Natural disasters and other emergencies can occur at any moment, often without warning. As such, the need for critical facilities backed up by resilient and redundant systems has never been more important. This includes any facility that houses services vital to the health and safety of the surrounding communities, during and after an emergency event or natural disaster. These facilities can include Emergency Operation Centers (EOC), Emergency Dispatch Centers, Fire Stations, Police Stations, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Public Works & Utilities, etc. Some critical facilities serve as a hub of emergency management response, coordinating efforts to save lives, protect property, and ensure public safety during crises. Others serve as general public safety departments for their community. Given the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, the demand for critical facilities that can withstand and continue operations during extreme conditions is paramount. H2Engineering is at the forefront of meeting this demand by incorporating advanced features into our critical facility projects.
The Importance of Resiliency and Redundancy
Resiliency refers to the ability of a system to withstand and recover from disruptions, while redundancy involves the duplication of critical components or functions to ensure continuous operation in the event of a failure. Together, these concepts are paramount for the functionality of critical facilities, ensuring they remain operational during and after emergencies. This uninterrupted functionality is vital for coordinating public safety operations, disseminating information, and mobilizing resources efficiently.
Without such systems, a critical facility could fail at the moment when it is needed most. For instance, a single point of failure in the power supply or communication systems could render the facility inoperative, crippling the emergency response effort. This could lead to delays in deploying emergency services, disseminating vital information, and coordinating rescue operations, potentially resulting in increased harm to the public and greater property damage.
Key Redundant Systems in Critical Facilities
Power Supply: One of the most crucial elements of any critical facility is its power supply. Redundant power systems, such as backup generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), ensure that the center remains operational during power outages. These systems are essential for maintaining communications, lighting, and operational equipment necessary for emergency management.
Communication Systems: Reliable communication is the backbone of any critical facility. Redundant communication lines, including fiber optics and satellite communications, ensure continuous connectivity. These systems allow for uninterrupted communication with field units, other agencies, and the public.
HVAC Systems: Maintaining a controlled climate is critical in any emergency services facility to ensure the comfort and efficiency of personnel and the functionality of sensitive equipment. Redundant HVAC systems are necessary to sustain optimal operating conditions, even if the primary system fails. This redundancy ensures that a critical facility remains a viable and comfortable working environment throughout an emergency.
H2Engineering’s Approach to Resiliency and Redundancy
City of Lynn Haven’s New City Hall & Police Department
The City of Lynn Haven’s new City Hall & Police Department exemplifies H2Engineering’s commitment to resilience and redundancy.
The new facility houses the City’s Police Department and Communications Division, which serves as the nerve center for the Public Safety Answering Point for the City of Lynn Haven. The call center has the responsibility of staffing and answering non-emergency and 911 emergency phone calls on a 24/7 basis.
This critical function, serving the surrounding communities, is backed up by redundant mechanical and power systems, has a dedicated UPS system, and was separated from the remainder of the building with fire-rated construction including 2-hr fire-rated cabling. The entire building was provided with redundant stand-by generators, multiple communication service entrance points, and cellular backups for communication.
HVAC design included two air-cooled chillers located in a hardened utility yard and air distribution by VAV air handlers with a single duct terminal with electric heat. Fan arrays are provided for redundancy. A dedicated unit will be provided for the EOC.N+1 redundant computer room air conditioner units for the main server room.
These features collectively ensure the center’s readiness to operate under adverse conditions, maintaining public safety and coordination.
The Villages – Sumter County Public Safety Center
The Villages – Sumter County Public Safety Center is another testament to H2Engineering’s expertise in designing resilient and redundant critical facilities.
Serving as the County’s primary EOC and emergency dispatch center, the facility itself is backed up by a second emergency call center located in Bushnell, FL. The facility houses the Sheriff’s office, Fire, Ambulance, Emergency Services, and 911 joint dispatch and emergency call center.
The primary EOC’s electrical distribution system, for all critical areas, is backed up by two paralleled (N+1) 750 kVA diesel generators. A docking station for a portable generator and load bank connections was installed for additional reliability. A 150 KVA UPS feeds power to critical systems including the data center, while two (N+1) 40 kVA UPS systems, located in separate rooms, feed power to the radio systems.
Two (N+1) 150-ton air-cooled chillers provide cooling for the facility with heat provided by electric heaters. The building is cooled by a variable air volume (VAV) distribution system. Data center cooling is provided by computer room air conditioners (CRAC) located around the perimeter of the room with cabinets and distribution set up in a hot aisle/cold aisle arrangement.
The Path Forward: Creating Solutions Through Engineering
The unexpected nature and intensity of disasters necessitate the development of resilient and redundant systems in critical facilities. Key systems, such as power supplies, communication lines, and HVAC systems, play a vital role in maintaining continuous operations and keeping the public safe during an emergency event.
H2Engineering is committed to implementing resilient and redundant systems in all of our critical facility projects, including the City of Lynn Haven’s New City Hall & Police Department, and The Villages – Sumter County Public Safety Center. By prioritizing these elements, H2Engineering ensures that critical facilities can effectively manage emergencies, safeguarding public safety. To learn more about H2Engineering’s innovative projects and our commitment to resilient and redundant critical facilities, visit our portfolio page.
H2Engineering is YOUR FIRST CHOICE in engineering firms. Contact us today to see how we can help with your critical facility project.