The SWKI VA103-01:2017 guidelines provide essential strategies for designing and implementing ventilation systems in medium and large parking garages. Published by the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA), this standard aims to ensure compliance with air quality regulations, particularly concerning CO and NO/NO2 concentrations, while also focusing on energy efficiency.

Purpose and objectives

The primary objective of the SWKI VA103-01:2017 guidelines is to establish a framework for the effective design and operation of ventilation systems in parking garages. These guidelines are intended to improve air quality by controlling harmful emissions, particularly carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2). Additionally, they emphasize energy efficiency, promoting the use of both natural and mechanical ventilation systems to minimize energy consumption while maintaining safety and comfort for users. By adhering to these guidelines, stakeholders can enhance public health and safety within parking facilities.

Scope: who must comply

The SWKI VA103-01:2017 guidelines apply to a range of stakeholders involved in the construction, operation, and maintenance of parking garages. These include:

• Architects and Engineers: Responsible for designing and implementing the ventilation systems.
• Facility Managers: Overseeing the daily operations and ensuring compliance with ventilation standards.
• Regulatory Authorities: Enforcing air quality regulations and standards in public and private parking facilities.
  This standard is particularly relevant to medium and large parking garages in urban environments, where air quality concerns are paramount.

How SWKI VA103-01:2017 relates to other standards

The SWKI VA103-01:2017 guidelines complement various standards in the field of ventilation and air quality, including:

• SWKI 96-1: Provides fundamental principles for ventilation in buildings, including parking garages.
• SIA publications: Offer additional technical standards and best practices related to building services engineering.
• SNV publications: Address national standards for air quality and environmental safety that impact ventilation design.

Revision history and current status

The SWKI VA103-01:2017 was published by the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA) and represents the latest revision at the time of this writing. This version reflects updated research and practices in ventilation technology, focusing on enhanced energy efficiency and stricter compliance with CO and NO/NO2 concentration limits. The revision includes clarified requirements for measurement and control systems, as well as guidelines for fire safety and smoke extraction.