Challenge
After seeing substantial growth within the STEM fields, Northern Arizona University made the decision to build a new Applied Research and Development Building to better serve this growing population of students. The newly constructed facility is a super-efficient building utilizing under-floor air distribution, low-pressure supply systems, radiant cooling and heating, natural ventilation, solar water heating, renewable energy, and solar photovoltaic systems. The top floor of the three-story building is home to NAU’s Center for Microbial Genetics and Genomics, a research facility focused on understanding the evolution, ecology, and epidemiology of a number of disease-causing bacteria.
Approach
KFI’s Arizona staff provided third-party building commissioning and building enclosure pressure testing services for the Applied Research and Development Building for Northern Arizona University. The 72,000 square-foot facility houses research and development offices, BSL‑3 and BSL-2 laboratory spaces. All mechanical heating and cooling, EMCS and electrical systems were subject to inspection, point-to-point, and operational and functional testing. Fume hood supply and exhaust systems were commissioned with special consideration for CDC (Center for Disease Control) requirements. Additionally, we provided building enclosure commissioning as well as enclosure pressure testing. Commissioning included site inspections, system testing, and management of the commissioning team. We provided a certified commissioning report, training oversight, and verification of LEED requirements for design review and pre-occupancy requirements to LEED Gold standards.
Outcome
The university now has a state-of-the-art, high-efficiency laboratory building to train and further the development of the genetics and genomics industry. KFI remains active in this building re-certifying the BSL lab spaces annually.
