What is the primary goal of commissioning a new HVAC system in a hospital facility?
The primary goal of commissioning a new HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system in a hospital facility is to verify and document that the system is designed, installed, tested, and capable of being operated and maintained to perform in accordance with the owner's project requirements (OPR) and the design intent. Commissioning is a systematic quality assurance process that starts early in the design phase and continues through construction, acceptance, and operation. It ensures that the HVAC system meets the specific needs of the hospital, such as maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels, providing adequate ventilation, and preventing the spread of airborne contaminants. Commissioning activities include reviewing design documents, verifying equipment installation, performing functional performance testing, training operating personnel, and developing a commissioning report. By identifying and resolving issues before the system is put into operation, commissioning helps to improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, enhance patient comfort, and minimize the risk of equipment failures and system downtime. Ultimately, the aim is for the system to function as designed and provide the required environmental conditions within the hospital.