RWDI's capabilities are applied to many issues affecting the design of new or expanding health care facilities. From the structural integrity of the building to the impact of exhaust systems on nearby buildings.

Exhaust Gas Dispersion

Exhaust from diesel generators, helicopters, kitchens, boilers, cooling towers, fume hoods, incinerators, sterilizers, and truck docks may be entrained into the health care's fresh air intakes, or may impact on sensitive pedestrian areas and neighboring buildings. Both health and odor impacts can occur. Exhaust dispersion can be a particular cause for concern when facilities adjoin existing structures.

Internal Ventilation

Indoor air quality is affected by both the amount and distribution of ventilation air. Correct aerodynamic design insures proper air distribution and can reduce outside air and energy requirements. Patient isolation room ventilation, Operating room airflow are other key issues to be considered.

Snow Accumulation

Strategically placed wind breaks can reduce ground-level snow accumulations, thereby decreasing the cost of maintenance and the possibility of accidents. Accurate snow load information for design of large roofs can improve safety and economy of design.

Pedestrian Comfort

The design of a health care facilities can influence wind activity, thereby impacting safety, expense of maintenance, and the quality of the environment in pedestrian areas around facilities. Wind breaks, screens and minor modifications to the design of a structure can improve wind conditions.

Noise / Acoustics / Vibration

Nearby transportation or industrial noise sources, such as highways or heliports, may disturb patients and staff in a hospital. Sound levels from HVAC equipment may annoy neighbors, as well as, patients. Interior partitions should be designed to provide adequate privacy. Atriums, cafeterias, and conference rooms may have poor acoustical conditions. Vibration may also impact sensitive equipment such as electron microscopes and measuring devices.

Snow Infiltration

High volume intakes that must run all winter at full capacity are very sensitive to snow ingestion. Ingested snow can collapse filters, soak ceilings, and put laboratory users at risk from chemical exposure.

Fume Hood Performance

The effectiveness of fume hoods, the acceptability of fume hoods being purchased, and the development of prototype fume hoods can enhance safety. The effect of the room conditions on fume hood performance is also an important safety issue.

Cladding / Structural Loads

Roofs and walls of major structures require accurate information for the design of the building's structural and curtain-wall systems.