Pre-Event Advice – Long-Term

Ensure that building operators can quickly manipulate the HVAC control systems to respond to different kinds of attack.

It should be possible to immediately shut off the HVAC system (including closing dampers that admit outdoor air and closing exhaust dampers), or to put the system on 100% fresh (outdoor) air. Dampers should be checked for leakage, and replaced or repaired if necessary.

Areas served by different air handling units should be surveyed and clearly shown on floor plans so that building operators know which supply and exhaust systems serve which areas. Maintain an updated copy of the ventilation plans in the room(s) from which the HVAC system can be controlled.

There should be at least one secure location (preferably more) from which the whole HVAC system can controlled, so it is not necessary to move through a contaminated building to manipulate the system.

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