June 20, 2007—A report from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers building owners and managers information on retrofit options to improve the safety of buildings against airborne chemical and biological hazards. Managers can use the new guide to determine whether or not — and how — to harden existing buildings against accidental chemical releases or possible terrorist threats.
NIST researchers evaluated 14 alternative retrofit techniques based on data from simulated airflow and contaminant transport computer modeling, as well as a case study in which retrofits were designed for a high-rise and single story building.
In conjunction with the report, NIST also developed a life-cycle cost analysis tool for chemical and biological protection of buildings that helps owners and managers to compare life-cycle costs of installation, operation and maintenance to determine the most cost-effective combination of retrofit options.
Researchers discuss potential advantages, disadvantages and knowledge gaps for each technology. For example, the researchers note that filtration and air-cleaning options have the advantage of being always in operation. But, as the report notes, their disadvantage is a lack of standards for testing and rating gaseous air-cleaning systems and other air-cleaning approaches.
The study also notes the potential for increased energy efficiency and improved indoor air quality results from various retrofit options, which could play a role in life-cycle cost comparisons of different strategies.
The report, Building Retrofits for Increased Protection Against Airborne Chemical and Biological Releases (NISTIR 7379/EPA/600/R-06/157), is available online and at www.epa.gov/nhsrc.
The Life-Cycle Cost Analysis Tool (EPA/600/C-06/016) is available online and at www.epa.gov/nhsrc.
