Changes in building standards leading to a reduction in the prevalence of asthma

Narrative

Multi disciplinary research on the effect on improvement to internal environments on occupant health has led to changes in Building Regulations. Buildings must now be designed to resist infestation by house dust mites. Expert guidance has been published in professional codes. There have been reductions in the high prevalence of asthma in Scotland. There has been significant coverage in the public media, plus significant successful case law precedents, relating to housing quality, especially in the rented sector.The research findings have supported KTPs (CiCStart with Assist Architects/Tarryholme HA/Irvine Bay Development Corp.) underpinning the design of new housing models that will optimise the conflict between indoor air quality and ‘near zero’ carbon design.

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Quality of life and safety, Health and welfare - new products, guidelines and services, Environment and sustainability - natural world and built environment