IAQ testing is not a formal option to use as an alternative to the required flush-out. However, because IAQ testing is still an option with similar credits in other rating systems, it may be possible to use this strategy in conjunction with a CIR.
There isn’t an alternative to meeting the temperature and humidity requirements of the flush-out. This component of the flush-out has to be met.
A guidance document has been developed by USGBC that provides international alternative compliance paths (referencing local standards) and additional LEED Online credit forms for international projects.
USGBC has not publicized a blanket policy on whether dorms would be considered residential projects per this credit, and it is up to the discretion of the project team to determine the most appropriate project type and whether this credit can be pursued. If the dorm includes common areas, lounges, game areas, kitchen, etc. there may be opportunity for this credit to be pursued, but GBCI may not approve of this—it's best to check.
No, LEED does not define a minimum number of occupants that need to respond to the survey. However, if 20% of those that do respond are dissatisfied or uncomfortable, corrective action plan must be put in place.
The seven-point scale is referred to in the Implementation section for this credit in the LEED Reference Guide, and LEEDuser has heard that a requirement for such a scale has been consistently called for by reviewers.
Our understanding is that LEED is following the Likert 7-point scale as a standard. It is the most widely used and accepted approach to scaling questions in survey research. Likert scales can be 5-point but there is some debate in the survey world about 7-point being better.
The survey must measure thermal comfort conditions and satisfaction based on ASHRAE 55-2004 thermal comfort criteria, and is to be measured by a 7-point scale format (+3 = very satisfied, 0 = neutral, -3 = very dissatisfied). Although USGBC does not require a specific means to administer the survey, there are a few options out there that can be easy for the project team to implement. Surveys can be done by phone, networked computer, website or a paper questionnaire. Web–based surveys can compile data readily and generate results that can be helpful in evaluating responses.
USGBC has not made clear the exact requirements for a permanent monitoring system. One contributing approach, however, is to administer a survey, as this is often easy and cheap to implement. Additional approaches could be a building automation system if sensor locations are adequately distributed throughout occupied spaces, and air speed and radiant temperature testing with the use of handheld meters or other monitoring equipment. See LEED-EBOM IEQc2.3 for additional ideas on permanent monitoring systems.
If you can show a campus-wide high performance green cleaning program that complies with the credit requirements then there shouldn’t be any issues. Make sure that plan addresses any sub-sets of green cleaning habits specific to your project building. See the LEED Application Guide for Multiple Buildings and On‐Campus Building Projects.
This credit doesn’t require that projects purchase chemical dilution control equipment. But the intent of the credit is to minimize the use of all chemicals, including those that meet sustainability criteria listed under IEQc3.3, by introducing appropriate dilution systems into the plan. Proper use of concentrates reduces overuse of cleaning chemicals, saves money, reduces waste from packaging and minimizes the risk of improper storage and spills.