Operable windows in lieu of controls - what about WOCDs

Andreas Hintz

Dipl.-Ing. Architekt, LEED AP (BD+C), BREEAM In-Use Auditor, DGNB Auditor

ikl GmbH

LEEDuser Basic Member

7 thumbs up

Project location :

Germany

July 26, 2017

For determing the openable wall area (which has to be a minimum of 4% of the net occupiable floor area) should WOCDs (Window Opening Control Devices) be considered? Please explain how to determing the openable wall area when using windows with WOCDs. Thanks Andreas.

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Lauren Sparandara

Sustainability Manager

Google

LEEDuser Expert

700 thumbs up

Mon, 08/07/2017 - 17:46

Hi Andreas - how do the WOCDs operate? Who has control? Do all employees have access to changing the settings? I imagine that, assuming employees have full control of the openings, then the same ASHRAE requirements would apply: "Operable windows may be used in lieu of controls for occupants located 20 feet inside and 10 feet to either side of the operable part of a window. The areas of operable window must meet the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 paragraph 5.1 Natural Ventilation (with errata but without addenda2)."