CIBSE President Elect calls for improved handover processes for optimised building performance
In his technical presentation at the ASHRAE Winter Meeting in Atlanta, Adrian Catchpole, CIBSE President Elect set out the requirement for a holistic approach to design, manufacture, construction and operation of buildings to deliver buildings that perform as their operators expect. And these buildings need to be commissioned before handover to the operators.
With increasing use of digital tools in the design of buildings there is an increasing opportunity to pass information about buildings through to the end users in digital form, further enhancing the operation and management of the building and improving operational performance and reducing carbon impacts.
Adrian stressed the need for a cultural change within the construction industry, highlighting that too often the handover process is compromised. While there may appear to be short term savings, proper handover and commissioning are essential to buildings performing and reducing operational carbon.
Commissioning ensures that?systems are properly installed and operated?as intended and helps achieve the?larger goals of: sustainable design?and operation; life-cycle cost-effectiveness; efficient use of?investments; minimising overall?maintenance and utility costs;?component-life reliability; and?performance expectations.
领英推荐
While often influenced by cost, Adrian stressed that the lack of end-use focus allowed for compromised design choices. It is crucial that onsite staff and occupants are given the relevant information and support to maintain and use buildings, for optimum performance and comfort.
This can be helped by clearly communicating design intent with the whole supply chain and establishing early dialogue between design and specialist commissioning engineers.
We are all too aware that buildings and engineering systems need to be delivered within specific cost, time, and build-quality parameters. However, they must also be operationally ready at handover. Buildings should perform to meet the specified needs of the people that use, manage, operate, and maintain them, ensuring that they function safely and efficiently in the long term. Commissioning is central to achieving these outcomes.
As we work towards net zero, we will face new challenges, along with accelerated technological advancement. Buildings are becoming increasingly more complex and the urgent need to decarbonise buildings means that handover is more of a priority than ever before. Effective commissioning management benefits people, businesses, society, and the environment.
Technical Compliance Manager at Alumet
1 年The drive towards net zero carbon emissions in buildings is indeed a major challenge that requires effective planning, design, and construction practices. The complexity of buildings and the need to decarbonize them requires a more comprehensive and integrated approach to commissioning management. Commissioning management, when done effectively, can ensure that the building performs optimally, with efficient use of energy and resources, and provides a safe and comfortable environment for its occupants. By focusing on commissioning management, we can ensure that the building meets the desired performance standards and sustainability goals, and delivers long-term benefits for people, businesses, society, and the environment.
The data's there; let's use it
1 年I couldn't agree more: This problem is endemic and has been obvious for years. With the industry apparently reluctant to change its ways the situation is likely to worsen as buildings become more complex. Fortunately there is technology to help, but it still needs a holistic approach with all parties collaborating to achieve anywhere near optimum operational performance.
At Jameson Projects we assist clients with any of their mechanical and electrical requirements
1 年I would agree after seeing several sites not handed over correctly.