Investigation of Environmental Health Factors in Universities of Islamic Countries (A Case Study of the Ferdowsi University of Mashhad

Universities occupy a unique position in seeking to practise and promote health in societies. The aim of this study was to investigate environmental health factors in universities of Islamic countries. Environmental factors that might affect health, such as thermal comfort, indoor plants, exterior views and ergonomics were analysed in a university in Iran. Questionnaires were distributed to 32 administrative personnel of the FUM. The study entails descriptive analysis (means, standard deviations), Spearman correlations and regression analysis of the data collected. Based on a sample of 26 department offices, eye irritation, dryness and itching were the most common health symptoms among university staff. The results showed that temperature, indoor plants, exterior views and ergonomics were associated with mucosal, dermal, psychological and general symptoms. Thermal comfort had more effects on occupants’ health. Furthermore, the prevalence of dermal and psychological symptoms were more common in female respondents. These findings support existing research which suggests that healthy and comfortable physical environment in the universities is claimed to be vital as it will create a healthier building with optimum environmental conditions, which enable occupants to be healthier and have a lower absenteeism rate, and hence be more productive