VC-21-005 -- Requirements for Building Thermal Conditions under Normal and Emergency Operations in Extreme Climates

This paper provides recommendations on thermal andmoisture parameters (air, temperature, and humidity content)in different types of buildings under normal and emergencyoperation conditions in extreme climate conditions, e.g., cold/arctic (U.S. Department of Energy [DOE] climate zones 6–8)and hot and humid (DOE climate zones 0–2a). Three scenariosare considered under normal operating conditions: when thebuilding/space is occupied, temporarily unoccupied (2–5days), and unoccupied long term (e.g., hibernated). Thesethermal parameters are necessary to achieve one or several ofthe following purposes:

• to perform required work in a building in a safe and efficientmanner,
• to support processes housed in the building, and
• to provide conditions required for a long-term integrityof the building and building materials.