NASA-Ames Research Center Biosciences Laboratory

The 2020 opening of NASA’s new Biosciences Collaborative Laboratory marked the end of a five-year design and construction process. 3QC’s primary goal was to validate Owner’s Project Requirements and LEED goals to ensure they were included in the design documentation, measurable throughout construction, and achieved project completion. We verified systems functionality, including enclosure systems troubleshooting challenges, and provided solutions to the contractor along the way. Prior to occupancy, 3QC verified training and building transfer to NASA’s staff to ensure proper systems operation and assisted in facilitating expedited final acceptance.

The new, 2-story laboratory supports four distinct research programs for NASA Ames’ Space Biosciences missions and includes BSL 1, 2 and 3 labs along with office space and conference rooms. The complexity of lab equipment required more sophisticated MEP systems. For example, mechanical systems provide directional air flow into lab spaces and exhaust to the exterior of the building without recirculation requiring the BMS to constantly adapt to maintain negative pressurization to achieve proper air circulation.

During TAB verification, 3QC identified incomplete BMS controls that impacted various air handling units, exhaust fans, and fume hoods. Working with the contractor to debug issues, we made adjustments to achieve proper pressurization—imperative for the health and safety of the lab and building occupants and enabling the Owner to achieve energy efficiency goals. 3QC also helped the contractor modify alarm sequencing to help the building operator maintain the systems after occupancy. During water testing of the enclosure systems, we helped identify water leakage and assisted the contractor with corresponding construction detail solutions to protect the facility from weather and prevent impact to the indoor air quality.

3QC’s Enhanced Commissioning provided credits towards the achievement of LEED Gold and our troubleshooting in collaboration with the contractor provided solutions to resolve system malfunctions, thus enabling this laboratory building to be delivered to NASA as expected.