Option 2: We don’t have enough space for ten feet of mats. What can we do?

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The best option in this situation may be to split the entryway system between the interior and exterior so that a total of ten feet of compliant mat is achieved. See the FAQ above for more details. The ten-foot requirement is strict, so projects that don’t have this length of compliant entryway systems are not eligible for the credit.

Option 2: We already have a carpeted lobby that extends farther than ten feet in all directions from the building entrance. Does this count as a compliant entryway system? Our cleaning staff vacuums and performs restorative cleaning frequently to this are

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Typical building carpet is not designed to capture and hold particulates, so it is not considered a compliant entryway system under this credit. Remember that the intent is to improve indoor air quality by preventing the introduction of pollutants into the building interior. Most carpet simply isn’t designed with this in mind. Unless you can provide compelling documentation from a manufacturer that shows your carpet is designed to effectively capture dirt, pollen and other particulates, you won't be eligible for credit.

Option 2: Can an entryway system be split up so that part is located outside and the remainder of the required ten feet is located inside?

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This strategy works in some cases, based on LEED-NC Interpretations #5585, #5696 and #10098, not all of which have been specifically evaluated for the LEED-EBOM rating system. Per the Interpretations, this strategy can only be pursued if the portion located outside the building is protected from weather (which generally takes the form of an awning, overhang, or the second story for most buildings). It appears that use of exterior systems is more likely to be approved if the building can’t comply with the ten-foot minimum due to physical limitations.

Option 2: We have a loading dock and an attached underground garage. Both of these areas have access into the building interior. Do we need to have entryway systems for either of them?

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Yes, compliant entryway systems are required for entrances from both loading docks and parking garages that lead into the building. In previous versions of the rating system, only entries to private offices, emergency exits, and entries not used during the performance period could be excluded from the credit. These limited exceptions are likely to be applicable under v4.1 as well.

Option 2: How often do entryway systems need to be cleaned?

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Entryway systems must be maintained on a weekly basis. A good cleaning program will take into consideration the types of particulates that are likely to be introduced into your building via foot traffic, your indoor air quality goals, and the cleaning needs of the specific entryway system/materials being used. You may also want to consider whether cleaning practices need to be adjusted seasonally to address changes in weather.

Option 1: We plan on training two in-house staff to conduct the audit. Do we have to purchase a copy of the APPA Custodial Staffing Guidelines?

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You’re not required to purchase the guidelines, but it is worth considering if you plan on using in-house staff to conduct the audit. Training can consist of reading through the APPA guidelines, learning the benefits of honest audit results (such as pinpointing opportunities for improvement), and reviewing the forms. It’s up to your team to decide if the information available publicly is adequate for your team to conduct an audit.

Option 1: In our multi-tenant building there are many spaces that are currently vacant or mid-fit-out. Should those spaces be included in the audit?

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No, only audit spaces that are cleaned on a regular basis. Remember that if occupancy is below 50% during the performance period an audit cannot be conducted during that time.

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