Wind Vulnerability Assessment of Roof Systems and Rooftop Equipment for Critical Facilities: A Preliminary Protocol for Design Professionals

摘要

This paper presents a preliminary protocol for assessing the wind vulnerability of roof systems and rooftop equipment on critical facilities. Such facilities include emergency operations centers, fire and police stations, hospitals, jails, nursing homes, power plants, schools, water supply and treatment plants, and other buildings that are essential for the delivery of vital services or protection of a community. Roof systems and rooftop equipment are key building elements that are frequently damaged during high winds. Leakage from damaged roofs or rooftop equipment has interrupted numerous facility operations, and many critical facilities have been forced to evacuate due to roof leakage. By identifying wind vulnerabilities, mitigation efforts can be undertaken to avoid future damage and disruption of services. The preliminary protocol can be used by design professionals to systematically guide their assessment of these building elements.