A load of hot air

Our system depends on the efficient, design-compliant operation of ventilation plant and associated control logic. Most of our projects are monitored remotely via dedicated modem and our findings are discussed at quarterly performance reviews. Our experience of this process is that plant and controls are rarely in an ideal state at the point of handover. Insufficient programme time and a general lack of rigour in the commissioning process, particularly with regard to controls, are to blame.

Subject to some fine-tuning that must take place during the seasons, the client has a right to expect the system to function properly from day one – but this is not always the case. This can put a strain on the relationship between the design team and the people who have been asked to maintain the system and expect good results from it, often with little or no training.

Having said that, the quality of people who are employed to monitor and maintain these systems on the client’s behalf is often sadly lacking.

The industry must try harder to meet the demands of these projects, and facilities managers must understand the capability and control philosophy of these systems.