I recently received a Design Review comment advising that the IAQ procedure included in Chapter 6 of the ASHRAE 62.1-2007 is not an acceptable tool to demonstrate compliance. The reference to Sections 4 though 7 was removed via revision.........so I get the mechanics of how USGBC triggered this change. But I don't get the reasoning behind why the change was made.
A couple of comments: First of all the LEEDUser graphic for IEQpr2 which states "meet minimum requirements of .....section 4-7" is incorrect! Secondly, can anyone provide an explanation as to why USGBC would prohibit the use of the IAQ Procedure to demonstrate compliance for IEQpr1? Is the USGBC asserting expertise surpassing a national standard ASHRAE 62.1? In the hands of a capable and experienced design professional the IAQ Procedure provides the opportunity to reduce OA required when compared to Ventilation Rate Procedure. Less OA has a added benefit of reduced energy required for managing and treating OA. Seems as if USGBC is unreasonable limiting the options available to Design Professionals with this change.
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Andrew Mitchell, P.E.
PrincipalMitchell Gulledge Engineering, Inc.
LEEDuser Expert
126 thumbs up
January 24, 2017 - 9:21 am
James, I understand your frustration. I have never used this method for LEED compliance, but I can imagine that they are not comfortable with assessing the application of this on your project. Also, the IAQ method requires evaluation and is supposed to be enforced by the permitting agency. USGBC does not have the ability to do those, so it may be out of their comfort zone. I do not think that these are appropriate reasons, but they are my best guess as to your situation.
It is unfortunate because this is a prerequisite and I am sure that by now, it is too late (and unnecessary) to change the design.