Health in the built environment
The term ‘health’ has evolved over time from referring simply to the body's ability to function, to include physical, mental and social wellbeing.
Health typically relates to the health of people, but it can also refer to the health of animals, an ecosystem, the economy, businesses and so on, describing in very general terms its condition.
In the built environment, health can refer to:
- The health of construction workers (typically grouped with safety as health and safety). For more information see: Health and safety.
- The health of other people employed in the construction industry.
- The economic health of the construction industry or businesses within it.
- The health of building occupants.
- Ecology and the environment.
The health of construction workers and building users includes issues such as:
- Sick building syndrome / building related illness.
- Health and safety.
- Comfort.
- Wellbeing.
- Mental health.
- Emergency services.
- Environmental health.
- Public health.
- Occupational health.
- Pollution.
- Nuisance.
- First aid.
- Emergency services.
- Biophilic design.
- Indoor air quality.
- Indoor environmental quality.
- Phobias.
- Heat stress.
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Comments
Health in the built environment is such an essential topic, and it's great to see it being addressed comprehensively here. The way our surroundings influence our well-being can't be underestimated, from air quality to access to natural light. Designing spaces with health in mind not only improves quality of life but also supports long-term sustainability. This is a vital read for anyone involved in creating healthier, more livable spaces. https://healthywz.com/