The function of an air-conditioning system is to maintain a good thermal cli mate and acceptable indoor air quality. However, several studies of the preva lence of symptoms point to the likelihood that greater use of air-conditioning in internal spaces leads to a larger number of complaints. The present paper deals with health aspects and complaints linked to the interaction between building, HVAC system, environment and occupant. HVAC-related factors are specially emphasized. In order to minimize the risk of complaints as much as possible, a number of recommendations or guidelines is given for each link in the building process, i.e. from design stage up to maintenance and manage ment. A quality assurance system for this building process is of utmost impor tance ; therefore, policies and procedures have to be developed.
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