Bernhard’s Asset Management Team Successfully Navigates Multiple Extreme Weather Events in 2024

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New Orleans faced unprecedented weather challenges with a hard freeze, causing freezing temperatures that the Gulf South rarely experienced in January 2024. The extreme weather tested the resilience of facilities and residents in the region. The intense temperature also caused a critical water main to break in Jefferson Parish, which sits just outside of New Orleans. The water main rupture devastated the area, rendering water unsafe for more than 250,000 residents and surrounding businesses. Bernhard, renowned for its expertise in comprehensive energy asset management, played a crucial role in responding to the hard freeze and later, the broken water pipe in Jefferson Parish.

These two separate events showcased Bernhard’s versatility in Disaster Response services.

Bernhard’s Asset Management services focus on the operation and management of energy assets. The in-house team of experts collaboratively delivers services such as operations and maintenance, emergency and disaster response, and capital planning.

Bernhard’s approach emphasizes flexibility, scalability, and long-term sustainability in managing energy assets through the lifecycle of projects.

Maintaining Facility Operations in the Freeze

During the hard freeze, Bernhard’s Asset Management team executed a well-defined Freeze Protection Plan. The proactive measures undertaken by the teams at multiple customer locations throughout the region demonstrated a commitment to safeguarding clients and facilities with world-class disaster response:

  1. Pre-Freeze Preparation (72 – 48 hours prior):
    • Teams coordinated staffing levels with facilities leadership.
    • Reviewed the Freeze Protection Plan across all sites.
    • Took inventory of pipe insulation materials and ordered necessary supplies.
  2. Implementation of Freeze Protection Plan (12 – 48 hours prior):
    • Actuated dampers manually and ensured responsiveness.
    • Dripped hose bibs to prevent freezing.
    • Inspected and secured Central Plant roofs.
    • Opened bypass valves on cooling towers and adjusted pre-heat coil settings.
    • Assisted in draining wet-pipe sprinkler systems.
    • Conducted scheduled inspections during freezing conditions.
    • Documented changes in the engineer’s logbook.
  3. Post-Freeze Actions:
    • Performed visual inspection on major equipment.
    • Closed hose-bib valves and released operator overrides.
    • Winterized cooling towers, added protective covers to piping, and raised heating water settings.
    • Conducted constant rounds to maintain water flow and checked pump operations.

During the inclement winter weather and freezing temperatures, no Bernhard assets or units suffered critical harm. The cold weather and freeze event was a national effort by Bernhard’s asset management team across all sites.

When it Rains it Pours

In the wake of a critical water main break in Jefferson Parish, Bernhard’s experts displayed swift and effective coordination:

  1. Water Delivery Coordination:
    • Coordinated with Macro Companies for suitable staging areas for water delivery tanker trucks.
    • Utilized 6,500-gallon water delivery tanker trucks for approximately 12 hours of continuous service.
  2. Immediate Response:
    • Delivered cases of water and ice to all nurses’ stations.
    • Notified personnel and patients of the boil water advisory.
    • Turned off ice machines.
  3. Logistical Support:
    • Delivered 10 potable water trucks within hours.
    • Provided a utility truck with flex pipes and a pump for water distribution.
    • Ensured a readily available service team for water truck hookup.
  4. Efficient Operations:
    • Swapped water trucks within 10 minutes of depletion to maintain a constant water supply.
    • Flushed toilets after every swap to remove air from the water lines.

A Trusted Partner to Navigate Your Facility Through Disasters

Bernhard’s Asset Management team showcased their resilience and adaptability in responding to two unique disaster scenarios for their customers. The proactive measures, adherence to standard operating procedures, and effective collaboration with external partners ensured the protection of clients and facilities. The successful navigation of these events reinforces Bernhard’s commitment to providing long-term solutions, disaster response, and comprehensive asset management services.

Revitalizing the Heart of Little Rock: Bernhard Providing Engineering Services in Central Arkansas Library System Overhaul

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In a ceremonial wall-breaking event, the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) marked the beginning of a transformative journey for its Main Library, a project that will see a comprehensive overhaul of the iconic downtown structure. Bernhard is at the forefront of this project and has shared a 20-year history with the library since its initial conversion from a downtown warehouse. Bernhard, having originally worked on the building, brings a unique understanding and appreciation for the library’s historical significance.

Bernhard’s multifaceted role encompasses mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and structural engineering, reflecting the company’s commitment to a holistic and integrated approach to the renovation. The project aims to modernize the library, fostering increased community involvement and engagement.

The $25-million renovation project, spanning 160,000 square feet and five stories, is a collaborative effort between three local architecture firms – Polk Stanely Wilcox, WER Architects, and Stocks-Mann Architects – who joined forces with Bernhard.

One of the central features of the renovation is the relocation of the children’s library, accompanied by a substantial 72% increase in space dedicated to children’s literature. The move to the first floor allows for seamless integration with an adjacent garden area, creating a vibrant and inviting space for young readers.

Notably, the renovated library will introduce innovative additions such as a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen, a TV production studio, a Makers Lab, and over 100 meeting spaces, emphasizing the library’s evolving role as a community hub. The fifth floor will showcase an underfloor HVAC system, optimizing efficiency and creating a comfortable environment for patrons.

The ground floor is set to welcome Boulevard Bread Company, providing a local eatery for downtown residents and visitors. Unique challenges arose during the engineering process, particularly in the design of the ceiling panels engraved with poems. Lighting, sprinkler placement, and air distribution were meticulously coordinated to enhance the aesthetic while complying with safety codes.

During the wall-breaking event, attendees were shown final renderings that unveiled the library’s future look. The exterior will retain much of its historic charm, with the addition of windows, a glass vestibule stairwell, an extra entrance for the library cafe, and rooftop access.

Exciting details revealed include a dedicated TV studio available for use and a demonstration kitchen on the fifth floor, emphasizing CALS’s commitment to providing diverse resources for the community. As the project progresses, Bernhard and its collaborators are set to breathe new life into the heart of Little Rock, ensuring the Central Arkansas Library System remains a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for generations to come.

Southeast Arkansas College and Bernhard Illuminate a Sustainable Future at “Flip the Switch” Event

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Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) and Bernhard joined forces in a groundbreaking “Flip the Switch” Event on Thursday, February 7th, 2024, unveiling a cutting-edge Solar Array and energy efficiency upgrades at SEARK’s Welcome Center in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial activation of SEARK’s new solar array, a pivotal component of the institution’s forward-thinking energy plan. Attended by local community members, students, faculty, and media representatives, the event marked a milestone in SEARK’s ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and resilient campus environment.

“We are genuinely excited to share this moment with SEARK, featuring a new solar array that marks a significant leap towards a greener and more efficient future,” said Corey Wilson, Bernhard’s Vice President of Performance. “Bernhard takes pride in the collaboration with SEARK to implement these comprehensive upgrades, including the integration of LED lighting and advanced building automation systems. This initiative signifies SEARK’s vision of fostering a sustainable environment for both students and the broader community.”

The transformative project, made possible in part by a bond issued in 2022, is a significant leap toward modernizing SEARK’s energy infrastructure. As part of SEARK’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency, the plan is expected to generate millions of dollars in energy savings, operation and maintenance savings, and capital savings over the next two decades.

Key components of the project include upgrading the Chilled Water System, replacing pumps at Founder’s Hall and McGeorge, and enhancing air handling units. These initiatives are projected to result in $2,940,816 in Energy Savings and $427,670 in Operation and Maintenance Savings over a 20-year term.

Further enhancements encompass upgrading heating water systems, improving indoor air quality, and implementing advanced security measures campus-wide. These measures are anticipated to result in $8,971,152 in avoided capital savings over a 20-year term.

“This innovative solar array and the comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades are integral to our commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness,” said SEARK President Dr. Steven Bloomberg. “It not only propels SEARK towards a greener future but also brings our outdated systems up to date for the foreseeable future. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our energy consumption and overall campus sustainability.”