From SARS CoV-1 2003 to SARS CoV-2 2019 Healthcare Leadership Strategy for a Better Future HVAC System Assessment & Performance
HVAC System Assessment • Create strategic Master Plan for flexible HVAC systems » Analyze risks and develop contingency plans for action » Full utilization of installed technology and equipment capability (capacity) » Utilization of auxiliary and supplemental systems and equipment (fixed and mobile) to satisfy new conditions during pandemic/surge/emergency operations » Installation of response-specific systems (negative pressure suites, UVGI systems, etc.) » Document present-state and future-state operational plans, including procedures for pandemic/surge/emergency responses » Document present-state and future-state equipment parameters (air volumes, pressure relationships, damper positions, control sequences, physical barriers (temporary ICRA partitions, etc.)).
JPT Architects, P.C.
www.JPTarchs.com
From SARS CoV-1 2003 to SARS CoV-2 2019 Healthcare Leadership Strategy for a Better Future HVAC System Assessment & Performance » Develop enhanced service requirements for systems and equipment based upon pandemic/surge/emergency operations (e.g. increase frequency of filter replacement) » Coordinate with Infection Prevention & Control personnel and clinical leadership
HVAC System Performance • Constant readiness » Regular monitoring of critical system equipment and environmental parameters » Regular preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment » On-site inventory of critical wear parts and spare parts » Re-commissioning of systems at routine intervals » Resource plans ,critical contractor, and vendor support agreements » Availability of auxiliary and supplemental equipment » Training of staff
JPT Architects, P.C.
www.JPTarchs.com
From SARS CoV-1 2003 to SARS CoV-2 2019 Healthcare Leadership Strategy for a Better Future HVAC System Assessment & Performance
• Utilization & Response » Increase volume of outside air to reduce/eliminate recirculated air content * High heating and high cooling seasons may tax the coil capacities of the air handling systems – understand the limits * Air exchanges, temperatures, and humidity levels must be maintained • Air exchange rates can be exceeded, provided detrimental effects are not introduced (drafts, noise, turbulent flow) * Consider alternatives if outside air quality is poor (e.g. UVGI or ionization disinfection)
JPT Architects, P.C.
www.JPTarchs.com
From SARS CoV-1 2003 to SARS CoV-2 2019 Healthcare Leadership Strategy for a Better Future HVAC System Assessment & Performance » Increase filter efficiency to reduce airborne contaminants * High MERV/HEPA filters – understand effect of higher pressure drop across the filter bank » Enable system and equipment parameters (via building automation or manual methods) for pandemic/surge/emergency operations » Install and activate auxiliary and supplemental equipment to predetermined performance levels * In-room air filtration units • Consider equipment access and cleaning/disinfection/maintenance procedures * Supplemental disinfection via UVGI, ionizers, chemical misters, etc. * Booster exhaust fans * ICRA barriers, PPE Don/Doff locations » Monitor performance
JPT Architects, P.C.
www.JPTarchs.com