47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

historically caused problems in building or operational performance,such as:m Roof systems not designed for high winds and debris impactm Rooftop equipmentm Unprotected exterior glazingm Large, sectional and rolling doors not designed for high windsm Communications towersm Large roof overhangsm Lack of facilities for an extended length of stay, especiallyemergency sanitary facilities and power supplyBasements are another design feature with a high damage potential,especially when important services and facility functions arelocated there. The basement at the New Orleans Police Departmentcompletely flooded, and all the essential equipment located therewas severely damaged, crippling the facility for a long time. Observationsindicate that essential functions and service equipment shouldbe transferred from flood-prone basements to safer locations.The relatively new Back Bay Fire Company #3 station in Biloxi,Mississippi, was built in 1996, and yet its design does not reflectthe current needs of its occupants. The spaces are too small to accommodatethe duty shifts. The kitchen is inadequate for longerstays, while the sleeping area has unprotected, large, storefronttypewindows that represent a serious hazard in high-windsituations (see Figure 4-37). These minor architectural deficienciesmay be amplified during the times of crisis and adverselyaffect the operation of the facility, especially if combined withother building component failures.OBSERVATIONS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF CRITICAL FACILITIES4-53