As a specifier, applying the Cal DPH standards can be like shooting in the dark. Mapei, (IEQ 4.1 for example,) doesn't specifically tell you which products comply with the CAL DPH standards but sends you to the CHPS product database where the documentation is available. While I appreciate the DPH protocol it would be nice if more manufacturers would cite compliance in their product data sheets.
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Lauren Sparandara
Sustainability ManagerGoogle
LEEDuser Expert
997 thumbs up
June 22, 2012 - 2:17 pm
Bruce,
I agree that it can be a real maze of documentation. In the case of of a Mapei adhesive or sealant I believe the standard would not be Cal DPH but instead the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule #1168. When reviewing for compliance, I usually go straight to the VOC limits contained within a product's MSDS. However, sometimes it can become tricky to discern what specific kind of adhesive or sealant the product is technically speaking; sometimes it depends on its specific application in your project. For instance, speciality applications have much higher VOC allowances than standard applications.
I agree that better and more clear communication on the part of the manufacturer would be helpful in project teams understanding when their products comply.
In terms of specifications, I have usually included a LEED EQc4 Summary Sheet in the Sustainable Design Requirements section of the specs that includes all of the limits and requirements per each EQc4 credit in a one page document. In this way, General Contrators and Subcontractors can double check their products against this summary list.
Bruce Maine
Sustainable Design Consultant66 thumbs up
June 22, 2012 - 3:13 pm
Hi, Lauren. The CAL DPH is referenced in each IEQ credit with the exception of 4.5 and sometimes for various rating systems, Schools e.g. Oddly enough, in LEED for Healthcare, the Cal DPH protocol only occurs for Wall and Ceiling Finishes and Flooring. I agree it would be helpful if manufacturers posted the data sheets from Berkeley Analytical,or whoever, (which you get off the CHPS database), to show compliance. By the way, the Liquid Floor Vinyl tile we spoke about earlier was for a 2.2 project and wasn't subject to the CAL DPH or FloorScore requirements.
Lauren Sparandara
Sustainability ManagerGoogle
LEEDuser Expert
997 thumbs up
June 22, 2012 - 3:38 pm
Just for my clarification, where is the CAL DPH referenced within the LEED Reference Guide language under EQc4.1?
Bruce Maine
Sustainable Design Consultant66 thumbs up
June 22, 2012 - 3:57 pm
It is referenced for Schools in the 2009 Reference Guide, i.e. my coment regarding different Rating Systems. In LEED 2012, it shows up in Low Emitting Interiors: "Building products (excluding built-in cabinetry, architectural millwork and furniture) shall be tested and determined compliant in accordance with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using the applicable exposure scenario. The default scenario shall be the private office scenario. Classroom furniture may use the school classroom scenario." Certificates of CDH testing are available from third parties like GreenGuard and CHPS but, as you've noted, it would be nice to have those furnished by the manufacturer.
Catherine Blakemore
Architect, LEED AP BC+DHOLT Architects
32 thumbs up
August 9, 2013 - 3:55 pm
Hi Bruce,
I have LEED for Healthcare project and a thinset mortar product that that is GREENGUARD Gold certified and meets Option 2 of the IEQc4-Group 3 Flooring requiement.
If wall / ceiling and flooring adhesives are testing and meet or exceed CA 01350 are they exempt from the requirements of Group 1: Adhesives and Sealants?
If adhesives, sealants and primers meet CA 01350 do they get listed in two places on the form, once under Group 1: Adhesives and Sealants and under with Group 2- Wall and Ceiling Finishes or Group 3-Flooring?
The Group 2 and Group 3 Tables allow the associated adhesives and sealants to be listed here. Do they also get listed in the applicable Group 1 tables as well?
Catherine Blakemore
Architect, LEED AP BC+DHOLT Architects
32 thumbs up
August 13, 2013 - 7:45 pm
In terms of exempt, do they still have to comply with Prop. 65?