Commissioning, Containment and Certification: Where the Lines Blur
Michael Weiss
Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3/ABSL-3) containment laboratories for animals and research are the most difficult containment level facilities to design, build, operate and maintain. Typically, the facilities will be certified for use before initial operation and subsequently on an annual schedule or after a program change, renovation or replacement of critical HVAC/exhaust system components (specifically fans, air valves, or fan motors) that may affect the operating environment of the laboratory.
Laboratory certification is the systematic review of all safety features and processes associated with the laboratory (engineering controls, personal protective equipment, building and system integrity, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and administrative controls such as documentation and record retention systems). This validation assures that all reasonable facility controls and prudent practices are in place to minimize, to the greatest extent possible, the risks associated with laboratory operations and the use of biohazardous materials. Standardization of an initial and annual commissioning and certification process for BSL-3 facilities will provide accountability that ensures proper and regular maintenance and demonstrates the use of SOPs that protect human and animal occupants, the environment and the research integrity.
This paper will discuss the criteria used in order to successfully challenge, validate and document that the facility will meet intent and requirements of operating a high containment facility.
Mission Critical Commissioning for Healthcare Facilities
Steven R. Ross
This presentation will cover the critical aspects of commissioning healthcare facilities, including the critical systems and tasks to be performed during the commissioning process. It will address each phase of the commissioning process, and present two case study projects.
The presenter will discuss all key systems, including:
• Mechanical (chilled water, steam and heating, and airside systems, as well as critical zone and HVAC controls)
• Plumbing/Medical Gas/ Fire Protection (R.O./D.I. systems, domestic hot water, medical gas, and fire protection)
• Electrical (unit subs/main electrical switchgear, essential systems, such as generators, paralleling gear, and automatic transfer switches, as well as UPS and life safety systems)
• Other (building envelope, security, and code blue)
He will also address the key mission critical tasks to be performed during the design, construction, acceptance, and post-occupancy phases of the commissioning project. These tasks are critical to each project. They are most effective for the client and the stakeholders when the process is proactive. Thus, it is critical to be involved in the design phase and to integrate Cx activities into the construction schedule as the project progresses, so not to impact the project schedule.
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