BOMA Property Operations & Life Safety Flashcards

What is the primary goal of an emergency response plan (ERP) for commercial buildings?

Answer: Protect life safety and restore operations as quickly as possible following any emergency or disaster

An ERP prioritizes protecting occupant life safety, establishing clear response procedures for various emergency scenarios, and providing a framework for rapid recovery to minimize disruption to building operations.

What HVAC system maintenance is required to prevent Legionella growth in commercial cooling towers?

Answer: Regular water treatment, biocide application, temperature management, and periodic system disinfection per ASHRAE 188

ASHRAE 188 requires a water management plan for cooling towers including regular biocide treatment, temperature control, physical cleaning, and monitoring to prevent Legionella bacteria growth and reduce Legionnaires' disease risk.

What is 'indoor air quality' (IAQ) management critical for in commercial buildings?

Answer: Protecting occupant health, productivity, and wellbeing by controlling pollutants, ventilation, humidity, and temperature

Proper IAQ management protects occupant health and cognitive function by ensuring adequate ventilation, controlling humidity, removing pollutants, and maintaining thermal comfort, which also reduces absenteeism and improves productivity.

What does a 'business continuity plan' (BCP) provide for commercial property operations?

Answer: Documented procedures to maintain or quickly restore essential building operations following a disruption

A BCP documents procedures, resources, and responsibilities needed to continue critical building operations or restore them quickly after events like power outages, natural disasters, or system failures.

What is the purpose of 'commissioning authority' (CxA) in the context of new building construction and major renovations?

Answer: An independent agent who verifies building systems meet design intent and owner requirements through the entire construction process

A commissioning authority is an independent third party who advocates for the owner by verifying that all building systems are designed, installed, tested, and performing according to the owner's project requirements and design documentation.

What does 'integrated pest management' (IPM) involve in commercial building management?

Answer: A systematic approach using prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatments to minimize pest activity with minimal chemical use

IPM combines preventive practices (sealing entry points, eliminating food sources), regular monitoring, and targeted treatments only when needed, reducing pesticide use, cost, and health risks compared to routine chemical applications.