HVAC PRODUCT SELECTION AND SPECIFICATION - KEEP IT DEFENDABLE

摘要

HVAC product selection is not as easy as it sometimes seems. For sure, the key part of engineering is the KIS principle (Keep It Simple). However, the KID principle (Keep It Defendable) is even more important in today's litigious construction industry where there are increasingly more demanding codes and standards that apply to integrated building design, construction, operation, and maintenance. One example is the basic selection and installation of life safety dampers that must be cycled periodically to prove they will indeed operate and provide the life safety features the codes require. Engineers and architects who fail to provide integrated design to allow for the maintenance access to life safety dampers may indeed find themselves liable for a loss of property or life occurrences. Product selection is not as easy as it sometimes seems. The KID principle is more important than ever as professional engineers work within a project design team to not only make product selections that provide value for the facility owner but also meet all applicable codes and standards. Both ASHRAE and CSI have resources that can be used to help in the documentation of proper HVAC system and product selections. It would be beneficial for professional engineers to consider obtaining their CCS. A CCS ensures that the professional engineer-of-record not only has his or her professional engineering credentials through formal education and training but also has a working knowledge of understanding contracts that incorporate the drawings and specifications included in the owner-contractor agreement.