Hi guys!
I have a two part question on the Hazardous Materials Storage ventilation requirements according to ASHRAE 170.
1. Just to clarify, Hazardous Materials refer to any biological-infectious residue?
2. Does the storage refer to the main Hazardous Material Storage located outside of the Hospital? or does it also refer to the small closet-like spaces located throughout the hospital?
I am asking because the client is a bit resistant on installing the exhaust. They say that it is because having an extraction would be a potential vehicle for contamination of other areas. On the other hand, having no pressurisation (either ventilation or exhaust) would forbid there to be any potential risks of spreading bacteria. According to what they have told us, it is in their operation protocols to have the hazardous materials wrapped in special containment sealed bags, inside sealed containers, and these spaces are emptied periodically every hour and taken to the mail Hazardous Materials Storage.
I have sent the question to GBCI, and am waiting for answer. Any input from you guys will be greatly appreciated!
Susan Walter
HDRLEEDuser Expert
1296 thumbs up
March 23, 2016 - 6:05 pm
In the US, the dirty linen and trash storage rooms are exhausted (no return air) and the exhaust lines are separate from the toilet room exhaust lines. Then you have to keep the exhaust several feet away from intakes (25 feet off the top of my head). Yes, in the US, this kind of waste is often double bagged. I doubt GBCI will allow it.
Gabriela Crespo
BECxP, CxA+BE, LEED AP BD+C, O+MRevitaliza Consultores
21 thumbs up
March 23, 2016 - 6:21 pm
Thank you Susan! I also read FGI Guidelines, and they are very clear. The thing is the owner is trying to justify through operation that this is not required for them. I also proposed they do a CIR, to get an official response.