This Credit Interpretation is in reference to an international airline terminal project. In the initial programming and planning meetings for this project, it was determined that for reasons of occupant comfort, safety, and security, some ground-level regularly occupied office space needed to avoid any type of vision glazing. Noise was the principal reason for this decision. The concern was that glazing is not sufficient to insulate these spaces from the very loud and omni-present noise emanating from jet engines. Issues of contaminated outside air entrainment and of security/safety related to glazed areas at ground level also contributed to the decision. While LEED V2.1 asserts that "exceptions for spaces where tasks would be hindered by the use of daylight will be considered on their merits", this CIR is being submitted to determine if the USGBC will also consider the exemption of spaces for airline terminals where tasks will be hindered by noise and other factors besides daylight on their merits. It\'s important to note that this condition is only present in the back-of-house spaces. It should be noted that front-of-house spaces are located on upper levels where noise is less of a factor, and that there is a deliberate and extensive use of vision glazing in these areas.
The office space affected by airplane noise cannot be exempted from the credit calculations. Limited exceptions are solely based on visual considerations. If the project is in a phase where the floor plan can no longer be reconsidered, look further into design solutions such as multi-pane glazing, high sound transmission coefficient (STC) assemblies, noise breaks, smaller oblique apertures, toplighting, etc. Incorporating even a limited amount of glazing will likely enhance occupant well-being. However, LEED requirements still need to be met in order to achieve the daylight and views credits. Contaminated outside air entrainment, security and safety issues are not related to EQ Credit 8 and can be mitigated. Applicable internationally.