47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

a window submittal should show that the glazing has sufficientstrength, its attachment to the frame is adequate, and the attachmentof the frame to the wall is adequate.During submittal review, it is important for the designer of recordto be diligent in ensuring that all required documents aresubmitted and that they include the necessary information. Thesubmittal information needs to be thoroughly checked to ensureits validity. For example, if an approved method used todemonstrate compliance with the design load has been alteredor incorrectly applied, the test data should be rejected, unlessthe contractor can demonstrate the test method was suitable.Similarly, if a new test method has been developed by a manufactureror the contractor, the contractor should demonstrateits suitability.Field observations: It is recommended that the design team analyzethe design to determine which elements are critical to ensuringhigh-wind performance. The analysis should include the structuralsystem and exterior-mounted electrical equipment, but itshould focus on the building envelope and exterior-mountedmechanical and communications equipment. After determiningthe list of critical elements to be observed, observation frequencyand the need for special inspections by an inspection firmshould be determined. Observation frequency and the need forspecial inspections will depend on the results of the risk assessmentdescribed in Section 3.2.2, complexity of the facility, andthe competency of the general contractor, subcontractors, andsuppliers.See Section 3.4 for additional information pertaining to critical facilitieslocated in hurricane-prone regions.3.3.1.4 Post-Occupancy Inspections, PeriodicMaintenance, Repair, and ReplacementThe design team should advise the building owner of the importanceof periodic inspections, maintenance, and timely repair. Itis important for the building owner to understand that a facility’swind resistance will degrade over time due to exposure to weatherunless it is regularly maintained and repaired. The goal shouldMAKING CRITICAL FACILITIES SAFE FROM High Wind3-41