The Harmattan season in Nigeria, typically occurring between November and February, is characterized by dry and dusty winds originating from the Sahara Desert. This unique weather phenomenon brings about several challenges for individuals and facility managers across the country.
Understanding the Harmattan
The Harmattan season is a period of dry and dusty weather characterized by the prevalence of northeast trade winds. This season typically sets in during late November and extends through February. The dry winds carry fine particles of dust from the Sahara Desert across West Africa, creating a hazy and dusty atmosphere.
Characteristics of the Harmattan
1. Dry and Dusty Winds
The Harmattan is distinguished by the arrival of dry and dusty winds that reduce atmospheric humidity. These winds can be harsh, leading to challenges such as dust accumulation on surfaces and reduced air quality.
2. Temperature Fluctuations
During the Harmattan, temperature variations are prominent. While daytime temperatures can be warm, especially in the early stages of the season, nights experience a significant drop in temperature, leading to cooler conditions.
3. Reduced Humidity Levels
The arrival of the Harmattan is associated with a decrease in humidity levels, impacting both indoor and outdoor environments. This reduction in humidity can affect human comfort and contribute to dry skin and respiratory issues.
The Nigerian Weather and Ecosystem During Harmattan
Impact on Temperature
- Daytime Temperature Variations
Facility managers need to be aware of the fluctuating daytime temperatures during the Harmattan. This awareness is crucial for optimizing HVAC systems and ensuring that indoor environments remain comfortable for occupants.
2. Nighttime Temperature Drops
As nighttime temperatures drop significantly, facility managers must consider the impact on heating systems and implement measures to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures during colder nights.
Effects on Indoor Climate Control Systems
The Harmattan can pose challenges to indoor climate control systems. Facility managers should conduct regular checks on heating and cooling systems, ensuring they are calibrated to handle the temperature variations brought about by the season.
Dust and Air Quality
One of the primary challenges during the Harmattan is the heightened concentration of airborne dust particles. This can impact air quality, leading to respiratory issues and requiring proactive measures to mitigate its effects.
As such, facility managers should prioritize the maintenance and upgrading of air filtration systems. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be particularly effective in trapping fine dust particles, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Health Implications for Occupants
The increased dust levels during the Harmattan season can have health implications for building occupants. Facility managers should collaborate with health and safety experts to implement measures that minimize the risk of respiratory issues and allergies.
Vegetation and Ecosystem
1. Stress on Local Flora
The Harmattan season poses stress on local vegetation, impacting the health of plants and trees. Facility managers responsible for landscaping should implement strategies to protect and nurture greenery during this period.
Effects on Outdoor Landscapes
Outdoor spaces, including gardens and lawns, may require additional attention during the Harmattan. Facility managers should focus on irrigation, soil moisture management, and protective measures to preserve the aesthetic appeal of outdoor landscapes.
Strategies for Protecting Green Spaces
Implementing mulching, proper watering schedules, and selecting drought-resistant plant species are essential strategies for facility managers to protect green spaces during the Harmattan season.
The Not-So-Fun Side of Harmattan For Facility Managers
Dehydration
The harmattan season is hot in the afternoon, and we tend to be dehydrated. If left unattended, it can lead to a serious health challenge. This also means a high increase in water consumption in the facility which might also result in water conservation issues and higher water cooling energy consumption.
Allergies Trigger
Allergies are unique illnesses in which your body’s defence mechanism reacts outrageously to ordinarily harmless substances. These substances can include dust, pollens and furry animals.
One of the common types of allergy is allergic asthma, which happens when workers react to dust or cold.
Using nose masks can perfectly prevent this. Also, making the offices clean, which takes extra effort to deep clean every time, is the best bet for safety.
Fire Outbreaks
You might be wondering how fire outbreaks are rampant in the dry season. The reason is simple. The breeze that blows carries dry wind from the Sahara desert, and fire spreads easily in a dry environment.
Harmattan is the period that facility managers should pay rapt attention to their firefighting gear and equipment. It shouldn’t be a worry. Although, this will cost FM more.
FMs should frequently educate their facility users on how to prevent fire outbreaks in case of one. Even though firefighters are trained to deal with fire outbreaks, facility managers can help prevent a fire outbreak.
Clear the walkways, stairways and runways. Put safety signs around the facility and include access to immediate evacuation.
Advantages of Harmattan For Facilities Managers
Offices should be fumigated and clean always. As the work of the FMs to make the environment clean, insects naturally reduce their activities during the harmattan season. Hence, cost savings are achieved, and it is channelled into something else.
According to statistics, the number of malaria victims reduces during this period, which is a great advantage and workers work at full strength to perform their duties.
Furthermore, due to the cooler weather during the day, occupants of some workspaces may use the cooling systems less, resulting in less energy management and consumption.
Trends and Technology For FMs During Harmattan
There are ways to do things better with technology, which can increase your services and ultimately reduce costs.
These technologies include, but not limited to the following;
- Alerts and sensor technology to detect abnormal HVAC activity
- Remote Management and Monitoring
- Internet of Things to monitor HVAC usage and cleaning
Facility Management Strategies for the Harmattan Season
HVAC Systems Maintenance
- Checking and Replacing Air Filters: Facility managers should schedule regular checks and replacements of air filters in HVAC systems. This is crucial for preventing dust accumulation, maintaining system efficiency, and ensuring optimal indoor air quality.
- Calibration of Temperature Control Systems: Calibrating temperature control systems is essential to adapt to the fluctuating temperatures during the Harmattan. Facility managers should ensure that thermostats are accurately set to provide comfort to occupants.
- Ensuring Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is key to managing indoor air quality. Facility managers should assess ventilation systems to ensure they are functioning effectively, allowing for the exchange of indoor and outdoor air.
Building Fabric
- Sealing Gaps and Cracks to Prevent Dust Infiltration: Inspecting the building envelope for gaps and cracks is crucial for preventing the infiltration of dust. Facility managers should prioritize sealing any openings to maintain a dust-free indoor environment.
- Assessing Windows and Doors for Air Leaks: Windows and doors are potential sources of air leaks. Facility managers should conduct a thorough inspection, repairing or replacing weather stripping to prevent the entry of dust-laden winds.
- Implementing Weather-Stripping Measures: Weather stripping is an effective measure to seal gaps around windows and doors. Facility managers should invest in high-quality weather-stripping materials to enhance the building envelope’s integrity.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning Schedules for Dust-Prone Areas: During the Harmattan, facility managers should implement more frequent cleaning schedules, especially in areas prone to dust accumulation. This includes common spaces, offices, and HVAC system components.
- Inspection of Outdoor Facilities for Wear and Tear: Outdoor facilities, such as roofs, gutters, and drainage systems, are susceptible to wear and tear during the Harmattan. Facility managers should conduct regular inspections and address any issues promptly to prevent long-term damage.
- Upholding Hygiene Standards in Shared Spaces: Maintaining hygiene standards is crucial for the well-being of building occupants. Facility managers should communicate and enforce cleanliness protocols in shared spaces, including restrooms and common areas.
Health and Safety Measures
- Providing Protective Gear for Outdoor Workers: For outdoor workers exposed to the harsh Harmattan conditions, facility managers should provide appropriate protective gear, including masks and eyewear, to minimize health risks.
- Promoting Health and Wellness Programs for Occupants: Facility managers can collaborate with health professionals to implement health and wellness programs for building occupants. This includes awareness campaigns, workshops, and resources to help occupants navigate health challenges during the Harmattan.
- Emergency Preparedness for Potential Health Issues: Being prepared for potential health issues is a proactive approach to facility management during the Harmattan. Facility managers should develop emergency response plans and collaborate with healthcare providers to address health challenges promptly.
Practical General Harmattan Tips
- Prepare for Dry and Dusty Conditions: Expect dry and dusty winds during the Harmattan. Prepare with essentials like moisturizers, lip balm, and protective gear such as face masks and sunglasses.
- Prioritize Indoor Air Quality: Given the increased airborne dust particles, consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters. Regularly clean and maintain your HVAC systems to ensure optimal indoor air quality.
- Protect Outdoor Green Spaces: If you have outdoor plants or a garden, implement watering schedules and consider using mulch to protect the soil from drying out.
- Maintain Your Home: Regularly inspect your home for gaps and cracks, especially around windows and doors. Seal any openings to prevent dust infiltration.
- Clean Regularly: Implement more frequent cleaning schedules, especially in dust-prone areas. Pay attention to common spaces and HVAC system components.
- Prioritize Personal Health: If you work or spend significant time outdoors, wear protective gear such as masks and eyewear. Stay hydrated, and consider using skin moisturizers to combat dry skin. Prioritize your health by maintaining a balanced diet and staying active. Consider incorporating health and wellness practices into your daily routine.
- Emergency Preparedness: Be aware of potential health issues associated with the Harmattan and have an emergency plan in place. Know the location of nearby healthcare facilities and emergency contacts.
Conclusion
By following these tips, individuals can navigate the Harmattan season with greater ease, ensuring personal well-being and contributing to a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
Contact us now for support with keeping your office or workplace clean and comfortable during the harmattan. Call +2348144000052 or email info@eliezergroup.com.