VHA PROGRAM GUIDE PG-18-3
April 2001
required maintenance, and potential for damage (see
PG-18-14 for recommended finishes and materials).
b. Mechanical Systems
(1) Air Handling Systems. Design air handling systems to provide temperature, humidity, ventilation,
and air quality control of indoor space. Include component equipment such as heating and cooling
coils, fans, air filters, dampers, intake louvers, humidifiers, and controls. Select equipment based on size
constraints, functional areas being served, available space, and environmental conditions required.
Consider hours of operation, ambient air conditions, cleanliness of ventilation air, quality of water
service, ability or accessibility, and quality of maintenance.
(2) Ductwork Systems. Design galvanized metal ductwork/air distribution systems in accordance
with the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) national
standard. For a few limited areas, including surgery, provide wet hood exhausts and corrosive hood
exhausts; use other materials, such as stainless steel, for safety and infection control.
(3) Chiller Systems. Design chiller systems, including controls, pumps, piping, and valves, to provide
chilled water for cooling. A minimum of two chillers is needed to provide efficient operation and
redundancy.
(4) Boiler Systems. Design boilers to distribute steam throughout the medical center for space
heating, sterilization, food preparation, and dishwashing. Typically, boilers are gas/oil fired high-
pressure steam generators with dual fuel capability and required safety and operating controls. A
minimum of three boilers is required. Select units based on connected loads, air pollution standards,
and federal energy conservation statutes.
(5) Piping Systems. Design a piping system that distributes fluids and gases throughout the facility.
HVAC piping is predominately black steel piping systems; copper piping used for domestic water and
medical gases; and cast iron and PVC used for waste lines.
c. Medical Gas Systems . Design these systems. to include air compressors, air dryers, filters,
vacuum pumps, manifolds, alarms, and piping systems, to provide life support for patients critical needs.
d. Elevators. Design hydraulic type elevator systems in buildings with 4 floors or less and electric
traction-type elevator systems in buildings of 5 or more floors use.
e. Electrical Systems. Design electrical systems to provide lighting and communications for
occupants, and power for specialty equipment and building systems such as elevators and air
conditioning. Select system components based on user requirements, safety, and life-cycle costs.
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