LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, formulated by the
This post is my master list of notes for study. I am constantly editing, so missing information is being updated until i cover the material enough to schedule the exam and then go over all of this stuff for a weekend. Finding a free weekend is challenging but WILL be done.
United States Green Building Council (USGBC), formed in 1993 to develop consensus based green building standards for the entire construction industry.
Buildings consume 30% of all energy produced in the
Green building practice adds value to buildings and real estate will providing pleasant space for building occupants which help increase productivity and reduce absenteeism.
After formation of USGBC, it was clear that a standard for green building was needed. After a year of research a committee was formed with architects, lawyers, real estate, environmentalists, etc. The LEED pilot, version 1.0 was released in 1998 and version 2.0 by 2000, which became
Currently there are several other paths-
LEED-EB covers existing buildings.
LEED-H is for homes.
LEED-ND for neighborhood development
LEED-CI for commercial interiors
LEED- CS for core and shell
Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Environmental Quality and Innovation in Design.
LEED is meant to use accepted standards and strike a balance between these practices and other emerging technologies. It is performance based and meant to address issues inherently in the building process. LEED will evolve with emerging technologies, so projects submitted for certification must comply with the most up to date version.
The intent of
To begin the LEED process, it is important to register with www.usgbc.org to get the intent established and set up communications on the project.
The Credit Interpretive Ruling may be an important step if the information on a point does not clearly address the project at hand.
First check the website for previous CIR because it may have the issue already documented. These may not be applicable based on the current version of LEED.
Next if the CIR has not been dealt with previously, submit an online request for a CIR. Be brief but explicit, address the credit and propose solutions.
The ruling will be posted or sent by email.
Once registered, begin compiling the necessary info, submittal templates, appoint a person to manage the process.
Two phase submittals are now available, which allow the registrant to submit design credits prior to construction. The project will receive notification that the project will achieve those credits if they are built as designed (anticipated or denied). The real LEED certification happens after the construction credits are reviewed and design credits are verified or given revisions to the USGBC. All fees are due prior to final certification.
Fees
Appeals may be submitted after the design phase and construction phase.
The point system:
26-32 points is minimum for certification
33-38 is silver
39- 51 gold
52 -69 platinum
Credit 1; Sustainable Sites has 1 prerequisite, 8 credits and 14 possible points. There are also several points available for exemplary credit.
Prereq: Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Reference- Storm Water Management for Construction Activities (EPA)
This is for construction activities and is meant to prevent pollution for the construction site as well as erosion. It involves dust particles as well as site pollutants, sedimentation of natural waterways and loss of soil at the construction site.
The requirement is that the site have a Storm Water Management Plan for Construction Activities. EPA provides the guidelines for this in the Construction General Permit. Some of the elements of this type of management are silt fences, sediment traps/ basins, seeding/ mulching. The purpose is to prevent silting of natural drainage streams and windborne dust around the site. Also prevents the loss of existing topsoil that would require replacement.
This is a construction submittal, for submittal; the drawings pertaining to the prerequisite are required; confirmation of compliance with local or EPA and a narrative on how the prerequisite is achieved.
Credit 1 Site Selection
This point is meant to protect
References:
US Dept of
FEMA Base Flood Elevations
Endangered Species
US Definition of
Design submittal, provide confirmation in writing on the site selected.
Credit 2 Development Density/ Community Connectivity- this is obviously a sprawl busting credit aimed to encourage development in and around existing development.
2.1 Development Density
Use a site that maintains 60,000 sq. ft/ acre. Measure the building square foot and take the square root, then divide by 3. All sites in that radius should also be 60,000/ acre.
To get the credit you must provide the calculations of the building, the site as well as other sites in your radius. Provide a map with sketches and drawings describing how your project achieves the point. Submit as "design", with submittal templates.
2.2 Community Connectivity
Use a site that has access to 10 basic amenities in a 2.5 mile radius to encourage pedestrian friendliness. These amenities are items like theatres, fitness, post office, grocery and other day to day items. Or the project should be within 2.5 miles from a residential area with 10 units per acre.
Once again "design" submit a map with sketches, etc. to describe how the project gains the credit. Also to be submitted using LEED submittal template.
3 Brownfield Redevelopment- This encourages the cleanup and reuse of existing contaminated sites. One of the standards invoves the federal "superfund" sites acronym CERCLA, or Comprehensive, Environmental Response, Compensation Liability Act is a reference standard. Another one is Office of EPA Solid Waste and Emergency Response.
Provide the confirmation that the site is a brownfield and a narrative on how your project will clean up. Whether it be on site (in situ) or disposal (ex situ). "Design" submittal.
Reference:
ASTM 1903 97 Phase II Environmental Site Assessment of Contaminated Sites
EPA Brownfields Definition
Local definition of Brownfield
Credit 4: Alternative Transportation, this credit is meant to encourage the use of alternate means of transportation that cause less pollution and need for infrastructure and fuel.
4.1 Public Transportation
Locate site within 1/2 mile of a major rail line or 1/4 mile from 2 bus lines. Pedestrian access from the transit stop to the project must be available.
Provide a map drawing showing the site and access to the transit stop, list the stops and distance from the site. This is submitted as a "design submittal", using submittal templates.
Exemplary credit available for instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan.
4.2 Bicycle Storage and changing rooms- encourage biking to work to avoid using fuel and carbon usage plus pollution that goes with them.
For 5% of total building occupants, provide bike storage, showering and changing facilities. Or use the full time equivalent method and provide the facilities for .5% of this number. In the case of residential, provide an enclosed bike storage for 15% of all occupants.
"Design" submit occupancy and FTE/ transient calculations, along with drawings showing the facilities to be provided. utilize the submittal templates.
Exemplary credit available for instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan that demonstrates an impact.
4.3 Alternative Fuel Vehicles- encourage the use of AFV to support innovation which reduces fossil fuel usage.
Provide vehicles for 3% of FTE or 5% of the total parking, that qualify as alternative fuel. Provide preferred parking for these vehicles. Or provide alternative type fueling stations for 3% of the total parking.
Provide "design" calculations and plan showing parking locations, etc. Provide the project FTE and the total parking. Confirm the number of spaces as preferred. Confirm the alternative fuel vehicles with make/ model/ manufacturer. Confirm each vehicle as zero emission or ACEEE score (American Council for and Energy Efficient Economy). For fueling station credit, show drawings of the fueling stations, confirm the number of vehicles that can be filled in an 8 hour period.
Exemplary credit available for instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan.
4.4 Parking- encourage use of public or alternate transportation, which reduces pollution, fuel usage, infrastructure.
Do not exceed parking requirements of local zoning code. Provide preferred parking to carpoollers for 5% the total parking spaces in the lot. If the facility only provides parking for less than 5% of the building FTE, then provide preferred parking to carpoolers for 5% of the spaces available.
For residential, provide infrastructure for ridesharing.
Or simply provide no new parking.
For "design" submission with submittal templates, provide occupancy calcs (FTE), total number of spaces on the site and confirm the compliance path taken. Typically provide the parking required by zoning ordinance and the number of carpool/ rideshare spaces available. Provide a description of programs offered and infrastructure available for rideshare.
Exemplary credit available for instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan or use of multiple approaches that lessen the use of vehicles.
5 Site Development
5.1 Restoration/ Protection of Habitat
Protect existing habitat:
40' from building
15' from street or utility main
10' from a walkway
25' from constructed pervious surface
Or protect a minimum site area of 50% with native plants/ vegetation.
Construction submittal submittal template with site area, bldg footprint area, narrative describing the approach to achieving this credit.
For
For previously developed sites, provide the area of the site that is being restored with native planting with the landscape plan.
5.2 Maximize Open Space
Exceed zoning requirements by 25%.
For sites without zoning, leave open 50% of site, including footprint.
Hardscapes allowed if 25% is vegetated. Vegetated green roof can be included. Sloping soil areas max 1:4.
Exemplary credit by doubling the required amount of open space.
"Design submission to include the zoning info, the area of the site, footprint area, area "open" shown on drawings, optional narrative. Submittal template.
6 Storm Water Management
6.1 Quantity- For sites with greater than 50% existing imperviousness, reduce quantity of storm water post development by 25%. Use retention, vegetated green roof, native plants, reuse storm water, pervious paving, smaller footprint, clustering.
If existing impervious area is less than 50%, provide stormwater management plan that does not result in a net increase of storm water discharge. This is on a 1 and 2 year 24 hour design storm. or use a system that protects streams from excessive erosion.
For "design" submission with template, calculate predevelopment quantity and rate. Calculate postdevelopment. Or provide a narrative.
6.2 Quality- reduce total suspended solids by 90%
Reference: Guidance Specifying Management Procedures of Non Point Pollution in Coastal Waters
Use Best Management Practices. Alternative surface (green roof) and nonstructural (rain garden, swales) means. Filtration.
For "design" submission with template, provide list of BMP's, list of structural controls, or optional narrative.
Credit 7 Heat Island Effect, absorption of heat through construction materials has damaging effect on habitat.
7.1 Non Roof
High albedo materials, solar reflectance of a minimum of 29. Shade 50% of hardscaping (within 5 years). Use open grid paving.
For construction submittal, provide drawings highlighting materials, areas to be shaded in 5 years and tabulation of materials used and their emittance and solar reflectance. Total site area must be provided. Optional narrative.
Or
Covered parking (50% of total parking). Material covering the parking to meet SRI of 29 or more.
For construction submittal, provide total parking spaces and the number that are covered. Optional narrative.
7.2 Roof
75% High albedo materials, solar reflectance of a minimum of required per given table (which is based on slope). Low slopes must be 78, steep at 29. Or use vegetated green roof on 50% or combine the two per calculation.
Reference Standard:
ASTM E1980-01 Standard Practice for Calculating Solar Reflectance Index of Horizontal and Low Slope Opaque Surfaces
ASTM E408-71 Standard Test Methods For Total
ASTM E903-96 Standard Test Method for Solar Absorptance, Reflectance and Transmittance of Materials Using Integrated Spheres
There are 3 others but keywords are absorptance and reflectance
Exemplary by going 100%.
For "design" submittal provide site drawings highlighting materials. Provide info indicating the roof and materials used in covering structures, finishes. Tabulation of the materials to include info on the emittance and reflectance. Also provide total roof area and total area of green roof if used. Optional narrative.
8 Reduce Light Pollution
Light pollution prevents views to night sky.
Reference- ASHRAE IESNA 90.1, 2004 Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low Rise Residential (Lighting Section)
Prevent interior light from reaching exterior with angle and opaqueness (IESNA). Or all nonemergency lighting to be off automatically during nonbusiness hours.
Exterior to meet condition based on site type (rural to urban density). LZ1 (rural), LZ2 (residential), LZ3 (commercial), LZ4 (city center). Exceed ASHRAE Standards by 80% for exterior areas and 50% for facades and landscaping.
For "design" submittal, provide lighting drawings and information on fixtures. Confirmation on interior treatment, type of site, REQUIRED narrative.
LEED Water Efficiency
For water efficiency, the goal is to reduce water waste and consumption in general. We use 340 billion gallons of fresh water every day, 65% goes into drainage systems. This is an effort to prolong water resources and lessen the problems from drainage. 3 credits, 5 points no prerequisites. They are all "design" submittals.
Credit 1 Landscape Irrigation Reduction, reduce by 50%. Native plants, use of rain water, nonpotable municipal water may contribute to achievement of this point. Also trickle type irrigation can help.
Landscape Irrigation Reduction, reduce by 100%.
Achieve credit 1 and go further. No permanent irrigation system, temporary system must be gone in a year. For credits 1 and 2, a baseline model must be created, with many variables. The amount of potable water needed must be reduced using the practices employed.
For the design submittal, use the submittal template and provide the baseline usage and actual usage. Also the amount of municipal nonpotable water and a narrative on the approach. Exemplary credits are not available.
Credit 2 Innovative Waste Water.
Reduce waste water by 50% with the use of low flow fixtures, waterless urinals, composting toilets. Reuse grey water (laundry or sinks without disposal). Be sure to address codes that deal with these. Option 2 is to treat waste water on site to tertiary standards, meaning highest level of quality for reuse on site or otherwise. Exemplary performance points available for 100% reduction in waste water.
The design submittal must include plumbing drawings, occupant count, fixture counts, water consumption for a baseline case using tables of default flow rates. Design baseline case must use design fixture flow rates and yield the percentage required for the point. If not using potable water for sewerage conveyance, provide the amount available. If treating wastewater, provide the amount treated or infiltrated on an annual basis. A narrative is required on the systems employed.
Credit 3 Increase Water Efficiency
This is the use of occupant sensor devices for faucets or any other water usage. Also requires FTE calculation, baseline case and design case, fixture cuts to compare to.
4.1 20% decrease in water consumption.
4.2 30% decrease.
Exemplary performance with 40% decrease.
Submit the calculated number of occupants, baseline water usage and design usage. If nonpotable water is being used, provide the amount. Also provide a narrative on the systems.
Credit Energy & Atmosphere contains 6 categories, 3 prerequisites and 17 total points possible.
Prereq No.1:
Commissioning involves designating a 1, commissioning authority, 2, review of owners project requirements, basis of design, 3, development of commissioning plan, 4, construction docs, 5, verification of installation of systems, 6, summary report. These systems include; light and daylighting controls, hot water, HVAC and R, renewable energy. Commissioning acts to verify that these systems act as they are meant to.
A commissioning agent (CA) must have experience with commissioning of 2 other buildings. He can be a member of the design team if the project <50,000> 50,000, then the CA must not be involved with the design team though he can work with one of the firms involved.
CA must lead the commissioning process and review each step. Steps include review of OPR, BOD, create a report, include in CD's, verify installations, provide summary report.
Provide info on the CA, confirmation that the 5 steps have been taken, provide a narrative of the results. This is a construction submittal.
Prereq No. 2: Minimum Energy Performance
Due to pollution occurring from energy production, LEED encourages reduction of energy usage. Buildings use 37% of all energy in the
ASHRAE/ IESNA 90.1 is the referenced standard, which includes performance requirements for envelope, HVAC, hot water, power, lighting and "other items".
No exemplary performance credits, you must turn in written verification that the project complies with an optional narrative as a design submittal.
Prereq. No. 3: Fundamental Refrigerant Management
For this credit, new construction must not use CFC based refrigerant ,which causes ozone depletion. Renovation must have a plan to phase out CFC based refrigerant. For projects reusing HVAC, an inventory must be taken of CFC based refrigerants to verify the phaseout.
There are no referenced standards, no exemplary performance and for design submittal, requires written verification and narrative explaining the phase out plan.
Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance
Points are acquired (up to 10) for a range of energy reduction from 10.5%, 14%, 7.5%, 21%, 24.5%, 28%, 31.5%, 35%, 38.5%, to 42% in new buildings, 3.5%, 7%, 10.5%, 14%, 17.5%, 21%, 28%, 31.5% to 35% in existing renovations.
The method for calculating is once again ASHRAE 90.1 performance or prescriptive requirements covering envelope, HVAC, water heating, power, lighting and "other systems". There is a separate ASHRAE for smaller buildings.
For whole building simulation, a baseline modeling design (Building Performance Rating Method) must be used for modeling comparisons. This takes into account all building energy costs. Process costs are defaulted to 25% of total unless substantiating documentation can account for another factor. Process, as an example is escalators or computers, regulated is lighting, HVAC.
Note: The Performance Rating Method differs from the Energy Cost Budget Method.
4 strategies for decreasing energy consumption:
Decrease demand, harvest free energy, increase efficiency and recover waste energy.
A prescriptive compliance path can be used for small office bldgs <20,000>
Another prescriptive path uses the Advanced Building Benchmark. The LEED point application must be design submitted and is very detailed.
There are no exemplary performance credits.
Credit No. 2: Renewable Energy- use of on site renewable energy results in less pollution, depletion of resources, destruction of resources.
Types of energy included in this credit are: wind energy, tidal energy, waves, geothermal energy, photovoltaics, passive solar.
Shading devices, green power are under other credits.
The points 2.5% renewable= 1 point, 7%= 2 points, 12.5%= 3 points.
To calculate, the information from credit no. 1 performance modeling may be used.
Find the percentage of renewable energy from that. Identify the renewable power source, the amount available and the back-up source. Other standards can be used to calculate base energy vs renewable.
To submit, use LEED templates and submittal documentation and describe the method by which calculations were performed.
Credit No. 3: Enhanced Commissioning add submittal review, mid CD review, operations manual, CA to stay 10 months.
For construction submittal, verify the 6 steps have been done, information on the commissioning agent qualifications, provide a narrative explaining the results and remaining time of the commissioning process.
Credit No. 4 Enhanced Refrigerant Management
CFC's have ozone depletion potential and global warming potential HCFC's have much lower ozone depletion potential HFC's have low ozone depletion potential but a high global warming potential
HVAC systems consume energy, which adds to the CO2 that causes global warming. To gain this point, either use natural ventilation or go through a complicated calculation to show that refrigerant is being used efficiently and that low global warming and ozone depleting chemicals are being used.
There is no exemplary credit for this point. Submittal documentation must follow a submittal template and include a narrative of how this point is being achieved. This is a design submittal.
Credit 5 Measurement and Verification Measurement of usage helps to mitigate problems and reduce environmental impact of additional energy usage.
International Protocol for Measurement and Verification Plan Energy performance must be measured against a baseline which is the intended performance level.
Options include constant measurement or use of meters at main power usage locations and sublocations. Must carry on for one year after occupancy.
No exemplary performance points.
Design Submission must upload the MV plan.
Credit 6: Green Power Green power is produced from wind, biomass, water and mostly fits the criteria of renewable. Hydroelectric is not a green resource. It is grid source energy.
Provide 35% of building electricity with green power.
Calculate the total amount of energy using a baseline from EA1, Optimize Energy Performance. If this is not done, a survey with department of energy is available to estimate energy usage.
Green power sources must have Green-e certification from Center for Resource Solutions, and tradeable certificates may be purchased to meet this qualification.
There is no exemplary performance point available. For submittal template, the baseline energy must be provided, with the amount of green energy purchased.
The name of the provider must also be included. It is a construction submittal.
Materials and Resources
1 Prerequisite, 7 credits and 13 Possible Points.
All but the prerequisite are construction submittals.
Processes to manufacture construction products include extraction, processing and transportation.
Construction materials and demolition constitute 40% of solid waste stream in the
Prerequisite No. 1 Storage and Collection of Recyclables
This prerequisite is for the occupancy of the building more so than the construction and does not appear to have real teeth in enforcement.
For the design submittal, verification that spaces for storage and collection are being provided and confirm the type of materials (metals, glass, paper, corrugated cardboard, plastics).
An optional narrative can be submitted.
For credits 1.2, 1.2 and 1.3, construction submittal, confirm if the project is strictly renovation or if it includes an addition. Additions that go beyond 200% of the original size will not be eligible for the credit.
The square footage of existing floors, walls (structural) roofs existing and reused must be calculated and tabulated.
An optional narrative can be used to qualify and explain the approach to this credit.
Credit 2.1 Construction Waste Management Divert or recycle 50% of construction waste generated on the project.
Materials for consideration, glass, drywall, concrete, metals, cardboard, brick, acoustical ceiling tile, clean wood, carpet and insulation.
Separate materials as part of the management plan required because food and beverages contaminate the construction materials.
Cost savings in construction is also possible by salvaging materials and avoiding landfill tipping fees.
EPA estimates 136 million tons of C&D waste in 1996. 2.5 cubic feet of waste per sq. ft. of construction in general.
Credit 2.2 Go to 75% for an additional point.
Exemplary credit for 95% and above.
Construction submittal, requires tabulations of material, who it was recycled or diverted by, the amounts and the total amount of waste generated. In a required narrative provide a waste management plan and any other information on how the points were achieved.
Credit 3.1 Materials Reuse 10%, 3.2: 20%: 30%
Materials such as brick and beams may be reused from other buildings, salvage yards to comply with this credit.
This diverts materials from the waste stream and avoids manufacturing more materials.
Salvage materials can be of a higher quality than new products and though the cost is high, yields good quality, character and may be offset by landfill tipping fees.
To determine the amount, use the total construction cost x.45 or calculate materials used in quantity using Masterspec CSI Divisions 2-10. % reuse is salvage materials cost/total materials cost. Furniture can be used if it applies across credits 3-7. Exemplary credit for %30.
This is a construction submittal and the total material cost vs salvage materials cost must be provided in the equation format. Or use the amounts as an alternate. Use the tabulation method provided by the submittal template which includes the material, amount, and how it was procured. Also submit a narrative describing the reuse strategy.
Credit No. 4.1 Recycled Content 10%(Post Consumer+ 1/2 Preconsumer)
The credit intent is to promote the use of recycled materials, which avoids waste and harvesting of virgin materials.
Post consumer comes from materials previously used in residential or commercial applications.
Pre consumer is recycled material yielded prior to use on the open market. Diverted from the waste stream during manufacturing.
This excludes materials that are recaptured in the manufacturing process for he same process.
Sawdust is a material that would qualify.
Furniture can be used if it applies across credits 3-7.
The reference standard is: Industry Standard ISO (International Organization for Standards) 14021-1999:
Environmental Labels and Declarations- Self Declared Environmental Claims (Type II Environmental Labeling)
The sum of preconsumer waste + 1/2 post consumer must be 10% of the total material cost of the project.
Recycled content value$= preconsumer content X material cost + .5 postconsumer content X material cost
4.2 Recycled Content 20% (postconsumer + 1/2 preconsumer)
Exemplary credit for 40% For the construction submittal: Provide the total material cost of the project.
This can be an actual estimate or use the total construction cost X .45 for a default value.
Use submittal template tabulation to list all materials in the project, description and source, enter the recycled content which must come from a verifiable source and material cost. Total the amounts of pre and post consumer recycled value and divide by the total material cost. Narratives on strategy are optional.
Credit 5.1 Regional Materials 10%
Promote the use of locally extracted, processed and manufactured products within a 500 mile radius of the project. This reduces transportation costs, while protecting the environment at the same time. Also supports the regional economy. Material must be calculated by % of construction cost. Once again the default value for material cost portion of total construction is .45.
No reference standard.
This is a construction submittal and requires: Materials, names of supplier, information on regionally produced components by weight and cost by weight. Typically the contractor tracks this information but to achieve the point a strategy should be set up in the design of the project. Tabulation must be provided and calculation by formula % regional= cost regional/ total cost. Optional narrative may be submitted.
Reused salvage materials can be counted for material reuse and this credit. Furniture can be used if it applies across credits 3-7.
Credit 5.2 Regional Materials 20% Exemplary credit for 40%
Credit 6 Rapidly Renewable Material
Utilize materials that can be grown quickly, using less land than conventional materials, which also gives a quicker return on investments by the manufacturers.
2.5% of the total material cost must be rapidly renewable. Materials such as cotton fiber for insulation, bamboo, linoleum, cork are considered to be rapidly renewable.
The calculation is similar to previous ones and so is documentation. It is a construction submittal.
Exemplary for 10%. % RR= amount RR/ total material. Default value of .45% total construction cost can be used for material cost or use actual numbers. Tabulate the information by identifying the material, manufacturer/ supplier, weight, cost. Optional narrative may be provided.
Credit 7 Certified Wood
In order to promote responsible forestation and harvest, biodiversity and tree population prevent erosion, air pollution. This point requires 50% of wood products to be certified with the Forest Stewardship Council. This entity certifies wood suppliers practices through forestation management or chain of custody.
World trade in wood has risen from 47 billion to 139 billion between 1970 and 1998. Reference standard is Forest Stewardship Council, which audits producers of wood and verifies chain of custody to suppliers. Chain of Custody certification is given to the supplier and forest management is gained through an audit of the wood producer. It is also encouraged to require less of the higher quality woods because they put more strain on the producers. (take longer to grow?)
To achieve credit, set goals and contact suppliers early. Share names of suppliers with contractors to receive bids. Furniture can only be used if it applies consistently across points 3-7.
Assemblies with certified wood need to break out the actual numbers. % of certfied wood= amount of wood$/ total project$. Default value of .45 total materials out of construction cost. For construction submittal, provide a list of FSC items and suppliers COC number. Optional narrative describing circumstances.
Exemplary performance for 95% FSC wood products.
Indoor Environmental Quality
2 Prerequisites, 8 categories for 15 points.
This category deals with the indoor environment for occupants, health, psychological, temperature control.
Americans spend 90% of time indoors where pollutants are 2-5 times higher.
Asthma and allergies are increased or worsened.
16% productivity increase with healthier indoor environments. Prevent offgassing and absorption of offgassing.
Provide daylighting and views, individual temperature control.
Prerequisite 1- Minimum Indoor Air Quality
ASHRAE 62.1 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality sections 4-7 is the reference standard. Compliance is required to meet the prereq.
There is a 62.2 for Low Rise Residential Buildings
Strategies for ventilation include active (mechanical), passive (natural), mixed mode.
Ventilation rate procedure establishes the minimum ventilation rate from charts, zones. the system must meet or exceed the prescriptive requirement.
Natural ventilation must be within 25' of an operable opening that is minimum 4% of the floor area.
Mixed mode must meet ventilation rates via either means, mech or nat.
No exemplary points, design submittal that must include; a design narrative and confirmation of compliance to the reference standard.
Prerequisite 2: Environmental Smoke Control (ETS)
Minimize occupants exposure to tobacco smoke, which causes cancer. Air is a commodity for everyone so nonsmoking is a health benefit. Costs due to implementation, such as mechanical and size are offset by occupant health and damage to interiors.
Option 1- Prohibit indoor smoking and designate outdoor areas 25' away from entries, operable windows and intakes.
Option 2- Designate smoking areas, also do option 1, provide mechanical to isolate smoke from other areas of the building. Exhaust directly to outdoors, deck to deck partitions, provide minimum negative pressure of 1 Pa and average 5 Pa (.004 to .02 pressure of a water gauge). testing must involve 15 minutes with a test every 10 seconds under worst case conditions.
Option 3- Residential buildings must exclude common areas from smoking, option 1 and seal apartment units, vertical chases and provide weather stripping at doors. treat units as option 2 with a max of 1.25" of leakage per 100 sq. ft. of floor area. ANSI ASTM 779-03 Standard Test Method for Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization.
No exemplary performance credit, design submittal. Confirmation of compliance, plans showing designated smoking areas, separations and HVAC and optional narrative.
Credit 1 Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
This checks the flow of outdoor air coming through the ventilation system and it also checks CO2 levels, which cause occupant discomfort and possibly sickness. Costs of a monitoring system can be offset by less absenteeism and health benefits.
The point is achieved for mechanically ventilated spaces by CO2 monitors for densely occupied spaces (25 occupants per 1,000 sq. ft.). Areas not densely occupied require outflow monitors for outdoor flow rate, accurate +/- 15% by the minimum flow rate defined by ASHRAE 62.1.
For nonmenchanically ventilated buildings, use CO2 monitors in all spaces. CO2 monitors must be installed between 3 and 6 feet above the floor and trigger alarms to let management know when to make adjustments. Another option would be to have a building automation system.
There is no reference standard, no exemplary credit and it is a design submittal.
Requires confirmation, narrative and drawings that indicate the location and type of CO2 monitoring systems.
Credit 2 Increased Ventilation
Exceed ASHRAE 62.1 in Mechanically Ventilated Buildings by 30%. For nonmechanically ventilated buildings, comply with CIBSE (Chartered Institute of Building Service Engineers).
Also meet the Carbon Trust Good Practice guide for best practices. CIBSE involves a flow process diagram.
Carbon Trust involves 8 steps- develop design requirements, plan airflow paths, identify uses and features that might require special attention, determine ventilation requirements, estimate driving pressures, select type and size of ventilation devices, analyze the design.
Alternate option is to develop a model and see that it meets ASHRAE 62.1.
Design submittal, no exemplary performance credit.
Provide confirmation of compliance with a narrative that includes the calculations required to achieve compliance.
Credit 3.1 Construction IAQ Management Plan (during construction)
Prevent contamination of HVAC system during construction.
Maintain air quality for construction workers and building occupants. Must meet SMACNA IAQ 1995, protect materials for moisture, meet MERV of 8 for permanently installed air handling units used during construction.
The reference standard is (SMACNA) Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor's National Association, Inc.- IAQ Guidelines.
Steps for compliance:
Protect HVAC- either do not use or seal off filter equipment.
Source Control- low VOC Pathway Interruption- outdoor ventilate and seal off areas that have offgassing
Housekeeping- cleaning contaminates
Scheduling- avoid offgassing during work hours
ASHRAE 52.2- Method of Testing General Air Cleaning Filtration Device by Particle Size.
MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)
Construction submittal- no exemplary.
Provide IAQ management plan, confirm that permanent HVAC equipment was not used during construction, provide photos of implementation of IAQ, list filtration media with MERV and optional narrative.
Credit 3.2 Construction IAQ Management Plan- Before Occupancy
Provide building flush-out or IAQ testing. Flush-out: All interior finishes must be installed. Provide 14,000 cu. ft. of outdoor air per sq. ft of floor area at in. 60 degrees F and 60% RH. If occupancy must begin, use 3,500 cu. ft., then begin occupancy.
During occ., use .3 cfm per sq. ft. or the amount calculated in prereq. 1. This must be done until 14,000 cu. ft. of outdoor air per sq. ft. has been delivered.
IQ Testing- US EPA Compendium of Methods for Determination of Pollutants in Indoor Air Formaldehyde, particulates, TVOC, CO, 4-PCH (new carpet). Areas where acceptable values are exceeded must have flush-out and retest.
Construction Submittal, no exemplary credits available. Confirmation of the method for obtaining credit.
Copy of the IAQ Testing report if applicable. A required narrative describing the flush out procedure or testing.
Credit 4.1 Low Emitting Materials- Adhesives and Sealants
Reduction in the amount of harmful air quality materials.
South Coast Air Quality Management District and Green Seal Standards- Adhesives, sealants and sealant primers.
The limit of VOC percentage is set by these standards.
For aerosols, the Green Seal 36 is used.
Construction submittal, no exemplary credit. Submit a listing of these types of materials, with manufacturer information, VOC and the amount of VOC allowed in the reference charts. Include a narrative explaining any special circumstances to the approach or nonstandard compliance.
Credit 4.2 Paints and Coatings
Reduce the amount of air contaminating products that are harmful to installers and occupants. Specify and track VOC content in construction.
Green Seal std GS-11
Flat paint <50>
Nonflat <150>
Noncorrosive, anti rust GC03 <250>
Interior applied Clear finishes, floor coatings, stains, sealers, shellacs, SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District)
Clear wood <350>
Lacquer <550>
Floor coatings <>
Sealer,waterproofing 250 g/L, sanding 275 g/L, all others 200 g/L
Stains 250 g/L
No exemplary performance credit
Construction submittal
Provide a listing of each paint, etc. with manufacturer’s information, VOC content and allowable VOC content. Also provide a narrative with special circumstances and nonstandard compliance paths taken.
Credit 4.3 Carpet
Meet requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute- Green Label Plus
Carpet cushion to meet Green Label
Adhesives to contain VOC <50>
No exemplary performance
Construction submittal
Provide listing of carpet/ cushion, with confirmation that it meets the requirements and certification, respectively. Provide a narrative with nonstandard compliance methods and or special circumstances.
Credit 4.4 Composite Wood and Agrifiber
Specify products that do not contain any added urea formaldehyde resins.
The products include plywood, particle board, MDF (medium density fibreboard), strawboard, panel substrates and door cores. FFE not applicable.
No exemplary performance
Construction submittal
Provide listing of products and confirmation that they comply. Provide a narrative for special circumstances or nonstandard compliance paths.
Supplemental Info
These requirements should be stated clearly in specifications. Stress importance in prebid meetings, etc.
Materials anywhere in the building construction that have the potential to communicate with interior air must comply.
VOC Budgets may be employed when a product has no way of being low VOC. It involves creating a baseline/ design case comparison.
VOC contributes to smog and low altitude ozone conditions that cause lunge deterioration, difficulty in growing crops, forests.
Costs of low VOC products are offset by occupant health.
Credit 5 Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control
Prevent contaminants from outdoors from entering the building, also separate other contaminants from general occupied space.
Provide entryways, minimum 6’ long with permanent floor grates, etc that can be easily cleaned underneath. If mats, then a weekly maintenance contract must be engaged.
If/ when hazardous chemicals are present such as housekeeping or copy areas, seal these areas of and provide negative pressure and dedicated HVAC. Self closing doors, deck to deck partitions, hard ceiling. Pressure must be .5 fm/sq. ft. with no recirculation. Pressure differential between other spaces must be 5Pa (.02 inches of water gauge) on average with a minimum of 1Pa (.004 inches of water gauge) when doors are closed.
Convenience copiers/ printers are ok.
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 13 on filtration of mechanically provided return and outdoor air.
ASHRAE 52.2 Method of Testing General Ventilation Air Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by Particle Size. Air cleaner test for removal and resistance to air flow.
No exemplary credit
Design submittal
Provide confirmation that entryways have been provided, provide types of walk off systems and maintenance contract if required, provide drawings highlighting the entryways.
Provide confirmation that the hazardous areas have been provided, show the locations and mechanical systems on mechanical drawings. Confirm MERV 13 or better and a listing of the filters with their MERV ratings.
Provide an optional narrative describing special circumstances, nonstandard compliance paths.
Credit 6.1 Controllability of Systems- Lighting
Improve occupant comfort by providing access to lighting controls for tasks as well as multi-occupant areas such as conference rooms. This will also reduce lighting energy consumption, especially if occupancy sensors are used or employee training concerning turning lights off when not in use.
For credit provide lighting controls for 90% of task areas and all multi occupant locations.
No exemplary credit.
Design submittal.
Provide listing of task stations and switches, listing of multi-occupant areas and switches. A narrative explaining the lighting strategy with data on switching is required.
Credit 6.2 Controllability of Systems- Thermal Comfort
Improve occupant comfort by providing access to HVAC controls for tasks as well as multi-occupant areas such as conference rooms. This will also reduce energy consumption, especially if occupancy sensors are used or employee training concerning turning lights off when not in use.
For 50% of occupants, provide access to HVAC controls for thermal comfort by task. Thermostats, floor diffusers are examples.
Operable windows may be used for spaces 20 into the building, within 10’ either side of occupant area. Areas of operable window size must meet ASHRAE 62.1- 2004 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, 5.1 Natural Ventilation
Also provide controls for multi-occupant spaces.
ASHRAE 55-2004 Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy
No exemplary credit
Design submittal
Provide listing of total number of workstations and number of controls. Provide listing of multi-occupant spaces and controls. Provide a narrative explaining the comfort control strategy and data on the controls used.
Credit 7.1 Thermal Comfort- Design
Provide thermal comfort well being and productivity, which may offset some additional costs.
Comply with ASHRAE 55, which takes into account personal preference and temperature, air movement, thermal radiation, etc. This involves coordination with EQ Prerequisite 1 (Air Quality) and Credits 1 (Outdoor Air Monitoring) and 2 ( Increased Ventilation). This includes a predicted mean vote (PMV) for determining the factors needed for thermal comfort.
No exemplary credit
Design submittal
Provide data on the climate and factors that affect occupant comfort. Provide a narrative on the strategy for delivering thermal comfort. Include specific compliance information.
Credit 7.2 Thermal Comfort- Verification
Survey occupants between 6 and 18 months after occupancy. If the results show
20% dissatisfaction, implement corrective work to improve comfort.
ASHRAE 55 (again) for corrective measure. This includes a predicted mean vote (PMV) for determining the factors needed for thermal comfort.
No calcs required, design submittal and no exemplary performance credit.
Provide a narrative describing the survey and plan for corrective action.
Credit 8.1 Daylight and Views- Provide Daylight for 75% of Spaces
Improve well being and comfort by providing daylight and views into the building. Improve neighborhood connectivity, reduce lighting requirements. Reduction of energy use can be 50-80%. Retail income can be increased from natural light psychological effects.
Option 1 Glazing Factor. Minimum 2% glazing factor for 75% of normally occupied spaces.
Glazing factor %= window area/ floor area x window geometry factor x Actual Tvis/ Minimum Tvis x Window height factor
Option 2 Modeling
25 foot candles of natural light for normally occupied spaces. Noon, clear sky, equinox, 30” above the floor.
Option 3 Actual Measuring
25 foot candles measured on a 10’ grid inside the normally occupied spaces, recorded on floor plans.
On all options provide glare control or redirection (blinds, light shelves). Strategies include orientation, shading devices, optimization controls, high performance glazing, shallow floor plates, light wells, skylights, etc.
Calculations:
Option 1-Glazing Factor
Spreadsheet which includes listing of regularly occupied spaces. Areas in sq.
Windows must meet 7’-6” in height to be included. Less than 30” not applicable.
Option 2- Daylight Simulation Model
Measure foot candles on a 2’ grid, 30” above the floor. Include reflectance values of materials and finishes. Calculate the foot candles at noon on a clear day, equinox.
Create a spreadsheet with applicable spaces, floor areas and provide the foot candles from the model. Sum areas that meet 25 foot candles and check for 75% of total regularly occupied spaces.
Option 3 Daylight Measurement
In this case, areas of a room that do not meet 25 foot candles can be treated separately in order to achieve 75% of total regularly occupied spaces.
Create the spreadsheet with spaces and floor areas. Find the total and check for 75% required.
Exemplary credit for 95%.
Design submittal.
Option 1- fill out the submittal template spreadsheet.
Option 2, 3- fill out the submittal template and copies of drawings.
Provide a narrative with special occupancy area that was not included in the calculation, with the space function described.
Credit 8.2 Daylight and Views- Views for 90% of Spaces
For occupant well being, provide views to the outdoors in 90% of regularly occupied spaces.
This requires sight lines that allow occupants to see outside. Vision glazing must be from 2’-6” to 7’-6” above the floor. The best strategy is to locate open office space on the perimeter and offices in the core. Since it is OK to see through interior glazing to achieve credit, the private office can maintain connection. The entire floor area of the office can be applied to the credit as long as 75% of the office has the required sight line in plan and section. Multi-occupant spaces may only apply the floor area that has a sight line connection to the exterior.
Lower partition heights, interior glazing, interior shading devices, photocell occupancy controls.
Direct Line of Sight to Perimeter Glazing Calculation
Create a spreadsheet with all regularly occupied spaces listed with floor areas. A floor plan should highlight sight lines that determine the percentage of sight line available.
Include the amount of floor area that has the required sight line to calculate the percentage. If yes, than the space can be included in the overall calculation to 90%.
Horizontal View
Use sections and raw a line 42” above the floor to reach vision glazing. If it works, this floor area can be counted in the overall calculation to 90%.
Each space must meet both criteria to go into the calculation.
Exemplary credit is provided on a case by case basis.
Design submittal.
Provide spreadsheet info on the submittal template.
Provide drawings that indicate sight lines in plan and section.
Provide a narrative describing special occupancy areas that are not included in the calculation.
Innovation and Design
0 Prerequisite, 2 categories, 4 credits, 5 points
This category provides credit for a project that goes beyond the individual credit requirements exist, or address sustainable technology that is not included in LEED. It also allows points for projects that have a LEED certified team member.
Credit 1.1 through 1.4 Innovation in Design
deals with surpassing existing credits or inclusion of a green technology that is not addressed by LEED.
In writing, explain what the credit intent is, the proposed requirement for compliance, proposed submittals, design approach.
For proposed credits that are not currently under LEED-
- Must have quantifiable performance
- Must apply to the entire building
- Must be applicable to other projects
These can be design or construction submittals depending on their content.
Submit the title of the credit, narrative of the credit intent. Provide a narrative f the credit requirements, detailed description of approach, any drawings that highlight the approach.
Credit 2 LEED Accredited Professional
Streamline the certification process and encourage design integration.
One principle participant on the team is LEED AP.
Educate team on sustainable design early in the design process. Assign the LEED AP to coordinate sustainable design and LEED certification of the building.
Construction submittal, submit the name of the AP, their company, role and certificate.
