Available in choice of two formats:   MP3 Download $15  or  Compact Disc $23

Evaluation of Health Care Operating Rooms as Wet/Dry Locations
Track(s): Codes & Standards, Electrical

Melissa Chernovsky, Exponent, Inc.

Audio Sample:




This Fire Protection Research Foundation study addresses electrical requirements in hospital operating rooms. The current 2005 edition of NFPA 99 requires the governing body of the facility to determine if operating rooms are "wet locations" and therefore require special protection against electrical shock. However, there are two opposing schools of thought on establishing this designation requirement, with the debate attempting to balance the need to provide a safe environment for patients and operating room personnel, while at the same time providing a risk-based solution and not over-designing the electrical distribution system. Learn more about defining and analyzing the hazards associated with hospital operating rooms to clarify the classification type (i.e., wet location versus dry location) of their electrical environments.

Dr. Melissa Chernovsky performs independent consequence assessments for LNG facilities by applying CFD and analytical modeling tools to the prediction of vapor dispersion of LNG and other gaseous releases. She also engages in analyses of fire simulation, heat transfer analyses, and full-scale flammability and thermal management testing of various products. Dr. Chernovsky has performed fire protection research, studying microgravity flames, smoldering signatures of polyurethane foam, smoke alarm performance and evaluation of exhaust duct clearances.