Services > Hospital Critical Room Pressurization Testing

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and other hospital certification agencies require periodic testing of critical rooms. These rooms are isolation rooms, surgery rooms, clean rooms, soiled rooms and other rooms where pressurization is used to avoid the spread of infections. This testing involves measuring the airflows, volume of the room and pressurization to other spaces. We calculate the Air Changes per Hour(ACH) for the rooms and determine if the space is adequately positive, negative or neutral.

Because of our expertise in Air Test & Balance, when we find spaces that are not performing, we are able to troubleshoot the HVAC system with hospital staff to determine the root cause of the issue. Many times we are able to adjust and resolve the issue, bringing the room back into compliance without additional trips. Sometimes, we report our findings and suggest solutions and return when the issue has been addressed to verify compliance.

IDPH requires full survey of affected spaces after construction or remodeling of hospital areas. This is initial testing ensures that all spaces are performing at design conditions and proper pressurization. Usually, our firm performs these services under construction or remodel subcontracts with Mechanical contractors. Subsequent critical room pressurization testing is typically checked and documented at least annually to ensure that the areas are maintaining proper conditions. Our firm is usually contracted directly by hospitals to perform these annual tests.