Thermal comfort study in MSMEs in Cairo using onsite measurements and optimization algorithm

Abstract

Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the hot climates in Egypt face many challenges with increased heat stress, reduced labour productivity and adverse occupational health effects, often leading to work injuries and heat stroke. This study investigates an MSME case study in Cairo, Egypt, dedicated to car maintenance in planned service areas. These workplaces suffer from poor thermal comfort and indoor conditions that significantly contribute to climate resilience and thus require immediate action. The study aims to evaluate the indoor thermal comfort conditions in the case study MSMEs using actual measurements and identify opportunities for improving indoor conditions using the Ladybug Tools in a Rhino-Grasshopper platform and genetic algorithm optimization approach. Through monitoring activities and thorough investigation, a validated model has been effectively established. The findings of this analysis have proven the capacity for performance enhancements by implementing parametric optimization methods in such limited time and conditions.