47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

1.2.3 Facility DesignThe nature of services provided by critical facilities requiresthat designers and decisionmakers define a design objective ofachieving building performance levels beyond the minimum requirementsprescribed by the building code. While compliancewith the building code may satisfy the requirements to protect thefacility’s occupants, it may be insufficient to ensure the continuedoperation of the facility. When designing or rehabilitating a criticalfacility located in an area subject to high-wind or floodingrisks, this manual recommends a set of guidelines intended tominimize the interruption in operation of critical facilities, bothduring and in the aftermath of hazard events.m Conduct an in-house assessment of the facility needs, withthe assistance of decisionmakers and consultants. Publiccommittees may contribute advice and guidance throughoutthe programming and design process. For large programs,committees may acquire specialists at different stages asnecessary.m Determine the size and scope of the proposed program. Ina smaller area, an architect may be employed to assist thedecisionmakers with this task, possibly later becoming thedesign architect.m Assess the needs of the facility to determine the availability ofsuitable sites (and lease/purchase as necessary).m Develop occupant specifications, seeking advice from facilitymanagers and both in-house and consulting professionals.m Assess financial needs.m Identify financial resources, including alternative sources offunding (e.g., Federal and State programs, local taxes, bondissues, and utility fees).m Ensure funding (e.g., bond issue, establishment of utilitydistricts, etc.).1-10 CRITICAL FACILITY DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS