| Although engineering and architectural
construction inspections verify that the systems and materials
specified in building plans are installed as specified,
building commissioning ensures that these systems operate
as intended and that operation staff can operate a building
for years to come. Because construction methods and building
systems are increasingly complicated, commissioning is a
critical and necessary step in any construction project.
The LEED system has made building commissioning a mandatory
requirement for certification. Furthermore, an additional
LEED credit can be earned by performing extended commissioning.
Building commissioning is most successful when conducted
by an agency that is independent of the design team and
when the commissioning is conducted in accordance with ASHRAE
Guideline 1 – Guideline for Commissioning of HVAC Systems.
Basic building commissioning consists of five tasks:
- summarize the design intent for the building
and review the suitability of the concept design
in meeting the design intent
- develop a commissioning plan and specifications
that describe the commissioning activities and reporting
requirements
- co-ordinate, witness, and verify start-up and
functional testing of building systems
- oversee on-site training for facility staff
to ensure that they are familiar with all aspects
of the systems and equipment
- prepare commissioning report containing operation
and maintenance manuals, results of testing, and
equipment warranties
Additional commissioning tasks include peer review of
the design and commissioning activities after building hand-over
to the client. This work must be done by a firm independent
of the design and construction team. The additional services
include
- peer review of the concept design to assess
whether the concept design will meet the design
intent and the proposed LEED credits
- peer review of the construction documents prior
to issuance for tender
- review contractor submittals and review alternates
on systems that are being commissioned
- verify system performance over the first year
of operation
- develop a re-commissioning manual that describes
requirements for on-going system testing
Enermodal provides basic and additional commissioning
services that meet all the requirements of ASHRAE Guideline
1 and the LEED Green Building Rating System. We have particular
experience in commissioning innovative systems often found
in green buildings. Our services also include
envelope
air tightness and indoor air quality testing and
detailed
building performance monitoring.
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