Design Review
Introduction and Scope for Remodel and Construction
University of Texas at Dallas academic, research, athletic and public events, ancillary support operations, and student organizations utilize various facilities throughout campus for normal and special operations which occasionally requires the facility to be reconstructed to accommodate the department or unit's operation. EH&S, Facilities Management, and each university department are responsible for ensuring each facility or area within a facility complies with applicable codes and regulations in regards to designing, constructing, or remodeling. UTD Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) and Facilities Management are responsible for inspecting, reviewing plans, and corresponding with each university department and/or facility supervisor as well as regulators to facilitate a safe compliant facility.
General Design Information
A facility is designed, constructed, and approved for a specific type of use. Although a facility will be classified and approved for use for a specific type of occupancy there are usually several areas of the facility that are approved for a different type of occupancy classification. An occupancy classification is important in the designing stage so that proper construction and life safety systems are installed to ensure a safe and code compliant facility. Life safety systems is a general term for fire separation walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as fire alarm systems, fire suppression systems, fire dampers, illuminated exit signs, emergency lighting, emergency showers and eye washes, exit systems, smoke control systems, and other special safety systems. Anytime a facility or area within a facility is remodeled or utilized for an operation or occupancy different than it’s original intent, the department or facility supervisor must contact EH&S in the planning stage. In addition, Facilities Management and the contractor coordinate their projects with EH&S.
Estimates
Facilities Management (FM) provides estimates for remodel and construction projects. Each project is coordinated with EH&S to review the project scope for any life safety issues related to federal, state, or local codes and regulations
Modifications
When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this guideline or any other applicable codes or standards— UTD Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), Facilities Management, may grant modifications for individual cases, as long as the intent and purpose of the code is maintained and stipulations are adhered to. Modifications cannot lessen any fire-protection requirements or structural integrity. Any variation to the code must be documented and maintained in the facility or project file of UTD Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) and Facilities Management.
Changes in use of a building must be approved by EH&S!