Overview
A resilient built environment is capable of withstanding extreme events while providing shelter and essential services to people within, and be reasonably returned to normal operation after such events.
These events include: extreme weather events such as storms, floods, cold-snaps and heatwaves; bush fires; utility outages resulting in loss of power, water, telecommunications, and other associated disruptions. A more resilient built environment should also consider appropriate safeguarding against local or direct catastrophe (building attack) and social unrest (protests, service strikes, occupations, riots).
A resilient built environment is also capable of adapting to changing conditions while maintaining functionality and economical operation. In addition to the changing Australian and global climate — which will see increased temperatures, sea-levels, storm surges and increased flooding, altered rainfall, and the increased frequency of extreme weather events — other relevant changes that the built environment may experience include changing building program needs, changing regulations, changes to energy costs, and disruptive economic activities.
As a critical enabler of the Australian economy, the HVAC&R sector does not have a unified strategy in safe-guarding the built environment and its occupants during these extreme events.
AIRAH members are involved at all points of the lifecycle of HVAC&R systems: research and development, equipment manufacture and supply, integrated design, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance and decommissioning.
Through these activities AIRAH members have considerable influence in creating a more resilient future through the implementation of practical measures to design more resilient built environments and HVAC&R equipment; as well as implementing best practice installation, operation and facilities management practices.