Best Practices

Perform a simulation using daylight modeling software to predict daylight levels in spaces. 

It is unlikely that a simulation model will have been performed in the past for most existing buildings, and the cost associated with doing this solely to document the LEED credit would not be a wise expenditure. 

Some projects already have to limit their RH to 60% or below to meet the requirements of ASHRAE-55 for IEQc7.1. However, ASHRAE-55 has a larger window of acceptable RH levels, and the levels vary depending on temperature and air speed. IEQc10 does not provide the flexibility that ASHRAE-55 does. All projects irrespective of temperature and air speed, must limit RH to 60% or below. ASHRAE-55 also focuses on occupant comfort and does not address unoccupied spaces and times. IEQc10, however, demands that humidity is controlled at all times.

The LEED Online credit form requires this data to compare to historical operating costs and determine the simple payback of sustainability initiatives.

In order to document compliance, you’ll need to enter all required data into the LEED Online credit form. The credit form will then generate the following valuable information.

You’ll get an itemized comparison of costs tracked during the LEED process with documented expenses for five years prior to LEED certification in terms of:

Collect and keep on file HVAC operations manuals and repair records, IAQ complaints,

If any mold is found, determine the cause of moisture or mold and see if you can fix the moisture source. You might need to provide additional dehumidification or ventilation along with cleaning the contaminated area. For mold where the cause cannot be determined or is persistent, retain an industrial hygienist, toxicologist or a building science expert to identify the risks and perform any necessary remediation. Remediation efforts can be as extreme as removing walls, ceiling, and floors.

Train the operations staff to identify and respond to any IAQ issues that may arise.

Identify an IAQ manager to hold responsibility of the building

Conduct regular building walkthroughs to monitor airflow, temperature, humidity, odor, and other IAQ problems. It is a good idea to do a walkthrough with project drawings to take note of locations with issues.