47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

Table 2-3: Checklist for Building Vulnerability of Flood-Prone Critical Facilities (continued)Vulnerability Sections Guidance ObservationsUtility SystemsIs the potable water supplyfor the facility protectedfrom flooding? If servedby a well, is the wellheadprotected?Is the wastewater servicefor the building protectedfrom flooding? Are anymanholes below the DFE?Is infiltration of floodwatersinto sewer lines a problem?If the site is served by anonsite system that is locatedin a flood-prone area,have backflow valves beeninstalled?Are there any abovegroundor underground tanks onthe site in flood hazardareas? Are they installedand anchored to resistflotation during the designflood? Are tank openingsand vents elevated abovethe 500-year elevationor the DFE, or otherwiseprotected to prevent entryof floodwater or exit ofproduct during a floodevent?Operators of critical facilities that depend onfresh water for continued functionality shouldlearn about the vulnerability of the local watersupply system and the system’s plans forrecovery of service in the event of a flood.Most waste lines exit buildings at the lowestelevation. Even buildings that are outside of thefloodplain can be affected by sewage backupsduring floods.Dislodged tanks become floating debristhat pose special hazards during recovery.Lost product causes environmental damage.Functionality may be impaired if tanks forheating fuel, propane, or fuel for emergencygenerators are lost or damaged.Mechanical SystemsAre air handlers, HVACsystems, ductwork, andother mechanical equipmentand systems located abovethe 500-year elevation orthe DFE? Are the vents andinlets located above floodlevel, or sealed to prevententry of floodwater?In existing buildings, utility equipment that iscritical for functionality should be relocated tohigher floors or into elevated additions.MAKING CRITICAL FACILITIES SAFE FROM Flooding2-97