ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to evaluate the factors affecting the physiological thermal comfort of lecture theatres in University of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It drew sample from the 41,996 student population. A 100% response rate was obtained from the questionnaires that was administered. The survey study method involved the use of stratified and systematic sampling techniques. The findings from this study shows that about 45% of the lecture theatres in the school are in a deplorable state and this goes a long way to have effect on yhe quality of lectures delivered in these lecture theatres. Most respondents from the faculties of education and life sciences stated that they are not comfortable during lectures due to the state of the lecture theatres and some extrinsic factors like noise pollution from hawkers and generators. The study recommends that the school authority should Increase the coverage area of door and window openings to enhance natural ventilation, which is crucial in a humid climate. It also recommends that the school authority should consider the orientation and spacing of the buildings to maximize breeze penetration and reduce heat accumulation. The seating capacity should be rearranged to avoid overcrowding, which can significantly affect the thermal comfort due to body heat and limited air circulation. To aid with ventilation, the school should install and maintain air conditioning systems where feasible or fans to manage temperature and humidity levels effectively.