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 | Aug 17, 2020
ASCE seeks comments on seismic standard
Pertains to design criteria for nuclear facilities.
Codes and Standards | Aug 13, 2020
COVID-19 reboot guide offers strategies for reopening K-12 schools
Looks at space considerations for reopening at different scales.
Codes and Standards | Aug 12, 2020
Document provides guidance for mass timber construction
Overview of Intl. Building Code requirements included.
Codes and Standards | Aug 11, 2020
Inefficient air conditioning is a key contributor to global warming
More efficient equipment and buildings could make a big difference.
Codes and Standards | Aug 10, 2020
Concrete Institute and Post-Tensioning Institutes expand partnership
Will collaborate on new structural post-tensioned concrete code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Aug 6, 2020
SpeedCore demonstrates excellent fire resistance without additional fire-protective coatings
New York City approves metal-concrete product for all five boroughs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 5, 2020
Designing, redeveloping communities for zero energy needed to address climate change
District heating and cooling systems boost efficiency.
Codes and Standards | Aug 4, 2020
Virginia is the first state to adopt COVID-19 worker safety rules
Include social distancing requirements, notifications when co-worker tests positive, timelines to return to work after recovery.
Codes and Standards | Aug 3, 2020
Report aids local governments on policy options, pathways to electrify new buildings
Document focuses on switching appliances and equipment away from natural gas, propane.
Codes and Standards | Jul 30, 2020
Institute for Market Transformation acquires Energy-Efficient Codes Coalition
Goal is to achieve net-zero construction by 2050.
