PROCEDURAL
STANDARDS FOR
RETRO-COMMISSIONING OF
EXISTING BUILDINGS
2009 – FIRST EDITION
National Environmental
Balancing Bureau
8575 Grovemont Circle
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877-4121
301-977-3698
301-977-9589 FAX
www.nebb.org
PROCEDURAL STANDARDS FOR
RETRO-COMMISSIONING OF EXISTING
BUILDINGS
First Edition – March 2009
©Copyright NEBB, 2009
This book may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the
copyright owner.
These Procedural Standards were developed using reliable engineering principles and
research plus consultation with, and information obtained from, manufacturers, users,
testing laboratories and others having specialized experience. They are subject to
revision as further experience and investigation may show it necessary or desirable to do
so. Existing building systems commissioning completed to these standards may not be
applicable if the system being commissioned contains features or components that impair
the results of these standards. The National Environmental Balancing Bureau assumes no
responsibility and has no liability for the application of the principles or techniques
contained in these Procedural Standards. Authorities considering adoption of these
Procedural Standards should review all Federal, State, local and contract regulations
applicable to the specific installation.
II
FOREWORD
The purpose of the NEBB Procedural Standards for Retro-Commissioning of Existing Buildings is to
establish a uniform and systematic set of criteria for the performance of the Retro-Commissioning
(RCX-EB) process when applied to existing building systems such as a building’s mechanical,
electrical and building envelop systems.
These standards and procedures are intended as the minimum NEBB requirements that a NEBB
Certified RCX-EB Firm shall follow when performing Retro-Commissioning. Contract document
requirements or contractual agreements between the Owner and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm
may supersede the NEBB requirements. These NEBB RCX-EB procedural standards have been
developed using language defined by “SHALL, SHOULD, and MAY” as it relates to the standards
and procedures described in this manual. It is important to note these particular words throughout this
manual and how they pertain to the NEBB standards and procedures.
Part 1 STANDARDS
The Standards cover definitions, requirements for quality control, quality compliance, instrumentation
requirements, and report requirements. Requirements for instruments and test equipment are
identified.
Part 2 PROCESS
The Process section is devoted to providing a detailed explanation of the retro-commissioning
process.
Part 3 PROCEDURES
The Procedures section covers the technical procedures for retro-commissioning of existing buildings.
APPENDICES
The Appendices include the NEBB retro-commissioning process matrix.
This First Edition of the RCX-EB Procedural Standards, when used by NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firms,
will assure the building owner of a facility that is properly retro-commissioned to improve their facility’s
performance, operation and / or comfort.
Andrew P. Nolfo, P.E.
NEBB Technical Director
III
BUILDINGS SYSTEMS COMMISSIONING COMMITTEE MEMBERS
AND OTHER CONTRIBUTORS FOR THIS EDITION
Current BSC Committee:
James W. Bochat, Chairman
Phoenix, Arizona
Gerald T. Bauers, P.E.
Kansas City, MO
Steve Wiggins
Atlanta, Georgia
Barry Fitzgerald
Boise, Idaho
Robert J. Linder, P.E.
St. Paul, MN
Michael Locke
Dallas, Texas
James Whorton, PE
Kansas City, MO
Andrew P. Nolfo, P.E
Phoenix, Arizona
Additional Contributors:
Michael P. Dolim
Gaithersburg, Maryland
David McFarlane
Grand Forks, North Dakota
IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Foreword
NEBB Building Systems Commissioning Committee
Table of Contents
III
IV
V
PART 1 – STANDARDS
SECTION 1 Definitions
1
SECTION 2 NEBB Program, Quality Control and Compliance
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
NEBB Programs
2.1.1 NEBB Disciplines
2.1.2 Certification of Firms
2.1.3 Certification of Professionals
2.1.4 Recertification Requirements
Quality Assurance Program – Conformance Certification
2.2.1 Program Advantages
2.2.2 NEBB Quality Assurance Program Certificate
Quality Control and Compliance
2.3.1 RCx-EB Work Compliance
RCx-EB Certified Professional Responsibilities
2.4.1 Execution of RCx-EB Procedures
2.4.2 Instrument and Equipment Use and Maintenance
2.4.3 Coordination / Supervision
2.4.4 Project Communication
2.4.5 Work Completion
2.4.6 Compilation and Submission of Final RCx Reports
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SECTION 3 Responsibilities
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
Introduction
Owner Responsibilities
3.2.1 Owner Responsibilities
NEBB Certified RCx-EB Firm Responsibilities
3.3.1 NEBB Certified RCx-EB Firm Responsibilities
3.3.2 NEBB Certified TAB Firm Responsibilities
Other Retro-Commissioning Team Member Responsibilities
3.4.1 Design Professionals Responsibilities
3.4.2 Contractor or Vendor Responsibilities
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14
SECTION 4 Standards for Instrumentation and Calibration
4.1
4.2
Minimum Instrumentation
Range and Accuracy
Table 4-1 NEBB Instrumentation Requirements (US Units)
Table 4-1 NEBB Instrumentation Requirements (SI Units)
V
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18
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
SECTION 5 Standards for Reports and Forms
5.1
5.2
Retro-Commissioning Reports
Required Pages
5.2.1 Report Title Page
5.2.2 Report Certification Page
5.2.3 Table of Contents Page
5.2.4 Executive Summary
5.2.5 Project CFR
5.2.6 Retro-Commissioning Plan
5.2.7 Data Logs
5.2.8 Interview Records
5.2.9 Testing Check Sheets
5.2.10 Utility Usage Evaluation
5.2.11 Quick Fix Report
5.2.12 Corrective Action Recommendation Report
5.2.13 Commissioning Report of Corrective Actions
5.2.14 TAB Report
5.2.15 Commissioning Communications
5.2.16 Test Instrument Page
5.2.17 All Report Pages
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PART 2 - PROCESS
PAGE
SECTION 6 Retro-Commissioning Process
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Retro-Commissioning Phases
6.3 Contract Phase
6.3.1 Introduction
6.3.2 Responsibilities
6.3.3 Activities
6.3.4 Contract Phase Documentation
6.4 Pre Site Investigation Phase
6.4.1 Introduction
6.4.2 Responsibilities
6.4.3 Activities
6.4.4 Pre Site Investigation Phase Documentation
6.5 Site Investigation Phase
6.5.1 Introduction
6.5.2 Responsibilities
6.5.3 Activities
6.5.4 Site Investigation Phase Documentation
6.6 Analysis Phase
6.6.1 Introduction
6.6.2 Responsibilities
6.6.3 Activities
6.6.4 Analysis Phase Documentation
VI
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37
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
6.7 Corrective Action Phase
6.7.1 Introduction
6.7.2 Responsibilities
6.7.3 Activities
6.7.4 Corrective Action Phase Documentation
6.8 Follow-Up Phase
6.8.1 Introduction
6.8.2 Responsibilities
6.8.3 Activities
6.8.4 Follow Up Phase Documentation
6.9 Retro Commissioning Report
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PART 3 - PROCEDURES
SECTION 7 Retro-Commissioning of Existing Buildings
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Site Investigation Phase
7.2.1 Introduction
7.2.2 Responsibilities
7.2.3 Site Investigation Activities
7.2.4 Site Investigation Phase Documentation
7.3 Analysis Phase
7.3.1 Introduction
7.3.2 Responsibilities
7.3.3 Activities
7.3.4 Analysis Phase Documentation
Table 7-1 NEBB Requirements for RCx-EB
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56
57
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
RCx-EB Process Matrices
VII
A.1
PART 1 - STANDARDS
SECTION 1 DEFINITIONS
These procedural standards have been developed using language defined by “Shall, Should,
and May" as it relates to the standards and procedures described in this publication. It is
important to note these particular words throughout this publication and how they pertain to
NEBB standards and procedures.
These procedural standards have been developed utilizing ASHRAE Guideline 0 as the
standard for the basic commissioning process for new buildings to ensure industry continuity
but offer expanded procedures that provide a higher technical effort. Many definitions below
are similar to ASHRAE definitions but in some cases include expanded technical clarifications.
Acceptance Phase Commissioning: Commissioning tasks executed after the construction has
been completed, all Site Observations and Static Tests have been completed and all Pre-Functional
Testing has been completed and accepted. The main commissioning activities performed during this
phase are verification that the installed systems are functional as verified by conducting Functional
Performance tests and Owner Training.
Accuracy: The capability of an instrument to indicate the true value of a measured quantity.
AHJ: The local governing Authority Having Jurisdiction over the installation.
ASHRAE: The American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers.
Basis of Design (BOD): The Engineer’s Basis of Design is comprised of two components: the
Design Criteria and the Design Narrative, these documents record the concepts, calculations,
decisions, and product selections used to meet the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) and to
satisfy applicable regulatory requirements, standards, and guidelines.
Building Systems Commissioning (BSC): NEBB acronym used to designate its commissioning
program.
Calibrate: The act of comparing an instrument of unknown accuracy with a standard of known
accuracy to detect, correlate, report, or eliminate by adjustment any variation in the accuracy of the
tested instrument.
Checklists: Lists of data or inspections that should be verified to ensure proper system or
component installation, operation and function. Verification checklists are developed and used during
all phases of the commissioning process to verify that the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) is
being achieved.
1
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
Commissionability: Defines a design component or construction process that has the necessary
elements that will allow a system or component to be effectively measured, tested, operated and
commissioned.
Commissioning (Cx): See Commissioning Process
Commissioning Authority (CA): The NEBB Certified BSC Professional who administers the Cx
process by managing the Cx team. Where CA is used in the standard it means the CA, members of
his staff or appointed members of the commissioning team.
Commissioning Plan: A document that outlines the scope and defines responsibilities, processes,
schedules, and the documentation requirements of the Commissioning Process.
Commissioning Process: A quality focused process for enhancing the delivery of a project. The
process focuses upon verifying and documenting that the facility and all of its systems, components,
and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, can be operated and maintained to meet the
Owner's Project Requirements.
Commissioning Report: The final document which presents the commissioning process results for
the project. Cx reports include an executive summary, the commissioning plan, issue log,
correspondence, and all appropriate check sheets and test forms.
Commissioning Team: Individual team members whose coordinated actions are responsible for
implementing the Commissioning Process.
Contract Documents (CD): Contract documents include design and construction contracts, price
agreements and procedure agreements. Contract Documents also include all final and complete
drawings, specifications and all applicable contract modifications or supplements.
Continuous Commissioning Process: A continuation of the Commissioning Process well into the
Occupancy and Operations Phase. This process verifies that a project continues to meet current and
evolving Owner’s Project Requirements. Continuous Commissioning Process activities are ongoing
for the life of the facility.
Construction Documents:
Construction documents usually include the project manual
(specifications), plans (drawings), and general terms and conditions of the contract. These
documents vary from project to project as the owners needs changes and as various State, Federal or
International regulations dictate.
Construction Phase Commissioning (CPC): All commissioning efforts executed during the
construction process, after the design phase, and prior to the Acceptance Phase Commissioning.
Coordination Drawings: Drawings showing the work of all trades that are used to illustrate that
equipment can be installed in the space allocated without compromising equipment function or access
for maintenance and replacement. These drawings graphically illustrate and dimension
manufacturers’ recommended maintenance clearances. On mechanical projects, Coordination
Drawings include structural steel, ductwork, major piping and electrical conduit, and show the
elevations and locations of the above components.
2
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
Corrective Action: The act of repairing, replacing equipment or systems and extending or rebuilding systems through construction activities in response to a set of RCX-EB recommendations.
Current Facility Requirements (CFR): A document that lists the facilities current use requirements.
Similar to an OPR for new buildings but as applied to an existing facility.
Data Logger: A test instrument that is utilized to record specific readings over time. Normally a
battery operated instrument with multiple channels for more than one reading.
Deferred System Test: Tests that cannot be completed at the end of the acceptance phase due to
ambient conditions, schedule issues or other conditions preventing testing.
Deferred Maintenance: Maintenance procedures which have not been done due to costs, lack of
manpower or negligence.
Deficiency: Any condition that adversely affects the commissionability, operability, maintainability or
functionality of a system, equipment or component or an issue that does not conform to the project
OPR, contract documents or standard industry best practices.
Design Criteria: A listing of the projects design requirements, including its source. These are used
during the design process to show the design element meets the OPR.
Design Development (DD): Design Development takes the schematic design (SD) phase and turns
these conceptual plans into one-line duct and piping drawings with identifiable zones. Specifications
would be in outline form with typical details shown. DD’s would contain preliminary equipment data
schedules, etc.
Design Intent: The overall term that includes the OPR and the BOD. It is a detailed explanation of
the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are defined by the owner to be important. The design intent
documents are utilized to provide a written record of these ideas, concepts and criteria.
Design Narrative: A written description of the proposed design solutions that satisfy the
requirements of the OPR. The preparation of this document is the responsibility of the Engineer. The
narrative should include a description of the systems selected and why they were chosen. It should
also include reasons other systems were considered and rejected. Acceptance of the items in the
Design Narrative should be the consensus of both the Owner and the Engineer.
Design Phase Commissioning (DPC): All commissioning tasks executed during the design phase
of the project.
Design Professional: The design professional, architect or engineer of record of the project.
Environmental Systems: Systems that use a combination of mechanical equipment, airflow, water
flow and electrical energy to provide heating, ventilating, air conditioning, humidification, and
dehumidification for the purpose of human comfort or process control of temperature and humidity.
Executive Summary: A section of the Commissioning report that reviews the general outcome of the
project. It also includes any unresolved issues, recommendations for the resolution of unresolved
issues and all deferred testing requirements.
3
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
Fenestration: Any glass opening in a building structure such as windows, skylights and window
walls.
Function: For the purposes of this NEBB Standard, function refers to the specific type of data
measurement specified in Table 4-1 of Section 4, Standards for Instrumentation and Calibration.
Functionality: This defines a design component or construction process which will allow a system or
component to operate or be constructed in a manner that will produce the required outcome of the
OPR.
Functional Performance Test (FPT): Tests that are intended to prove functionality of the
component or system. FPT’s are done after all PFT tests are complete.
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): The relative quality of the indoor air environment and normally
includes temperature, humidity, levels of CO2 and amounts of particulates such as dust, ozone,
formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOC) and other trace elements. IEQ can also relate to
biological contamination such as mold or Legionella bacteria and quality of the space for sound &
vibration, views, and daylighting.
Industry Accepted Best Practice: A design component or construction process that has achieved
industry consensus for quality performance and functionality. Refer to NEBB Design Phase
Commissioning Handbook for examples.
Installation Verification: Observations that confirm the system or component has been installed in
accordance with the contract documents and to industry accepted best practices.
Issues Log: A formal and ongoing record of problems or concerns – and their resolution – that have
been raised by members of the Commissioning Team during the course of the Commissioning
Process.
Light Emitting Diode (LED): Illumination devices that are used for small light sources such as exit
lights or light signaling or indication. LED lights are very energy efficient but color spectrum is limited.
May: The term is used to indicate a course of action that is permissible as determined by the NEBB
Procedural Standards but is not required for a NEBB certified project.
Maintainability: A design component or construction process that will allow a system or component
to be effectively maintained. This includes adequate room for access to adjust and repair the
equipment. Maintainability also includes components that have readily obtainable repair parts or
service.
Maintenance Management Work Orders: Work orders for building repairs or troubleshooting
created from the Owners maintenance management system or procedures.
NEBB: National Environmental Balancing Bureau
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm: A firm that has met and maintains all the requirements of the National
Environmental Balancing Bureau for firm certification in Retro Commissioning of Existing Buildings
4
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
and is currently certified by NEBB. A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm shall employ at least one NEBB
Certified RCX-EB Professional in a full time management position.
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report: The final report of a project’s retro commissioning process. The
retro commissioning report includes all testing data results, issue logs, observations and other
pertinent data of the retro-commissioning process. NEBB Certification indicates that the retrocommissioning process and the report have been completed and compiled in accordance with the
current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for Retro Commissioning of Existing Buildings.
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional: A full time employee of the firm in a management position
who has successfully passed the Certified Professional level examinations and maintains the Certified
Professional recertification requirements of NEBB.
Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR): A written document that details the project requirements
and the expectations of how it will be used and operated. These include project goals, measurable
performance criteria, cost considerations, benchmarks, success criteria, and supporting information.
.
Performance Verification: The act of verifying a facilities comfort level, energy usage or water
usage performance as compared to a previous set of readings or verifications.
Precision: The ability of an instrument to produce repeatable readings of the same quantity under
the same conditions. The precision of an instrument refers to its ability to produce a tightly grouped
set of values around the mean value of the measured quantity.
Pre-Design Phase Commissioning: Commissioning tasks performed prior to the commencement of
design activities that includes project programming and the development of the commissioning
process for the project.
Pre-Functional Test (PFT): An observation or test that is done before functional testing. PFTs
include installation verification and system and component start up tests.
Procedure: A defined approach that outlines the execution of a sequence of work or operations.
Procedures are used to produce repeatable and defined results.
Range: The upper and lower limits of an instrument’s ability to measure the value of a quantity for
which the instrument is calibrated.
Remedial Design: Design activities that are required to complete any corrective action as
recommended through the RCX-EB process.
Retro-Commissioning of Existing Buildings (RCX-EB): A process of evaluating, testing, adjusting
and correcting building systems to meet the owner’s requirements and to improve comfort and
Environmental Quality and to optimize Energy and Resource Conservation.
Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCxA): An individual, who is trained, qualified and certified to
perform retro-commissioning services.
5
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
Resolution: This word has two meanings in the Cx Process. The first refers to the smallest change
in a measured variable that an instrument can detect. The second refers to the implementation of
actions that correct a tested or observed deficiency.
Schematic Design (SD): A conceptual image of the projects engineering requirements. Load
calculations, preliminary system selection, and flow sheets are developed in this phase of the project.
This phase could represent the project at approximately 35% of the design effort.
Shall: The term is used to indicate mandatory requirements that must be followed In order for the
project to become a NEBB certified project. Work must conform to these standards and procedures
and no deviation is permitted. Note: In the event unique circumstances prevent a required action from
being fulfilled, a notation shall be included in the RCx report explaining the reason that the
requirement was not completed.
Should: The term is used to indicate that a certain course of action is preferred and recommended
and should be included to provide a quality commissioning project, but is not required to be
implemented in a minimum NEBB certified project.
Site Observation Reports (SO): Reports of site inspections and observations made by the CA.
Observation reports are intended to provide early indication of an installation issue which will need
correction or analysis.
Standard: A required qualification, action, or result for BSC work.
Static Tests: Tests or inspections that validate a specified static condition such as pressure testing.
Static tests may be specification or code initiated.
Start Up Tests: Tests that validate the component or system is ready for automatic operation in
accordance with the manufacturers’ requirements.
Sound & Vibration (S&V): The process of testing and recording the sound power levels and
vibration levels of a component or system. S&V is utilized to indicate the level of sound and vibration
exposure to occupants of a facility.
Systems Manual: A system-focused composite document that includes all information required for
the owners operators to operate the systems.
Test Procedure: A written protocol that defines methods, personnel, and expectations for tests
conducted on components, equipment, assemblies, systems, and interfaces among systems.
Testing: The use of specialized and calibrated instruments to measure parameters such as:
temperature, pressure, vapor flow, air flow, fluid flow, rotational speed, electrical characteristics,
velocity, and other data in order to determine performance, operation, or function.
Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB): A systematic process or service applied to heating,
ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems and other environmental systems to achieve and
document air and hydronic flow rates. The standards and procedures for providing these services are
referred to as “Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing” and are described in the NEBB Procedural
Standards for the Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental Systems.
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
Training Plan: A written document that details, in outline form, the expectations of the operator
training. Training agendas should address instruction on how to obtain service, operate, startup,
shutdown and maintain all systems and components of the project.
Troubleshooting: The process of investigating a specific fault or failure of a system or piece of
equipment.
Validation: The process by which work is verified as complete and operating correctly:
1. First party validation occurs when a firm or individual verifying the task is the same firm or
individual performing the task.
2. Second party validation occurs when the firm or individual verifying the task is under the
control of the firm performing the task or has other possibilities of financial conflicts of
interest in the resolution (Architects, Designers, General Contractors and Third Tier
Subcontractors or Vendors).
3. Third party validation occurs when the firm verifying the task is not associated with or
under control of the firm performing or designing the task.
Verification: The process by which specific documents, components, equipment, assemblies,
systems, and interfaces among systems are confirmed to comply with the criteria described in the
Owner’s Project Requirements.
Warranty Phase Commissioning: Commissioning efforts executed after a project has been
completed and accepted by the Owner. Warranty Phase Commissioning includes follow-up on
verification of system performance, measurement and verification tasks and assistance in identifying
warranty issues and enforcing warranty provisions of the construction contract.
Warranty Visit: A commissioning meeting and site review where all outstanding warranty issues and
deferred testing is reviewed and discussed.
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
8
SECTION 1
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 2 NEBB PROGRAM,
QUALITY CONTROL AND
COMPLIANCE
2.1 NEBB PROGRAMS
The National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1971
to:
a) develop standards, procedures and programs for the performance of testing, balancing and
commissioning of building systems.
b) promote advancement of the industry through technical training and development, and
c) operate programs to certify firms and qualify individuals who meet and maintain NEBB
standards with integrity.
Additional information on NEBB Programs is available at www.nebb.org.
2.1.1 NEBB DISCIPLINES
NEBB establishes and maintains standards, procedures, and specifications for work in its various
disciplines, which include:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
Retro-Commissioning (RCX-EB)
Testing-Adjusting-Balancing (TAB) of Air and Hydronic Systems
Sound (S) Measurement
Vibration (V) Measurement
Cleanroom Performance Testing (CPT)
Building Systems Commissioning (BSC)
Fume Hood Testing (FHT)
Each discipline is anchored by a NEBB Procedural Standards manual that provides guidelines for
work to be performed. NEBB also has created technical manuals, training materials and programs,
and seminars to enhance and support each discipline.
2.1.2 CERTIFICATION OF FIRMS
NEBB certifies firms that meet certain criteria, ensuring strict conformance to its high standards and
procedures. Among other requirements, NEBB Certified Firms must document a record of
responsible performance, own a complete set of instruments required for the sophisticated techniques
and procedures necessary to "fine-tune" modern environmental systems, and have a NEBB Certified
Professional as a full-time employee.
2.1.3 CERTIFICATION OF PROFESSIONALS
NEBB also establishes professional qualifications for the supervision and performance of work in its
various disciplines. NEBB Certified Professionals must have extensive experience, and they must
pass appropriate, written examinations and demonstrate certain practical working knowledge and
proficiency in the use of instruments required for the various disciplines.
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 2
NEBB PROGRAM, QUALITY CONTROL
AND COMPLIANCE
2.1.4 RECERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Through the recertification procedures, the firm must verify that its NEBB Certified Professional is still
on staff and that it continues to own a complete set of instruments and equipment that are in current
calibration. In addition, the firm's NEBB Certified Professional must annually renew his or her
certification.
Among other requirements, the Certified Professionals must keep abreast of
developments in their discipline by successfully completing continuing education requirements as
outlined by NEBB.
2.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM - CONFORMANCE CERTIFICATION
The credibility of NEBB is built by maintaining integrity through high standards, quality programs, and
demonstrated capabilities of its certified firms. As further assurance, NEBB offers a Quality
Assurance Program to guarantee that the work will be accomplished in accordance with its standards.
NEBB’s Quality Assurance Program applies to each project. It assures that the NEBB Certified Firm
will perform specified services in conformity with the current applicable NEBB Procedural Standards.
2.2.1 PROGRAM ADVANTAGES
The NEBB Quality Assurance Program affords building owners, architects, engineers and other
agents a reliable basis for specifying work within the various disciplines of NEBB. The program
promotes proper execution of projects by ensuring compliance with NEBB standards and procedures.
2.2.2 NEBB QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM CERTIFICATE
The NEBB Quality Assurance Program Conformance Certificate is not required, but is available for
any project.
2.3 QUALITY CONTROL AND COMPLIANCE
Building owners are entitled to a professional service by every NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm on every
project, whether the job is NEBB specified or not. It is the responsibility of the NEBB Certified Firm
and its NEBB Certified Professional to establish and maintain procedures and practices that will
ensure a consistent pattern of high quality work on all projects.
2.3.1 RCX-EB WORK COMPLIANCE
The scope of work shall be as agreed to between the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the
Owner/Buyer. Each relevant or applicable item as identified in the scope of work shall be performed
by the RCX-EB team member or be properly verified or witnessed by the NEBB RCxA and recorded in
the NEBB RCX-EB Final report. Data presented in a NEBB RCX-EB report shall provide an accurate
record of the system tests, measurements, and all recommendations.
a. In all cases, the processes followed, the retro-commissioning activities, the requirements of
each phase and the testing results shall conform to the current edition of the NEBB Procedural
Standards for Retro-Commissioning of Existing Buildings.
b. References to desired procedures may include statements such as "the work will be performed
in accordance with NEBB Standards." When contract language indicate that the RCX-EB work
shall be performed in accordance with NEBB standards, the RCX-EB procedures will conform
to the edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for Retro-Commissioning of Existing
Buildings in place at the time of the contract and must be performed by a NEBB certified firm.
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 2
NEBB PROGRAM, QUALITY CONTROL
AND COMPLIANCE
c. The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional are allowed to
sign and stamp a commissioning report as a NEBB Certified Retro-Commissioning Report only
when the procedures and requirements as identified in these Procedural Standards have been
followed.
d. A NEBB Certified Report may consist of any single retro-commissioning phase or any
combination of phases as described in these Procedural Standards. To qualify as a NEBB
Certified Report, each retro-commissioned phase included in the report must adhere to the
SHALL requirements of the phase being commissioned.
e. The actual contracted scope of work SHALL be clearly defined on the certification page of the
report as specified in the contract documents or as agreed to between the Owner / Buyer and
the NEBB RCX-EB Certified Firm.
f.
If the scope of work of the retro-commissioning contract does not specifically delineate the
retro-commissioning processes, then the project will be required to meet all SHALL language
of this standard to be a NEBB Certified Project.
g. If a project scope of work of the retro-commissioning contract requires a different level of retrocommissioning than described by the minimum SHALL language of this standard, the
procedural variance shall be clearly delineated in the project scope of work and listed on the
retro-commissioning report certification page to qualify as a NEBB Certified Report.
h. Any project that does not comply with the minimum SHALL requirements of this standard and
does not clearly identify the specific procedural variances required by the retro-commissioning
contract on the certification page SHALL NOT be signed and stamped as a NEBB certified
retro-commissioning report. All references to NEBB, including NEBB logos, stamps,
certifications, etc SHALL be removed from the report.
2.4 RCX-EB CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
It is the responsibility of the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional to control the quality of the
commissioning work. This means that the NEBB RCX-EB Certified Firm, through its NEBB Certified
RCX-EB Professional, shall satisfy the contract obligations as defined in the contract documents or as
agreed to with the Owner/Buyer.
2.4.1 EXECUTION OF RCX-EB PROCEDURES
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional shall have project responsibility, which includes authority to
represent the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm. Examples of project responsibility may include labor
decisions, negotiating change orders, committing to contract interpretations and implementing
changes in job schedules.
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional has the responsibility to assure that the systems have been
retro-commissioned properly in accordance with these Procedural Standards and the contract scope
of work, to assure the accuracy of all data included in the final Retro-Commissioning Report. Factors
such as training, instrument use, coordination / supervision, system troubleshooting, issue analysis,
work instructions, and project communication play a critical role in achieving this requirement.
11
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 2
NEBB PROGRAM, QUALITY CONTROL
AND COMPLIANCE
2.4.2 INSTRUMENT AND EQUIPMENT USE AND MAINTENANCE
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professionals shall possess knowledge and skill in the proper use and care of
the equipment and instruments required to perform the tests required in the retro-commissioning
effort. This shall include a thorough understanding of the operating principles and use of equipment
and instruments. Considerations for the delicate nature of many of the instruments typically used, as
well as the adverse effects of dirt, shock, jarring movements and exceeding rated capacities, shall be
addressed along with the proper methods for storing and transporting the instruments.
2.4.3 COORDINATION / SUPERVISION
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional SHALL be in responsible charge of directing retrocommissioning team members/ technicians in performing the commissioning work.
2.4.4 PROJECT COMMUNICATION
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional shall report on progress made toward work completion,
when required, as well as report and address problems when encountered. If a life safety issue is
encountered the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional shall notify the Owner immediately of the issue.
2.4.5 WORK COMPLETION
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional shall determine when the retro-commissioning work has
been completed.
Generally, the RCX-EB work is complete when all applicable systems, components and assemblies
are properly retro-commissioned, the results of the investigation have been analyzed and
recommendations are presented to the Owner in the final Retro-Commissioning report.
Based on the contractual requirements, the RCX-EB work may continue through the Corrective Actions
Phase. At a minimum the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and RCxA should be involved in the Remedial
Design and Construction of the Corrective Actions, and all work should be commissioned by the
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm.
Reasonable efforts within the extent of the retro-commissioning process and scope of the project
should be performed in an effort to achieve acceptable system performance. The NEBB Certified
RCX-EB Professional shall notify the Owner of any system issues, facility issues or facility personnel
issues that are preventing retro-commissioning completion.
2.4.6 COMPILATION AND SUBMISSION OF FINAL RCX REPORTS
Reports shall include information and data to provide an accurate quantitative record of system
measurements, notes, test results and information in support of the recommendations. Reports shall
meet the criteria established in Section 5.
The certification page shall bear the stamp and signature of the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional.
The stamp on the certification page shall be signed as evidence that the NEBB Certified RCX-EB
Professional has personally reviewed and accepted the report. Signature stamps are specifically
prohibited.
12
SECTION 3 RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Many approaches can be taken to deliver a successful retro-commissioning project. RetroCommissioning can be initiated for comfort and operational improvement, improvement in IEQ or for
energy reduction, as well as for all three. Retro-Commissioning can be a direct consulting service,
which provides only discovery and recommendations and no repair or construction services, or a turn
key service which includes all repair and construction services. Retro-Commissioning services must
be procured directly by the Owner or his representative and the contract for these services should be
between the Owner and the Retro-Commissioning firm.
3.2 OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES
3.2.1 OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES
It is recommended that the Owner:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Retains the services of the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm
Approve RCX-EB scope of work
Provide or facilitate site access
Provide original construction documents if available
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
OPR
Drawings
Specifications
Submittals
Commissioning Report
TAB Report
e. Determine level of Owner participation in the RCX-EB process
f. Determine which recommendations will be implemented
g. Procure and manage corrective actions
3.3 NEBB CERTIFIED RCX-EB FIRM RESPONSIBILITIES
3.3.1 NEBB CERTIFIED RCX-EB FIRM RESPONSIBILITIES
Unlike commissioning where the CA only has a very limited scope of responsibilities, the RCxA has
responsibility for the final results of the improvement of the facility. The NEBB Certified RCX-EB firm
shall provide the following if included in the scope of work:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
Follow the current NEBB procedural standards when performing the RCX-EB work.
Direct the retro-commissioning team in the process
Create the Current Facility Requirements (CFR)
Perform issue discovery and problem analysis
Create Corrective Action Recommendation Report
Assist Owner in selecting recommendations to implement
Provide management services for corrective action implementation if not performed by Owner
Provide Commissioning services of corrective action implementation
Provide the final retro-commissioning report to the Owner.
13
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
j.
SECTION 3
RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinate and schedule any warranty commissioning or follow up retro-commissioning
activities required
3.3.2 NEBB CERTIFIED TAB FIRM RESPONSIBILITIES
If performing TAB work on the RCX-EB project, the NEBB Certified TAB Firm’s responsibilities shall
be:
a. Follow the current NEBB standards and procedures when performing the TAB work
b. Communicate on a regular basis, through proper channels, items relating to design,
installation, or function that prevent the NEBB Certified TAB Firm from achieving completion of
the TAB work in accordance with the current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for
Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing of Environmental Systems
c. Perform the specified commissioning support requirements
d. Publish a NEBB Certified TAB Report of final conditions that accurately reflects the HVAC
system(s) final Air and Hydronic flow conditions
3.4 OTHER RETRO-COMMMISSIONING TEAM MEMBERS
RESPONSIBILITIES
3.4.1 DESIGN PROFESSIONALS RESPONSIBILITIES
When a design professional is a part of the RCX-EB team his/her responsibilities shall be:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Provide professional expertise to the retro-commissioning team for their discipline
Assist RCxA in issue analysis as required
Conduct any calculations, engineering or design required
Provide Construction Documents as required to facilitate recommended corrective actions
Provide a BOD for designs created
3.4.2 CONTRACTOR OR VENDOR RESPONSIBILITIES
When a contractor or vendor is a part of the RCX-EB team his/her responsibilities shall be:
a. Provide professional expertise to the retro-commissioning team for their discipline
b. Assist RCxA in issue analysis as required
c. Provide activities as required to implement recommended corrective actions as directed by the
RCX-EB team. Activities may include:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
Repair or Refurbishment
Adjustment or Calibration
Construction Services
Start Up Services
Programming
Training
d. Provide work schedules
e. Facilitate the commissioning of corrective actions
f. Provide all close out documents for corrective actions which may include:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
As Built Drawings
O&M Manuals
Warranties
Training documentation
14
SECTION 4 STANDARDS FOR
INSTRUMENTATION AND
CALIBRATION
4.1 MINIMUM INSTRUMENTATION
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm will use a variety of instrumentation to perform the specialized testing
that is part of the retro-commissioning process. It is the responsibility of the NEBB Certified RCX-EB
Firm to provide appropriate instrumentation that meets the minimum requirements of Table 4-1 (US or
SI) for use on a project. Instrumentation used on a NEBB project shall be in proper operating
condition and shall be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Table 4-1
(US or SI) lists the minimum instrumentation that a NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm shall own and
maintain.
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firms must have the instruments calibrated in accordance with the
calibration requirements of Table 4-1.
The required instruments and equipment listed in Table 4-1 may be the same equipment and
instruments utilized for TAB, S, V, BSC and/or CPT Certification. A separate set of instruments is not
required.
4.2 RANGE AND ACCURACY
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm SHALL possess instruments for each function and range listed in
Table 4-1 that are listed as SHALL requirements, and should posses instruments for each function
and range listed in Table 4-1 that are listed as SHOULD requirements, or may possess instruments
for each function and range listed in Table 4-1 that are listed as MAY requirements. Each instrument
must have been specifically designed to meet the criteria (Minimum Accuracy, Range, and
Resolution) of the function. Instrumentation with multiple capabilities shall be accepted for more than
one function when submitting documentation for a firm’s certification, providing that each separate
function meets NEBB requirements. Information and data regarding accuracy of all submitted
instrumentation for the stated functions shall be available from the manufacturer.
The accuracy and range as reported by the instrument manufacturer shall be verified by a testing
laboratory traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology or equivalent institute in
countries other than the United States. Calibration requirements for each function are specified and
shall be met.
Firms with multiple sets of instrumentation shall comply by calibrating all instrumentation used by the
firm on projects in accordance with Table 4-1. All instrumentation shall comply with the calibration
requirements of Table 4-1 (US or SI). This condition applies whether a firm has one instrument of
each type or multiple instruments.
Instruments shall be used in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. The most suitable
instrument, or combination of instruments, should be employed for a particular measurement or
reading.
15
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 4
STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTATION
AND CALIBRATION
TABLE 4-1 NEBB INSTRUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS (US UNITS)
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHALL)
Function/Instrument Type
Rotation Measurement / Digital
Rotational Speed – Dual Functions
Temperature Measurement / Digital
Thermometers
Air
Immersion
Contact
Electrical Measurement / Digital True
RMS Multimeter
Volts AC
Amperes
Air Pressure Measurement / Digital
Manometer
Air Velocity Measurement
(Not for Pitot tube traverses)
Humidity Measurement / Digital
Hygrometer
Direct Reading Hood / Digital Airflow
Multimeter
Pitot Tubes (2 required)
Hydronic Pressure Measurement /
Digital Hydrometer
Hydronic Differential Pressure
Measurement / Digital Hydrometer
Data Loggers: Temperature (Qty 8)*
Data Loggers: Humidity (Qty 8)*
Data Loggers: Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
(Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Carbon Monoxide (CO)
(Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Lighting Levels (Qty 1)*
Data Logger: Electrical (Qty 2)
Volts AC
Amperes
Data Logger: Static Pressure
Low Range: (Qty 1)
High Range: (Qty 1)
Data Logger: Water Pressure
Differential Water Pressure (Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Event (Qty 2)*
Photographs / Digital Camera
Thermal (Infrared) Thermometer
1.
2.
3.
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Calibration
Interval
0 to 5000 rpm
± 2%
± 5 rpm
12 Months
o
-40 to 240 F
o
-40 to 240 F
-40 to 240 oF
± 1% of reading
± 1% of reading
± 1% of reading
o
0.2 F
o
0.2 F
0.2 oF
12 Months
0 to 600 VAC
0 to 100 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
1.0 Volt
0.1 Ampere
0.01 in.w.g.
<1in.w.g.
0.1in.w.g. >1in.w.g.
0 to 10.00 in.w.g.
± 2% of reading
12 Months
12 Months
50 to 2500 fpm
± 5% of reading
20 fpm
12 Months
10 to 90% RH
2% RH
1%
12 Months
100 to 2000 cfm
± 5% of reading,
± 5 cfm
Digital – 1 cfm
Analog - Not
applicable
12 Months
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not required
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 0.5 oF @ 77 oF
2.5 % RH
0.5 PSI
1.0 PSI
2.5 PSI
1.0 in.w.g.
1.0 ft.w.g.
0.2 oF
1%
Note 3
Note 3
0 to 2500 ppm
± 50 ppm
1 ppm
12 Months
0 to 2000 ppm
± 5 ppm
1 ppm
12 Months
0 to 3000
footcandles
± 10 footcandles
2 footcandles
Note 3
0 to 600 VAC
0 to 100 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 4% of reading
Note 3
0 to 0.25” wc
0 to 6.00” wc
0 to 100 feet
0 to 100 psi
± 1% of full scale
± 1% of full scale
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
1.0 Volt
0.5 Ampere
0.01 in.w.g.
<1in.w.g.
0.1in.w.g. >1in.w.g
1.0 psi
1.0 psi
24 mm – 72 mm
-4° - 500° F
3 x Zoom
± 2%
3.1 Mega Pixels
±0.1° F
18” minimum,
adequate length
for intended use
-30” hg. to 60 PSI
0 to 100 PSI
0 to 200 PSI
0 to 100 in.w.g.
0 to 100 ft.w.g.
-4 to 150 oF
10 to 90% RH
12 Months
12 Months
Note 3
Note 3
Note 3
Note 1
Note 1
Per Instrument Manufacturers recommendations
Requirements to conform Table 4-1, current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for the Measurement of Sound & Vibration
Data logger calibration may be verified from a calibrated instrument with an associated calibration form showing calibration
readings from both the calibrated instrument and the data logger. If a data logger is out of calibration and cannot be adjusted the
logger must be sent back to the factory for re-calibration or be replaced.
16
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 4
STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTATION
AND CALIBRATION
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHALL) Continued
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Receptacle Circuit Tester
Voltage Detector
Light Level Meter
125 VAC
50 -1000 VAC
0 – 4000 FC
± 2% of Reading
0.1 FC
Calibration
Interval
Note 1
Note 1
12 Months
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHOULD)
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Sound Level Meter
Note 2
0 – 10,000 μ
0 – 5,000 ppm
20 mm
0 – 100%
Note 2
Note 2
Calibration
Interval
12 Months
± 2% Full Scale
± 1%
Note 1
0.1° F
± 5%
120 x 120
1.25” Penetration
Note 1
Note 1
0-600 VAC
0 -500 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
1.0 VAC
0.1 Amp
Note 1
0 – 100 PSI
N/A
± 1% of reading
N/A
0.1 PSI
N/A
Note 1
N/A
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Door Pressure Assembly
Vibration Analyzer
300 to 6300 cfm
Note 2
± 5% of reading
Note 2
0.004 in. w.g.
Note 2
TDS Meter
Thermal Imaging Camera
Capacitance Moisture Meter
Power Quality Meter Data Logger
Volts AC
Amperes
Water Pressure Data Logger
Salt Bath
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (MAY)
1.
2.
3.
Calibration
Interval
12 Months
12 Months
Per Instrument Manufacturers recommendations
Requirements to conform Table 4-1, current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for the Measurement of Sound & Vibration
Data logger calibration may be verified from a calibrated instrument with an associated calibration form showing calibration
readings from both the calibrated instrument and the data logger. If a data logger is out of calibration and cannot be adjusted the
logger must be sent back to the factory for re-calibration or be replaced.
17
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 4
STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTATION
AND CALIBRATION
TABLE 4-1 NEBB INSTRUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS (SI UNITS)
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHALL)
Function/Instrument Type
Rotation Measurement / Digital
Rotational Speed – Dual Functions
Temperature Measurement / Digital
Thermometers
Air
Immersion
Contact
Electrical Measurement / Digital True
RMS Multimeter
Volts AC
Amperes
Air Pressure Measurement / Digital
Manometer
Air Velocity Measurement
(Not for Pitot tube traverses)
Humidity Measurement / Digital
Hygrometer
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Calibration
Interval
0 to 5000 rpm
± 2%
± 5 rpm
12 Months
-40 to 115°C
-40 to 115°C
-40 to 115°C
± 1% of reading
± 1% of reading
± 1% of reading
0.1°C
0.1°C
0.1°C
12 Months
0 to 600 VAC
0 to 100 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
1.0 Volt
0.1 Ampere
12 Months
0 to 2500 Pa
± 2% of reading
2.5 Pa < 250 Pa
25 Pa > 250 Pa
12 Months
0.25 to 12.5 m/s
± 5% of reading
0.1 m/s
12 Months
10 to 90% RH
2% RH
1%
12 Months
3
Direct Reading Hood / Digital Airflow
Multimeter
Pitot Tubes (2 required)
Hydronic Pressure Measurement /
Digital Hydrometer
Hydronic Differential Pressure
Measurement / Digital Hydrometer
Data Loggers: Temperature (Qty 8)*
Data Loggers: Humidity (Qty 8)*
Data Loggers: Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
(Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Carbon Monoxide (CO)
(Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Lighting Levels (Qty 1)*
Data Logger: Electrical (Qty 2)
Volts AC
Amperes
Data Logger: Static Pressure
Low Range: (Qty 1)
High Range: (Qty 1)
Data Logger: Water Pressure (Qty 1)
Data Loggers: Event (Qty 2)*
Photographs / Digital Camera
Thermal (Infrared) Thermometer
1.
2.
3.
± 5% of reading,
3
± 3 m /h
Digital – 1 m /h
Analog - Not
applicable
12 Months
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not required
± 2% of reading
3.3 kPa
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
± 1% of reading
± 2% RH
6.7 kPa
16.7 kPa
250 Pa
3.0 kPa
0.10° C
0.05% RH
0 to 2500 ppm
± 50 ppm
1 ppm
12 Months
0 to 2000 ppm
± 5 ppm
1 ppm
12 Months
0 to 30000 lux
± 100 lux
20 lux
Note 3
0 to 600 VAC
0 to 100 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 4% of reading
1.0 Volt
0.5 Ampere
Note 3
0 to 800 Pa
0 to 18000 Pa
0 – 700 kPa
± 1% of full scale
± 1% of full scale
± 1% of reading
24 mm – 72 mm
-20° - 260° C
3 x Zoom
± 2%
3
60 to 1200 m /h
18” minimum,
adequate length
for intended use
-760 mm hg.
to 400 kPa
0 to 700 kPa
0 to 1400 kPa
0 to 25 kPa
0 to 300 kPa
-20° - 65°C
10 to 90% RH
30 Pa <3000 Pa
300 Pa > 3000 Pa
0.5 kPa
3.1 Mega Pixels
±0.1° C
12 Months
12 Months
Note 3
Note 3
Note 3
Note 3
Note 3
Note 1
Note 1
Per Instrument Manufacturers recommendations
Requirements to conform Table 4-1, current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for the Measurement of Sound & Vibration
Data logger calibration may be verified from a calibrated instrument with an associated calibration form showing calibration
readings from both the calibrated instrument and the data logger. If a data logger is out of calibration and cannot be adjusted the
logger must be sent back to the factory for re-calibration or be replaced.
18
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 4
STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTATION
AND CALIBRATION
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHALL) Continued
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Receptacle Circuit Tester
Voltage Detector
Light Level Meter
240 VAC
50 -1000 VAC
0 – 40,000 lux
± 2% of Reading
0.1 lux
Calibration
Interval
Note 1
Note 1
12 Months
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (SHOULD)
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Sound Level Meter
Note 2
0 – 10,000 μ
0 – 5,000 ppm
20 mm
0 – 100%
0 – 3000 lumens
Note 2
Note 2
Calibration
Interval
12 Months
± 2% Full Scale
± 1%
Note 1
0.1° C
120 x 120
1.25” Penetration
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
0-600 VAC
0 -500 Amps
± 2% of reading
± 2% of reading
1.0 VAC
0.1 Amp
Note 1
0 – 700 KPa
N/A
± 1% of reading
N/A
700 Pa
N/A
Note 1
N/A
Function/Instrument Type
Minimum Range
Accuracy
Resolution
Door Pressure Assembly
Vibration Analyzer
180 to 3800 m3/h
Note 2
± 5% of reading
Note 2
±12 Pa.
Note 2
TDS Meter
Thermal Image Camera
Capacitance Moisture Meter
Light Level Data Logger
Power Quality Meter Data Logger
Volts AC
Amperes
Water Pressure Data Logger
Salt Bath
RCX-EB INSTRUMENTS (MAY)
1.
2.
3.
Calibration
Interval
12 Months
12 Months
Per Instrument Manufacturers recommendations
Requirements to conform Table 4-1, current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for the Measurement of Sound & Vibration
Data logger calibration may be verified from a calibrated instrument with an associated calibration form showing calibration
readings from both the calibrated instrument and the data logger. If a data logger is out of calibration and cannot be adjusted the
logger must be sent back to the factory for re-calibration or be replaced.
19
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
20
SECTION 4
STANDARDS FOR INSTRUMENTATION
AND CALIBRATION
SECTION 5 STANDARDS FOR
REPORTS AND FORMS
5.1 RETRO-COMMISSIONING REPORT
The NEBB Procedural Standards for Retro-Commissioning of Existing Buildings establishes minimum
requirements of a NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report. The standards have been developed and written
using “SHALL, SHOULD, and MAY” language. It is important to note these particular words
throughout this document and how they pertain to NEBB Procedural Standards.
NEBB RCX-EB Report includes the following information:
A. Report Title Page (SHALL)
B. Report Certification Page (SHALL)
C. Table of Contents Page (SHALL)
D. Executive Summary (SHALL)
E. Project CFR (SHOULD)
F. Retro-Commissioning Plan (SHALL)
G. Data Logs (SHOULD)
H. Interview Records (SHOULD)
I.
Testing Check Sheets (SHALL)
J. Utility Usage Evaluation (SHALL)
K. Quick Fix Report (SHALL)
L. Corrective Action Recommendation Report (SHALL)
M. Commissioning Report of Corrected Actions (SHALL)
N. TAB Report (SHOULD)
O. Commissioning Communications (SHOULD)
P. Test Instrument Page (MAY)
5.2 REQUIRED PAGES
The requirements for each NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report are listed below:
5.2.1 REPORT TITLE PAGE
SHALL Data: The report title page SHALL include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
The heading: “Certified Retro-Commissioning Report”
Project Name / Project Address
Owner Name / Address / Contact Numbers
NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm Name / Address / Contact Numbers / Certification Number
21
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 5
STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS
MAY Data: The report title page MAY include remaining retro-commissioning team members:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Design Professionals, Name / Address / Contact Numbers
Contractors, Names / Address / Contact Numbers
Vendors, Name / Address / Contact Numbers
Operators, Name / Address / Contact Numbers
5.2.2 REPORT CERTIFICATION PAGE
The certification page SHALL bear the stamp of the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional. The stamp
on the certification page SHALL be signed or secure digital signature affixed as evidence that the
NEBB Certified Professional has reviewed and accepted the report. Signature stamps are
specifically prohibited.
SHALL Data: The report certification page shall include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Project Name
Certified RCX-EB Professional’s Name
Firm Name; Certification Number; Expiration Date
Commissioning Phases performed to NEBB standards
Certified RCX-EB Professional’s NEBB Stamp (signed & dated); and the following exact
verbiage:
"THE DATA, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS PRESENTED IN THIS
REPORT ARE A RECORD OF THE RETRO-COMMISSIONING PROCESS UTILIZED ON
THIS PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE NEBB RETRO-COMMISSIONING
PROCEDURAL STANDARDS AND THE CONTRACT REQUIRMENTS”
f. Statement of Scope of Work and variance deviation documentation
The Report Certification Page SHALL also include an exact description of the project commissioning
scope of work as per the commissioning contract. Any specific required variances from the NEBB
required minimum SHALL requirements will be clearly defined.
SHOULD Data: The report certification page should include the following:
“THE RESULTS SHOWN AND INFORMATION GIVEN IN THIS REPORT ARE
CERTIFIED TO BE TRUE AND ACCURATE TO THE EXTENT POSSIBLE DUE TO THE
SYSTEMS OPERATING PARAMETERS AT THE TIME THE SYSTEMS WERE TESTED.
THE RETRO-COMMISSIONING AUTHORITY MAKES NO CLAIMS OR WARRANTIES
STATED OR IMPLIED CONCERNING THE CONTINUED PERFORMANCE, OPERATION
OR SAFETY OF THE FACILITY PAST THE TEST DATE IF CONDITIONS CHANGE OR
OPERATING PARAMETERS WERE CHANGED BY OTHERS.”
5.2.3 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
The Table of Contents SHALL serve as a guide to the organization of the RCX-EB report.
SHALL Data: Page numbers in the report.
5.2.4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include an executive summary.
SHALL Data: The executive summary SHALL include the following information:
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 5
STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS
a. Review of the Retro-Commissioning Project Processes utilized
1. Refer to NEBB Procedural Standards for standard processes
2. Refer to Retro-Commissioning Plan for specific processes
b. Review any deviations used
c. Review of each recommended corrective action and its relative priority
d. Review any areas of concern that are not addressed in the corrective action report and the
reasons these issues were not addressed
e. Review of each deferred system test that is to be performed in the future
5.2.5 PROJECT CFR
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHOULD include the Current Facilities Requirements (CFR). The
CFR documents any changes in the existing facility from its original design intent.
SHOULD Data: The CFR SHOULD include the following information:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Current Occupancy Information
Change of Use Documentation
Zoning changes
Owners Sustainability and Building Rating Requirements
Energy and Efficiency Requirements
Operation and Maintenance Issues
5.2.6 RETRO-COMMISSIONING PLAN
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include the final project retro-commissioning plan which
includes the following:
SHALL Data: The retro-commissioning plan SHALL include the following information:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Retro-Commissioning Scope
Retro-Commissioning Team
Retro-Commissioning Team Member Responsibilities
Channels of communication
Retro-Commissioning Procedures Utilized
SHOULD Data: The commissioning plan SHOULD include the Retro-Commissioning schedule.
5.2.7 DATA LOGS
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHOULD include data log graphs that were utilized in discovery and
analysis of corrective action recommendations.
SHOULD Data: Data Logs SHOULD include the following information:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Project Name
Date and Time of data
Location
Variables Recorded
Parameters
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
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STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS
5.2.8 INTERVIEW RECORDS
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHOULD include any interview records that pertain to information
used to discover or analyze corrective action recommendations.
SHOULD Data: The interview records SHOULD include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Project Name
Date of Interview
Person conducting the interview
Persons interviewed or group type
Interview Questions
Interviewee responses
Interviewer Comments
5.2.9 TESTING CHECK SHEETS
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include completed copies of all testing records including
check sheets and forms or data trends or logs which indicate testing results.
5.2.10 UTILITY USAGE EVALUATION
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include a facility utility evaluation report.
SHALL Data: The utility usage evaluation SHALL include the following information:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Utility usage cost per square foot per month and per year per utility
Utility units quantity usage per month and per year per utility
Water Utility usage costs per occupant per month per year
Water utility GPM per occupant per month per year
5.2.11 QUICK FIX REPORT
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include a report of all quick fixes performed during the site
inspection phase. The following items SHOULD be included in the quick fix report:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
System Adjustments made
Sensor Calibration performed
Repairs performed
Sequences that were changed or modified
Operations that were modified
Operator training given
5.2.12 CORRECTIVE ACTIONS RECOMMENDATION REPORT
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include the final corrective action recommendation report.
SHALL Data: The Corrective Action Recommendation Report SHALL include the following
information for each recommended corrective action:
a. Project Name
b. Description of deficiency
i. Descriptive narrative
ii. Pictures
iii. Test Data
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 5
STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS
c. Recommended Solution
i. Engineering Calculations
ii. Drawings & Sketches
iii. Sequence of Operations or other descriptive narratives
d. Predicted costs of recommended corrective action
e. Calculation of predicted payback and ROI
f. Predicted results of recommended corrective action
g. Predicted schedule of corrective action
5.2.13 COMMISSIONING REPORT OF CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHALL include the final commissioning report of all corrective
actions taken, if included in RCX scope of work. Commissioning of corrective actions shall be done in
accordance with the latest version of the NEBB Procedural Standard for Whole Building Systems
Commissioning of New Construction. The commissioning report shall include
SHALL Data: Commissioning report SHALL include the following information:
a. Report Title Page
b. Report Certification Page
c. Table of Contents Page
d. Executive Summary
e. Project CFR
f. Commissioning Plan
g. Final Issue Log
h. Completed Pre Functional Test Forms And Check Sheets
i. Completed Functional Performance Test Forms and Check Sheets
j. Observation Reports
k. Training Verification Records
l. Commissioning Communications
m. Test Instrument Page
5.2.14 TAB REPORT
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHOULD include a Test and Balance (TAB) report if test and
balance work was performed. If TAB was performed the report shall be in accordance with the latest
edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Environmental
Systems.
5.2.15 COMMISSIONING COMMUNICATIONS
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report SHOULD include all pertinent commissioning communications.
SHOULD Data: Commissioning communications will include the following information:
a. Letters between the commissioning team members that are pertinent to the retrocommissioning process performed or not performed for the project
b. Emails or other written documentation covering issues or issue resolution for the project
5.2.16 TEST INSTRUMENT PAGE
A NEBB Certified RCX-EB Report MAY include a Test Instrument page.
MAY Data: The Test Instrument page may include following information:
a. List of NEBB required tools employed on the project
b. Model number and Serial number of each instrument
c. Certification date of each instrument
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 5
STANDARDS FOR REPORTS AND FORMS
5.2.17 ALL REPORT PAGES
All tested items or systems included in the NEBB RCX-EB Report SHALL be clearly identified with a
unique designation. The method of identification may use unique numbers, mechanical plans
identification, or an appropriate narrative description.
SHALL Data:
a. All pages SHALL contain the name of the project
b. All pages SHALL be identified with a unique page number
MAY Data: Pages MAY include a remarks section to record any information pertinent to the data
reported on the data sheet.
26
PART 2 - PROCESS
SECTION 6 RETROCOMMISSIONING PROCESS
6.1 INTRODUCTION
Retro-commissioning is a holistic process. The RCX-EB Team will investigate, review, and analyze
the issues from a global point of view. RCX-EB is NOT just troubleshooting. The RCX-EB Team will
review selected systems to determine how they may inter-relate with the entire facility to define,
investigate and solve problems. The RCX-EB process may also be utilized to evaluate and validate
the present operating status of a facility.
The RCX-EB process includes: the review of all of the appropriate documentation of an existing facility
to understand the intent of the previous designs; conducting interviews with management, operations
staff and occupants to determine their perspective on current facility conditions; investigation; and
testing possible conditions that may influence or relate to a perceived problem.
The Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCXA) will then analyze the results of the investigations and
recommend solutions. The recommended solutions may, or may not, be implemented by the Owner
depending upon capital availability, payback and other issues.
If the recommendations are accepted by the owner, the implementation of those recommendations is
completely commissioned starting with the Design Phase through the Warranty Phase.
One thing that the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the NEBB Certified RCx-EB Professional must
understand is that RCX-EB is not a linear process. The phases and activities presented in this section,
and Section 7, may make it appear that once an activity or phase is complete, that activity or phase
need not be repeated again. The nature of retro-commissioning is exactly the opposite. The process
is iterative. There will be conditions where a discovery of a problem in one area will require the RCXA
to return to a previous activity and start the investigative process again.
Section 6 describes the Retro-Commissioning process in general terms and standard procedures.
Section 7 describes specific procedures and processes that are necessary to retro-commission
existing building’s systems. The retro-commissioning process will always focus on a building’s
components and operational systems to improve the buildings functionality. Sections 7 describes in
detail the NEBB approved procedures to accomplish these tasks.
This section clearly defines in SHALL, SHOULD and MAY language the exact NEBB requirements
for a NEBB Certified RCX-EB project.
6.2 RETRO-COMMISSIONING PHASES
The actual scope of Retro-Commissioning services to be provided will be mutually agreed to between
the Owner and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm.
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
SECTION 6
RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
The phases of retro-commissioning are as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Contract Phase
Pre Site Investigation Phase
Site Investigation Phase
Analysis Phase
Corrective Action Phase
Follow Up Phase
NEBB recommends that the six phases of the RCx process be performed on all projects. However,
individual phases may be performed at the direction of the Owner. The project retro-commissioning
scope may also be limited to a portion of a project by phase. Any separate phase or portion of a
project is required to meet all SHALL criteria to be a NEBB Certified Project.
If a project scope of work, requires a different level of retro-commissioning than described by the
minimum SHALL language, it must be clearly delineated in the project scope of work and SHALL be
included in the Certification page of the final Cx report.
If a scope of work does not specifically delineate the retro-commissioning processes, the project will
then be required to meet all SHALL language for each phase. Any project that does not comply with
the statements above or involves procedures and requirements that do not include all minimum
SHALL requirements listed in the NEBB Procedural Standards for Retro-commissioning of Existing
Buildings requirements SHALL NOT be signed and stamped as a NEBB certified retro-commissioning
report. All references to NEBB, including NEBB logos, stamps, certifications, etc. SHALL be removed
from the report.
6.3 CONTRACT PHASE
6.3.1 INTRODUCTION
The main purpose of the Contract Phase is to clearly define the scope of the retro-commissioning
project. This scope of work will become the basis for a contract between the RCX-EB Firm and the
Owner. Retro-Commissioning can be a direct consulting service, which provides only discovery and
recommendations and no repair or construction services, or a turn key service which includes all
repair and construction services.
6.3.2 RESPONSIBILITES
6.3.2.1 Team Members
During the Contract phase the Owner and the Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCxA) should review
the subject project to clearly define the owner’s expectations of the project. The required retrocommissioning team members for the Contract Phase should be as follows:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Owners Representatives
Building Operations and Maintenance Staff
Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCXA)
RCX-EB Team Members (As Required)
6.3.2.2 Team Responsibilities
During the contract phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of defining the contract
scope of work and to define the Owners expectations of the project.
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
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RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
6.3.3 ACTIVITIES
6.3.3.1 Site Tour
The RCxA SHALL perform a site tour to determine the general condition of the facility and to
determine the cost of the retro-commissioning for the project proposal. The site tour is also the time
to discover the owner’s desires for the facilities operating improvements and to define the scope of
work that will become the basis of the RCX-EB project.
During the site tour, the RCXA needs to observe conditions that will directly affect the ability to retrocommission the project and to spot any apparent systems operating issues. These items will also
directly affect the cost and the RCX-EB scope of work. The following are examples of such system
items:
a. Access to equipment, systems and components for inspection and testing
1.
Hard Ceilings vs. Lay-in Tiles
2.
Security Requirements
3.
Overtime Requirements vs. Normal Business Hours
b. Physical condition of the buildings technical systems
1.
Equipment deferred maintenance
2.
Observe how the system is being operated
3.
Observe the condition of Duct and Pipe systems
4.
Determine the condition and utilization of control systems
c. Availability of Existing Documentation
1.
Drawings
2.
Specifications
3.
Electric and Gas Utility Bills
4.
Previous Engineering Reports/Studies
5.
TAB Reports
6.
Commissioning Reports
7.
Maintenance Work Order Reports
d. Involvement of Owner’s staff / operating personnel
6.3.3.2 Proposal Development
Develop a document that defines the RCX-EB scope of work for the project. In general, the owner will
normally provide some direction as to related issues for various systems, equipment and components
to review. The areas for improvement may be energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, improved
environmental comfort or other performance improvements with acceptable payback periods for
capital improvements.
The proposal SHALL identify the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Scope of the RCX-EB services to be performed onthe HVAC system
Cost (Lump Sum, GMP, T&M)
Anticipated schedule
Owner Involvement
Retro-Commissioning Team
Qualifications and Exclusions
6.3.3.3 Contract
The owner and the RCXA may work together to develop an RCX-EB contract or agreement that meets
the Owner’s needs. At a minimum the agreement shall contain the following:
29
NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
SECTION 6
RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
The retro-commissioning scope
The owners resource commitment to the retro commissioning team
Contract cost agreement
Retro-commissioning schedule expectations
Responsibilities of the Owner
Responsibilities and liabilities of the RCX-EB Provider
6.3.4 CONTRACT PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during Contract Phase.
a. Retro-commissioning Contract or Agreement (SHALL)
6.4 PRE SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE
6.4.1 INTRODUCTION
The RCxA must prepare for the site investigation phase by accumulating all documentation available
on the existing facility and its systems. These preparatory activities are done during the Pre Site
Investigation Phase. The RCXA and the RCX-EB Team Members must familiarize themselves with the
facility prior to conducting the site investigation and testing. This is most effectively accomplished by
reviewing existing documentation of the facility; drawings and specifications, utility bills, work orders,
maintenance lists, contractor service invoices, etc.
6.4.2 RESPONSIBILITIES
6.4.2.1 Team Members
The required retro-commissioning team members for the pre site investigation phase should be:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Owners Representatives
Operations and Maintenance staff
Retro-commissioning Authority (RCXA)
RCX-EB team members that have been identified for their specific expertise
6.4.2.2
Team Responsibilities
During the pre site investigation phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of creating
the Current Facility Requirements and to develop the Retro-commissioning Plan.
6.4.3 ACTIVITIES
6.4.3.1 Retro-commissioning Plan
The RCXA SHALL develop a preliminary retro-commissioning plan to be utilized for the retrocommissioning process. The RCX-EB Plan would be based on the actual scope of work required in
the contract. The elements included in the retro-commissioning plan should include:
a. Project Scope of Work
b. Team Members and their responsibilities
c. Means and Methods to be utilized
6.4.3.2 Document and Design Review
The RCxA SHALL request copies of the original HVAC construction documents, any remodel or
tenant improvement documents, etc. The RCxA SHALL provide a design review of all documents to
discover any possible original design or construction deficiencies. On most projects, the availability of
these documents will be limited. The RCxA will need to obtain as much of the data as possible during
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
SECTION 6
RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
this phase and supplement missing data with field observations in the Site Investigation Phase. The
documents reviewed should include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Original OPR and BOD
Architectural, HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Drawings
Architectural, HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Specifications
Architectural, HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Submittals
O & M / Systems Manuals
TAB Report
Commissioning Reports
6.4.3.3 Operation Records Review
The RCXA SHALL request copies of all utility bills and HVAC work order records for the facility for the
previous 3 years. The RCXA SHALL request copies of all HVAC contractor maintenance / service
invoices and copies that are available of all HVAC and Electrical equipment replacement or major
repairs made since the buildings construction. The RCXA SHALL provide a review of maintenance
and repair work order issues to determine if any pattern is present indicating a recurring problem. The
following should be reviewed:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
HVAC Work Orders
Electric, Gas, Water, Steam and other Utility Bills
Contractor Maintenance / Service Invoices related to HVAC Equipment/Systems
HVAC Repair / Replacement Purchase Orders /Documentation
Work order duration and completion status
6.4.3.4 Utility Usage Evaluation
From past historical utility bills the RCXA must determine the overall facility usage. The evaluation
SHALL include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Electrical Cost per square foot per billing period and per year
Total KW Demand and KWH used per billing period and per year
Gas Therms and Cost per square foot per billing period and per year
Purchased Energy (Steam, CW, HW, etc.) Costs per square foot per billing period and per year
Total BTU / Year / Square Foot
HVAC and Plumbing systems water costs per billing period and per year
6.4.3.5 Management Staff Interview
The RCXA SHALL conduct and document an interview with the Owners manager of the facility being
retro-commissioned. The purpose of the interview is to determine the manager’s opinion of any
facility issues, if any critical areas of operation are present in the facility and to make management
aware of the activities that will be conducted in the facility during the Retro-Commissioning Process.
This interview is also utilized to determine security issues, access requirements, schedule
requirements, obtain site access master keys or access cards and to obtain the manager’s permission
to interview facility occupants.
6.4.3.6 Maintenance Staff Interviews
The RCXA SHALL conduct and document an interview with the Owner’s maintenance staff of the
facility being retro-commissioned. The purpose of the interview is to determine their opinions of any
system problems or facility issues that are a concern to them. This interview also helps to identify
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
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RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
what HVAC or other systems maintenance services they are presently performing and to discover
repairs to equipment or systems they have recently completed.
6.4.3.7 Occupant Interviews
The RCXA SHOULD conduct and document interviews of occupants of the facility being retrocommissioned. The purpose of the interviews is to determine opinions of any facility issues,
determine the comfort level of occupant space and to discover any information that may help discover
operational issues.
6.4.3.8 Current Facility HVAC Requirements (CFR)
The RCxA must update the original OPR to create a current CFR. If no OPR exists the RCxA
SHOULD create a CFR for the RCX-EB project. The CFR will be updated and expanded as the
project proceeds to completion. The CFR should include the following:
a. Building Requirements
1. Size and Type
2. Use and Occupancy
i. Maximum Occupancy per shift
ii. Time of occupancy per shift
iii. Activity level of occupants
3. Historic Preservation
4. Future Adaptability
5. Comfort parameters, temperature, sound, vibration, ventilation, light, etc.
b. Sustainability
1. Define Green Building Rating level
2. Renewable Energy
3. Carbon Footprint
4. Occupant recycling requirements
5. Natural Ventilation
6. IAQ
c. Energy and Efficiency
1. Electrical Usage and Efficiency
2. HVAC Water Usage and Efficiency
3. Gas Usage and Efficiency
4. Renewable Energy
5. Cogeneration
6. Measurement and Verification requirements
d. Building Envelope Systems
1. List of enclosure types utilized
2. Description of systems utilized
3. Description of active envelope control systems utilized
e. HVAC Systems and Components
1. List of Equipment utilized
2. Description of systems utilized
3. Description of control system utilized
f. Electrical and Lighting Systems and Components
1. List of Equipment utilized
2. Description of systems utilized
3. Description of control system utilized
g. Plumbing and Landscape Watering Components
1. List of Equipment utilized
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
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RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
2. Description of systems utilized
3. Description of control system utilized
h. Operation and Maintenance
1. Level of Operators’ technical capability
2. Level of Operators’ training requirements
6.4.4 PRE SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during the Pre Site Investigation phase:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
6.5
Retro-Commissioning Plan (SHALL)
Design Review Documentation (SHALL)
Operations Records Review Documentation (SHOULD)
Management Interview Documentation (SHALL)
Maintenance Staff Interview Documentation (SHALL)
Occupant Interview Documentation (SHOULD)
CFR (SHOULD)
Building Energy Usage records (SHALL)
Building Water Usage records (SHOULD)
SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE
See Sections 7 for specific site investigation activities and responsibilities.
6.5.1 INTRODUCTION
During the Site Investigation Phase, the RCX-EB team shall perform the required site investigations
and tests to discover Current Facility Requirements (CFR) and to discover any facility deficiencies that
are preventing the operating conditions desired by the Owner.
Sometimes, the owner will want to utilize their staff to assist with the retro-commissioning site
discoveries. This will impact the overall cost versus using the RCXA personnel. However, under this
arrangement, the RCXA SHOULD provide training sessions to familiarize the owner’s personnel in the
retro-commissioning process.
6.5.2 RESPONSIBILITES
6.5.2.1 Team Members
The retro-commissioning team members for the Site Investigation Phase should be:
a. Owners Representatives
b. Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCXA)
c. Design Team Representatives (If Required)
1. Architect
2. Mechanical Engineer
3. Electrical Engineer
d. Technical Trade Representatives (If Required)
1 General Construction
2 Mechanical
3 Electrical
4 Controls
5 TAB
6 Plumbing
7 Fire protection
8 Others
e. Operators and Maintenance staff (If Required)
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
SECTION 6
RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
6.5.2.2
Team Responsibilities
During the site investigation phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of discovering
building issues that prevent the facility from meeting the desired operating parameters in accordance
with the scope of work and the CFR.
6.5.3 ACTIVITIES
6.5.3.1
Owner’s Staff Training
On projects where the RCXA will utilize the owner’s personnel to assist in the site investigation phase,
the RCXA SHOULD provide a training session to familiarize them in the retro-commissioning process
and their roles, responsibilities and expectations.
6.5.3.2
Site Investigations
The RCXA SHALL conduct a survey of the facility to determine if the current conditions such as
occupancy and space utilization have changed since original construction or tenant improvements of
the space. This study will document the current use and current occupancy levels to determine if a
new heat load study is required.
The RCxA should update the Current Facility Requirements (CFR) with any utilization that does not
match the original CFR created in Section 6.4.3.8. The RCXA SHALL identify any changes in the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Space Utilization
Total Occupancy and activity level
Changed Environmental Requirements
Changed Process Requirements
Occupancy Schedules
The CFR may not agree with the original OPR / Design Intent. This will be the rule more than the
exception.
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional are not trained by
NEBB to conduct code inspections or inspect for code compliance. Evaluation, identification or
correction of code compliance issues should be excluded from the RCX-EB contract. However, if
during the normal course of RCX-EB work, the RCX-EB team discovers a life safety issue, the RCxA
must inform the owner of the life safety issue.
6.5.3.3
Site Datalogger Utilization
During the early stages of the site investigation phase the RCXA SHOULD launch data loggers
throughout the facility to establish existing operating parameters such as temperature, humidity,
lighting levels, pressure, timed events, etc. If the control system has been calibrated, the control
system can be utilized to obtain data trends in place of using dataloggers.
The information obtained by the dataloggers will be utilized to determine actual operating conditions
and the accuracy and effectives of the controlling systems.
.
6.5.3.4
Design Calculations / Studies
The building may require design calculations where site investigations have determined that
significant changes have occurred from previous designs. These studies / calculations may include:
exiting studies, fire and life safety calculations, energy load calculations, electrical power and lighting
calculations, domestic water usage and sanitary / storm drainage calculations, etc. The studies /
34
NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
SECTION 6
RETRO COMMISSIONING PROCESS
calculations may be performed by any member of the RCX-EB Team who is qualified to do so. If
performed by an RCX-EB Team Member other than the RCXA, the RCXA should review the
calculations. This information will be utilized to determine required changes to the existing building
systems.
6.5.3.5 Building Systems Investigation and Tests
The RCXA will need to investigate the condition, operation and performance of all equipment, systems
and components of the various building systems being retro-commissioned.
The system
investigations will most likely focus on building operating systems and the building enclosure. Retrocommissioning will usually involve the following building systems:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Building Envelope Thermal and Pressure Characteristics
Landscape lighting and irrigation systems
HVAC systems and equipment
HVAC Control Systems
Plumbing Systems
Electrical Lighting and Power systems
6.5.3.6
Perform “Quick Fixes”
The RCXA and his/her team SHALL perform non-capital repairs, system adjustments, and corrections
as a part of the site investigation. The reason for this activity is to improve the operation of the facility
and to eliminate all obvious issues so they do not mask any underlying major issues. The RCXA
SHALL provide documentation for all quick fixes performed. These quick fixes can include the
following:
a. Temperature Control Issues: sensor calibration, control parameters, control connections, etc.
b. Minor Piping Repairs: minor leaks, clean strainers, etc.
c. Ductwork Repairs: obvious duct leaks, open/closing dampers, duct connections, device
repairs, etc.
d. Operating System Adjustments: changes to operating parameters, operating equipment, etc.
e. Test & Balance of HVAC systems
f. Electrical Repairs: loose terminations, lighting repairs, etc.
g. Building Envelope Repairs: air leaks, water intrusion, defective building openings, etc.
These “Quick Fixes” may, or may not, be of a nature that would significantly impact the overall cost of
the RCX-EB efforts. This issue should be addressed in the scope of work and a budgetary amount
may be identified in the contract. This work may be accomplished by the RCX-EB team or by the
Owner’s operating personnel or by other contractors depending upon the contract scope of work. The
RCXA should maintain a list of all items repaired, corrected or adjusted while doing these quick fixes.
6.5.3.7
Update the CFR
Update the CFR for any changes discovered during the site investigation phase.
6.5.4 SITE INVESTIGAGTION PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during the Site Investigation Phase:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Revised Current Facility Requirements (CFR) (SHOULD)
Building Use Study Documentation (SHOULD)
Site Investigation and test reports (for scope of work activities) (SHALL)
Building Load Calculations (If Required) (SHOULD)
Quick Fix Report (SHALL)
Revised TAB report (If completed as a quick fix) (SHALL)
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NEBB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS RCX-EB
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6.6 ANALYSIS PHASE
6.6.1
INTRODUCTION
From the inspection and test data collected in the previous phases, the RCXA must now analyze all of
the issues discovered, synthesize possible solutions, and create final recommendations for the
facility’s improvements to the owner.
6.6.2 RESPONSIBILITIES
6.6.2.1 Team Members
The required retro-commissioning team members for the Analysis Phase should be:
a. Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCXA)
b. Design Team Representatives (If required)
c. Construction Team Representatives (If required)
6.6.2.2
Team Responsibilities
During the analysis phase the RCXA and the retro-commissioning team have the responsibility to
create an issues corrective action report of all found deficiencies with recommendations for there
correction.
6.6.3 ACTIVITIES
6.6.3.1
Define Issues
The RCXA and the RCX-EB Team will review the information from the previous RCX-EB phases to
determine the appropriate issues that are affecting the building’s performance. As much as possible,
the RCXA should outline each issue into its simplest corrective action and group these issues in a
single corrective action statement.
6.6.3.2
Analyze Issues
The RCXA and RCX-EB Team will provide a technical analysis of all defined issues to correctly identify
the potential solutions affecting building performance issues. These solutions may include energy
optimization, reduced maintenance costs, improved indoor environment conditions, improved comfort
performance, and customer / client satisfaction / retention. The technical analysis may include the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Analysis of each issue’s effect on indoor comfort and environmental conditions
Calculations of each issue’s effect on energy consumption
Estimated budget cost of each recommended corrective action
Calculation of simple payback or ROI if applicable for each recommended corrective action
Analysis on how each issue impacts other issues
Analysis of the criticality of each issue
Remember, retro-commissioning is an iterative process. After defining and analyzing the issues, the
RCXA and the RCX-EB Team may be required to go back and perform additional Pre-site or Site
Investigation activity to validate or clarify an issue.
6.6.3.3
Recommended Problem Resolution
The RCXA and the RCX-EB Team SHALL create solutions that are based on the technical analysis of
each issue. All solutions created shall include the following:
a. Issue description
b. Recommended solutions
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c. Technical description of the solution implementation
d. Solution calculations
e. Implementation sketches or drawings
6.6.3.4
RCX-EB Corrective Action Report Development
The RCXA SHALL develop a recommended solutions report for the owner’s use in evaluating the
costs and benefits of each recommendation. The recommendations should be placed in order of
importance to achieve the requirements of the CFR. The report will include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Issue description
Recommended solution
Budgetary cost of solution
Anticipated savings or results
Priority of the Recommendation
Anticipated implementation schedule
All capital improvements approved by the Owner and implemented during the Corrective Actions
Phase would be fully commissioned and all related documentation would be found in the Final Retrocommissioning Report.
6.6.3.5
Corrective Action Report Presentation
The RCXA will meet with the owner to present the findings and recommendations. Specifically the
meeting should identify how the recommended solutions improve the building performance issues
based on the identified CFR. The approved recommendations become the basis of the OPR for
commissioning the corrective actions.
6.6.4
ANALYSIS PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during the Analysis phase:
a. Corrective Action Report (SHALL)
b. Drawings or other design documents created during all phases of the RCX process (SHALL)
6.7 CORRECTIVE ACTION PHASE
6.7.1
INTRODUCTION
Once the Corrective Action Report has been presented to the owner, the owner controls the direction
of the process. The Owner may elect to approve and implement all, some, or none of the
recommendations. If the Owner elects to implement any of the recommendations, the work falls
under the Corrective Action Phase of the process.
There are various delivery systems that provide the approved corrective actions. An owner may elect
to self-perform the design and construction with their personnel, have the remedial design prepared
by a design professional of his/her choice and bid the work to a selected group of contractors, have
the design and construction performed on a design/build approach or have the retro-commissioning
team design and construct the improvements. If the delivery system selected is anything but the
latter, the RCXA should be retained to commission the design and construction. The responsibilities
and activities identified below are generic and would apply to any selected delivery system.
6.7.2
RESPONSIBILITIES
6.7.2.1 Team Members
The required retro-commissioning team members for the Corrective Action Phase should be:
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a. Owners Representatives
b. Retro-commissioning Authority (RCXA)
c. Design Team Representatives (If required)
1. Architect
2. Design Engineers
d. Contractors’ Representatives (If required)
1. General Contractor
2. Mechanical Contractor
3. Electrical Contractor
4. Plumbing Contractor
5. Controls Contractor
6. TAB Firm
7. Specialty Contractors or Vendors (As required)
6.7.2.2
Team Responsibilities
During the corrective action phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of facilitating
and/or performing the corrective actions as outlined by the Owner.
6.7.3
ACTIVITIES
6.7.3.1
Approval of Recommendations
At the conclusion of the Analysis Phase, the RCXA SHALL meet with the owner to present the
corrective actions recommendation report.
The Owner will decide which corrective actions
recommendations to implement. The Owner will also decide what methods will be used to implement
the corrective actions.
6.7.3.2
Remedial Design
If remedial design is required to properly define a capital project, a design professional or other
qualified person must prepare the required contract documents. As previously stated, the Owner may
elect any of the various delivery approaches. The RCXA SHALL commission the remedial design by
employing the elements of Design Phase Commissioning, if remedial design is required.
6.7.3.3
Construction
The remedial design is implemented in the construction phase. The Owner may elect to engage
outside contractors or may elect to utilize the RCXA and his/her RCX Team Members. The RCXA
should commission the construction by employing the elements of Construction Phase, Acceptance
Phase and Warranty Phase Commissioning.
6.7.3.4
Commissioning
All construction and corrections made during the corrective actions phase must be commissioned.
For the sake of continuity, Commissioning will be performed by the RCxA. The following phases
SHALL be commissioned:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Design Phase (Remedial Design)
Construction Phase
Acceptance Phase
Warranty Phase
The commissioning shall be performed in accordance with the requirements of the current edition of
the NEBB Procedural Standards for Whole Building Systems Commissioning of New Construction.
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Although not specifically re-printed in this Procedural Standards, all activities, responsibilities, and
documentation requirements as identified in the current edition of the NEBB Procedural Standards for
Whole Building Systems Commissioning of New Construction will be followed.
6.7.4 CORRECTIVE ACTION PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following documentation should be provided as completion of the Corrective Action Phase:
a. List of corrective actions selected (SHALL)
b. Commissioning report of corrective work (SHALL)
6.8 FOLLOW-UP PHASE
6.8.1
INTRODUCTION
The Follow-Up Phase is used to validate the facility’s performance after the corrective actions have
been implemented and also to conduct a Lessons Learned Workshop to improve the delivery of future
projects.
6.8.2 RESPONSIBILITIES
6.8.2.1 Team Members
The required retro-commissioning team members for the Follow Up Phase should be:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Owners Representatives
Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCXA)
Design Team Representatives (If Required)
Contractors’ Representatives (If Required)
1. Mechanical Contractor (If Required)
2. Controls Contractor (If Required)
3. TAB Firm (If Required)
4. Operator or Maintenance staff (If Required)
6.8.2.2
Team Responsibilities
During the follow up phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of verifying the
performance of the facility.
6.8.3 ACTIVITIES
6.8.3.1
Performance Verification
The RCxA should validate the improved performance of the facility by performing the following
procedures as appropriate to the application.
a. Interview Occupants for comfort issues and review maintenance management records since
completion of the corrective actions and adjustments made during the original retrocommissioning process. Document the change in maintenance and trouble calls for the
facility.
b. Compare energy and water usage against previous usage data utilizing measurement
protocols established in the CFR. Document the change in energy and water usage for the
facility. If necessary adjust readings for the following:
i. Change in occupancy
ii. Change in facility use and operation
iii. Change in utility rate or rate structure
c. Review specific improvement goals of the owner and determine if they were achieved.
i. Trends of space temperatures and humidity’s performance
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ii. Trends of other key variables to determine level of performance
d. Document performance in a Performance Verification Report
6.8.3.2
Lessons Learned Workshop
A Lessons Learned Workshop SHOULD be conducted by the RCXA at the conclusion of the
Corrective Actions Phase, which would be at the conclusion of the design, construction and
commissioning project. The purpose is to identify any areas where possible improvement could be
made in future RCX-EB projects. The RCXA will act as facilitator and the Owner and all appropriate
members of the Corrective Action Team should participate in the workshop to provide input. A
Lessons Learned Report will be produced by the RCXA as a record of the meeting(s).
6.8.4 FOLLOW UP PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following documentation should be provided as completion of the Follow Up Phase:
a. Performance Verification Report (SHOULD)
b. Lessons Learned Report (SHOULD)
6.9 RETRO-COMMISSIONING REPORT
At the completion of the RCX-EB project the RCXA will present the final report to the Owner. Since the
project scope may vary, this may be at the end of the Analysis Phase, the Corrective Action Phase or
the Follow Up Phase. If subsequent work is done after the presentation of the report, the RCXA shall
update the Retro-Commissioning report with any additional information required. See Section 5 for the
requirements of the Final RCX-EB Report.
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PART 3 - PROCEDURES
SECTION 7 RETROCOMMISSIONING OF EXISTING
BUILDINGS
7.1 INTRODUCTION
This Section prescribes the requirements needed to retro-commission a project for Energy, Resource
Conservation, Comfort and Environmental Quality improvements. Section 6 details the entire retrocommissioning process in generic terms. Section 7 details the specific activities and procedures to
implement the process.
This section details the minimum requirements for a NEBB Certified HVAC Retro-Commissioning
project for a typical scope of work. The actual scope of work may vary from these requirements.
These minimum requirements are described as SHALL requirements. SHOULD requirements are
recommended and will produce a higher quality retro-commissioning project, and MAY requirements
could be included to enhance a project. These minimum requirements take precedence when a
scope of work is not defined, or the requirements state words to effect that the “…project SHALL be
commissioned in accordance with the requirements of the NEBB Procedural Standards for RetroCommissioning of Existing Building.”
A NEBB certified report requires:
1. The actual contracted scope of work SHALL be clearly defined on the certification page of the
report as specified in the contract documents or as agreed to between the Owner / Buyer and
the NEBB RCX-EB Certified Firm.
2. If a scope of work of the retro-commissioning contract does not specifically delineate the retrocommissioning processes, then the project will be required to meet all SHALL language of this
standard to be a NEBB Certified Project.
3. If a project scope of work of the retro-commissioning contract requires a different level of retrocommissioning than described by the minimum SHALL language of this standard, the
procedural variance shall be clearly delineated in the project scope of work and listed on the
retro-commissioning report certification page to qualify as a NEBB Certified Report.
4. Any project that does not comply with the minimum SHALL requirements of this standard and
does not clearly identify the specific procedural variances required by the retro-commissioning
contract on the certification page SHALL NOT be signed and stamped as a NEBB certified
retro-commissioning report. All references to NEBB, including NEBB logos, stamps,
certifications, etc. SHALL be removed from the report.
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Much of the industry markets retro-commissioning on only an energy saving basis, while this
opportunity may exist, the focus of RCX-EB should always be on comfort improvements, performance
improvement and energy optimization. A RCX project should always include the retro-commissioning
of a building’s HVAC systems and normally will also include the building envelope, plumbing,
electrical and lighting systems of a facility.
7.2 SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE
7.2.1 INTRODUCTION
During the Site Investigation Phase, the RCX-EB team SHALL perform the required site investigations
and tests to discover facility deficiencies that are preventing the operating conditions desired by the
Owner. If the owner’s personnel are used to assist with the retro-commissioning site discoveries the
RCxA SHOULD provide a training session to familiarize the owner’s personnel in the retrocommissioning process.
7.2.2 RESPONSIBILITIES
7.2.2.1 Team Members
The required retro-commissioning team members for the Site Investigation Phase should be:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Owners Representatives
Retro-Commissioning Authority (RCxA)
Design Team Representatives (If required)
Mechanical Technician (If required)
Electrical Technician (If required)
Control Programmer / Operator (If required)
Test & Balance Technicians
Operator and Maintenance staff (If Required)
7.2.2.2 Team Responsibilities
During the site investigation phase the retro-commissioning team has the responsibility of discovering
issues that prevent the facility from meeting its desired operating parameters in accordance with the
scope of work and the CFR.
7.2.3 SITE INVESTIGATION ACTIVITIES
7.2.3.1 HVAC Activities
7.2.3.1.1 Owners Staff Training
If the project is using the owners personnel to assist in the site investigation phase, the RCXA
SHOULD provide a training session to familiarize the owner’s personnel in the retro-commissioning
process.
7.2.3.1.2 Initiate Site Investigation
The RCxA SHALL conduct a survey of the facility to determine if current conditions such as
occupancy and space utilization have changed since original construction or tenant improvements
have been made to the space. This study will document the current use and current occupancy levels
to determine if a new heat load study is required.
The RCXA SHALL create the Current Facility Requirements (CFR) which will identify:
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Building Requirements
Sustainability
Energy and Efficiency
HVAC Systems
Operation and Maintenance
Space utilization
Total Occupancy and activity level
Environmental requirements
Occupancy Schedules
The CFR may not agree with the original OPR / Design Intent. This will be the rule more than the
exception.
The NEBB Certified RCx Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional are not trained by NEBB
to conduct code inspections or inspect for code compliance. Evaluation, identification or correction of
code compliance issues should be excluded from the RCX-EB contract. However, if during the normal
course of RCX-EB work, the RCx-EB team discovers a life safety issue, the RCXA must inform the
owner of the life safety issue.
7.2.3.1.3 Site Datalogger Utilization
During the early stages of the site investigation phase the RCXA SHOULD launch data loggers
throughout the facility to establish existing operating parameters such as temperature, humidity,
lighting levels, pressure, timed events, etc. If the control system has been calibrated the control
system can be utilized to obtain data trends in place of using dataloggers.
The information obtained by the dataloggers will be utilized to determine actual operating conditions
and the accuracy and effectives of the controlling systems.
7.2.3.1.4 Building Load Study
The building may require new load calculations for any space determined to have significant use
changes as discovered in Section 7.2.3.1.2 above. The calculations may be performed by any
member of the RCX-EB Team who is qualified to do so. If performed by someone other than the
RCXA, the RCXA should review the calculations. These calculations shall be utilized to determine
required system changes and to determine new air and water flows to achieve optimal operation and
energy efficiency.
7.2.3.1.5 HVAC System Investigation and Tests
The RCXA SHALL investigate the condition, operation and performance of all equipment, systems
and components of the HVAC system. These investigations and tests SHALL include the following:
a. Deferred maintenance inspection
i. Lack of cleaning that allows particles to enter the air stream
ii. Lack of cleaning that limits flow and increases pressure
iii. Lack of maintenance that decreases heat transfer rates
iv. Lack of maintenance that affects humidity
v. Lack of preventative maintenance that affects operation such as lubrication, worn belts,
etc.
vi. Lack of maintenance that shortens the life of a system
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b. Equipment condition assessment
i. Verify equipment is operating at peak efficiency
ii. Determine effective life cycle of equipment
iii. Verify the installed equipment and systems are correct for the application
iv. Verify equipment and systems are installed and functioning correctly
c. Current system performance
i. Temperature Levels
ii. Humidity Levels
iii. Sound and Vibration Levels
iv. Outside air flow and distribution for IEQ and pressurization
d. System Evaluation
i. Evaluate design of HVAC system to meet energy requirements
ii. Compare SEER ratings of existing equipment as compared to new equipment
iii. Evaluate design of HVAC system to meet facility comfort and IEQ requirements
7.2.3.1.6 Control System Investigation and Tests
The RCxA SHALL investigate the operation and performance of each system and component of the
HVAC Control system. These investigations and tests SHALL include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Operator knowledge and performance
Point to Point tests
Calibration verification of all sensors
Sensor type, range and location verification
Existing control sequences discovery and review
Functional Performance Tests
Verify control system has adequate points, sequences and features to provide energy
reduction operations and provide comfort and IEQ control (Economizer utilization, schedules,
operating times and setpoints, reset schedules and IEQ control sequences).
7.2.3.1.7 Cooling Tower Water Usage Investigation and Tests
The RCxA SHALL investigate the operation and performance of the cooling tower system for its
efficient use of water and energy. Cooling towers are very large users of water and energy efficiency
is greatly affected by tower maintenance issues. These investigations and tests SHALL include the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Deferred maintenance issues
Temperature control and fan operation
Sequence of control
Tower Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and cycles of concentration
7.2.3.1.8 Boiler Gas and Water Usage Investigation and Tests
The RCXA SHALL investigate the operation and performance of the facilitie’s boiler systems for
efficient use of water and energy. Boiler energy efficiency is greatly affected by maintenance and
operation issues. These investigations and tests SHALL include the following:
a. Deferred maintenance issues
b. Temperature setpoint and sequence of control
c. Chemical Treatment
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.3.1.9 Perform HVAC Quick Fixes
The RCXA and his/her team SHALL perform non-capital repairs, system adjustments, and corrections
as a part of the site investigation. The reason for this activity is to improve the operation of the facility
and to eliminate all obvious issues so they do not mask any underlying major issues. The RCXA
SHALL provide documentation for all quick fixes performed. These quick fixes can include the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Sensor calibration
Minor repairs to piping and duct systems
System adjustments
Eliminate deferred maintenance issues
Change operation parameters
Change control parameters
7.2.3.1.10 Test and Balance
The RCXA and his/her team SHALL investigate the current state of the systems air and water
balance. If the readings are not as required, they SHALL perform a re-balance of the systems as
either a quick fix or as a corrective action. If a change of use has occurred as described in 7.2.3.1.2,
then the balance shall be completed to the new design requirements. The re-balance shall include
the testing, adjusting and balancing of the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Air inlets and outlets
Terminal units
Air handling units
Outside airflows
Exhaust fans
Building pressurization
Hydronic flows at coils, pumps, chillers, cooling towers, boilers, etc.
The RCxA SHALL perform and issue a revised TAB Report with the results of the TAB effort.
7.2.3.2 Building Envelope Activities
7.2.3.2.1 Initiate Site Investigation
The RCXA SHALL conduct a survey of the facilities Building Envelope to determine if the current
conditions match the conditions of the original design. If envelope components have been changed or
revised or are underperforming their intended function, the RCXA will include these deficiencies in the
investigation report.
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional are not NEBB trained
to conduct structural inspections or inspect for code compliance of structures. Evaluation,
identification or correction of structural compliance issues should be excluded from the RCX-EB
contract.
7.2.3.2.2 Building Envelope Investigation and Tests
The RCXA SHOULD investigate the operation and performance of building envelope as it effects
comfort operation and energy usage. These investigations and tests will include the following:
45
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Building pressure
Air and water leakage
Envelope thermal and vapor barrier performance
Roof thermal, water and vapor barrier performance
Glass thermal performance
Glare caused from lack of window shading devices
Direct Solar gain through glass
Day Lighting
Structure transmitted Sound & Vibration
7.2.3.2.3 IEQ Airborne Contaminant Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of building systems and space for
Airborne Contaminants and their source of generation. These investigations and tests shall include
the following:
a. Air Sampling for contaminant type and level
b. Surface testing for mold and bacteria
c. Contaminant Source Detection
i. Construction Materials
ii. Furniture
iii. Floor Covering
iv. Janitorial Chemicals
v. Poor Janitorial Practices
7.2.3.2.4 Perform Envelope Quick Fixes
The RCXA and his/her team SHOULD perform non-capital repairs, system adjustments, and
corrections as a part of the site investigation. The reason for this activity is to improve the operation
of the facility and to eliminate all obvious issues so they do not mask any underlying major issues.
The RCXA SHALL provide documentation for all quick fixes performed. These quick fixes can include
the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Cleaning
Caulking
Shade System Adjustments
Building Pressure Adjustments
7.2.3.3 Electrical System Activities
7.2.3.3.1 Initiate Site Investigation
The RCXA SHALL conduct a survey of the facilities Electrical and Lighting Systems to determine if
the current facility conditions match the original design or if they provide the necessary function for the
current facility use. If electrical or lighting components have been changed or revised or are
underperforming their intended function, the RCXA will include these deficiencies in the investigation
report.
The NEBB Certified RCX Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional are not trained by NEBB
to conduct code inspections or inspect for code compliance. Evaluation, identification or correction of
code compliance issues should be excluded from the RCX-EB contract. However, if during the normal
course of RCX-EB work, the RCX-EB team discovers a life safety issue, the RCXA must inform the
owner of the life safety issue.
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.3.3.2 Building Lighting Load and Quality Study
The RCXA SHOULD provide a lighting survey of existing fixtures and bulbs to determine if the quality
of light is appropriate for the tasks being performed and if energy levels can be lowered in the area
surveyed, and that they are operating without glare. The building may require new lighting level
calculations for any space determined to have significant change of use that will impact the required
lighting level and lighting quality aspects. The calculations may be performed by any RCX-EB team
member who is qualified to do so. If performed by someone other than the RCXA, the RCXA should
review the calculations. These calculations shall be utilized to determine required system changes
and to determine lighting fixture or bulb changes.
7.2.3.3.3 Building Lighting Control Study
The RCXA SHOULD provide a lighting control survey of existing lighting control systems to determine
if improved or additional lighting control is prudent to lower lighting levels. Lighting control systems
may include time clock switching, photo sensor control, motion sensor control, dimming control or
daylight harvesting control and may include task lighting controls or indirect lighting dimming.
7.2.3.3.4 Building Lighting Investigation and Tests
The RCXA SHOULD investigate the operation and performance of Lighting Systems as it effects
energy and comfort and that the lighting usage is correct for the space and its intended purposes.
These investigations and tests shall include the following:
a. Reducing the quantity of light or changing the type of light to eliminate glare or to reduce
the foot candle intensity. De-lamping or reducing the number of fixtures.
b. Conversion of fluorescent fixture from T-12 to T-8 or T-5 Tubes with electronic ballasts or
LED fixtures or bulbs. (Tubes should be in the lower warm color band 2500-2700 Kelvin
range)
c. Conversion of incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs
d. Conversion of exit lights from incandescent to LED bulbs
e. Light harvesting systems and daylighting strategies
f. Task lighting and individual space light level control
g. Lighting level evaluation for work tasks
h. Lighting Control Systems
i. Schedule Control
ii. Occupancy Sensor Control
iii. Light Level Control or dimming
i. Daylighting systems
7.2.3.3.5 Building Electrical Study
The RCXA SHOULD provide an electrical survey of existing panel load balance and total facility
power factor. The RCXA MAY provide load balance services or corrective measures for power factor
improvement. The required calculations may be performed by any RCX-EB team member who is
qualified to do so. If performed by someone other than the RCXA, the RCXA SHALL review the
calculations. These calculations shall be utilized to determine required system changes and to
determine lighting fixture or bulb changes.
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.3.3.6 Building Power Quality and Grounding investigation
The RCXA and his team SHOULD perform a review of the facilities power and grounding systems to
verify operating conditions and to determine if any deficiencies exist that will impair the facilities
electrical and mechanical systems from performing there intended functions. The investigation and
tests shall include the following:
a. Provide resistive or thermal scan tests to determine bolted connection performance. Poor
quality or high resistance connections can cause voltage drop or high temperature damage
to equipment.
b. Provide power quality test to determine power quality. Low voltage, low power factor or
load imbalance may cause motors or other electrical equipment to malfunction or to
operate with lower energy efficiency.
c. Observe or test ground system performance. Lack of effective grounding may affect the
operation of electronic equipment or cause life safety issues.
d. Verify circuit identification for major equipment or system power. Lack of proper circuit
identification can lead to excessive or inaccurate troubleshooting and operation affecting
continuous operation.
7.2.3.3.7 Electrical System Measurement and Verification (M&V)
The RCXA SHOULD provide assistance to the Owner in developing or improving energy performance
by implementing M&V strategies. An important aspect of reducing the usage of energy is to
continuously monitor and implement energy reducing strategies in the operations of a facility. To
properly accomplish these goals, operators must have a means to measure the resultant usage of
their implemented strategies. The best way to accomplish this is to install energy meters on various
loads that are directly affected by the energy saving strategies. The minimum meters required are:
a. Total Utility Meter
b. Lighting Load Meter
c. HVAC Load Meter
In a new facility, it is relatively easy to arrange the electrical distribution system to accomplish this
configuration with as few as three meters. Utilizing modern electrical power management systems that
can be built into modern switch gear makes measurement and verification a low cost possibility. For
existing buildings this is more problematic since most HVAC loads are not placed on separate panels.
For existing buildings more meters may have to be utilized or the Owner may need to use calibrated
modeling tools to simulate projected energy savings. If a computer model is utilized, it must be
continuously calibrated to actual main meter usage and costs.
7.2.3.3.8 Building Electrical Investigation and Tests
The RCxA SHOULD investigate the operation and performance of Electrical Systems as it effects
Energy usage and operation of the electrical systems. These investigations and tests could include
the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Load balance of electrical power panels
Power factor correction
Grounding Systems
Eliminating parasitic power drain
Measurement and Verification Meters
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.3.3.9 Perform Electrical Quick Fixes
The RCXA and his/her team SHOULD perform non-capital repairs, system adjustments, and
corrections as a part of the site investigation. The reason for this activity is to improve the operation of
the facility and to eliminate all obvious issues so they do not mask any underlying major issues. The
RCXA SHALL provide documentation for all quick fixes performed. These quick fixes can include the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
De-lamping fixtures
Cleaning or repairing fixtures
Setting or adjusting lighting control systems
Correcting grounding faults
Correcting circuit identification
Tightening bolted connections
7.2.3.4 Plumbing System Activities
7.2.3.4.1 Initiate Site Investigation
The RCXA MAY conduct a survey of the facilitie’s Plumbing Systems to determine if the current
plumbing systems match the original design or if they provide the necessary function for the current
facility use for Environmental Quality. If plumbing systems or components have been changed or
revised or are underperforming their intended function, the RCXA SHALL include these deficiencies in
the investigation report.
The NEBB Certified RCX-EB Firm and the NEBB Certified RCX-EB Professional is not trained by NEBB
to conduct code inspections or inspect for code compliance. Evaluation, identification or correction of
code compliance issues should be excluded from the RCX-EB contract. However, if during the normal
course of RCX-EB work, the RCX-EB team discovers a life safety issue, the RCXA must inform the
owner of the life safety issue.
7.2.3.4.2 Plumbing System Assessment
The RCXA MAY provide a plumbing system survey of existing fixtures and systems to determine if
they are functioning correctly and are not creating any Environmental Quality issues.
7.2.3.4.3 Plumbing System Water Usage Study
The RCXA SHOULD provide a plumbing system survey of existing fixtures and systems to determine
if changes to fixtures or systems are prudent to lower water consumption and lower energy levels.
The building may require a revised water and energy usage calculation for any areas that require
changes to conserve water and energy. The calculations may be performed by any RCX-EB team
member who is qualified to do so. If performed by someone other than the RCXA, the RCXA SHALL
review the calculations.
7.2.3.4.4 Plumbing System Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of Plumbing Fixtures, Plumbing
Equipment and Piping Systems to determine their present operating condition and what water or
energy saving options are available. These investigations and tests should include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Leaking fixtures and water control devices
Fixture water consumption standard compliance
Pressure booster pump settings and pressure reducer settings
Gas appliance efficiency operation
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
e. Boiler and Water heater temperature settings to prevent bacterial growth
f. Expansion tanks on closed loop systems
g. Fixture operation
7.2.3.4.5 Landscape Water Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of Landscape Water systems to
determine their present operating condition and to make sure landscape watering is not penetrating
the building where it will instigate bacterial issues, and to determine the present operating condition
and what water or energy saving options are available. These investigations and tests should include
the following::
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Leaking sprinkler heads and water control devices
Irrigation water consumption standard compliance
Irrigation system type is correct for application
Irrigation sprinklers spraying on building structure
Irrigation system over watering creating ponds
Irrigation control system function and programming
Irrigation ground moisture sensor control
7.2.3.4.6 Rain Water Harvesting Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of an existing Rain Water Harvesting
system for its effectives in lowering overall water usage and conserving energy. The RCXA MAY
evaluate a facility for the feasibility of installing a Rain Water Harvesting system to reduce total water
consumption. These investigations and tests should include the following:
a. Quantity of water harvested and its effective use
b. Total facility impact for water and energy conservation
7.2.3.4.7 Grey Water System Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of an existing Grey Water system for its
operation without bacteria or contamination issues. These investigations and tests should include the
following:
a. Quality of water redirected and its effective use
b. Total facility impact for water and energy conservation
c. Effective in water utilization without bacterial contamination issues
7.2.3.4.8 Perform Plumbing Quick Fixes
The RCXA and his team MAY perform non-capital repairs, system adjustments, and corrections as a
part of the site investigation. The reason for this activity is to improve the operation of the facility and
to eliminate all obvious issues so they do not mask any underlying major issues. The RCXA SHALL
provide documentation for all quick fixes performed. These quick fixes can include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Repair leaks
Adjust sequences or setpoints
Setting or adjusting temperature devices
Eliminate deferred maintenance issues
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
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OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.3.4.9 Water Usage System Measurement and Verification
The RCXA SHOULD provide assistance to the Owner in developing or improving his/her water
conservation efforts by implementing M&V strategies. An important aspect of reducing the usage of
water is to continuously monitor and implement water reducing strategies in the operations of a
facility. To properly accomplish these goals, operators must have a means to measure the resultant
usage of their implemented strategies. The best way to accomplish this is to install water meters on
various loads that are directly affected by the water saving strategies. The preferred meters required
are:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Total Utility Water Meter
Landscape Water Meter
Cooling Tower Makeup Water Meter
Kitchen Water Meter
Rain Harvesting Water Meter
Grey Water Meter
Water meters used for measuring water flows should be positive displacement meters with visible
readout dials or registers to indicate total flow. Meters may be manual read meters or meters with
pulse translators for input to a Building Management Systems or a System Control and Data
Acquisition (SCADA) system for automatic reading. Water meters used for tower blow down, or other
non potable water with contained solids, need to have upstream strainers that are maintained at
regular intervals.
7.2.3.4.10 Gas Usage System Measurement and Verification
The RCXA SHOULD provide assistance to the Owner in developing or improving his gas conservation
efforts implementing M&V strategies. An important aspect of reducing the usage of gas is to
continuously monitor and implement gas reducing strategies in the operations of a facility. To properly
accomplish these goals, operators must have a means to measure the resultant usage of their
implemented strategies. The best way to accomplish this is to install gas meters on various loads that
are directly affected by the gas saving strategies. The preferred meters required are:
a.
b.
c.
d.
7.2.3.5
Total Utility Gas Meter
Boiler Gas Meter
Kitchen Gas Meter
Fire Feature Gas Meter
Sustainable Activities
7.2.3.5.1 Initiate Site Investigation
The RCXA MAY conduct a survey of the facilities for compliance to a facility recycling or other
sustainable operations policies. The survey is performed to determine if the current procedures
match the original program intent and they are successful in delivering that intent. The RCXA
SHOULD include deficiencies in the investigation report.
7.2.3.5.2 Sustainable Procedures Investigation and Tests
The RCXA MAY investigate the operation and performance of the facility’s sustainable programs to
determine their present operating condition and the benefits they are providing. These investigations
and tests should include the following:
a. Recycling program effectiveness
b. Awareness education of tenants
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
7.2.4 SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during the Site Investigation Phase:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Revised Current Facility Requirements (CFR) (SHOULD)
Site Investigation and test reports (for scope of work activities) (SHALL)
Building Load Calculations (If Required) (SHOULD)
Quick Fix Report (SHALL)
Revised TAB report (If completed as a quick fix) (SHALL)
7.3 ANALYSIS PHASE
7.3.1 INTRODUCTION
From the inspection and test data collected in the previous phases, the RCXA must now analyze all of
the issues discovered, synthesize possible solutions, and create final recommendations for the
facility’s improvements to the owner.
7.3.2 RESPONSIBILITIES
7.3.2.1 Team Members
The commissioning team members for the Analysis Phase may include any of the following, as
required for the specific project:
a. Retro-Commissioning Authority
b. Design Team Representatives (If required)
1. Mechanical Engineer
2. Electrical Engineer
c. Operators and Maintenance staff
d. Construction Team Representatives (If required)
1. Mechanical Contractor
2. Electrical Contractor
3. Controls Contractor
4. TAB Contractor
5. Specialty Contractor
7.3.2.2 Team Responsibilities
During the Analysis Phase the RCXA and the retro-commissioning team have the responsibility of
creating an issues corrective action report for all found system deficiencies with recommendations for
their correction for comfort and efficiency improvements.
7.3.3 ACTIVITIES
7.3.3.1 Define Issues
The RCXA SHALL review all collected information from the previous RCX-EB phases to determine the
appropriate issues that are affecting the facilities operation for Comfort and Energy performance. As
much as possible, the RCXA should delineate each issue to its simplest corrective action and group
these issues in a single corrective action statement.
7.3.3.2 Analyze Issues
The RCXA and his team SHALL provide a technical analysis of all defined issues to correctly identify
the potential solutions. The technical analyses may include the following:
52
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
a. Analysis of each issues effect on indoor comfort and environmental conditions
b. Calculations of each issues effect on occupant performance or lower costs to owner for future
equipment repair or replacement
c. Analysis of each issues effect on energy and water usage
d. Calculations of each issues effect on energy and water savings
e. Estimated budget cost of each recommended corrective action
f. Calculation of simple payback or ROI, if applicable for each recommended corrective action
g. Analysis on how each issue impacts other issues
h. Analysis of the criticality of each issue
Retro-commissioning is an iterative process. After defining and analyzing the issues, the RCXA and
the RCX-EB Team may be required to go back and perform an additional Pre site or Site Investigation
activity to validate or clarify an issue.
7.3.3.3
Building Energy Analysis
One of the first analysis steps is to determine the actual energy usage of the facility. This is
accomplished by taking the past three (3) years energy usage from actual monthly utility bills. Both
the actual dollars and the actual energy usage in KW hours of electrical usage, KW of demand and
therms of gas or steam are analyzed. The analysis needs to include:
a. The actual usage on a monthly basis is converted into the format of BTU/ year/ Foot square.
This number can then be compared with industry accepted averages that are available in
ASHRAE, Department of Energy and other industry sources.
b. The ability to compare an existing building with similar buildings in similar climate zones is a
quick and accurate method to determine the magnitude of savings that can be expected from
an RCXproject.
c. Refer to ASHRAE Standard 105-2007 Standard Methods of Measuring, Expressing and
Comparing Building Energy Performance
d. Utilize Energy Starr Portfolio Manager to evaluate the relative energy utilization performance
benchmark. Beginning values before retro commissioning can be compared with ending
values after retro-commissioning and all corrective actions are completed. Energy Starr
ratings are utilized by some agencies or utilities as a rebate evaluation criteria.
7.3.3.4 HVAC Systems Analysis
The RCXA and his/her team SHALL analyze each HVAC issue found in the investigation phase.
Typical analyses are as follows:
a. Analyze impact of quick fixes performed.
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to quick fixes performed
ii.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
b. Analyze impact of deferred maintenance corrections
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings upon completing required maintenance
ii.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
c. Analyze impact of equipment replacement, if required or recommended
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to new equipment
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for new equipment
iii.
Calculate Owner’s benefit of extended life of equipment
d. Analyze impact of improving vapor control and humidity level of the building
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to improved humidity performance
ii.
Humidity Levels
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NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
e. Analyze impact of reduced pressure and flow due to air and water balance to correct load
parameters
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to correct balance
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls due to improved comfort levels
f. Analyze impact of improving Operator knowledge and performance
i.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for improved operator performance
g. Analyze impact of improving control system operation
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to correct control system operation
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls due to correct control system operation
h. Analyze impact of increasing cooling tower efficiency and reducing its water consumption
i.
Calculate energy savings due to improved cooling tower efficiency
ii.
Calculate water reduction due to improvised water treatment of cooling tower
i. Analyze impact of increasing Boiler efficiency and reducing its water consumption
i.
Calculate energy savings because of improved boiler efficiency or operation
ii.
Calculate water reduction due to improvised water treatment or boiler operation
7.3.3.5 Building Envelope Systems Analysis
The RCXA and his/her team SHOULD analyze each Building Envelope issue found in the
investigation phase. Typical analyses are as follows:
a. Analyze energy impact as a result of improved envelope thermal performance
i.
Calculate energy and gas savings due to improved envelope thermal performance
b. Analyze energy impact due to improved operation from shading and glass thermal
performance
i.
Calculate energy and gas savings due to improved shading and glass thermal
performance
c. Analyze energy impact due to proper building pressure by improving the envelope tightness
i.
Calculate energy and gas savings due to improved envelope thermal performance
d. Analyze impact of quick fixes performed
i.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
e. Analyze impact of deferred maintenance corrections
i.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
f.
Analyze impact of space thermal and humidity comfort improvement
i. Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
g. Analyze impact of space due to IEQ improvement
i. Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
7.3.3.6 Electrical Systems Analysis
The RCxA and his team SHOULD analyze each Electrical System issue found in the investigation
phase. Typical analyses are as follows:
a. Analyze impact on energy of quick fixes performed.
I.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to quick fixes performed
b. Analyze impact of deferred maintenance corrections
i.
Calculate energy savings due to completing required maintenance
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for improved equipment operation
c. Analyze impact of Equipment replacement, if required or recommended
i.
Calculate energy savings if new equipment is installed
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for new equipment
iii.
Calculate Owner’s benefit of extended life of equipment
54
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
d. Analyze impact of reducing lighting power usage and demand
i.
Calculate energy savings due to improved lighting performance
e. Analyze impact on energy and comfort due to lighting level improvement
i.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
f. Analyze impact on energy and comfort due to lighting control improvement
i.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
g. Analyze impact of improving load balance and power factor of facility
ii.
Calculate energy savings due improved load balance and power factor
h. Analyze impact on equipment operation due to power or ground quality problems
iii.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
i. Analyze impact of M&V strategies and infrastructure
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due M&V procedures
j. Analyze impact on equipment operation due to power or ground quality problems
i.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
7.3.3.7 Plumbing Systems Analysis
The RCXA and his team MAY analyze each Plumbing System issue found in the investigation phase.
Typical analysis are as follows:
a. Analyze impact of quick fixes performed
i. Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to quick fixes performed
ii. Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
b. Analyze impact of deferred maintenance corrections
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to completing required maintenance
ii.
Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for improved equipment operation
iii.
Calculate cost savings, trouble call reduction or impact on occupants
c. Analyze impact of Equipment replacement, if required or recommended
i. Calculate energy, gas and water savings due to new equipment
ii. Calculate reduced cost of trouble calls for new equipment
iii. Calculate Owner’s benefit of extended life of equipment
d. Analyze impact of reducing water consumption
i. Calculate water savings for reduced consumption
e. Analyze impact of adding rain harvesting or grey water systems to lower water consumption
i. Calculate water and energy savings due to improved added systems
f. Analyze impact of M&V strategies and infrastructure improvements
i.
Calculate energy, gas and water savings due M&V procedures
7.3.3.8 Problem Solutions
The RCXA and his/her team SHALL create solutions based upon the technical analysis of each issue.
Each solution created shall include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Issue description
Recommended solutions
Technical description of the solution implementation
Solution calculations
Implementation sketches or drawings
7.3.3.9 RCX-EB Corrective Action Report Development
The RCxA SHALL develop a recommended solutions report for the owner’s use in evaluating the
costs and benefits of each recommendation. The recommendations should be placed in order of
55
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
importance to achieve the performance improvement or energy savings. The report will include the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Issue description
Recommended solution
Budgetary cost of solution
Anticipated savings or results
Priority of the Recommendation
Anticipated implementation schedule
7.3.3.10 Report Presentation
The RCXA SHALL present the Corrective Actions Report to the Owner. Specifically the meeting
should identify how these recommended solutions improve the building performance issues based on
the identified CFR. The approved recommendations become the basis of the OPR for commissioning
the corrective actions.
7.3.4 ANALYSIS PHASE DOCUMENTATION
The following retro-commissioning documents are produced during the Analysis phase:
a. Retro-Commissioning Corrective Action Report (SHALL)
b. Drawings or other design documents created during all phases of the RCX process (SHALL)
56
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Table 7-1: NEBB REQUIREMENTS
RETRO-COMMISSIONING OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Item
SHALL
SHOULD
MAY
CONTRACT PHASE
Site Tour & Proposal
RCXA Perform
RCx-EB Contract
Owner Perform
RCXA Assists
PRE SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE
RCx Plan/Scope of Work
Document & Design Review
Operations Records Review
Utility Usage Review
Management Staff Interview
Maintenance Staff Interview
Occupant Interview
Create or Update CFR
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
SITE INVESTIGATION PHASE
Train Owners Technician (If included in Scope of Work)
Initiate Site Investigation Dataloggers
HVAC Systems
Heat load study if required
Investigation of Deferred Maintenance
Investigation of Equipment Condition
Investigation of System Performance
Control System Investigation & Tests
Perform HVAC Quick Fixes
TAB Investigation
Building Envelope
Envelope investigation & Tests
IEQ Investigation & Tests
Perform Envelope Quick Fixes
Electrical Systems
Electrical system investigation & tests
Lighting Study & investigation
Lighting Control Study & Investigation
Electrical system power study
Electrical system M&V investigation
Power & Grounding Investigation
Perform Electrical Quick Fixes
Plumbing Systems
Plumbing systems investigation & tests
Plumbing water usage study
Landscaping water systems investigation
Rain harvesting & grey water investigation
Grey water investigation
Perform Plumbing Quick Fixes
Sustainability
Sustainability Investigation
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Review
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
Team Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
RCXA
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
Perform
Contractor Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
57
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
SECTION 7
RETRO-COMMISSIONING
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Table 7-1: NEBB REQUIREMENTS (Continued)
RETRO-COMMISSIONING OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
Item
SHALL
SHOULD
MAY
ANALYSIS PHASE
Define Issues
Analyze HVAC Issues
Analyze Envelope Issues
Analyze Electrical & Lighting Issues
Analyze Plumbing Issues
Create Solutions
Corrective Action Report Development
Corrective Action Report Presentation
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
CORRECTIVE ACTION PHASE
Approve Recommendations
Remedial Design
Construction of Corrective Recommendations
Commissioning of Corrective Recommendations
Commissioning Report
Owner Perform
Owner Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Review
RCXA Manage
FOLLOW UP
Performance Verification & Report
Lessons Learned Workshop
Retro-Commissioning Report Update
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
RCXA Perform
58
RCX Team Perform
RCXA Perform
Site Tour
RCX Project
Contract
c.
b.
• Negotiate, prepare and execute a RCX
contract
• Direct sale to customer by purchase
order or direct contract
• Develop an RFP for RCX services. RFP
should follow the NEBB format for
qualifications based selection.
• If interviews are conducted, the
recommended scoring system should be
used to evaluate qualifications of
proposing firms
• Tour facility for general condition and
complexity
Description
2.
1.
• RCX Contract
• Facilitate and
attend training
• Consists of two 4 hour
training modules
A.1
• Facilitate Kickoff
Meeting
• Defines RCX strategy and
process
• Defines RCX team
members
• Create contract or
purchase order
• Facilitate tour
• Site conditions has effect
on project costs
• Pictures
Purchase Order
• Conduct Interviews
• Evaluate scoring
system
Owner
• Create RFP or
Comments
• RFP Format
• Select highest technical
• Scope of Work Matrix qualification of retro
commissioning expertise
• Scoring Matrix
Documents
RCX Plan / Scope • Plan for the project consisting of a
• RCX Plan
of Work
detailed description of the scope of
• RCX schedule
work, the project schedule, the project
team,and task and responsibilities of the
RCX team
Owner Technician • RCX process training of owners
• Training Materials
training
technical staff for assistance in the
process
Pre Site Investigation Phase
RCX Agent
Selection
a.
Contract Phase
Task
• Provide training
seminar
• Meeting Agenda
• Meeting Minutes
• Take facility tour
and look for
building
conditions and
complexity
• Assist RFP
process if
requested
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer
APPENDIX A
THE RETRO-COMMISSIONING PROCESS
MATRIX
APPENDICES
Contractors
Description
• Interview of Facility Manager to make
sure they understand the process and to
discover any special protocols for the
facility
Maintenance Staff • Interview of Facility Maintenance Staff to • Interview report
Interview
determine the extent of system problems .
being experienced and staffs’ reactions
5.
8.
7.
Occupant
Interview
• Interviews of the facility occupants
• Interview report
segregated by floor/areas of special
use/departments. To determine the
current project requirements of the
facility, current operational problems,
and the proposed investigative process.
The meeting will outline the purpose and
scope of the facility inspection, how the
inspection will be conducted, and will
allow the facility occupants to share their
concerns and problems.
Site Investigation • Survey the facility and systems to
• Field Survey
determine current conditions such as
Observation Forms
occupancy and space utilization.
• Photographs
Site Investigation Phase
6.
Operations
Record Review
4.
Management
Staff Interview
Document and
Design Review
• Review utility bills and costs
• Review maintenance management
trouble call records
Comments
A.2
• May be factual, perceived
or political issues
• May be factual, perceived
or political issues
• Existing construction • Review design for design
documents, drawings, and drawing errors
specifications and
submittals
• Design review work
sheets
• Copies of utility bills • Develop historical facility
usage report
• Copies of trouble call
• Develop short list of
logs
problem areas
• Interview report
Documents
3.
• Complete a thorough review of the
available documents to determine what
was supposed to be installed and what
the design intent was
Pre Site Investigation Phase (Continued)
Task
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
• Conduct interview
and provide
report
• Provide utility
review report
• Provide trouble
call report
• Conduct interview
and provide
report
• Perform
document and
design review
• Facilitate and/or
participate in site
inspections
• Provide site
investigations
• Provide
response to
design
questions, if
appropriate
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer
• Facilitate interviews • Conduct interview
and provide report
• Facilitate interview
• Provide 3 years of
utility bills
• Provide 3 years of
trouble call logs
• Facilitate interview
• Provide OPR
• Provide existing
construction
documents
Owner
Contractors
APPENDIX A
Description
Heat Load Study
15. Investigation
Phase Meeting
• Meeting to present findings and
recommendations to appropriate parties
Corrective Action Phase
• Corrective Action
Report
• Issue report
• The report shall contain observations
made during the site investigations,
documentation of all testing,
photographs of visual deficiencies, clear
definition of all findings and a budgetary
cost estimate of recommended solutions
14. Report
A.3
participants, schedule
meeting and attend
meetings
• Determine meeting
• Issue reports with problem
statement and
recommended solution
• Facilitate Meeting
• Review and
comment on report.
• Facilitate and/or
participate in
investigations
• Observation Reports
• RCX Forms and
Check Sheets
• Analyze problems and issues and
develop recommended solutions
• Facilitate and/or
participate in
investigations
• Observation Reports
• RCX Forms and
Check Sheets
• Perform Heat
Load study
• Present report
and coordinate
meeting
design
recommendations
• Present any
• Produce problem • Assist as required • Provide cost
analysis and
for problem
data for
solutions
solutions
recommended
solutions
• Produce report
• Perform
investigations
• Perform
investigations
• Facilitate and/or
• Perform
participate in HVAC investigations
investigation
• Observation Reports
• Test & Balance
Report
• RCX Forms and
Check Sheets
• Provide study
• Survey facility and systems to determine
current operating conditions, deferred
maintenance issues, airflow rates,
temperatures, humidity levels and
pressure levels etc.
• Test & Balance as required
• Survey facility for temperature
infiltration, humidity infiltration and
pressurization.
• Thermograph Survey
• Survey control systems for proper
operation and proper control sequences
• Control Point to Point Verification
• Sensor Calibration Verification
• Approve study
Owner
APPENDIX A
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer Contractors
• Heat Load Study
Report
• Appropriate RCx Team
member to perform study.
(Owners staff, RCXA or
A/E may perform)
Comments
• Survey the facility occupancy and
equipment levels to determine if a heat
load study is required.
Documents
13. Issue Analysis
and Problem
resolution
Analysis Phase
12. Detail Control
Investigation
11. Detail Envelope
Investigation
10. Detail HVAC
Investigation
9.
Site Investigation Phase (Continued)
Task
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
Description
19. Prepare Duration
Schedule for
Commissioning
Activities
A.4
• Conduct an initial RCX meeting with all • Meeting Minutes
contractors and commissioning team
• Final Commissioning
members. The purpose of the meeting
Plan with specific with
will be to establish the purpose and
specific individual
proposed process for commissioning
responsibilities
this facility in the construction,
identified
acceptance and warranties phases of
the project. Review the individual roles
and responsibilities of each participating
commissioning team member as
specified in the Construction
Documents.
• Based on the final commissioning plan, • Duration schedule
• Facilitate schedule
Prepare a duration schedule for the
coordination and approve
contractors for the commissioning
construction schedule
activities required by the commissioning
plan. This duration schedule should be
incorporated into the contractor’s project
schedule to track all commissioning
activities of the commissioning team.
17. Corrective
Measures
18. Construction
Commissioning
Kick Off meeting
• Contract with a design
team to perform remedial
design if needed.
• Contract with appropriate
Team member to perform
corrective actions.
Comments
• If needed, a remedial design of the
• Design documents
deficient system/systems will be
provided
• Corrective measured identified during
• Price Approval
the investigation phase and approved by • Contracts
the owner are executed
Documents
16. Remedial Design
Corrective Action Phase (Continued)
Task
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
• Conduct RCX Kick
Off meeting
• Create schedule
• Approve schedule
Attend RCX
Kick Off
meeting
• Provide
• Provide remedial
design or coordinate remedial
design
• Manage corrective
measures
• Assist in
schedule
creation
• Attend RCX Kick
Off meeting
• Construct
corrective
measures
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer Contractors
• Approve corrective
measures
• Contract corrective
measures
• Attend RCX Kick
Off meeting
• Authorize Design
Owner
APPENDIX A
Description
20. Submittal and
Shop Drawing
Review
• Review all pertinent approved shop
drawings to support the Commissioning
Process. Review of the shop drawings
is for the purpose of developing
appropriate SO, PFT and FPT
documents. Submittals and Shop
drawings shall be reviewed for
commissionability, maintainability and
for compliance to the OPR.
• Note any issues identified in the Shop
Drawing Review that might compromise
the final commissioned system on the
‘Commissioning Review Log’ and submit
comment to the Design Team for
resolution.
21. Finalize
• Based on the work completed in the
Construction
items above, finalize the Commissioning
Commissioning
Plan for the project. The final
Plan
commissioning plan will incorporate all
changes established by review with staff
and the design team members. The
final commissioning plan will also
include complete SO, PFT and FPT
protocols for each system.
22. Field Inspection
• During the course of construction, visit
Verifications (FIV) the site to inspect the progress of
construction with respect to the systems
being commissioned. The purpose of
the inspections is to verify that the
construction complies with the plans &
specifications and standard construction
quality practices
Corrective Action Phase (Continued)
Task
A.5
• Provide plan
• Provide submittal • Approve
review
submittals
• Review inspections • Provide
inspections
• Review submitted
documents.
• Provide response to
any Owner Related
Commissioning Issue
APPENDIX A
• Provide
submittals
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer Contractors
• FIV forms and
check sheets
• Approve submittal
review
Owner
• Approve plan
• RCXA reviews submittals
and shop drawings that
have already been
reviewed/approved by the
design team
Comments
• Final Construction
Commissioning
Plan
• Create all FIV, PFT
and FPT
documents. Design
FPT protocols.
• Commissioning
Review Log
Documents
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
Description
• Issue Log
• Final Report
• Provide Final RCX Report including all
documentation for project
27. Final RCX Report
• Review FPT test
results
• Attend RCX
meetings
Owner
A.6
APPENDIX A
• Design and
observe or
perform FPT
tests
• Manage
corrections
• Provide test
observations as
required
• Hold RCX
meetings
• Perform start up
tests
• Attend RCX
meetings
• Provide
corrections
• Assist in FPT test • Perform FPT
resolutions
tests
• Attend RCX
meetings
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer Contractors
• Owner to facilitate
• Manage corrective
corrections by tightly
actions
managing corrective
schedules. If necessary
hold funds until
corrective actions are
complete
• Approve final report • Provide final
report
• Assist in resolution of
project issues if
required
• FPT forms and
check sheets
• Correct PFT & FPT deficiencies
• Assist in resolution of
project issues if
required
Comments
• PFT forms and
check sheets
26. System
Corrections
25. Functional
Performance
Tests (FPT)
24. Operational
Performance
Tests (PFT)
• Hold commissioning meetings on a
regular basis with the commissioning
team to review progress of the
commissioning effort and reinforce
individual responsibilities. Review
completed work and agree upon the
acceptability of the delivered product.
• Observe or facilitate all equipment and
system start up procedures. The
Contractor will execute all start up and
point-to-point tests and the RCx will
witness execution of all PFT’s.
• Observe and facilitate all FPT testing.
FPT’s shall be designed by the RCx A
and performed by the contractors
• Meeting Minutes
• Commissioning
Issues Log
Documents
23. Commissioning
Team Meetings
Corrective Action Phase (Continued)
Task
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
• FPT Tests
• Interview forms
• Energy Bills
• RCx forms and
check sheets
• Workshop Report
• Visit project after one year of operation
to verify systems performance
• Meeting to identify improvements for
future RCX Projects
29. Performance
Verification
30. Lessons Learned
Workshop
Documents
• Provide post season tests if required
Description
28. Post Season
Tests
Follow Up Phase
Task
NEBB RCX-EB PROCEDURAL STANDARDS
A.7
Responsibilities
RCxA
Designer
• Chair meeting
• Provide report
• Design and
observe or
perform FPT
tests
• Facilitate site visit, • Provide follow up
inspections and
interviews, and
provide energy bills tests
• Approve FPT
Owner
• Provides measurement
and verification of RCx
project. Use site
interviews, energy usage
against previous energy
and current system tests
against pervious tests.
• Report to verify the results • Attend Workshop
of the RCX project. Indoor
comfort, energy, etc.
• Provide FPT tests if post
season tests were
required
Comments
Contractors
APPENDIX A