Innovative Building Management Solutions: A Decade of Partnership with St. George's University
At T.M. Bier & Associates (TMBA), we pride ourselves on delivering cutting-edge building management system (BMS) solutions. Our ongoing project with St. George's University (SGU) in Grenada stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation. In this case study, we explore over a decade of collaboration, highlighting the challenges, solutions, and successes we've achieved together.
About St. George's University
St. George's University, located in the picturesque island nation of Grenada, is renowned for its world-class educational offerings, particularly in medicine and veterinary science. Founded in 1976, SGU has grown to become a global center for academic excellence, attracting students and faculty from around the world. The university's state-of-the-art campus, nestled in the heart of Grenada's vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, provides an ideal backdrop for its diverse and dynamic community. SGU's commitment to innovative research, international collaboration, and a holistic approach to education makes it a leader in shaping global medical and veterinary professionals.
A Partnership Forged in Long Island
TMBA’s relationship with SGU began more than 10 years ago, when our mechanical affiliate, Quinn + Feiner, was able to solve some complex technical issues at the University Support Services (USS) facility in Great River, NY. QFS continues to provide HVAC service and support for USS Great River.
After an initial site wide audit on campus in Grenada, TMBA issued an extensive report detailing steps to improve maintenance + control while lowering all energy cost. This report was a phased upgrade approach which continues today.
TMBA has been instrumental in designing, installing, and maintaining an integrated BMS for the university. Our approach has always been hands-on, with our software + installation teams visiting the campus two to three times a year, ensuring all on-site work aligns with the university’s academic calendar. We also provide remote technical support 24/7.
A Centralized Approach to Building Management
One of the key features of our BMS is its centralized control panel, accessible remotely from any location. This system offers precise control over air handlers, crucial for maintaining comfortable temperatures and humidity levels in lecture halls, labs, and public spaces. In a climate like Grenada's, where high temperatures and humidity are common, this control is vital for creating an optimal learning environment.
Advanced Climate Control in Laboratories
In SGU’s various laboratories, maintaining specific climate conditions is critical. Our BMS plays a crucial role in monitoring air toxicity and controlling ventilation to ensure a safe and healthy environment for students and staff. This system is essential for preserving lab resources and ensuring the integrity of experiments and research.
Energy Metering and Efficiency
Another significant aspect of our BMS is energy metering. SGU can monitor energy usage across buildings and large equipment, allowing them to verify utility bills and identify areas of wasteful or costly energy usage. This is particularly challenging in Grenada, where the power grid's inconsistency can lead to voltage fluctuations, affecting sensitive IT and lab equipment. Our BMS provides immediate notifications when voltage goes out of the specified range, enabling timely interventions to prevent damage.
Water and Lighting Management
Our BMS also oversees the water systems, including a desalination plant, ensuring efficient monitoring of drinking water tanks. The lighting system is similarly managed, with sensors and custom settings like “presentation mode” in lecture halls, enhancing energy savings. Notably, fire alarms operate on a separate system, ensuring safety protocols are always prioritized.
Proactive Equipment Management
SGU leverages the centralized data from our BMS to make informed decisions about equipment upgrades, temperature adjustments, and more. This proactive approach to maintenance means issues are detected and addressed quickly, reducing downtime and improving response times for part replacements.
Expanding Integration and Ongoing Support
Over the years, our project has expanded to integrate more of SGU's campus equipment and buildings. This process begins with an on-site survey, followed by design and collaboration with local engineers and electricians in Grenada. Our ability to work both remotely and through regular on-site visits has been crucial to the project's success.
We also provide ongoing support through a 24/7 help desk, ensuring any issues are promptly addressed, whether remotely or during our scheduled visits.
Conclusion
Our enduring partnership with St. George's University is a source of pride for TMBA. It exemplifies our commitment to delivering top-tier building management solutions and adapting to our clients' evolving needs. We look forward to continuing this fruitful collaboration for many years to come.
About TMBA
T.M. Bier & Associates is a leader in providing innovative building management solutions. With a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, we are committed to delivering customized solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. Learn more about our services and success stories at TMBA.com.
