Chicago Construction News staff writer
Chicago city council has approved rules requiring new construction of senior facilities and larger residential buildings to include permanent air conditioning.
Under the new rules, when the heat index climbs above 80 degrees, buildings will be required to run air conditioning systems.
Existing housing for older people will be allowed to use portable cooling and dehumidification units until May 2024, when they will be required to have permanent equipment installed.
The amendment to the city’s municipal code covers all facilities where elderly residents live and large residential buildings with more than 100 units.
Councillors say requirements will help keep vulnerable residents safer as the city continues to see the impact of climate change.
Changes were inspired by a tragic incident where three Chicago women died in their apartments during a heat wave in May. A city ordinance barred turning on the air conditioning before June 1.
New cooling requirements approved for seniors facilities
Chicago Construction News staff writer
Chicago city council has approved rules requiring new construction of senior facilities and larger residential buildings to include permanent air conditioning.
Under the new rules, when the heat index climbs above 80 degrees, buildings will be required to run air conditioning systems.
Existing housing for older people will be allowed to use portable cooling and dehumidification units until May 2024, when they will be required to have permanent equipment installed.
The amendment to the city’s municipal code covers all facilities where elderly residents live and large residential buildings with more than 100 units.
Councillors say requirements will help keep vulnerable residents safer as the city continues to see the impact of climate change.
Changes were inspired by a tragic incident where three Chicago women died in their apartments during a heat wave in May. A city ordinance barred turning on the air conditioning before June 1.
