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Two principles for air-conditioning operating rooms are that air should be supplied at the ceiling, in a unidirectional or laminar air pattern, and that higher air change rates result in lower bacte­rial counts within the room. However, these principles are applied along a wide spectrum, and ongoing research is being conducted to optimize air distribution airflow patterns and quantities.

Recorded May 17, 2016 Speakers: Robert Reardon and Leslie Hanson This webinar features 2016 Vista Award recipients. They discuss how project teams can work together to facilitate extensive and complex design and constructive initiatives, as well as overcome setbacks and challenges to achieve successful outcomes. Learning outcomes:

Recorded May 18, 2016 Speakers: William E. Koffel, P.E., FSFPE and Mark J. Aaby, P.E. The 2012 edition of NFPA 101 contains numerous reference standards that impact the operation of health care facilities, and this webinar covers those changes.

  Speakers: Laura Rygielski-Preston and Charlotte Burns

All three parts of this webinar series are available for members by clicking below.

Speaker: Tom Kinman, Jim Burger and Iona Canada

All three parts of this webinar series are available for members by clicking below.

Speaker: Michael Hatton    

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A building’s HVAC system is designed to perform several tasks: filter, cool, heat, humidify, dehumidify, pressurize, and/or exhaust. Each of these tasks affects indoor air quality. For example, if incom­ing air is not properly filtered, excessive dust from the outdoors is drawn into the building. If supplied air is not conditioned or heated satisfactorily, occupants may experience thermal discomfort. If supplied air is not dehumidified appropriately, excessive relative humidity levels may promote microbial growth.

The ASHE CMS State Operations Manual Appendix A Crosswalk provides A-Tag information along with the related codes and standards applicable to the requirements for each A-Tag. To ensure that the tool is relevant to health care facility professionals, it focuses specifically on A-Tag requirements that affect the physical environment.

Positive vs Negative Operating room and protective isolation = Positive Airborne isolation = Negative When the total CFM from supply air (1&2) > than the return air (3), the room is under positive pressure and the air will flow out of the room. When the CFM from the return air (3) > than the supply air (1&2), the room is under negative pressure and the air will flow into the room