Chapter 3: General Design Guidelines
Mechanical-Electrical Systems
Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Systems
ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) design, figuring prominently in the selection
of the size of air-handling systems, areas served by the individual units, and type of
control system.
Off-Hours. An independent or independently-controlled HVAC plant to serve the
reduced loads associated with off-hours operation must be provided. Courtrooms and
judges' chambers are in use during evenings and weekends; the USMS area and
computer equipment areas require 24-hour climate control; the Clerk's Offices operate
on flex-time (e.g., 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM); and the Probation Office can have early
morning and late evening hours.
Humidification. Except for courtrooms, other large meeting areas, and the rare books
room, humidification should be provided as specified in the General Services
Administration's (GSA) Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service.
Controls. All court and judiciary-related offices must have individual HVAC controls,
monitored from a central location. Direct digital controls (DDC) must be provided to
control the individual mechanical systems. The DDCs must be interconnected so that
they can be monitored and controlled from a central location.
conditions, the system must be provided with one or more of the following: sound
traps and acoustical lining in duct work; low-velocity, low-static-pressure fan systems;
and/or special low-noise diffusers. An acoustical consultant should review the system
to determine which techniques are necessary. Fan-powered boxes and air handling
units must not be located in close proximity to acoustically-designed rooms. Where
ducts penetrate acoustically-rated walls, duct and wall systems must be designed to
maintain acoustic integrity.
Electrical Systems
Sufficient electrical capacity, supply quality, and raceway flexibility must
accommodate communication, electronic data processing, retrieval, and transmission
equipment; personal computers and information systems network; video and audio
systems; electronic security systems; and sophisticated office equipment. In addition,
the electrical capacity provided for the court facility must meet the total connected load
requirements, plus capacity for future load growth.
12/19/97
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