Ontario School Plant Manager Winter 2013-14

Winter 2013/2014

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In this issue: Take Your Gymnasium and Auditorium Events to the Next Level Energy Management at Durham District School Board puts Students First Turf Wars: Which Side Are You On? Get Smart About Salt

Table of Contents Message from the Education Minister Planting the Seeds for Success Getting Smart About Salt Educating Our Educators E-Learning@Swish - Safe Cleaning Practices Online Turf Wars: Weighing Your Options

3 4 6 7 9

Getting Students Involved in Energy Monitoring

13

Complete Dust Collection Solutions

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is published by DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3L 0G5 www.delcommunications.com President & CEO David Langstaff Publisher Jason Stefanik Editor Lyndon McLean lyndon@delcommunications.com Advertising Sales Manager Dayna Oulion Advertising Account Executives Robert Bartmanovich Anthony Romeo Jennifer Hebert Mic Paterson

The Role of HVAC Air Filtration and LEED Certification

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Index to Advertisers Affordable Buildings.............................................................................11 Baywood Interiors................................................................................16 Carma Industries..................................................................................15 Dafco Filtration Group............................................................................ 8 Delta Elevator Co. Ltd............................................................................10 Dol Turf Restoration Ltd.........................................................................14 NR Murphy Ltd.....................................................................................17 Norspec Filtration................................................................................19 PA Shop..............................................................................................21 Poly-mor Canada..................................................................................12 Reliable Controls Corporation............................................................... IBC Smith Energy........................................................................................ 6 Swish Maintenance Limited...............................................................7, OBC Yorkland Controls Ltd............................................................................. 8

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Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

Message from the Education Minister

Planting the Seeds for Success We have a lot to be proud of and plenty to celebrate in Ontario, especially our publicly funded education system, which is widely recognized as a global leader.

This success is a testament to the hard work and dedication shown by school support staff. By maintaining the facilities used by teachers, staff and administrators, they are helping our children reach their full potential.

We know a safe, clean, healthy school environment goes a long way to improving student achievement. And since 2003, we have seen great results. Over the last ten years, our core priorities have remained strong. Student achievement scores continue to rise, with 71 per cent of children in grades 3 and 6 meeting the provincial standard in literacy and numeracy in 2012-13. That represents an impressive 17 percentage point increase since 2002-03.

Similarly, the graduation rate has jumped significantly, with 83 per cent of students now graduating – an increase of15 percentage points over the last decade. That increase translates to an additional 115,500 students who have graduated, and whose lives have been changed for the better.

One of our proudest achievements, and biggest investments, has been full-day kindergarten. FDK is now offered in approximately 2,600 schools and is available to more than 180,000 of Ontario’s four-and five-year olds. As part of our FDK commitment we have also supported the creation of close to 3,500 new kindergarten classrooms to accommodate the demand for this popular program.

This is one of the most significant trans-

formations in our education system in a generation, and the program is producing great results. FDK gives children a valuable head start by providing the social, emotional and academic skills required for life-long success.

A contributing factor to Ontario’s success in education has been the significant investments we have made over the past 10 years. This year we are investing $25 billion in Ontario’s world-class education system to give our children the skills they need for the future. In fact, we have increased per student funding 56 per cent since 2003, to an average of $11,200 per student.

This commitment is reflected in our capital projects and investments in school infrastructure. Since 2003, our government has provided $11.6 billion in capital funding to school boards, to support the building of more than 600 new schools that are open, underway or planned.

This funding included $2.75 billion for school renewal projects, $2 billion for new schools and additions, and another $1.4 billion for capital priority projects from 2013 to 2016.

We are also committed to using green technology to ensure our schools are environmentally friendly. Since 2003, we have also provided $20 million to invest in greener learning environments and $600 million to make schools more energy efficient.

Our government’s partnership with you, Ontario’s plant managers, helps turn our investment dollars into a bricks-andmortar presence that benefits communities across the province.

You may also know that we are engaged in consultations to develop our school board efficiencies and modernization strategy. By consulting with stakeholders, we are looking for creative ideas to live within our means, while supporting the students of today and tomorrow. Our goal is to strive for greater operational efficiency, and identify the best use of resources at the ministry, board, school and classroom levels. We welcome input from people who work on the operational side of our schools on how we can best reach these goals together.

We are also looking ahead to the future.

While our education system is among the best in the world, we can still be better.

Since the beginning of the school year, we have been consulting with stakeholders from a variety of sectors on the next phase of our education strategy. We have been asking people for ideas on how to elevate Ontario’s schools and take our system from great to excellent – and with your help, I know we can get there.

I want to thank all of you for your commitment to excellence in our province’s schools.

It is in classrooms where we plant the seeds for success, and we nurture a child’s ability to learn and grow. It is in schools where we lay a solid foundation for future prosperity. And it is through our education system that – along with the help of support staff and the work you do each and every day – we can aspire to even greater heights.

Liz Sandals Minister of Education » Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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Getting Smart About Salt

By Lyndon McLean Winter salt is an inexpensive and easy way to deal with icy patches. Trucks salting roadways and neighbours spreading a little de-icer on the front sidewalk are familiar sight. But as a tragedy such as the collapse of the Algo Centre Mall in Elliot Lake shows, there can be high costs associated with overuse of salt and a lack of facility maintenance.

The Smart About Salt Council is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting the environment through programs that improve management of winter salt used to control ice on sidewalks, parking lots and roadways. The council was started by its partners, the Region of Waterloo, Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association, Building Owners and Managers Association of Ottawa, and Ontario Good Roads Association.

In response to concerns over rising levels of sodium and chlorides in municipal drinking water, the Region of Waterloo took action. One of the first large municipalities to recognize that winter salt use is a major problem, they developed an active strategy for more efficient salt use on its

Smart About Salt’s Guiding Principles Mission: To protect freshwater from winter salt applied on facilities

Vision: All facilities professionally designed and managed to improve winter safety and reduce salt use 4

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

roads. But they also developed the Smart About Salt program, designed to teach private contractors and property managers the best practices of salt management that help to reduce its use while still ensuring that public safety is not compromised.

From building owners to snow removal contractors to the general public, each partner has an important stake in ensuring that its members and constituents understand the program’s value in protecting the environment. All partners encourage everyone to participate in and promote this program. For example, the Region of Waterloo now requires all of its contractors that apply salt on its building properties to be registered in the Smart About Salt program, as contracts are renewed.

The Smart About Salt Council promotes good snow and ice management practices with the aim of reducing salt use on Canada’s roadways, parking lots and sidewalks.

The council researches and disseminates snow and ice best practices from the snow operations, property owner/manager and

public safety perspective, as well as developing and administering education and training programs. These programs assist organizations involved in snow and ice operations to operate in a manner consistent with ensuring public safety while protecting the environment.

What Can You As A Facilities Manager Do? The best advice, according to Smart About Salt Executive Director Leanne Lobe, is to look for ways to manage and reduce ice around facilities. Salt is the least expensive way to manage ice, but it and other alternatives are sources of chlorides that damage property and contribute to environmental problems. Less ice means less salt and other chlorides - and a safer environment.

There are several ways you can manage ice around your facility, including: • Look at pooling - this tells you where you’ll have ice issues • Spot treat ice - instead of covering an area with salt, use what you need to deal with the problem area.

Values (3 Cs):

Goals (5 Ps):

Collaboration: We believe there is strength in numbers and that together we can address the complex social, economic and environmental issues related to winter safety.

Programs that develop and recognize industry leaders

Credibility: We recognize that clear, defendable standards and transparency are critical to achieving our mission.

Continuous Improvement: We commit to continuous improvement for our programs and expect the same from our members.

Partnerships that support our mission and vision Policies that improve industry standards People that are inspired, committed and engaged Performance that is measurable and defendable

• Maintain documentation - keep track of areas that present problems, when a contractor is called, why and how much salt is used.

• If you do a site assessment and have issues, what are you doing about them? Is there an opportunity to close problem areas during winter? If so, this will reduce risks and improve safety.

• Ask yourself: How much salt is enough?

What is the true cost to your infrastructure?

Smart About Salt offers the Certified Site program that meets their criteria for designation. Eligible sites include properties such as government buildings and schools, as well as multi-unit residential buildings (condominiums, apartments and townhouse complexes) and industrial and commercial properties (shopping plazas, large factories, arenas and light industrial complexes).

By becoming certified, you can: • Reduce your winter salt management costs • Reduce infrastructure damage to bricks, doorways and sidewalks • Reduce damage to property without compromising safety • Qualify for insurance premium discounts • Demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship Visit http://smartaboutsalt.com/sites for information about the application process or call (647) 722-5699 for more information.

Winter Tips Winter salt helps keep our roads, parking lots, and pathways clear of snow and ice; however, as populations, traffic, and infrastructure grow, so does our reliance on salt – which isn’t necessarily a good thing. It is possible to stay safe this winter and minimize the impact of salt on the environment.

Get Smart About Salt To keep driveways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice:

1. Shovel first. When you remove snow and ice by shovelling, you’ll need less salt, and it can be more effective. Get out there as early as you can and keep up with storms. You may even decide that salt isn’t needed.

2. For icy patches: • Use a traction aid like kitty litter or sand to reduce the potential to slip.

• Sprinkle de-icing material on icy areas only and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for working temperatures and application rates.

• Give de-icing material time to do its work.

3. Prevent future icy buildups: • Redirect downspouts away from walkways and driveway.

• Shovel unsalted snow to lower areas or onto lawns to direct melting snow away from paved areas.

4. If hiring a snow removal contractor to clear driveways or lots, use certified Smart About Salt contractors. They’re trained in reducing salt use while maximizing effectiveness and safety.

Salt and our Environment Why salt?

Winter salt is economical to purchase, readily available and an effective tool for keeping surfaces clear of ice. However, it’s important to manage its use to reduce the negative impact winter salt can have on our environment.

Salt damage costs us all. As individuals, it affects our clothes, shoes, animal friends, lawns, gardens, and vehicles. In our communities, it damages sidewalks, roads, buildings, and bridges and leads to increased maintenance costs.

Effects of Winter Salt on our urban environment…

• Buildings: outside structures (bricks/ concrete/sidewalks), doorways and flooring may become damaged, increasing repair costs.

• Vehicles: salt accelerates rusting, causing damage and increasing repair costs.

• Clothing: salt can stain and potentially ruin footwear and clothing.

On our natural environment…

Get a Grip on Snow and Ice While salt can make winter safer, it’s only part of the answer. Do your part. Protect yourself from slips and falls.

• Wear sturdy footwear designed for snow and ice to help protect yourself from slips and falls. Boots should have a good tread for traction with low, wide heels. Check out “The (anatomy of a) winter boot” at http://smartaboutsalt. com/Resources/Documents/SAS_WinterBootAnatomy.pdf for buying proper winter footwear.

• Be road-ready. This includes putting on snow tires on your vehicle, slowing down on the road and giving yourself extra time to arrive at your destination.

Drive for the conditions, and make sure you give plow drivers plenty of space to do their work.

• Use a traction aid like kitty litter or sand to reduce the potential to slip. »

• Drinking water sources: damaging sodium and chloride from winter salt eventually makes their way to drinking water wells in some communities. High chloride levels may make drinking water taste salty.

• Vegetation (plants/trees/shrubs): if sprayed with salt, vegetation can lose its hardiness to the cold and be killed by freezing temperatures and high salt levels.

• Aquatic life: salt changes water density, which can negatively affect the seasonal mixing of lake waters. This mixing is important to increase oxygen levels required by aquatic life for survival.

• Wildlife: animals are attracted to salt on or by the road, which increases the threat of collisions with vehicles.

• Pets: salt trapped on paws can irritate and crack skin.

Be smart about the salt you use!

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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Educating Our Educators The Canadian Sanitation Supply Association (CSSA) and its members across Canada have long been focused on improving the environmental health and safety of facilities and those who occupy them.

This focus culminated with the formation of the Canadian Green Sustainability Program (CGSP) four years ago.

To date, numerous members have achieved green certification and have applied the learned techniques into their everyday activities in an effort of creating a “greener” world. To ensure all sectors are represented, the program is now evolving to not only include commercial facilities, but educational institutions as well.

For many years, the public has been led to believe that Canadian schools are safe and clean places to work and learn. On the surface, they are. But looks can be deceiving.

What hasn’t been seen is the silent exposure of toxic chemicals, the poor indoor air quality, and the hidden mould that have threatened the health and safety of our schools and, more importantly, the children within them.

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The importance of adopting a green cleaning program has become a priority with many school boards across the country. The CSSA has recognized this need and is stepping up to educate our educators in the process.

Green cleaning, by definition, seems narrow and limited in scope. However, the concept goes well beyond a mere shift from conventional products to greener ones. It’s about embracing a comprehensive green sustainable philosophy focused on reduction, conservation, alternatives and methodology.

The intersection of these four concepts is extremely important in establishing a best practice that is consistent, achievable, and sustainable.

The positive effects and resulting benefits of implementing a progressive green program, such as the CGSP, reach well beyond any one school’s boundary. Training in the program should involve all stakeholders: regional supervisors/directors, administrative personnel, custodial staff, teachers, and students.

Each stakeholder plays a significant

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role in the success of a true green program. Again, it must be stressed that a green program isn’t just about replacing one harmful product with a greener one.

It’s a concept of reducing risk all around – through reducing, conserving, choosing alternative, and modifying cleaning practices.

Green cleaning is an interdisciplinary approach that must also include an indepth and thorough audit component in order to track the program’s success.

Sustainability is the key and can only be achieved with periodic audits which assist on two fronts: (1) to evaluate and critique the program and (2) to “red flag” any area of concern.

Typically an audit inspection will examine a host of areas, including such things as the facility’s recycling and waste-removal program; pest control, HVAC system and quality; use of polyvinyl chloride- (PVC) free entry matting; proportion chemical dispensers/certified chemical concentrates, microfibre products, hydroor oxy-biodegradable garbage bags and liners, bleach-free paper products and certified green equipment; and conformity to green-cleaning techniques.

Prior to adopting a green cleaning program, it’s extremely important for school board decision makers to create a “green team” or committee to discuss and create an environmental policy that promotes environmental responsibility, and reflects the 3.375board’s specific needs and goals. Once this has been established, the next step can be taken.

Implementing a green-cleaning program takes time and, in most cases, requires an outside expert to facilitate. The CSSA is here to help educational facilities in their effort of establishing greencleaning programs. Simply visit www.cssa. com for all the details. »

Train Staff Anytime, Anywhere With E-Learning@Swish Swish Maintenance Limited recognizes the need for educational facilities to have high-quality, safe cleaning practices and that those can be obtained through training.

For many years, Swish has had a reputation of being a leader when it comes to providing end-user training in the sanitation industry. With a full library of professional training sessions on topics ranging from Custodial Cleaning Basics right up to Pandemic Preparedness, Swish basically took their learning and training programs and put an “E” in front of them.

In early 2010, Swish launched “E-Learning@Swish” as their online learning solution.

“In the designing stages, it was important to us that we support both the

user and Swish’s commitment to sustainable development practices,” says Jim Flieler, Swish VP of Training. “This is easily achieved by reducing the use of environmental resources typically required for course materials and business travel to deliver or attend on-site training venues.”

Designed for the success and development of the user, E-Learning@Swish is a comprehensive web-based sustainable training resource that can be used on its own for independent learning or as part of a blended-training approach. It delivers high-quality training videos that are upto-date and delivered in an easy-to-useand-follow training experience. Most importantly, it provides full documentation to reduce liability risks and create a safer work environment, which continues to be

a key factor in most any facility today.

“Many Human Resource departments are placing a copy of each learner’s certificate in their employee file. They can also run their own individual group summary reports that document learning progress and completion of training. This is a helpful resource in meeting health and safety due-diligence requirements and in monitoring employees’ learning progress,” says Flieler. “You can now be assured that your custodial team has received consistent training that is thorough and concise and will lead to higher-quality, safe cleaning work practices.”

E-Learning@swish has no set schedule for the user to meet. The web-based training modules allow the user to train anytime, anywhere. From the start of their

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first session, the user is provided a full curriculum for custodial services cleaning. The modular courses are a videobased presentation with audio enhancements, making it easy to follow. Upon successful completion of the course and quizzes, the user can generate a Certificate of

Achievement to recognize their learning accomplishments.

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To learn more about E-Learning@Swish, visit us at www.swishclean.com or email E-Learning@swish.ca. »

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Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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Turf Wars: Which Side Are You On?

Natural Grass or Artificial Turf?

Districts Must Carefully Weigh the Benefits and Concerns of Each Option

By Steve Berry elaborate natural grass fields. This fact is the primary argument against artificial turf. Whereas construction costs for a new natural grass field generally range from $100,000 to $300,000, the most basic artificial turf field usually starts at about $300,000. Most artificial fields typically range from $750,000 to $1 million or more in construction costs, depending on the type and complexity of the product selected.

Maintenance and Operations Costs

If you have been in the market for a new athletic field in the last 10 years, you no doubt have been exposed to the front lines of an intense battle for market share between producers of natural grass and manufacturers of artificial turf.

Each camp is well represented by powerful industry organizations across the country. These organizations pump millions of dollars every year into product research, development, and, of course, marketing. As a result, the marketplace is flooded with information (and misinformation) about natural grass and artificial turf.

The decision to go natural or artificial is further complicated by the diversity of public opinion on the subject. Sports pur-

ists swear by the authenticity of natural grass, and owners and operators praise the benefits and flexibility of artificial turf. More recently, community groups such as youth sports organizations, frustrated by limited access to school and community fields, are calling for more artificial turf fields.

So which playing surface really provides the best value? The answer often depends on a combination of many different factors.

Construction and Start-Up Costs Although arguments exist both for and against turf types, one fact remains indisputable: construction costs for artificial turf fields far exceed even the most

Careful consideration should be given to the maintenance requirements for each type of field. The most common misconception about artificial turf fields is the belief that they are low maintenance or even maintenance free. This feature may have been the case when artificial turf was first introduced decades ago, but today’s turf is far more technologically advanced than those early “carpets” and requires more complex maintenance and care.

Still, proper care and maintenance of an artificial turf surface don’t require a degree in agronomy; nor is it as susceptible to Mother Nature’s whims as is its counterpart, natural grass.

With artificial turf, the regularity of maintenance tasks is similar but slightly less intensive than that required for natural grass. Newer synthetic turf fields use a granular infill to provide a softer, more natural surface and to help keep the car-

This article originally appeared in the November 2012 School Business Affairs magazine and is reprinted with permission of the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). The text herein does not necessarily represent the views or policies of ASBO International, and use of this imprint does not imply any endorsement or recognition by ASBO International and its officers or affiliates.

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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The decision to go natural or artificial is further complicated by the diversity of public opinion on the subject. pet fibres standing upright. Infill types vary by manufacturer but typically consist of a combination of sand and finely ground used-car tire rubber. Maintaining a regular and even distribution of infill is vital to ensuring a quality playing surface.

It is equally important in order to protect the integrity of the carpet fibres. Thus, artificial turf fields require regular sweeping and grooming with special equipment.

Additionally, the surface must be kept clean and free from debris, such as dust and dirt, which can impede the subsurface drainage system below the playing surface. In the absence of regular rainfall, the periodic application of water may be required to clean the field. Water application can also help level the distribution of infill material.

Finally, all artificial turf manufacturers require occasional “deep grooming” of the field. This process is typically performed by companies authorized by the turf manufacturer. A deep groom removes all existing infill and any fine debris that has settled at the base of the turf fibres.

The carpet is then cleaned, and new infill is placed over the entire field.

In comparison, the minimum maintenance requirements for natural grass fields include regular mowing, soil analysis, fertilization, cultivation, irrigation, and pest and weed control measures. All these tasks require substantial labor, material, and equipment during the growing season, which, in Texas, typically begins in March and lasts through October.

Furthermore, if play is expected outside

the growing season, experts recommend that natural grass fields be overseeded with a winter grass during the winter months to protect the primary grass from excessive wear while it’s dormant. Doing so requires performing some maintenance tasks, such as mowing, year-round.

In the end, the annual cost to maintain an artificial turf field can run between $10,000 and $30,000, depending on the frequency and intensity of use. Natural grass fields typically cost about the same, ranging from $10,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on the frequency and intensity of use.

Replacement Costs Again, natural grass wins hands down when it comes to replacement costs. In fact, when properly managed and maintained, a natural grass field should never need to be replaced. In the unlikely event a natural grass field does require replacement, plan to invest $50,000 to $150,000, depending on the extent of rehabilitation required.

The average life expectancy of today’s artificial turf fields is eight to 10 years. Replacement turf in the current market can cost between $300,000 and $700,000, depending on subsurface conditions, existing drainage systems, and the type of turf selected.

Hours of Use Artificial turf wins hands in the hoursof-use category. Depending on your needs, it can also be an equalizer when it comes to the difference in field construction costs. Most artificial turf manufacturers claim their products can be used up to 3,000 hours per year without significant wear or damage to the turf.

So how much use can a natural grass field endure over the course of one year?

Experts in the field are often reluctant to give a definitive answer, citing the fact that the variables are simply too numerous.

The most sensible response seems to come from Grady Miller, professor of turf10 Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

grass science at North Carolina State University. Miller often refers to what he calls the 2-4-6-8 rule for the use of natural grass fields.

Essentially, the 2-4-6-8 rule says that, assuming reasonable maintenance, a natural grass field can withstand up to 200 hours of use per year without any signs of wear or damage. At 400 hours of use per year, a natural grass field will generally show some signs of wear and may require spot repairs. Exceed 600 hours of use per year and the field will require rehabilitation in areas of highest use. Natural grass fields used for more than 800 hours per year will require substantial renovation or complete replacement annually. Under the 2-4-6-8 rule, it would require six to eight natural grass fields to accommodate the same volume of use as that of just one artificial turf field. Advantage: artificial turf.

Water Issues Here is another area where artificial

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surfaces have a distinct advantage. Variations in weather can wreak havoc on the operational budgets for natural grass fields. An extended drought, like the one we’ve experienced in Texas since 2009, will substantially increase the amount of water needed to irrigate a natural grass field. Under normal conditions, a natural grass field requires 750,000 to 1.25 million gallons of water per year. In a hot, dry summer, those volumes can increase significantly.

The availability of water is another issue to consider with natural grass. During the prolonged drought of 2011, many water suppliers severely limited – and in some Texas locations completely banned – outdoor water use because of rapidly diminishing public water supplies. Although artificial turf fields do require some water, they need only limited amounts for cleaning and for settling the distribution of infill material. The amount of water required by artificial turf fields is far, far less than that required to maintain natural grass.

Safety Issues Safety is a hotly contested subject when it comes to natural versus artificial turf fields. Both industries have commissioned numerous studies related to player injury.

The majority of those studies focus on artificial turf surfaces.

Although it remains debatable, the majority of studies conducted by both public and private entities appear to consistently conclude that there is no measurable increase in risk of injury directly attributable to artificial turf.

A newer, yet no less contested, debate involves biological contaminants, such as staph and MRSA (methisillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus). Microbial outbreaks are a common occurrence in athletic venues, including locker rooms, weight rooms, and wrestling mats. Now, some people question whether they are a valid concern for artificial turf fields.

In response to that growing concern, researchers at Penn State University conducted an in-depth study of the issue.

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The study, the results of which were published by the university in January 2009, concluded that the survival rates of staph were no different on natural grass than on artificial turf surfaces. The study went on to state that synthetic turf surfaces were not a hospitable environment for microbial activity, such as staph.

In addition to these debates, there are other issues to consider when it comes to field safety. Compaction is a common problem with both natural and artificial turf fields. Regular aeration of a natural grass field and routine grooming of artificial fields are the best methods to address excessive compaction. Both turf types also require regular inspection for and removal of any debris. Natural grass fields must be regularly top-dressed with soil material to fill in ruts and maintain an even playing surface. Failure to maintain an even surface can lead to an increased risk of knee and ankle injuries.

Weather and Environmental Factors This is another toss-up category. Natural grass fields are susceptible to variations in weather. Rainfall limits the availability of natural grass fields during and after the event, reducing the field’s available hours for use.

Playing on a natural grass field during or after periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall will damage the field and increase maintenance costs. In periods of extreme heat or drought, natural grass surfaces are stressed and become more susceptible to wear and long-term damage, which can also drive up maintenance costs or restrict periods of availability.

Finally, natural grass fields can fall victim to disease and insects. Regular application of herbicides and pesticides to treat and prevent these occurrences adds to maintenance costs and can also affect availability for use.

Artificial turf fields that are properly drained can be used during and immedi-

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ately after heavy or prolonged periods of rainfall and are immune to drought. Periods of extreme heat are another matter entirely. It is well documented that artificial turf surfaces can reach temperatures ranging from 165 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit in southern and western climates, such as that in Texas.

There is great debate among artificial turf owners as to whether applying water to cool the turf is effective. Many argue that it does little to cool the turf as the heat is mainly reflective; and while the water may temporarily cool the turf surface, it does little to cool the air over the field. If anything, the application of water just increases the humidity, making playing conditions even more unpleasant. Artificial turf surfaces may also require periodic applications of chemicals to reduce static electricity and prevent biological hazards.

In the End When considering whether a natural grass or artificial turf field provides the best value to your organization, a careful review of each of these issues is important. Cost can be a driving factor, but the volume of demand for access to and use of your field may heavily influence which type of field is most economical. Water, field safety, and environmental issues can also drive decision making. Each field type comes with its own set of issues that substantially affects field maintenance and operations.

There is a fierce battle ongoing in the turf industry, and the marketing materials are equally convincing. To make the best value selection for your organization, consider a thorough review of the benefits and concerns for each product type with respect to your district’s unique situation.

Good Luck!

Steve Berry is construction project manager for Leander ISD in Texas.

Email: Steve.Berry@leanderisd.org »

Energy Management

at Durham District School Board Puts Students First

Judy Gould, Waste and Energy Officer with the Durham District School Board, shows students the Carma energy display in the lobby of Brooklin Village Public School. The LCD monitor is showing the school’s electricity consumption.

In 2007, the Durham District School Board (DDSB) embarked on an energy-conservation strategy to monitor and track energy consumption within the board and its 128 schools. The goal was simple: to find anomalies and better understand how and when energy was being used in the schools, and to provide a means for students to be engaged on the conservation of energy.

Understanding the need for a more comprehensive system for monitoring and targeting, they implemented a Carma submetering program as a pilot project in Brooklin Village Public School in Brooklin. The school was metered for the main electricity use, plus a number of subme-

ters were installed that isolated the lighting and mechanical systems within the school. “The Carma system was a tried and tested method for energy monitoring.

A big plus was the Measurement Canada accredited meters. We knew we would be getting true energy numbers to monitor,” says Shawn O’Brien, Manager of Energy and Mechanical Design.

Within two weeks of implementing the Carma system, Facilities Services staff were able to identify faulty controls for equipment. Without the use of an energy monitoring program, equipment running outside of scheduled periods cannot be tracked. In addition, energy investments, such as lighting upgrades, can be verified

using the system. For example, at Brooklin Village, the gym’s lighting was separately metered in order to establish a baseline.

The Carma system assisted in verifying the T5 high-output lighting was more efficient and upgraded to a three-tiered system with increased efficiency without sacrificing comfort and performance. “It was a no-brainer,” says Mr. O’Brien on the capabilities of the Carma system. “It paid for itself within the first year.”

Currently, 60 schools use a Carma system as a tool for energy monitoring and targeting. The Facilities Services department has been able to use the information to help test new technologies before they are implemented board-wide. For example, facilities installed variable frequency drives on pumps for off-peak periods. The real-time energy data verifies the upgrade was a viable energy investment and is producing cost savings.

The board currently utilizes real-time monitoring for electricity, gas and water to discover mechanical and usage failures that can result in wasteful costs. The board has been using the Faser system since 1980 to help monitor utility bills.

The introduction of the Carma system allows them to control costs earlier, rather than waiting for monthly utility bills to retrieve billing information.

By utilizing energy monitoring, DDSB has been able to run schools to their best operational efficiency, and while utility prices have increased, the board has been able to maintain energy costs for the last six years. Durham District School Board currently ranks fourth on the province’s Utility Consumption Database, an initiative of the Ministry of Education to promote energy management within the school boards.

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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Brooklin Village Public School, the first school at Durham District School Board to implement a Carma submetering pilot program to identify savings opportunities.

For school boards, energy conservation requires a multi-stakeholder approach, with students and teachers playing a key role in helping to lower energy usage. Currently, there are 32 schools in the DDSB that have in-school LCD energy displays in their lobbies. Energy information from the Carma system is fed to the monitors, which shows real-time usage graphs to

the students and teachers. The teachers and students also have direct access to the data through a board-implemented energy portal.

At Whitby Shores Public School, the display has an energy speedometer and the students attempt to get the speedometer into the green, indicting less energy is being used by the school. “The kids be-

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Within two weeks of implementing the Carma system, Facilities Services staff were able to identify faulty controls for equipment.

Without the use of an energy monitoring program, equipment running outside of scheduled periods cannot be tracked. come watch dogs in the schools, telling us when energy is being wasted - for example, portable heaters running when they shouldn’t be,” says O’Brien. “The displays become a real energy conservation and education tool.”

In tandem with facility management practices, the EcoSchools program has been widely adopted by the school board to help reinforce the energy conservation message. Currently there are 59 certified EcoSchools in the DDSB. The EcoSchools Program emphasizes simple measures that engage students such as turning off lights and computer monitors to conserve energy.

Building on the Carma system, Facilities is moving in the direction of implementing web-based student engagement tools that can be integrated into school curriculum. Creating the best learning environments while operating the most efficient buildings is the ultimate goal for the Facilities Services team. “At the end of the day, it’s all about the students. They will be the ones to carry the environmental message throughout their lives,” notes O’Brien. “We are building the future environmental leaders.” »

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Complete Dust Collection Solutions N. R. Murphy Ltd. dust collectors: they do one thing and they do it exceptionally well.

For over 70 years, N.R. Murphy Ltd. has designed and installed over 14,000 dust collection systems, solving almost every dust problem imaginable. N. R. Murphy manufactures a complete line of standard and custom-fabricated dry dust collectors, which also includes cyclones, rotary air locks, abort dampers, spark detection and suppression systems.

Heavy-duty industrial exhaust fans are in stock and ready to ship, and unique applications can quickly be modified or built new. N. R. Murphy also stocks an array of dust collectorrelated accessories, and they manufacture dust filters for all makes and in-stock standard sizes.

Model MKA A rectangular version of the FB series - with all its design and quality features, including good primary separation of the heavier dust particles – model MKA is one of dozens of models to choose from and the most popular design for schools.

The MKA is compact but still capable of effectively filtering large volumes of air. It occupies little valuable space when installed inside or outside a building, and its reduced size also reflects a great saving in shipping costs over long distances.

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Some of the MKA’s features include: • Rugged yet inexpensive, with a low initial cost • Flexible and simple design, with many sizes and configurations available to fit all types of operations • High capacity yet very compact • Suitable for large and small applications • High performance on all types of dust particles • Easy installation (inside or outside) • Easy operation and emptying of collected waste • Flexible cfm ratings for top performance • Primary separator and secondary multi-bag type filtration For detailed product or production information, contact: Craig Moffatt, Sales Manager N. R. Murphy Ltd. 430 Franklin Blvd.

Cambridge, ON N1R 8G6 phone: 519.621.6210 | fax 519.621.284 e-mail: 4nodust@nrmurphyltd.com Website: www.nrmurphy.com »

Model MKA (shown), Is our most popular design for schools. It is one of dozens of models to choose from.

One MKA advantage is that it will effectively filter large volumes of air while occupying a minimum of space.

Buying Tips • If you are laying out equipment in a new facility, try to locate larger pieces of machinery farther away from, and smaller machines closer to, the dust collector, as this will tend to keep the horsepower required for the dust collector fan down.

• Never buy a dust collector based on horsepower of the fan alone, as this can be deceptive.

• Make sure the dust collector you purchase meets all the applicable codes and regulations in your area.

• Deal with a reputable company that has the expertise to do a proper dust collection system design and is capable of providing the proper equipment.

Schools (and counting) It’s not surprising that more Canadian Schools have bought their Dust Collection Equipment from N.R. Murphy Ltd. than any other manufacturer. That’s because feature for feature Murphy Dust Collection systems, offer significant advantages.

Compare for yourself, and see that Dust Collectors from N.R. Murphy Limited are at the head of their class.

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Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

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The Role of HVAC Air Filtration and LEED Certification

By Bob Jackson, Norspec Filtration Ltd. Select the Right Filter

Buildings pursuing LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification need to evaluate many things relating to energy efficiency, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality and related materials and resource selection.

But did you know that choosing the right air filter also can be an integral part of a building’s environmental sustainability strategy? In fact, implementing the right HVAC strategy could net you up to 11 LEED credits.

Air Filtration for IAQ and Energy Efficiency A building’s HVAC air filtration system provides tangible ways to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and energy efficiency – two main tenets of the LEED program. In addition to contributing to the completion of LEED credits and prerequisites, careful selection of the right HVAC filter and filter media can actually save money 18 Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

in the long run – answering critics’ charges that green buildings always have to cost more.

Effective air filtration provides the primary defense for building occupants and HVAC equipment against particulate and gaseous pollution generated within a building, as well as pollutants from air drawn into a building by the HVAC system.

At the same time, air filters play a significant role in the energy consumed to operate the HVAC system. The higher the filter’s resistance to air passing through it, the more energy is consumed to operate the HVAC system.

But even though we speak of air filters, it’s really the filter media that has the biggest effect on providing clean air, protecting HVAC equipment and minimizing energy consumption. That’s why the right filter media strategy can help buildings become more environmentally sustainable and meet LEED and other green building rating system criteria.

To understand how the right filter can help to achieve LEED prerequisites and credits, it’s important to understand how filters should be selected to meet IAQ and energy efficiency requirements.

One of the biggest factors is filtration efficiency, which defines how well the filter will remove contaminants from air passing through the HVAC system.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has an HVAC filter test standard to quantify the efficiency of filters. The ASHRAE 52.2 test standard measures the fractional particle size efficiency (PSE) of an HVAC filter. This indicates the filter’s ability to remove airborne particles of differing sizes between 0.3 and 10 microns in diameter. A minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) is assigned to the filter media depending on the PSE in three different particle size ranges: E1 (very fine particles in the 0.3 to 1 micron range), E2 (fine particles in the 1 to 3 micron range) and E3 (coarse particles in the 3 to 10 micron range). A MERV rating of 5 is least efficient, while a rating of 16 is most efficient. For the best and most complete way to compare the filtration efficiencies of different air filters, review the efficiency values that are included in the ASHRAE 52.2 test report. The E1, E2 and E3 efficiencies represent the true measure of filter performance and give users a more complete picture of what the filter will actually do.

Filters and Energy Efficiency Commercial and residential buildings account for 70 per cent of all electricity

consumption and 40 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions. A third of the energy used by commercial buildings goes to ventilation and space heating/cooling. The energy used by HVAC systems is based on the resistance of the air passing through the filter. The lower the filter’s resistance, the lower the energy consumption will be. Switching to a filter with a lower resistance to airflow is one of the easiest changes building professionals can make in an effort to reduce energy usage and cost. That’s because the HVAC system fan motor needs to overcome less resistance to deliver the required airflow, thus reducing the motor’s energy consumption.

Fortunately, modern filter media has given the industry the capability to produce filters that provide a lower resistance to airflow while maintaining high-particle capture efficiencies, thereby providing the ability to improve IAQ and reduce energy costs simultaneously.

Effective air filtration provides the primary defense for building occupants and HVAC equipment against particulate and gaseous pollution generated within a building, as well as pollutants from air drawn into a building by the HVAC system.

Reduce Waste and Greenhouse Gas Emissions In addition to providing for superior IAQ and reducing energy consumption, HVAC filter selection has a direct effect on a number of environmental sustainability issues: Greenhouse gas emissions – A 0.05inch WG reduction in a filter’s initial resistance to airflow may reduce CO2 emissions up to 4 per cent or 120 pounds per filter. A 0.20-inch WG reduction in a filter’s initial resistance to airflow may reduce CO2 emissions by up to nine per cent or 480 pounds per filter.

Raw material use – Some filters provide superior performance while using less

media than other filters. In addition, filter media can be made with recycled polymer from manufacturing waste streams.

Waste output – Choosing high-capacity pleated filters can extend filter life and reduce changeouts and associated waste streams.

Conclusion Once a robust air filtration system has been implemented, it’s important to pay attention to proper filter maintenance.

Delaying filter maintenance increases energy consumption and increases CO2 emissions. Reducing HVAC energy consumption therefore helps conserve natural resources – a wise sustainability strategy. »

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

19

Take Your Gymnasium and Auditorium Events to the

Next Level

When was the last time you saw a live concert performance? Did the spectacle of lights and sound fully involve your senses?

For a young person, this is the last thing they would expect from their auditorium events. But with new technologies in LED lighting and video software, a small-scale budget concert can be created right in your gymnasium or auditorium that will 20 Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

impress any and every student in attendance. No longer is the AV Club a place for techies - it has become a social hub for brilliant minds and personal artistic flare.

If you can provide the tools and controls, you won’t believe how a young person can create incredible and immersive displays of sound and light. In their minds, all is possible, and by adding

budget-conscious LED lighting and DMX control, a massive DJ concert or theatrical performance can be realized professionally for the whole school – on a surprisingly affordable budget!

A/V Professionals vs. Electrical Contractors It can be said that the “devil is in the

details�, and indeed this is true of many audio, lighting and media systems installed in our schools. With many complex A/V systems that are integrated into our

classrooms, there is indeed a best solution for each project. With an A/V professional who specializes in audio, video, and lighting systems, you can be sure that the

ideas and needs of the system are met and that the best method to control has been installed.

This tends to be an issue for many elec-

Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

21

trical contractors who are working on tight budgets, where the best price is the bottom line. With an A/V professional, the system is designed with the best equipment available for the budget, complete with no surprises or misunderstandings.

The equipment will be installed correctly, to exact specifications, and completely tested. With the PA Shop’s professional installation department, the process of designing the system not only involves the needs of the client but also addresses the available budget and how the equipment will be used by the staff and students every day.

It can be a challenge for an electrical contractor to transfer the ideas and needs of the client to the person installing the equipment. Without a specialist’s eye on the project, the implementation can be misguided and, ultimately, not exactly what was required for a complete and effective solution. Small details can be overlooked by an electrical contractor who, in the worst case, can make the new 22 Ontario School Plant Manager | Winter 2013/2014

lighting system unusable and require additional upgrades and cost.

Electrical contractors are very good at what they do and extremely cost-conscious - and this is a good practice for efficient profits. However, when we concen-

trate on best price and not best quality or best fit, the outcome can fall far short of the desired result. Using an A/V professional guarantees your investment will be designed and installed correctly with function, longevity and budget in mind. »

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