Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.2

Inquiry

As part of the East and North Wing Addition project, Concord Hospital is replacing its conventional Central Sterilization process, which currently employs the use of ethylene oxide, or EtO (classified by OSHA as an occupational carcinogen) with a water/steam-based process. The elimination of EtO also removes from the hospital a flammable/explosive, atmospherically toxic process as well as removing the use of CFC1, an ozone depleter, that is mixed with the EtO to improve "safety." The project is using a STERIS Corporation Century series sterilizer system that is exceptionally good at conserving water and steam in the sterilization and drying processes. The hospital has worked closely with the design team on this critical system redesign, and the inclusion of this design work in the project helps achieve a primary mission of the hospital which is to provide leadership and innovation in the changing healthcare environment. For further information on toxic issues concerning Ethylene Oxide: http://www.nsc.org/library/chemical/Ethylen0.htm http://es.epa.gov/techinfo/facts/ca-htm/oxide-fs.html While this design strategy may aid the project in terms of reducing energy and water consumption, the primary intent of the strategy is the elimination of toxins from the environment. This particular strategy does not seek LEED credit for energy or water savings - these savings are already embedded in the overall project strategy. INTENT Ensure health and safety of occupants through the elimination of toxic chemicals and processes from hospital sterilization procedures. REQUIREMENTS Provide a system that achieves basic sterilization criteria without the use of toxic processes. SUBMITTALS Provide letter template, signed by the Mechanical Engineer, that the project is using an energy and water-efficient, non-toxic means for sterilization in hospital operations. Include manufacturer\'s equipment cut sheets, with equipment utility consumption data.