The National Performance Based Design Guide, based on research and development supported by the Science & Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security and the Public Buildings Service of the General Services Administration, is now available.
The guide establishes performance-based requirements to be used in the programming, design, and documentation of new buildings, major and minor alterations, and work in historic structures.
The document identifies levels of performance so that design teams and other professional partners can select and implement the best strategies to meet project goals based on defined alternatives. Four levels of performance from “baseline,” which is commensurate with model building codes, through the highest level of performance that can be achieved with today’s technology.
The electronic document is interactive, enabling print outs to be created based on performance level choices by various program, site, and climate attributes. Metrics to validate performance goals at various phases of design and construction through commissioning are provided where available and relevant.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
San Francisco becomes first big U.S. city to require solar panels on new buildings
Pertains to commercial and residential buildings shorter than 10 stories.
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
GSA adopts SITES land development and management rating system
Federal agency will use for properties with and without buildings.
Wood | Apr 22, 2016
Revised 2015 Manual for Engineered Wood Construction available
American Wood Council Document offers design information for structural applications.
Codes and Standards | Apr 20, 2016
OSHA updates eye and face protection standards in final rule
Becomes effective April 26.
Codes and Standards | Apr 18, 2016
Efficiency finance pilot project to spur retrofits on existing buildings
EDF and PG&E team up on interest-free loans for qualified projects.
Codes and Standards | Apr 18, 2016
ASHRAE releases proposed energy standard for historic buildings
Designed to balance with preservation requirements.
Codes and Standards | Apr 13, 2016
Canadian city fines itself for failing to get a building permit for building renovation
Guelph, Ontario, will pay a $1,125 fine to the province.
Codes and Standards | Apr 12, 2016
Construction trade groups sue OSHA over silica rule
Cite concerns about technological and economic feasibility.
Codes and Standards | Apr 11, 2016
New LEED 2009 projects will have to meet increased minimum energy performance
New requirements went into effect April 8.
Wood | Apr 8, 2016
New LEED Pilot ACP designed to help eliminate irresponsibly sourced materials
Illegal wood is primary target to restrict illicit material in the supply chain.
