Health, Safety, and Welfare

All courses identified as HSW, cover Health, Safety, and Welfare topics and have been approved by the AIA (American Institute of Architects) as an HSW Learning Unit (LU/HSW).

Displaying 1 - 25 of 593 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Flexible work scheduling, telework, virtual work, and the high cost of office space are some of the drivers of the 21st century workspace. This open, flexible, adaptable, and casual space must still serve not only the technological needs of its users, but also the accessibility needs of a diverse population. This course examines the technical requirements for providing accessibility, universal design, and ergonomics in an open office space and looks at a variety of solutions in the functional areas of the office: open office areas, the workspace, and collaboration areas.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Undesirable acoustics in educational spaces have long been considered averse to our goals to effectively teach, create, collaborate, listen, and learn. Now, in the wake of implementing pandemic protocols, our acoustic comfort in these spaces is greatly challenged. This course examines the impacts of poor soundscapes in educational facilities and introduces innovative solutions for improving acoustics in these areas while keeping us comfortable and safe from exposure to emerging viruses.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    High-performance, fully composite insulated wall panels deliver all the benefits of factory precasting with load-bearing and energy efficiency performance from the lightest, thinnest panels possible. This course describes the makeup and cost efficiencies of composite precast panels, their benefits when made with carbon fiber grid shear trusses, and considerations for selecting among the insulation options. The majority of the course focuses on case studies of successful precast enclosure projects in a wide variety of building types across a range of markets.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Properly designed and installed rainscreen systems help optimize building envelope performance. This course reviews rainscreen system types, testing, and components, with special attention given to attachment plane considerations that ensure durability and thermal efficiency. Also reviewed are the potential contributions of rainscreen systems to the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2. The wide array of metal panel design options presented here demonstrates the potential to create unique and striking aesthetics across a range of applications.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Energy codes at the federal, state, and local levels increasingly focus on reducing energy consumption, saving consumers money, and reducing CO2 emissions. Whether new or recently updated, energy codes play an essential role in the buildings we design, build, and ultimately live, work, and play in. This course examines the lighting requirements and provisions of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2019 and the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code ® , with a focus on plug and lighting control strategies for energy efficiency.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Composite roofing materials have been available for over a decade, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional slate and shake roofing systems. In this course, design professionals can thoroughly explore the sustainable and versatile characteristics of composite roofing solutions. Also discussed are the benefits of composite roofing systems, such as their long life cycle, durability, and adaptability for various applications and environments.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course explores how multifunction tap systems combine a selection of filtered boiling, chilled, and sparkling water within a single, energy-efficient fixture. Learners will examine how this innovative solution supports healthier, more sustainable living and working environments and review real-world commercial and residential applications, highlighting the tap’s aesthetic versatility and impact in modern, design-conscious settings. 

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architects and other design professionals have a critical role to play in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions through building design and product selection. The urgent need to reduce both operational and embodied carbon means that building designers must be familiar with transparency documents that facilitate low-carbon product selection. In this course, we review the types of carbon of concern, transparency documents that provide critical information, and tools for sourcing embodied carbon information. We also look at the contribution of insulated metal panels to both low embodied and low operational carbon buildings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Rainscreens are a multicomponent system offering redundancy in resisting the weather; however, continuity of each component is critical. When an insulated metal panel (IMP) is used within the system, it can function as a number of these components, simplifying installation and improving performance. This course looks at IMPs acting as barrier walls behind various rainscreen systems, with a discussion on the performance characteristics for air, water, vapor, and thermal management.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Throughout history, concrete mixes and carved natural stone have combined to create substance, beauty, and longevity in our architecture. Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) was created to ensure that the attributes of concrete and stone continue to be enjoyed but with efficiency in the application that is expected in today's world of design. This course covers the creation of GFRC, its components, fabrication, applications, and design capabilities. It compares GFRC to other types of architectural concrete and presents GFRC performance and sustainable design advantages.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    An expansion joint is a structural gap designed to accommodate the movement of a building in a controlled manner, preventing damage to the building’s internal and external finishes. Expansion joints run throughout a building in walls, ceilings, and floors. Expansion joint covers provide a covered transition across an expansion opening and remain unaffected by the relative movement of the two surfaces either side of the joint. This course explains how to determine joint movement requirements and how to size a joint. It also discusses the performance of different expansion joint cover systems and the applicable fire protection and building codes.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In today’s digitally interconnected world, data centers play an essential role in society and the global economy. Data centers have unique design needs to ensure security, reliability, efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. This course focuses on the exterior data center design requirements and examines how fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) products contribute to more efficient facility construction, seamless maintenance, and long-term operational savings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Advancements in composite decking technology are transforming the way outdoor spaces are designed and built, particularly in multifamily settings where effective water management is critical. This course introduces mineral-based composite decking systems and their role in eliminating the need for secondary membranes. Learners will explore how these all-in-one solutions streamline installation, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and help prevent common issues such as mold, decay, and water intrusion. The course also highlights how well-designed outdoor amenities can foster social connection, support resident well-being, and enhance the value of shared spaces.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Humidity affects numerous industries, potentially leading to building damage and health problems. Mechanical dehumidifiers play a critical role in controlling humidity across different environments, ensuring comfort and safety while preventing any humidity or condensation issues that interfere with daily business. In this course, we provide insight into the principles of psychrometrics, enabling participants to understand the properties of air and water vapor mixtures significant to moisture control. We explore the operation of mechanical (vapor compression) dehumidifiers, their performance parameters and limitations, and installation configurations. Finally, we examine some examples of beneficial applications.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course examines bamboo as a sustainable construction material by focusing on its properties, environmental advantages, and innovative applications. Participants will explore responsible sourcing, manufacturing practices, and key certifications. The course also covers advanced products such as thermally modified and high-density bamboo. Professionals will gain the knowledge required to integrate bamboo into projects that align with performance and sustainability standards.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Often the largest access point in a building, sectional door systems play a significant role in controlling energy costs and supporting sustainable design in residential and commercial buildings. This course explores the specification considerations and the different types of sectional garage doors, as well as their role in enhancing the thermal performance of homes and commercial buildings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Ensuring a building’s roof is waterproof, on top of being structurally sound, is critical to the success of any building project. This course examines rapid curing, polymeric liquid-applied waterproofing membranes for roofing and other demanding applications. Discussions include the history of PMMA, PMMA system components and characteristics, the installation process, and the versatility of PMMA products.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Outdoor living space has become an important residential design consideration in the last several years. Decks create welcoming spaces to relax and entertain with family and friends, and a well-built deck can add more living space and value to a home. This course discusses deck surfaces, maintenance, and costs and explores porcelain tile as an alternative to wood and composite deck surfaces that is well suited to exterior environments. Also discussed is how porcelain tile can be used with a new pultruded fiberglass and composite underlayment, called structural ribbed self-supporting boards, and the sustainable features of this technology.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The availability of parking and the time it takes to park a vehicle are major challenges when designing a new development. Parking garages typically require big volumes and are not efficient with land use. Automated parking can practically reduce parking space, while providing the same (sometimes more) number of parking stalls as a conventional garage. It also improves the user experience, providing a valet parking experience, just without the valet.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Foam plastic insulation materials, such as spray foam and rigid foam board, gained popularity after the 1970s oil crisis as energy‑efficiency solutions. While energy efficiency remains central to building codes, expectations now also include reducing carbon emissions to support building decarbonization. This course examines the embodied carbon of insulation materials and their role in reducing operational energy use, enhancing building resilience, improving community well-being, and supporting sustainable, resource‑efficient design.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Designing to accommodate thermal movement is just one of the many critical details for the long-term success of a metal roof installation. This course covers the design and specification considerations and architectural details that impact project requirements, as well as the components and the energy-efficient features of metal roofing assemblies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    With the global rise in natural disasters and the increasing need for sustainable environments, resiliency has become a necessity in the design and building industries. This course provides an overview of resilient design, how it relates to building codes and standards, and the role it plays in ensuring the safety and sustainability of the built environment. It examines the role masonry construction plays in meeting resilient design goals and the inherent properties of masonry that make it resilient and provides examples and case studies of resilient design strategies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Inclusive design is a win-win for customers and businesses. It shows the business supports the assumption that public spaces should be functional for all users no matter their age, health, or abilities. The commitment to inclusivity encompasses promoting and respecting everyone’s right to choose a washroom. This course explores the benefits of inclusive spaces and discusses the sustainable, hygienic, functional, and distinctive design and material options for inclusive public bathrooms.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    The US has the highest incarceration rate in the world, and with recidivism rates as high as 75% within five years, the prospects for released inmates are dim. There is no simple solution to these issues, but one approach is to focus on rehabilitation to help inmates reintegrate successfully into society upon release. This course looks at the role evidence-based building design can play in a rehabilitative environment that promotes healing, autonomy, and growth. Design strategies are presented with a focus on ADA-compliant, ligature-resistant plumbing products and water management systems that support a clean, safe, secure, rehabilitative environment.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Water is vital for life. As we move out of the pandemic, consumers are becoming more aware of their health and are taking steps to maintain healthy, active lifestyles, including drinking pure, clean water. This course explores the importance of staying hydrated and explains how dehydration can negatively affect health and wellness. The course also examines some of the most common contaminants in drinking water and the potential health effects of ingesting such water. Gain insight into how consumer lifestyle trends drive the need for healthier and more sustainable water in the kitchen and beyond and discover how consumers can meet these needs. Finally, learn about some of the newest water filtration systems available for cleaner, healthier, sustainable drinking water in the home.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 593 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST