Natural Resources Canada Releases HVAC Self-Evaluation Tool and Guide
August 27, 2021 | By Logan Caswell
The voluntary self assessment tool has been tested with a variety of property managers and operations staff.
Natural Resources Canada has developed a voluntary, self-assessment tool to provide feedback on the impact of HVAC strategies during and after pandemics. It highlights key areas and best practices for efficient HVAC operation during these times and help operations teams to respond with greater confidence. More specifically, the tool can provide an assessment and guidance that will:
- Highlight where HVAC operation can be improved to meet energy efficiency best practices without compromising current pandemic HVAC operations guidelines.
- Provide resources and references that can help guide operators in determining an enhanced HVAC operations strategy and plan during a pandemic.
- Emphasize the Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx) approach and its application to help owners undertake HVAC operation changes.
The free tool is provided free of charge on the NRCan website: nrcan.gc.ca
The voluntary self assessment tool has been tested with a variety of property managers and operations staff. The objective is to share reputable advice on the critical HVAC elements in response to the pandemic period while optimizing energy use in a commercial office, based on recognized sources.
Since each building and HVAC system are unique, with their unique requirements, the tool cannot recommend specific operating parameters. Instead, the tool is based on a series of 10 questions that focus on the most important elements to consider for the efficient operation of HVAC systems during a pandemic. These elements were taken from recognized resources in the HVAC industry as well as the best practices recommended by organizations.
This tool is focused on commercial offices but can be used with caution for other facilities that have similar occupancy. For sectors that have very specific sanitary requirements, such as the Health Care Sector, additional considerations are naturally required. Each question has a brief reference or additional resource to help provide context. Space is also provided to comment on the respective response.
