Sustainability Evaluation of Public Hospital Building Using Green Rating

 SUSTAINABILITY EVALUATION OF PUBLIC HOSPITAL BUILDING USING GREEN RATING TOOLS

Assistant Professor Dr. Srazali Aripin

International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)

ABSTRACT

This research evaluates the sustainability of public hospital buildings in Malaysia using the Green Building Index (GBI) rating tool for healthcare. The study focuses on green building concepts, which have become a significant trend in Malaysia's construction industry. With the adoption of the Green Building Index rating tool, buildings are perceived as opportunities for developers and owners to design and construct sustainable structures that provide energy and water savings, healthier indoor environments, better connectivity to public transport, and the incorporation of recycling and greenery while reducing environmental impact. In the case of hospital buildings, where patients seek medical treatment and hospital staff provide continuous 24-hour support, creating a sustainable building for a healing environment is imperative.

The aim of this research is to explore the possibility of achieving sustainable hospital buildings using the assessment criteria of the Green Building Index in the Malaysian tropical climate. The key objectives of the research are:

1. To assess the suitability of the Green Building Index rating instrument for public hospital buildings in Malaysia and compare it with other rating instruments worldwide.

2.  To determine the level of understanding of hospital personnel regarding the concept of green buildings in selected public hospitals.

3.  To identify key factors necessary to achieve a sustainable hospital building in Malaysia using the six assessment criteria of the Malaysian Green Building Index.

4.  To make recommendations to healthcare designers and providers on the potential for public hospital buildings to achieve sustainability based on GBI criteria.

A review was conducted on the concept of healing environments in hospitals, green building principles, and green rating tools used globally. An assessment of the Green Building Index rating tool for existing buildings was performed on two selected public hospitals as case studies. Additionally, questionnaire surveys were conducted among healthcare personnel (including medical doctors, nurses, management, and maintenance staff). The survey was also extended to healthcare designers.

Preliminary findings indicate that the Green Building Index rating tool for hospital buildings places more emphasis on active systems rather than passive design strategies. Consequently, cost has been a determining factor in adopting the rating tools as beneficial for the well-being of end users. Patient satisfaction is an area where a dedicated rating system needs to be developed.

Keywords: Sustainability, Green Building Index, Public Hospital, Green Rating Tools