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
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.
The 2025 draft NPPF in brief with indicative responses
Local verses National and suitable verses sustainable: Consultation open for just over one week.
Increased vigilance on VAT Domestic Reverse Charge
HMRC bearing down with increasing force on construction consultant says.
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.





















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/