Engineering
Facility Evaluation
Building owners and facility managers often face operations or compliance issues that are difficult to identify; they know they have a problem, but they may not know precisely what the problem is. Requests for facility evaluation services are often not specific, but rather describe the symptoms of a building problem, such as mold growth or high humidity, or perhaps even occupant complaints about an odor. The client needs an evaluation to identify the target issue or root cause of the problem. MZA tailors the evaluation to the client's needs.
Combining our expertise in architecture, engineering, and industrial hygiene, MZA provides engineering evaluations of HVAC systems and roof/building envelopes for school districts, municipal buildings, and facility owners. When it comes to thoroughly evaluating the symptoms at a facility, then identifying the multiple problems and the complete solution, a traditional MEP firm may not be equipped to provide the range of services offered by MZA.
MZA offers a variety of building assessment services. A building owner may require one or a combination of these studies. Based on our initial assessment, MZA will recommend and conduct the necessary studies, such as the following:
- MEP Detailed Inspection and Condition Assessment
- Air Distribution and Building Pressurization (Test & Balance) Study
- Water Flow Analysis
- Equipment Electrical Load Analysis
- Kitchen Hood Air Flow Study
- Heat Gain Calculation for Heating Requirements
- Heat Gain Calculation Analysis
- Domestic Hot Water Study
- Chilled Water System Capacity Study
- Roof Structural Load Analysis
MZA certified professionals perform detailed on-site inspections of all building equipment, systems and components including information on condition and maintenance requirements. MZA performs site investigations using state of the art remote imaging, as well as our photographic and video capabilities to document building systems, assemblies and conditions. Information is collected using hand-held computer equipment and directly entered into a database. Based on this survey, MZA provides information on energy efficiency and useful life which can be used to manage a capital replacement program.
MZA's Air Distribution and Building Pressurization (Test & Balance) Study includes detailed flowhood and pitot traverse testing to determine duct integrity. If necessary, this includes troubleshooting equipment with motor amperage testing to locate leakage in duct systems.
A Water Flow Analysis includes pump curve evaluation and circuit setter testing to evaluate chilled water flow deficiencies throughout a building complex or campus. In a Chilled Water System Capacity Study, MZA evaluates existing chilled water pipe and pump capacity to determine if the flow rate and pressure of a chilled water system is adequate to handle additional pre-conditioning load requirements.
The Equipment Electrical Load Analysis is performed to determine the existing electrical capacity at the main switchgear and at each building panel throughout a building complex or campus.
The Kitchen Hood Air Flow Study includes the evaluation of all kitchen hood supply and exhaust ducts. Calculations are performed to determine existing kitchen pressurization for test and balance needs.
Heat Gain calculations may be needed for either heating or cooling analyses. In a Heat Gain Calculation for Heating Requirements, MZA performs sizing of heating elements and determines heat capacity (BTUs) needed for each HVAC zone throughout a building complex or campus. The Heat Gain Calculation Analysis for Cooling Requirements is based on an increased ventilation rate of 15 CFM for the entire facility or campus.
The Domestic Hot Water Study determines size and location of electric hot water heaters and piping needed to meet facility needs.
When roof-mounted equipment is involved, a Roof Structural Load Analysis may be necessary to determine the viability of mounting pre-conditioning equipment on the roof.
Damage Assessment
MZA provides consulting services to clients affected by moisture intrusion caused by storm damage. Disaster recovery services include on-site assessment and remediation monitoring following catastrophic events such as hurricanes, floods, fires, and building failures resulting from terrorist attacks. MZA's team of certified environmental professionals specializes in damage assessment and proper remediation techniques. MZA was on the scene in New York City following the 9/11/2001 WTC collapses; in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina; and, in South Florida during Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma.
Specialty Architecture and Design Services
MZA also provides specialty Architecture and Design Services, including the following:
- Construction failure and design correction
- Roofing and building envelope – construction failure analysis and design
- Architectural plan review
- Structural load analysis for equipment location on roof
MZA serves on the Guidelines for Total Building Commissioning Committee jointly sponsored by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).
As a firm, MZA's licenses include practicing engineering license (PE), practicing architectural license (AIA), and NEBB System Commissioning Administrator (SCA). MZA's team is comprised of associates with multi-disciplinary skills, including the following certifications:
- LEED Project certification
- Mechanical and electrical PE licenses
- Certified Fire Plan Designer
- Certified Lighting Professional
- Certified LEED Accredited Professional (AP)
- Certified NEBB Technician
- Certified Plant Maintenance Manager
- Certified Safety Professional
- Certified Level 1 Thermographer