We are developing IAQ baseline testing procedures for our project. The LEED-referenced document cited under EQ3.2 is for a specific project with specific conditions. We have attempted to be consistent with the referenced project document and would like to have USGBC\'s opinion. Please confirm whether or not the following IAQ Baseline procedures will qualify for a LEED credit under version 2.1, credit EQ 3.2? IAQ BASELINE TESTING PROCEDURE A. Coordinate with commissioning. Upon verification of HVAC system operation, perform baseline IAQ testing. 1. Perform testing for minimum 3 locations in each air handling zone. Perform in the breathing zone; between 4\'\' and 7\'\' from the floor. 2. Collect air samples on three consecutive days during normal business hours (between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm) with building operating at normal HVAC rates. Average the results of each three-day test cycle to determine compliance or non- compliance of indoor air quality for each air handling zone tested. 3. Sample and record outside air levels of formaldehyde and TVOC contaminants at outside air intake of each respective air handling unit simultaneously with indoor tests to establish basis of comparison for these contaminant levels. B. Baseline IAQ shall conform to the following standards and limits: 1. Carbon Monoxide: Note to exceed 9 ppm. 2. Carbon Dioxide: Set points not to exceed 530 ppm higher than outdoor ambient levels. Assess indoor Carbon Dioxide concentrations in accordance with ASTM D6245. 3. Airborne Mold and Mildew: Simultaneous indoor and outdoor readings. 4. VOCs and particulates: Monitor VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in indoor air in accordance with ASTM D6345. Indoor room air concentration levels, emission rates, and qualities of the listed contaminants shall not exceed the following limits. The levels do not account for contributions from office furniture, occupants, and occupant activities. MAXIMUM INDOOR AIR CONCENTRATION STANDARDS Indoor Contaminants: Allowable Air Concentration Levels 1)Formaldehyde:
The protocol above described addresses the baseline testing requirements of the EPA standard, as required by the credit. However, this protocol can only be used in a building before the arrival of furniture and occupants. If the project uses only this protocol, clear documentation will be necessary that the testing was implemented on an empty building, otherwise the test results will be invalid, and the IAQ standards nearly impossible to achieve. For another option, consider a recent Credit Ruling for this credit, dated Oct. 8, 2002. It describes a test protocol that accounts for the impacts of furniture in the standards and results. This protocol was approved by the USGBC as an alternate method to demonstrate achievement of this credit. Finally, note that LEED points are not awarded or guaranteed through the CIR process; the project will need to successfully demonstrate achievement in the LEED application to achieve this credit. Applicable internationally.