This CIR is submitted in relation to the implementation of LEED NC 2.2 Credit EQ 3.2 as it relates to a Data Center facility. Based upon our review of the existing CIRs there does appear to be a related CIR raised under the NC 2.1 program dated 1/18/2007, however it is not clear as to whether this ruling is applicable to NC 2.2. This previous NC2.1 CIR ruled that when applying the 14,000 ft3 / ft2 alternate approach (which is in effect the NC 2.2 credit criteria), that In order to achieve EQ credit 3.2, all "Occupied spaces" as defined in ASHRAE 62.1-2004 must be adequately flushed out. Spaces not classified as "Occupied spaces" under ASHRAE 62.1-2004 are not covered by this credit. Further research has found that the ASHRAE 62.1:2004 definition of an "Occupied Space" is "An enclosed space intended for human activities, excluding those spaces intended primarily for other purposes, such as storage rooms and equipment rooms, that are only occupied occasionally and for short periods of time" Based upon the above information, we are seeking confirmation that the following areas within a datacenter facility are not classed as "occupied space" per the AHSRAE 62.1:2004 definition - due to their occasional and short occupancy periods - and as such are not covered by this credit and consequently can be omitted from the 14,000 cfm / sq ft flush out calculation. o Server Rooms o UPS / Battery Rooms o Mechanical Rooms o Electrical Rooms To achieve credit EQ3.2 we therefore propose to undertake a flush out of all offices, circulation space and other areas that fall under the ASHRAE 62.1:2004 definition of an "Occupied Space", based upon our assumption stated above. Please confirm that this strategy for achieving credit EQ3.2 is acceptable.
The inquiry is asking whether the requirements of EQc3.2 (construction IAQ management, prior to occupancy) apply to areas that cannot be considered as occupiable space (per ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004 definition). The requirements of EQc3.2, namely flush-out with 14,000 cfm/sq ft of outside air, apply to all spaces that are within the building envelope; the credit does not differentiate between occupiable and non-occupied spaces.
**Update October 1, 2013: Applicable credits were updated.