Wydział Inżynierii Środowiska, Politechnika Wrocławska
Ciepłownictwo Ogrzewnictwo Wentylacja, 2026 (3), 15-24, DOI: https://doi.org/10.65545/COW.2026.03.02
Keywords: HVAC, diagnostic imaging facilities, nuclear medicine, quench, MRI examination rooms
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyse the complex determinants involved in the design of HVAC systems for diagnostic imaging and nuclear medicine facilities. The paper presents an assessment of the current legal and technical framework in Poland, including the provisions of the Atomic Law and the relevant regulations of the Minister of Health. Due to the absence of detailed national technical guidelines for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems in these areas, a comparative analysis of international standards was undertaken, including the German standard (DIN 1946-4), the American standard (ASHRAE 170), the Swiss guideline (SWKI VA105-01), and the French standard (NF S90-351), as well as relevant Polish industry guidelines. The analysis demonstrated that Polish regulations define radiological safety requirements but do not specify explicit technical HVAC parameters, such as air change rates or filtration classes. It is emphasised that the diagnostic room constitutes an integral technological component of the medical equipment, and that HVAC systems are critical to its operational reliability. The design of such spaces requires an integrated approach combining engineering expertise with an understanding of medical process physics and statutory requirements. Considering the gaps in national regulations, reliance on international standards and equipment manufacturers’ guidelines is essential.
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