microclimate (foundries, furnaces, bakeries, industrial laundries) is assessed using the WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) index — compared against reference values dependent on physical work intensity. Moderate microclimate (offices, production halls at near-comfort temperatures) is assessed using PMV/PPD (Predicted Mean Vote / Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied) per PN-EN ISO 7730. Cold microclimate (cold stores, outdoor work, freezer rooms) is assessed using IREQ (required clothing insulation — IREQneutral and IREQminimal) and WCI (Wind Chill Index).
OIKOS laboratory measures all three microclimate types under AB 934 accreditation. Each report contains the measured index values, their reference comparison, and a clear thermal condition assessment.
OIKOS is one of the few laboratories in the region organising the PT-M (microclimate: PMV and WBGT) proficiency testing programme under PT 010 — independent competence verification for both hot and moderate microclimate assessments.
Methods & Instruments
Methods
Measurement of WBGT (hot environments), PMV/PPD (moderate environments), and IREQ/twc (cold environments).
Instruments
Microclimate meters (dry- and wet-bulb temperature, radiant temperature, air velocity, relative humidity), Vernon globe thermometer, anemometer.
Reference documents
PN-EN ISO 7243:2018; PN-EN ISO 7730:2006; PN-EN ISO 11079:2008; PN-N-08011:1999.
FAQ
Microclimate Measurement Questions
What is the WBGT index and when is it used?
WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) is a heat stress index accounting for air temperature, humidity, radiant heat and air movement. It is applied at hot microclimate workstations — foundries, industrial furnaces, bakeries. The WBGT value is compared against reference values dependent on the intensity of physical work.
Is PMV/PPD thermal comfort assessment legally mandatory?
Employers are legally obliged to provide adequate temperature and thermal conditions (Labour Code, OHS regulations). PMV/PPD assessment is not explicitly required by law, but provides an objective method of confirming thermal comfort compliance, particularly in office spaces and light work environments.
Which workstations require cold microclimate assessment?
Workstations in cold stores, freezer rooms, refrigerated warehouses and outdoor work during winter. IREQ indices determine the minimum required protective clothing insulation — critical for selecting work clothing and organising warming breaks.