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The Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) provides knowledge which supports the design of healthy environments by creating education and networking opportunities for members of – and those touched by – the health care architectural profession.

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You can contribute information to the AIA COVID-19 project database, and view all submitted projects. Visit the Alternative Care Sites preparedness site to learn important areas to evaluate when selecting ACSs for the care and treatment of COVID-19 or surge capacity patients.

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  • 1.  monolithic flooring

    Posted 09-21-2020 10:30 AM
    Good morning,

    I wonder if anyone has experience with an Authority Having Jurisdiction considering, or not considering, a ceramic tile floor and base "monolithic"?

    No need to point out the physical reality of ceramic tile with grout joints; just looking for facilities being cited by an AHJ.

    Best regards, Heather

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    Heather Graham Lewis AIA

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  • 2.  RE: monolithic flooring

    Posted 09-22-2020 05:44 PM
    Monolithic flooring is not a requirement per the 2012 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code nor is it per the 2018 IBC.

    This term "monolithic" is included per the "Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities" which can be a healthcare licensure requirement per individual states' Department of Health (see State-adoption-fgi-guidelines). The Guidelines include "monolithic" flooring in 2.1 Common Elements for Hospitals, 3.1 Common Elements for Outpatient Facilities, and 3.7 Specific requirements for Outpatient Surgical Facilities. The term "monolithic" as it pertains to flooring is not defined nor are any prescribed performance requirements (e.g. infectious control) included in the Guidelines.

    Healthcare licensure requirements per individual states' Department of Health may include verbiage referencing "monolithic flooring". In this case, the AHJ would be the one to explain their interpretation of their rule. Most AHJs will consult with the facility's infectious control personnel in cases where the Codes and/or the Guidelines are not explicit in requirements such as this.

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    Todd Wyatt AIA
    Senior Project Manager
    Valhalla Engineering Group
    Lakewood CO
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