The air barrier plays an important role in separating high humidity spaces such as pools, saunas, hot tubs, therapy pools, and chemical storage from adjacent spaces. The speakers will use three case studies to discuss the interaction between HVAC pressurization, air flow control, and the impact on occupants by well-planned air barrier solutions. This includes:

• looking at the impact on athlete performance in a well-planned international competition facility at the Pan Am Aquatics Center in Toronto, Ontario for air tightness and HVAC flow
• the ability to switch from natural ventilation to full mechanical ventilation while minimizing condensation risk when the natatorium goes from open to airtight at a facility near Washington, DC that has operable doors and windows
• considerations for a pool installation in a historic building within the original parking garage that utilizes the garage ramp as the base of the pool basin

While each of these projects has different challenges, the building science principles are similar for air tightness, vapor diffusion, and thermal performance which need to be carefully considered in specialty buildings. In addition, it is critical to understand HVAC design in these spaces for supply, return, and control of stratification of air, especially in large spaces that include platform diving spaces and Olympic size pools. In addition, the speakers will describe pressurization considerations and airtightness parameters for adjacent spaces to avoid the smell of pool air in fitness spaces, adjacent residential spaces, and field house space for other sports.

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