Statistical analysis of indoor parameters an subjective responses of building occupants in a hot region of Indian ocean; a case of Madagascar island

The present research reports the results of a questionnaire-based statistical study of some complex parameters derived from subjective answers by occupants regarding thermal comfort in their area of residence. There is not enough data regarding comfort in residential environment in Madagascar. This will help to define guidelines for constructing more comfortable buildings in Madagascar and other countries on the Indian Ocean. The experimental field study was carried out in 5 big hospitals, 50 small and big shopping centers, 67 traditional buildings, and 25 schools, which were distributed in 25 districts with different micro-climates of the urban communes in Northern of Madagascar. A total of 1092 people were investigated by means of 250 interviews and 842 analysed questionnaires during rainy and dry seasons. The physical measurements of air temperature and other parameters were performed simultaneously. Results showed that there were no very great differences between males and females thermal sensations, humidity sensations, and air movement sensations. The air temperature and relative humidity have a significant impact on the thermal preference in the studied place. With air temperature between 22.9 and 27.2 °C, relative humidity from 45.2 to 70.5%, associated with air speed varying from 0.15 to 0.45 m/s, at least 80% of voters found their environment comfortable.