Architects and engineers face numerous challenges when designing systems that support the healing environment in a hospital. These challenges include defining design criteria, properly documenting the design intent, and appropriate oversight during construction. Failure to recognize and overcome such challenges may lead to IAQ system deficiencies. There are numerous global issues that foster opportunities for IAQ systems deficiencies. These include:

• A/E’s understanding and familiarity with health care design guidelines and their intent,
• architectural program verification,
• design omissions and errors,
• construction deficiencies, and
• inadequate system checkout, startup, and balancing.

This paper will focus on evaluating design and construction deficiencies that have an impact on IAQ within a health care facility. Each deficiency will be defined by answering the four questions listed below.

• What occurs as a result of the deficiency or failure?
• What is the consequence of the deficiency or failure?
• How can the deficiency or failure be prevented?
• What ultimately causes the system deficiency or failure?

The evaluation results will be provided in a tabular form that can be used to identify and prevent potential IAQ deficiencies during design, construction, and system operation.

Paper from IAQ 2004 -- Critical Operations: Supporting the Healing Environment Through IAQ Performance Standards

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