Towards A Design Approach to Achieve Environmental Safety in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Units in Hospitals Using Nanotechnology

Abstract

In The environmental safety was investigated in this study, with an initial focus on defining the general concept of environmental safety. Subsequently, the study delved into the environmental safety within hospitals, particularly in diagnostic and treatment spaces. Air pollutants and their types were examined, along with permissible levels, emphasizing the adverse effects of increased pollutants on human health. Additionally, attention was given to the physical hazards within these spaces, such as temperature, noise, and lighting. In the context of studying diagnostic and treatment spaces in hospitals, a review was conducted on the currently used traditional finishing materials and an evaluation of their harmful effects. The concept of "sick buildings" and its impact on human safety was also explored. The study placed a particular emphasis on nanotechnology and how nano-materials can be employed to mitigate the detrimental effects of non-compliant "sick buildings" with environmental safety standards. Global examples of nano-applications were analyzed, along with an examination of a hospital in Egypt that utilizes nano-technology in its glass structure. Furthermore, a simulation was performed on a local hospital to measure the difference in carbon dioxide emission within the space. This comparison was conducted between the current state of the building using traditional finishing materials and the scenario where nano-alternatives are employed in the glass and thermal insulation of exterior walls.