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Abstracts

 

ABSTRACTS

Panel Discussion #1

Post-Secondary Panel Discussion: Resilience of Campus Laboratories

This panel discussion will explore topics such as energy and carbon reductions and strategies for new and existing infrastructure to limit impacts and meet energy and carbon targets (climate resilience); resilience in campus planning and how the pandemic has affected (if at all) future planning of science facilities and programs; and, overall, how the Pandemic has affected the use of laboratories on campus.

Bernard Chan, Energy Manager, Simon Fraser University
Bio to come.

Rochelle Owen, Executive Director, Dalhousie University

Rochelle Owen has worked in the environment and sustainability field for over 30 years at non-profit, government, and academic institutions. She currently works as the Executive Director of the Office of Sustainability at Dalhousie University. Rochelle uses facilitation, community development, program management, and analytical skills to design programs and involve people in sustainability issues. Rochelle holds a BSc in community health, a Master in Environmental Studies, and is a LEED Green Associate.

Jennifer Sanguinetti, Managing Director, Infrastructure Development, University of British Columbia
Bio to come.

MODERATOR: Jerome Conraud, Director, Utilities & Energy Management - FMAS, McGill University
Bio to come.

Panel Discussion #2

Biotech Panel Discussion: Resilience of Research and Pharmaceutical Production in Canada

This panel discussion will discuss how the Pandemic has identified a lack of preparedness in Canada’s pharmaceutical capabilities and what is being done to prevent this from happening in the future. It will also discuss the biotech sector’s exploration of energy and carbon reduction strategies and overall resilience in new facilities that will need to be considered as the sector grows.

Panelists to be Announced
Panelist bios to come.
Panel Discussion #3

Association Panel Discussion: Pandemic Response Papers

Jacob Werner, Senior Project Architect, Perkins&Will
Jacob Werner (AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP, CPHC, ILFI LFA) is a Senior Project Architect at Perkins&Will, in Boston. Jacob has devoted his 20-year career to designing intuitive environments for scientific discovery. He focuses on creating beautiful, inspiring workplaces and learning spaces. Jacob is passionate about sustainable design and design research. He has authored academic papers and spoken at national conferences, about both lab design and sustainable design. His recent research efforts include the “I2SL Best Practices Guide: Laboratory Resilience” and ongoing research into Embodied Carbon reduction in lab projects. Jacob taught architectural design at the Boston Architectural College and is the recipient of several academic fellowships.
Additional Panelists to be Announced
Panelist bios to come.
Description

Panel description to come.

 

Concurrent Abstract #1

Adaptation – Future Expansion Planning, Increased Laboratory Modularity, Daylight Management

The objective of this presentation is to discuss planning concepts and ideas for future building expansion, as well as discuss planning concepts and lessons learned for flexible/modular laboratory casework, equipment, and environment control.

Eric Lucassen, Senior Associate Diamond Schmitt Architects

Eric Lucassen is a licensed Architect under the Ontario Association of Architects. He is a Senior Associate at Diamond Schmitt Architects with over 18 years of experience. Eric holds a Bachelor of Architectural Science degree from Ryerson University and a Master of Architecture from the University of Manitoba. Eric’s recent laboratory design experience includes:

  1. Toronto Zoo Wildlife Health Centre – clinical, endo and assay labs.
  2. NRC Factory of the Future Solutions Centre – engineering labs (automotive).
  3. NRC Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing – dry, chemical, clean and high bay labs.
Description

Adaptability of the laboratory at two different scales. The macro – the lab facility itself, and the micro – the individual lab modules.

The Macro – The case study project (National Research Council (NRC) – Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing) required the facility to be expandable in the future to accommodate the user groups scheduled growth over the next 5-10 years. This expandability was reviewed in both the horizontal and vertical directions, each presenting different opportunities and challenges. During the discussion, we will review why the vertical direction was selected for this specific project, what infrastructure was put in place to facilitate this future expansion, and some lessons learned as the future expansion was implemented far earlier than originally anticipated and before the first phase of construction was complete.

The Micro – The case study project (NRC – Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing) required flexibility and modularity of the lab spaces far beyond what is typically requested in this area of the work. The user group deals with not only their own research and development, but often partners up with different commercial clients that can require security around any proprietary information. This requirement plus the ability to remove all lab benches and casework from the lab area while maintaining access to mechanical and electrical lab services provided for a unique and custom solution. During the discussion, we will review the implemented casework system that allowed for quickly dividing the main lab space into multiple individual lab modules, how a ceiling supported service column system allowed for maintaining services to the labs when the casework was removed, and individual lab module control of abundant natural daylighting.

The above-mentioned case study project provided a unique opportunity in terms of adaptability and its design requirements. Not only did the project have adaptability requirements, but the design solutions for the requirements were put into practice before the first phase of the project was even complete. This has in turn, provided us with the opportunity to discuss not only the implemented strategies, but how these worked out and any subsequent lessons learned.

Concurrent Abstract #2

Adaptive Expansion – A Case Study of the Net Zero Carbon Retrofit of the Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing for Labs Canada

The objective of this presentation is to provide the audience with the challenges and lessons learned by the architectural and engineering team associated with the Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing expansion project, which has targeted Net Zero Carbon and Net Zero Energy Ready in keeping with Laboratories Canada guiding principles.

Kevin Humeniuk, Architect, Principal, Architecture49
Kevin Humeniuk is Architecture49’s National Sector Leader for Science & Technology. He is a design architect, having obtained his Master’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Manitoba in 2000. Kevin is a registered member a variety of provincial architectural associations, as well as the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. Kevin is also a proud SLCan board member and is a LEED Accredited Professional. Over his twenty-one years in architectural practice Kevin has gained considerable experience in a wide variety of roles and responsibilities. He has been a project manager and design team member responsible for client liaison, functional programming, laboratory planning, and architectural production work on a variety of science projects. For the past fifteen years, Kevin has been exclusively involved in research laboratory projects as a project manager, project architect and laboratory planner.

Description

Laboratories Canada is a 25-year strategy that will deliver on its vision to strengthen federal science in Canada. Budget 2018 launched the first phase of this strategy with an investment of $2.8 billion to support federal scientists in the important work they do for Canada.

The first construction project delivered by Laboratories Canada is the expansion of the existing Canadian Centre for Advanced Material Manufacturing (CCAMM) in Mississauga. This project has targeted Net Zero Carbon and Net Zero Energy Ready in keeping with Laboratories Canada guiding principles.

Collaboration and infrastructure flexibility are key objectives of this project, enabling both physical and virtual collaboration, while supporting the delivery of multiple concurrent science programs. The guiding principles for all Laboratories Canada facilities are:

  • Science excellence;
  • Collaboration;
  • A diverse and inclusive talent pool;
  • Agility and responsiveness;
  • Environmental responsibility; and,
  • Responsible public stewardship.

This presentation will outline the specific challenges and integrated solutions developed for the CCAMM expansion, which involves the vertical expansion of an existing two storey facility for National Research Council and Natural Resources Canada.

Concurrent Abstract #3

The Climate Emergency – Designing New Labs, and Adapting Old for a Carbon Neutral Future

The objective of this presentation is to discuss the need for and highlight paths to zero carbon laboratories.

Steve Kemp, Principal, RDH Building Science Inc.

Steve Kemp, M.A.Sc., B.Sc., B.Eng., P.Eng. LEED® Fellow, is a Principal, Senior Energy and Sustainability Specialist, and Practice Area Leader for Energy and Sustainability at RDH Building Science Inc. He is a building science engineer specializing in energy modelling and low energy building design, and sustainability. He has assisted the design of dozens low energy buildings, including Passive House and Net Zero Energy and Zero Carbon Building projects. As these projects have been completed Steve is involved in monitoring their performance as well as troubleshooting their energy systems.

Sarah Low, Associate, Diamond Schmitt Architects

Sarah Low, AA Dip, ARB, RIBA Part 2 and 3 (UK), LEED AP, is an Associate at Diamond Schmitt Architects. Sarah has extensive experience in projects with a strong sustainable design component, targeting LEED Gold and Platinum, Net Zero energy, and Living Building Challenge, and incorporating mass timber. Relevant experience includes her role as Project Manager for the LEED Platinum and Net Zero ready Okanagan College Trades Renewal and Expansion project in Kelowna, BC, and her current role as Project Architect for the new Physical Sciences Facility at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, targeting Net Zero energy/carbon and LEED Platinum.

Rochelle Owen, Executive Director, Dalhousie University

Rochelle Owen has worked in the environment and sustainability field for over 30 years at non-profit, government, and academic institutions. She currently works as the Executive Director of the Office of Sustainability at Dalhousie University. Rochelle uses facilitation, community development, program management, and analytical skills to design programs and involve people in sustainability issues. Rochelle holds a BSc in community health, a Master in Environmental Studies, and is a LEED Green Associate.

Description

Canada has lost most of the entire Village of Lytton, British Columbia to climate change and governments across Canada have declared a climate emergency. Laboratories are of course one of the largest users of energy and largest sources of direct and indirect emissions of all building typologies. Laboratories are also the incubator of knowledge and ground-breaking research that will help solve our carbon challenges, and thus we can forgive them for some of their energy consumption but decarbonizing our laboratories must still happen. Carbon pricing, which removes the externalization of carbon emissions, will, in the next 10-20 years, make decarbonizing laboratories necessary to control increasing operating costs.

The presenters will discuss two projects. First, a feasibility study to decarbonize an existing laboratory connected to a campus energy plan. The facility was “moved” virtually to multiple locations across Canada and the impact on carbon and operating costs was investigated within the context of the locale. The results will be presented in the context of the projected future electrical grid carbon emissions, as well as the impact on operating costs with the projected escalating price on carbon emission.

The second project is a from the ground up new building. Sustainability and carbon emissions are being considered at the same time as the program is being developed. If the low operating carbon emissions of the project are realized, then the Life Cycle Assessment the materials used to construct the building constitute the majority of its carbon emissions over the next 30-40 years. The design team will discuss the journey of managing the program with the stakeholders, to not only manage the project budget, but also embodied carbon emissions.

This work will be extrapolated to consider the case of changes in the central energy plant that laboratories must consider, as universities and governments in Canada respond to the imperative of achieving zero carbon. Because many laboratories are located at campuses with central energy plants, they will need to become a partner in the transition to lower temperature heating technology.

Concurrent Abstract #4

Robust and Resilient Adaptive Reuse of a Newspaper Printing Facility Through Integrated Project Delivery

The objective of this presentation is to highlight how existing infrastructure reuse through Integrated Project Delivery supports long term life sciences lab resiliency and climate adaptation.

Keith Davidge, Senior Mechanical Designer, Integral Group

Keith Davidge is a mechanical designer who is focused on applying new developments in design and analysis to improve clients’ building performance. Whether designing industrial, commercial, residential, or post-secondary projects, Keith considers both the impact of mechanical systems on the building architecture and the impact of architecture on building mechanical systems. By finding a balance between the many competing interests on projects, Keith works with design teams and clients to design high performance mechanical systems that match each specific building.

Bhavin Degadwala, Associate Principal, Integral Group
Bhavin Degagwala is a mechanical engineer and associate principal who has over nine years of experience designing mechanical systems for a variety of project types, including large-scale commercial offices, community spaces, healthcare facilities, and laboratories. His designs are driven by a focus on occupant health and comfort and his diverse project experience has allowed him to address complex design within an integrated team structure.
Som Bose, Principal Planner, HDR
Som Bose is a principal planner who supports Education Science and Advance Technology projects and provides lab programming and planning expertise for life, physical sciences and advanced research facilities. Over the last 20 years, Som has amassed a portfolio covering a wide range of geographies and scientific disciplines, including tenant improvements, new builds, academic institutions, and federal laboratories. Som is a founding member of AIA Canada Society and a former SLCan board member. As an industry thought leader in science and technology architecture and design, he has presented at the SLCan Conference, the International Centre for Infectious Diseases (ICID) Biosafety Symposium and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention.
Description

McMaster Innovation Park (MIP) has grown steadily since its inception, and now stands at the beginning of a major scale up, with the goals of a future footprint of 2.5 million square feet. MIP will be a hub of life sciences research and entrepreneurship extending out from Hamilton, Ontario and encompassing the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding region.

The first stage of this expansion begins with the former Hamilton Spectator newspaper building at 44 Frid Street. This iconic three-storey 260,000 square foot building will be renovated and become home to life science laboratories, supporting offices, and collaborating and amenity spaces. This redevelopment will be a deep green retrofit with the goal of creating a Net Zero Carbon life sciences laboratory. The project will seek to achieve Net Zero Carbon in lieu of Net Zero Energy due to the high energy demands of the lab spaces. Given the relatively clean Ontario energy grid, the project will seek to offset the operational carbon emissions produced by the project.

The project is following an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) approach, a collaborative project development process that integrates people, systems, business structures, and business practices. The IPD process collectively harnesses the talents and insights of all project participants to optimize the project results; increase value to the owner; reduce waste; and, maximize efficiency throughout all the phases of design, fabrication, and construction. IPD unlocks very early-stage deep collaboration to focus on achieving project goals effectively. Building systems are designed concurrently with lab program and space planning so that the design team is able to tune their individual designs to compliment partner disciplines and maximize value to the building owners and occupants.

The 44 Frid conversion provides the project team with an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the value of reusing existing infrastructure. Carefully considered interventions to bring modern design elements into the existing structure and façade support multiple aspects of building resiliency.

First, the embodied carbon equivalent of the existing robust structure is preserved reducing the first impact of construction and reducing risks of supply chain uncertainty. Next, space planning concurrent and in partnership with preliminary mechanical systems schematic design ensures that indoor air quality, resilient and efficient mechanical systems, and low energy operation is woven into all aspects of the building program. And finally, implementing design concepts of flexibility and modularity to support easier and streamlined future science tenant fit outs reduces the long-term environmental impacts and disruptions of the ongoing interior changes that define the lifecycle of buildings.

Our long-term environmental and societal challenges are best met by adopting and adapting improved habits and behaviours. Through the carefully planned reuse and reinvigoration of aged but robust infrastructure, the 44 Frid conversion will demonstrate that iconic buildings need not be replaced to make way for new. New can be built within existing infrastructure to improve our climate resiliency and to provide continuity for the landmarks that define communities.

Concurrent Abstract #5

Deep Energy Retrofit in SFU’s LEED Gold Chemistry Building

The objective of this presentation is to demonstrate that energy conservation strategies can apply to an existing institutional laboratory building that enhanced the operations and facilities management.

Jaelim Jeon, Energy Specialist, Simon Fraser University

Jaelim Jeon is an energy specialist at Facilities Services’ Energy Management Team at the Simon Fraser University. Her mission at the Simon Fraser University is reduce electricity and natural gas and GHG consumption and enhance building occupants’ comfort.

Description

Originally built in 1965, the Shrum Science Chemistry Building, 9,706 m2, at the Burnaby campus was renovated in 2010 earning Simon Fraser University (SFU) its first LEED Gold certification, but that was just the first step of the deep energy retrofit of the building. Since then, a number of energy conservation strategies were implemented and that included the innovative strobic fan optimization through wind sensing and modelling while maintaining a safe working environment within the labs. Alongside this optimization, an extensive LED lighting upgrade was completed to yield additional savings while improving the environment for students and researchers. Through the collaboration with BC Hydro, SFU has recently demonstrated a demand response program to prepare for further load shedding strategy. In 2021, a pilot was further undertaken with Environmental Health and Safety department to upgrade three fumehoods to full VAV, thus improving the safety with enhanced features and reducing a significant amount of energy consumption. Currently, SFU is in the process of upgrading fifty fumehoods. These strategies have yielded about 1 GWh of electricity savings and would not have successful without the support of the engaged lab occupants.

The presentation will describe the process involved to upgrade an existing operating laboratory with minimal or no down time within the lab and showcase the technology and energy savings of such an upgrade.

Concurrent Abstract #6

Building Enclosure Commissioning for Sustainable Laboratories

The objective of this presentation is to provide participants with an understanding of the BECx Guidelines and Standards and identify opportunities for performance modelling to better evaluate various enclosure assembly options.

Ken Roko, Practice Area Leader, RWDI
During his 20 years of work in the building enclosure field, Ken Roko has analyzed the effects of humidity and temperature on wall and roof assemblies throughout the world. Ken’s work in providing Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) services has assisted owners in achieving their goals of energy-efficient, durable, and resilient buildings.

Description

The inclusion of Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) as a prerequisite in Fundamental Commissioning and in the Enhanced Commissioning credit of LEEDv4 prompted significant discussion regarding the delivery of high-performance enclosures. With pressure for proven energy efficiency measured after occupancy rather than based on predictions, the design and construction of enclosures faces increasingly stringent demands. Compounding the challenge, building technology continues to evolve with new products and building systems that have become more interdependent; a failure of one system can lead to deficiencies in another.

Using case studies for commissioned laboratory and medical facilities, this presentation will demonstrate when and how technical reviews should be performed and how this information is fed back into the OPR and the BOD to reflect changes as the design progresses. It will also provide an overall understanding of how specialized digital modelling is used to increase the accuracy of predictive energy models using component thermal studies, hygrothermal studies predicting wetting/drying cycles, daylighting/shading studies balancing solar gain with natural lighting, and air movement studies. During construction, BECx activities include shop drawing review, coordination meetings, inspections, the various types of verification testing and how these are applied to specific projects.

Concurrent Abstract #7

Lab Coat is the New Suit – Converting Offices into Lab Spaces

The objective of this presentation is to share lessons learned on the future of laboratories in converted office spaces.

Mary On, Associate, Integral Group

Mary On is an Associate on the Science and Technology Team at Integral Group. With more than 15 years of experience in mechanical design, Mary has a strong focus on lab projects including chemistry, forensics, and biosafety containment labs, and was the mechanical engineer of record for major lab projects such as the new RCMP Forensic Lab and the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute at the University of British Columbia. Mary is a Registered Professional Engineer in British Columbia and a certified Passive House Designer.

Kevin Shea, Principal, Integral Group
Kevin Shea brings over thirteen years of industry experience to his role as Principal and leads Integral Group’s Science and Technology Sector. With experience and emphasis in delivering high-performance, sustainable solutions for the science + technology sector that are practical, maintainable, healthy, resilient, and resource-responsible, Kevin’s personal dedication to his projects reflects Integral Group’s core pillars: imagine, perform, accelerate and sustain.
Description

The pandemic has shown the world how critical the life sciences and biotech industries are to health and safety, and has also opened up significant funding towards growing Canadian companies and the sector as a whole. The pandemic, and this significant growth, has also proven how little appropriate leasable space there is available in most major S&T cities around the world.

With businesses implementing full or partial work-from-home policy both during and post-pandemic, the vacancy rate of office buildings in urban centers has increased sharply. This has opened up possibilities and presents opportunities for the S&T sector to grow into. But it comes with challenges.

Office-to-lab renovations present different challenges compared to standard lab renovation, and it also offers a win-win for developers and those biotech firms looking for suitable space without having to build from the ground up. The idea of converting office space offers significant resilience to the S&T market as a whole within an urban center looking to attract and keep growing companies local. This plays to the idea of the resilience of the S&T sector itself, within the Canadian market, but expands to the global S&T market as well based on the significant growth being seen.

The presentation will share the challenges and lessons learned from a number of office-to-lab renovation projects and feasibility studies. The wants and needs of both the landlords and lab tenants will be examined. Design strategies, risk assessments, and trade-offs from concept design to construction will also be discussed.

Concurrent Abstract #8

Returning Back to Labs after COVID – Leading Frameworks that Can Support the Conversation

The objective of this presentation is to provide the participants with leading frameworks and health and wellness strategies that address returning back to work safely in labs.

Elaine Aye, Regional Manager, RWDI

Elaine Aye is a widely respected green building consultant. Clients benefit from Elaine’s rich expertise in certification frameworks such as LEED, WELL, NetZero, Fitwel and ArcSkoru; and from her more than 30 years of industry experience. Contributing to the design and certification of many innovative facilities, Elaine brings a wealth of pragmatic insight.

Description

As institutions look at ways to encourage people back into labs, learn how leading frameworks that are associated with health and wellness and healthy buildings address returning back to work safely. When addressing healthy buildings, it is important to understand the components and features that are considered essential with their design, construction and operations. Many of these frameworks are performance-based systems and address labs slightly differently, but what they often have in common is ventilation and best practices associated with testing key components within your space. There are many opportunities for laboratory spaces to begin to address and implement these strategies or frameworks within their own spaces. This introductory session to healthy buildings will address WELL, Fitwel and ArcSkoru Health & Safety rating systems and their benefits and differences so that audience can make future informed decisions.

Concurrent Abstract #9

Methods to Reduce the Impact of Aerosol Transport in Labs: Thoughtful Ventilation Design to Address COVID-19 and Other Airborne Risks

The objective of this presentation is to provide the audience with a better understanding of ventilation strategies to help reduce the risk of pathogen transmission in labs.

Dianthé van Weerden, RWDI

Dianthé van Weerden is a member of RWDI’s Building Performance Group, providing clients with solutions for issues related to internal ventilation, external building aerodynamics and wind-driven rain. She has worked on a variety of interesting projects and developments around the globe, including labs and other specialized indoor environments, transit stations, high-rise buildings, resorts, and amusement parks.

Description

As we learn more about how COVID-19 is transmitted, we look back on past global threats like SARS and H1N1 and consider a future where another health threat is likely. We can no longer treat mechanical ventilation systems as an afterthought. Occupants and researchers in a lab need assurance that the air they breathe is healthy and clean. As a result, the casual implementation of standard ventilation systems in labs may no longer be acceptable, and thoughtful ventilation design become a key part of keeping people safe in shared labs. The type of ventilation system in labs plays an important role in preventing the transmission of COVID-19 and other pathogens that are transmitted through respiratory droplets. This presentation will give the audience a better understanding of ventilation strategies to help reduce the risk of pathogen transmission in labs.

Concurrent Abstract #10

What the Pandemic Taught Us – Remote Work is Effective!

The objective of this presentation is to discuss learnings from the pandemic in terms of the effectiveness of remote work and how it is here to stay in some format, along with the impacts this has had on the spaces we use and how future planning will require us to look at more sustainable use of workspaces.

Ian McDermott, Senior Director, Planning & Integration/Research Facilities, UHN

Ian McDermott is responsible for Space Management and Capital Project Planning for UHN, and the Senior Director of Research Facilities at the University Health Network in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He was a founding member of Sustainable Labs Canada and has held a number of the executive positions, including President.

In his current roles, Ian works intimately with clinicians, educators, researchers, administrators, project managers, engineers, architects, contractors, building operators, vendors and regulators in managing space. Some of his responsibilities include the facility maintenance and operations of both the Princess Margaret Cancer Research Tower (MaRS) and the Krembil Discovery Tower.

Description

The pandemic taught us what many people have only talked about for many years: remote work is possible, reasonable, productive and can provide a great work-life balance without negatively impacting productivity. This has a huge impact on how we manage and plan space going forward. While spaces are essential for team building and networking, how we use our existing support spaces to labs will look quite different in the labs of the future. Gone is the notion that you must sit adjacent to your lab to manage your planning and analysis work. We can’t eliminate the lab support spaces but they may certainly look different as we plan ahead. UHN has developed tools to help assess the appropriateness of remote work and subsequently tools to evaluate the impact to space. In many areas we are seeing a 30-40% reduction in workspaces, particularly for teams that have a supportive role to research. This presentation will demonstrate these tools and show you can effectively reduce space but still provide the key areas needed for interaction. The key message being that reducing space reduces the operational demand, reduces capital costs leading to reduced impact to the environment. All ‘sustainable goals’.

Concurrent Abstract #11

Lessons Learned During the COVID-19 Pandemic Concerning Lab Operations and Design and the Impact on Post-pandemic Planning and Implementation

The objective of this presentation is to provide insight into the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic had on lab operations, the measures that were put in place and the lessons learned leading to improved sustainable practices moving forward.

Steven Corfe, Director Research Facilities,

Steven Corfe is the Director of Research Facilities at UHN. In this role, he oversees all research infrastructure projects, as well as operational support for the ~1M sq ft of research space at UHN. He works with researchers and the research executive, as well as clinical/corporate leadership to strategize on planning, building and operating optimal spaces to enable leading edge basic and clinical research. Steven has PhD in Immunology from the University of Toronto. He has worked in a variety of research labs and thus knows first-hand what is important in providing effective scientific laboratory environments.

Description

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic research lab activity was brought to a halt along with other industries. Due to the importance to continue essential research into both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 related projects it was imperative to be able to get labs up and running again quickly in a safe and efficient manner. As such a great deal of work was put forward in a short period of time to set up new processes, procedures and infrastructure related to building facilities and soft services focused on the safe delivery of daily operations. From providing optimal air quality, tracking staff access, screening, PPE distribution, increased housekeeping and delivery of lab supplies, all aspects of building operations and lab services were reviewed and optimized during the pandemic. This often required innovative thinking and on the fly changes in order to adapt to the ever changing information regarding the transmission of the virus.

By implementing these initiatives, UHN was able to get labs up and running within two months of the initial shutdown and provide a sustainable safe environment without a single documented case of on-site virus transmission within our research spaces. The presentation will focus on the planning and execution of these initiatives and the lessons learned along the way. While some measures were abandoned at various stages, others were recognized to be improvements over existing processes and as such incorporated into standard practice going forward. Additionally, these newfound insights will be used to inform decisions regarding lab design and operations for both existing and future new builds.

Concurrent Abstract #12

Reflections on a Decade of Action to inform the Future

The objective of this presentation is to showcase sustainable lab projects over the last decade and highlight how these learnings are shaping our next decade of action.

Rochelle Owen, Executive Director, Office of Sustainability, Dalhousie University

Rochelle Owen has worked in the environment and sustainability field for over 30 years at non-profit, government, and academic institutions. She currently works as the Executive Director of the Office of Sustainability at Dalhousie University. Rochelle uses facilitation, community development, program management, and analytical skills to design programs and involve people in sustainability issues. Rochelle holds a BSc in community health, a Masters in Environmental Studies, and is a LEED Green Associate.

Justin MacDonald, Embedded Energy Manager, Efficiency NS

Justin MacDonald, P. Eng., is the on-site Energy Manager at Dalhousie University. He has worked as an energy management consultant for the past 6 years within the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors. Justin is responsible for identifying, coordinating, and assisting in the implementation of energy conservation projects within the university.

Justin holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering, is a licensed professional engineer, and is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP) through the Association of Energy Engineers.

Kareina D'Souza, Sustainability Manager, Office of Sustainability, Dalhousie University

Kareina D’Souza is the Sustainability Manager at the Office of Sustainability at Dalhousie University. She has a background in public engagement, research and environmental science and holds a BSc from the University of Guelph and a Masters of Resource and Environmental Management from Dalhousie University. She hopes to use education as a pathway to help people integrate sustainability practices in their lives. Kareina believes that individuals making small choices in their everyday life combined with support of larger initiatives can be a powerful force for change.

Description

Dalhousie is a member of the U15 group of Canada’s most research-intensive universities. Over the last decade, a number of initiatives have been implemented to reduce energy, water and greenhouse gases, clarify and develop safety protocols, and renew facilities. Initiatives include green building strategies in new construction, recommissioning, solid and universal waste management standards and delivery, detailed lab and building audits, deep retrofits, and more. The team will highlight successes and lesson learned from implementation including strategies such as detailed design guidelines and controls sequencing, and financing. We will highlight key initiatives for the next decade including the launch of a new green labs program and a project to use enhanced fault detection to spot problems.

Concurrent Abstract #13

University of Alberta’s Chemistry West Renovation – Designed for the Future

The objective of this presentation is to share with SLCan members intent and outcome of the renovation of the University of Alberta’s Chemistry West project to modernize this laboratory building.

Don MacDonald, Northern Regional General Manager, Phoenix Controls

Don MacDonald is currently the Northern Regional General Manager for Phoenix Controls and covers Canada as well as several states in the north central USA. He is a graduate of Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada with specialization in control systems technology. Don has been involved with the HVAC industry since 1977 when he started his career with Johnson Controls then moved to Phoenix Controls in 1993. Don has been involved with many different laboratory, vivarium, bio-containment, healthcare and pharmaceutical projects across North America. His experiences will provide some valuable insight into design standards, customer needs and unique requirements and applications for these complex facility ventilation control systems.

Andrew Gauthier, Principal, Aqua Air Sytems

Andrew Gauthier is a principle at Aqua Air Sytems with 20 years experience in the HVAC industry. His focus for most of that time has been critical environment solutions. Andrew has dealt with large fume hood projects, bio containment facilities, pharmaceuticals and radio-isotope projects, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in designing a laboratory air control system that keeps the users both safe and the building energy efficient.

Description

Information to come.

Concurrent Abstract #14

Designing Laboratories that Adapt to Current Operating Conditions

The objective of this presentation is to review why and how laboratory design needs to include the ability to adapt to changing supply air requirements while still providing a safe, energy efficient environment with good air quality for researchers and students.

Pat Kelly, Director, Aircuity Inc.

Pat Kelly is Director – Southeast and Mid-Atlantic at Aircuity, Inc. He joined Aircuity in January 2021 and has quickly learned the key requirements of Laboratories and Critical Environments. Pat has a 20+ year background of sales and marketing experience for industry-leading companies focused on the lighting industry and IoT solutions, SaaS Collaboration Software and a Cybersecurity Software.

Pat holds a BSME from Villanova University and an MBA from St. Joseph’s University.

Description

The recent Pandemic has reinforced the need for laboratory owners and design engineers to ensure laboratories remain flexible and can quickly and easily adapt to changing conditions. Providing dynamically controlled air change rates in labs based on current requirements and real-time conditions are one of the keys to maintain a flexible and adaptive lab environment. This ensures the labs are providing a safe environment while also remaining energy efficient.

This strategy includes providing real-time air quality monitoring of the lab, so the lab adapts to current air change and air quality requirements their owners believe are required in their lab buildings. The technology that implements this strategy has been implemented in over 350 lab buildings across Canada and the United States.

An overview of this technology will be explained and examples and data from existing projects will be reviewed showing how the lab environment can adapt to changing conditions.

Concurrent Abstract #15

The Harvard University Science and Engineering Complex

The objective of this presentation is to present the newly opened Science and Engineering Complex at Harvard University with a focus on the facility’s sustainability and resiliency features. Matt and Dave will also discuss some of the design phase challenges and strategies for achieving the project goals.

Matt Noblett, Partner, Behnisch Architekten

Robert Matthew (Matt) Noblett is a partner in Behnisch Architekten’s Boston office. Immersed in the world of drawing and model-building, Matt has over 20 years of experience directing highly complex civic, institutional, academic, and commercial projects. Upon joining Behnisch Architekten in 2007, Matt became director of the one-million-square-foot ILFI- and LEED Platinum-certified Harvard University Science & Engineering Complex. Other projects he has led include the John and Frances Angelos Law Center at the University of Baltimore, and the Portland State University School of Business Administration expansion and renovation. Prior to his time at Behnisch, Matt was a project manager at Rafael Viñoly Architects. He received his M.Arch at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Dave Madigan, Principal, Van Zelm Engineers

Dave Madigan brings to his clients over thirty-five years of professional experience in new and renovated buildings in a variety of sectors that includes colleges and universities. A recognized expert on sustainable design, Dave has worked on numerous projects with high performance design objectives. Of particular note is Dave’s experience in the design and planning of high efficiency, sustainable laboratory facilities and the design and implementation of campus energy conservation measures. Dave holds a M.S. in Building Energy Engineering from University of Colorado and a B.C.E. degree from Villanova University. He is a LEEDTM Accredited Professional who has been using sustainable principles in design projects since the early 1980’s. A frequent lecturer on the practice of energy conservation and sustainable design, Dave has addressed industry groups such as ERAPPA, ASHRAE, APPA, NESEA, and I2SL.

Description

The recently completed Science and Engineering Complex is the most ambitious project ever undertaken by Harvard University. The 550,000 sf facility houses the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) along with other research programs, and is designed to be the premier facility of its type in the world. The building combines wet research labs, teaching labs, dry labs, classrooms/lecture halls, a dining/kitchen facility, vivarium and various support spaces, all built around a massive eight story atrium.

The project employed a highly integrated design process to satisfy the aggressive project goals developed by Harvard and the Design Team. Among these goals were achieving the highest possible level of energy efficiency while providing a healthy environment for occupants and a high level of resiliency. This presentation will highlight the design process undertaken and the resulting architectural and mechanical/ electrical design strategies used to satisfy these goals. Strategies to be discussed include envelope and shading screen optimization, occupant comfort analysis, laboratory ventilation optimization, radiant heating and cooling systems, natural/mechanically induced ventilation, and high efficiency heat recovery with indirect evaporative cooling. Resiliency/flood mitigation measures and the elaborate water recycling/re-use system will be reviewed as well. The project achieved LEED Platinum certification, with a projected EUI of 86 and also received LBC Petal certification for Materials, Beauty and Equity.

 

 

Tour #1

Virtual Tour location to be announced.

Presenters to be announced.
Bio to come.
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Tour #2

Virtual Tour location to be announced.

Presenters to be announced.
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Description
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Tour #3

Virtual Tour location to be announced.

Presenters to be announced.
Bio to come.

Description
Description to come.

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