Project context
Large-scale correctional facilities place unusually high demands on indoor environmental quality. High occupancy density, long exposure durations, and sensitive populations mean that air quality is not only a regulatory concern but a fundamental requirement for health, wellbeing, and operational stability. At the same time, modern prison developments are increasingly expected to meet ambitious sustainability and energy-performance targets.
The Haren Prison Village was developed as part of Belgium’s response to overcrowded and ageing penitentiary infrastructure. Designed to accommodate up to 1,190 detainees, the project reflects a shift toward environments that balance security requirements with indoor comfort, health protection, and reduced environmental impact.
Project overview
Located on a 15-hectare site near Brussels, the Haren Prison Village comprises 17 building units with a total built area of approximately 116,000 m². The development was guided by an “Energy Neutral Building” concept, aiming to maximise indoor wellbeing and comfort while limiting environmental footprint.
BREEAM certification was established as a key project objective. Within this framework, indoor air quality—particularly the control of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde emissions—was identified as a critical performance parameter.
Scope
Airscan assisted Denys during the post-construction, pre-occupation phase by carrying out indoor air quality testing focused on total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) and formaldehyde. The objective was to verify that completed spaces met BREEAM requirements before occupation and that construction materials, finishes, and systems did not compromise indoor environmental conditions.
Airscan developed a dedicated air-sampling campaign tailored to the scale and complexity of the prison village. Sampling and analysis were conducted in accordance with ISO 16000-3 and ISO 16000-6 standards, covering both field sampling and laboratory analysis of VOCs and formaldehyde in indoor air.
Result
The results of the indoor VOC and formaldehyde tests were assessed by the Airscan and Denys project teams and submitted to the BREEAM certification body as part of the overall project documentation. Following review by the BREEAM steering committee, the Haren Prison Village was awarded a “Very Good” rating and listed in the BREEAM project directory, confirming compliance with indoor air quality requirements for a large-scale public infrastructure facility.
