The Requirement
A Higher Education client required specialist support to assess ventilation performance across its campus estate in response to Government COVID-19 guidance.
With large numbers of occupants using teaching and communal spaces, the client needed assurance that airflow rates and fresh air provision were sufficient to support safe occupation. The assessment also sought to provide a clear understanding of ventilation capability to support operational planning, compliance and future investment decisions.
Review
RCRProjects undertook a detailed review of the campus ventilation systems, assessing the condition, operation and effectiveness of Air Handling Units (AHUs), distribution systems and controls.
Using site inspections, performance reviews and airflow measurements, we evaluated ventilation capability across multiple buildings. Furthermore, we recorded findings against individual spaces and mapped them onto floor plans. As a result, the client gained a clear picture of ventilation coverage and system performance.
Advise
Based on our findings, we provided practical recommendations to improve ventilation performance and reduce contamination risks. In addition, we identified areas where occupancy levels could be adjusted to align with available airflow rates.
Consequently, the project improved space utilisation, reduced operational risk and informed future maintenance planning. This helped the client create safer, more sustainable and more affordable environments across the estate.
Support
RCRProjects produced a comprehensive ventilation workbook containing room-by-room assessments, airflow data and occupancy recommendations.
In addition, annotated floor plans and technical asset information supported the findings. As a result, the client’s estates team gained a practical tool for managing room utilisation, operational planning and compliance requirements.
The Solution
The client was able to safely reinstate teaching and learning environments with confidence, supported by clear technical evidence and operational guidance.
The project enabled improved space utilisation, reduced operational risk and informed future maintenance planning. RCRProjects has continued to support the estate for more than five years, delivering technical consultancy, project delivery and asset management services through an annual programme of works exceeding £1 million.
