HVAC Protection
HVAC Protection
Assign an IAQ manager to assist the GC. This person can run spot-checks for SMACNA and other best-practice compliance.
Assign an IAQ manager to assist the GC. This person can run spot-checks for SMACNA and other best-practice compliance.
Post copies of the IAQ plan in various places around the construction site to ensure that the plan is being followed. Hang signs that remind subcontractors to follow IAQ practices such as covering exposed ductwork with plastic, wet mopping regularly, and
Post copies of the IAQ plan in various places around the construction site to ensure that the plan is being followed. Hang signs that remind subcontractors to follow IAQ practices such as covering exposed ductwork with plastic, wet mopping regularly, and using low-VOC products and other SMACNA practices. See the Documentation Toolkit for sample signage.
Decide whether HVAC units will be used during construction. If so, ensure that MERV 8 filters have been purchased and are used throughout the site. Remember that any filters used during construction must be replaced prior to occupancy.
Decide whether HVAC units will be used during construction. If so, ensure that MERV 8 filters have been purchased and are used throughout the site. Remember that any filters used during construction must be replaced prior to occupancy.
The contractor and subs should ensure that SMACNA practices are being followed. Each of the five major SMACNA areas is addressed in detail below.
The contractor and subs should ensure that SMACNA practices are being followed. Each of the five major SMACNA areas is addressed in detail below.
During Construction
During Construction
Develop a checklist for weekly activities that lists SMACNA guidelines and related to-do items, such as taking photographs to document the IAQ strategies. It’s a convenient way to stay on top of required tasks, and the checklist can be used at weekly meet
Develop a checklist for weekly activities that lists SMACNA guidelines, protection of absorptive material, and use of MERV 8 filters along with related to-do items, such as taking photographs to document the IAQ strategies. It’s a convenient way to stay on top of required tasks, and the checklist can be used at weekly meetings and posted around the site. See the Documentation Toolkit for a sample checklist.
The GC distributes the Indoor Air Quality plan outlining procedures and best practices to be distributed to subcontractors prior to the construction phase. The plan should clearly identify who is responsible for implementing each component of the plan—for
The GC distributes the Indoor Air Quality plan outlining procedures and best practices to be distributed to subcontractors prior to the construction phase. The plan should clearly identify who is responsible for implementing each component of the plan—for example, “Wrapping installed open-ended HVAC ductwork is the responsibility of the mechanical contractor,” and “Quality control is the responsibility of the general contractor.”
Enabling coordination and communication among the GC, subcontractors, and the design team early in the process can minimize scheduling delays and pushback from subcontractors.
Enabling coordination and communication among the GC, subcontractors, and the design team early in the process can minimize scheduling delays and pushback from subcontractors.
It’s a good idea for the GC to meet with subcontractors to reinforce the LEED responsibilities related specifically to their trades. This exercise helps to build trust and is crucial for obtaining buy-in from all participants in the process.
It’s a good idea for the GC to meet with subcontractors to reinforce the LEED responsibilities related specifically to their trades. This exercise helps to build trust and is crucial for obtaining buy-in from all participants in the process.