Figure 2-2. Construction of a bed cubicle.
2-11. VENTILATION
Another important factor in the housing of soldiers is ventilation. Inadequate
ventilation can result in health problems and can cause a great deal of discomfort and
low morale among troops. Proper ventilation will dilute the number of bacteria in the
atmosphere, thus reducing the number that can be inhaled.
a. Adequate ventilation implies a continuous flow of fresh air. For proper
ventilation, 600 to 900 cubic feet of air per person per hour should be moving at a
velocity of 45 to 50 feet per minute. Inlets and outlets, if properly used in troop
barracks, will meet this requirement. The purpose of ventilation in barracks is to dilute
unpleasant body odors, tobacco smoke, airborne organisms and dusts, and to keep
down the temperature and humidity in warm weather.
b. Natural circulation occurs when warm air, which is lighter than cool air, rises.
Natural circulation is obtained by allowing cool, fresh air to enter near the floor and
warm air that has risen to escape near the ceiling. The inlets and outlets of air should
be on opposite sides of the room. This permits better mixing of fresh air with stale air in
the room. Properly opened windows serve this purpose very well. The windows on the
windward side should be opened at least 6 inches from the bottom, allowing cool air to
enter. Windows on the opposite or leeward side should be opened at least 6 inches
from the top, allowing the warm air to escape. The rate of air change will vary with the
wind velocity, temperature outside, and activity within the billet. The rate of air change
can be regulated by the amount of open window space. For practical purposes, it is
better to open several windows slightly than one widely.
c. The degree of activity in a room is an important consideration in determining
the amount of ventilation required for good health. The greater the activity, the more
ventilation is needed. For example, more ventilation is needed during the day than at
night. During extremely cold weather at night, ventilation may be sufficient without
opening windows. If the windows are opened, the result may be a loss of heat and a
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