Hospital air conditioning and hospital ventilation systems are required to meet higher standards of performance and serve a greater function than those in standard buildings. A hospital HVAC system is probably the most vital application of HVAC technology in terms of human health, comfort and safety. Hospital HVAC system design presents unique challenges due to the level of demands placed on the it, the heating and cooling loads and the requirements for dependability and hygiene. A hospital air conditioning system also has the added challenge of integrating with a number of other complex systems not present in conventional buildings. In an emergency situation having an HVAC team who understands the unique requirements of a hospital HVAC system can literally be the difference between life and death for some patients.
Hospital Air Conditioning and Hospital Ventilation
In any building, part of the function of the HVAC system is to create a comfortable environment for occupants. Theres no place where occupants can benefit more from comfort than a hospital. Like in other buildings, hospital air conditioning and hospital ventilation systems are tasked with controlling air temperature, air flow, air quality and humidity. In the case of a hospital HVAC system the importance of maintaining the environment goes beyond comfort. Its essential to the healing and recovery process. Hospital HVAC systems also work with in close coordination with specific medical practices. For example operating rooms have specific requirements that include pressurization and higher levels of air filtration in addition to temperature and humidity control. Other functions specific to hospital HVAC systems include:
Emergencies ManagementHospital HVAC systems help to detect fires and eliminate smoke from exits and enclosures. Complex engineered smoke control systems may be needed to aid in pressurization control.
Control of InfectionHospital ventilations systems are one of many tools used to control the spread of disease within a hospital. Because hospitals and other medical facilities have elevated levels of pathogens, stringent controls are necessary for the safety of both patients and hospital staff.
Control of HazardsMedical facilities routinely produce fumes and chemicals that present health or safety hazards to patients and staff. Hospital ventilations systems are part of a filtration system that helps to control the concentration of contaminants to keep them at safe levels.
Hospital air conditioning and hospital ventilation requirements vary by facility. One thing that doesnt vary is the need for an expert HVAC team that understands the critical nature of hospital HVAC systems.
