ASHRAE releases new alternative care site HVAC guidebook
November 25, 2020 | By HPAC Magazine
The guide was made available to help respond to the rising need for hospital beds due to COVID-19
In response to spikes in COVID-19 across North America and around the world, many communities are setting up alternative care sites (ACS), and in response the ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force has announced the availability of the Alternate Care Site HVAC Guidebook, which was developed by the ASHRAE Alternate Care Sites Task Force.
The task force was convened upon the request to the ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide engineering recommendations, solutions, and guidance to address the HVAC systems for ACS.
The ACS HVAC guide is primarily applicable to host sites with large open spaces such as convention centres and other large spaces. It is also applicable to the conversion of smaller facilities with open areas such as school gymnasiums.
Specific recommendations include guidance for design requirements, air flow, filtration, space conditions and methodology for identifying which mechanical system approaches may be pursued knowing that most ACS must prioritize certain features due to limited time, budget, and site characteristics.
To view the complete 37-page Alternative Care Site HVAC Guidebook and other COVID-19 resources, visit ashrae.org/COVID-19.
