Colorado State University Health Education Outreach Center | Fort Collins, CO
Completion Date: 2018
Project Overview
Colorado State University (CSU)’s Health Education Outreach Center includes gross anatomy and neuroanatomy labs. One room contains 36 tables on which students dissect and study cadavers, each one of the off-gassing formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is a highly toxic systemic poison that can generate coughing, wheezing, nausea, skin irritation, and burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat. For these rooms, CSU’s design basis called for formaldehyde control using the room ventilation system at 30 air changes per hour.
Why CPP
While the new building plans to handle highly toxic chemicals and plans include appropriate exhaust stacks to dissipate the emissions, CSU also has a goal of being more energy efficient and cost effective. The labs won’t be occupied 24/7, so introducing a variable-flow exhaust system to adjust the air volume in real time was a good option for the new building.
CPP evaluated multiple schemes of supply/exhaust locations and diffuser characteristics to achieve target formaldehyde levels. The final design successfully stays below limits for formaldehyde odors and occupational exposure without running constantly which saves the university money in the long run.
Client Info
Expert Details
John Carter
CPP Vice President
