Innovation is one of the defining features of the new Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Located at the airport's west end, the $13.5 milllion facility provides leading-edge education and intensive training for emergency and crisis situations, and operates in partnerships with other airports and some of the colleges in the Toronto area. The project is a LEED Silver Candidate and will enable the Greater Toronto Airport Authority (GTAA) to realize significant benefits, including the reduced consumption of traditional fossil fuels, lower water usage, and a healthier indoor environment.
A SolarWall® metal wall system is one of the prominent visual components of the fire training facility. The black metal paneling was incorporated into the front façade of the building, and features a doubled-angled design. The perforated solar cladding is approximately 240 square meters (2,600 sq. ft.) and delivers between 3,800-6,800 cfm (6,460 – 11,560 m3/h) of pre-heated ventilation air. An additional 250 square meters (2,700 sq. ft.) of non-perforated metal cladding was installed on the wall directly behind the SolarWall system to match the front wall. The SolarWall system contributed to the LEED points under the categories EAc1 (Energy Efficiency) and MRc4 (Recycled Content).
The project also has in-slab air distribution systems to reduce peak energy use by using the concrete structure to store excess building heat; a green roof for improved temperature control in all seasons; and waterless urinals and tankless water heaters to help reduce water consumption.
As a result of it’s innovative, unique, and eye-catching design, combined with a variety of sustainable features, the GTAA fire training facility has already received much recognition. The building has won two awards from the Canadian Institute for Steel Construction, and was awarded the 2007 Solar Thermal Project of the Year Award by the Canadian Solar Industries Association. The project was designed by Kleinfeldt Mychajlowycz Architects of Toronto.