Physical factors of the atmosphere and their combined effects on the human body. Thermoregulation and prevention of thermal discomfort.
Microclimate is the set of local atmospheric conditions (temperature, humidity, air movement, and radiation) surrounding the human body that determine thermal comfort and heat exchange.
The atmosphere influences the human body mainly through microclimate, which includes:
Thermoregulation: is the physiological process controlled by the hypothalamus that maintains a stable core body temperature through heat production and heat loss mechanisms.
Goal: Maintain stable core temperature despite environmental changes.
Prevention of thermal discomfort aims to: maintain indoor environmental conditions within optimal ranges of temperature, humidity, and air movement to ensure comfort, health, and productivity in settings such as schools, workplaces, and hospitals.