| Retrofitting buildings to reduce chemical and biological hazard risks
NIST researchers evaluated 14 alternative retrofit techniques based on data from simulated airflow and contaminant transport computer modeling as well as a case study in which retrofits were designed for a high-rise and single story building. In conjunction with the report, NIST also developed a life-cycle cost analysis tool for chemical and biological protection of buildings that helps building owners and managers to compare life-cycle costs of installation, operation and maintenance to determine the most cost-effective combination of retrofit options for their structure. Retrofit options considered include: enhanced particle filtration; sorbent-based gaseous air cleaning; ultraviolet germicidal irradiation; photocatalytic oxidative air cleaning; work area air capture and filtration equipment such as mail handling tables; ventilation system recommissioning; building envelope air-tightening; building pressurization; relocation of outdoor air intakes; shelter-in-place; isolation of vulnerable spaces such as lobbies; system shutdown and purge cycles; and automated heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) operational changes in response to contaminant sensing. Potential advantages, disadvantages and knowledge gaps are discussed for each technology. The NIST/ EPA report ‘Building Retrofits for Increased Protection Against Airborne Chemical and Biological Releases’ is available at http://fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/build07/PDF/b07006.pdf The Life-Cycle Cost Analysis Tool is available at http://www2.bfrl.nist.gov/software/LCCchembio/index.htm
•Date: 12th June 2007 • Region: US •Type: Article •Topic: Facilities and buildings
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