CHFM - Certified Healthcare Facility Manager Building Utility Systems Flashcards

In a variable air volume (VAV) HVAC system, what controls the amount of air delivered to each zone?

Answer: A VAV terminal unit with a modulating damper

A VAV terminal unit uses a modulating damper that adjusts based on zone thermostat demand, varying the airflow to each zone independently while the main air handling unit maintains a constant supply air temperature.

What is the primary purpose of a hospital-grade isolated power system (IPS) in a wet procedure location?

Answer: To limit shock current to levels that will not cause cardiac fibrillation in patients

An isolated power system creates an electrical circuit not connected to ground, so that a single fault does not create a complete circuit through a patient's body. The line isolation monitor (LIM) alerts staff if a fault occurs.

Which type of pipe joint is recommended for medical gas piping to ensure leak-free, contamination-free connections?

Answer: Brazed joints using BCuP or BAg filler metals

NFPA 99 requires brazed joints for medical gas piping because brazing creates a metallurgical bond that is stronger and more leak-resistant than mechanical connections, and does not introduce contaminants like thread sealants.

In a healthcare facility electrical distribution system, what is the function of the essential electrical system (EES)?

Answer: To provide power to critical life safety, critical care, and equipment branch circuits during normal power failure

The Essential Electrical System (EES), required by NFPA 99, provides power to critical hospital functions including life safety, critical care, and equipment systems when normal utility power fails.

What is the purpose of a backflow preventer installed on a healthcare facility's water supply connection?

Answer: To prevent contaminated water inside the facility from flowing back into the public water supply

A backflow preventer protects the public potable water supply from contamination if a pressure reversal causes water to flow backwards from the facility into the municipal supply.

In an HVAC system serving a healthcare facility, what is the purpose of HEPA filtration in an airborne infection isolation (AII) room exhaust?

Answer: To filter out infectious particles before exhausting air outside or recirculating it, preventing spread of pathogens

HEPA filters in AII room exhaust capture airborne infectious particles (0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency), preventing pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis from spreading to areas where they could infect others.