The intent of this credit is to implement entryway systems, properly exhaust chemical use areas, and employ high efficiency filters on mechanical ventilation systems to minimize occupant exposure to hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants.

Requirements for Certification:

Install permanent grates, grills, or slotted systems at building entryways regularly used by building occupants.

Exhaust chemical use areas (garages, laundry, copy rooms, janitor's closets, pool chemical storage rooms, etc.) and provide self-closing doors and deck-to-deck partitions.

Install minimum MERV 13 rated filters on all mechanical ventilation systems.

Successful Strategies:

• Identify possible pollution sources related to this credit early in design.
• Confirm early in the mechanical design that the ventilation system is specified with a minimum MERV 13 filters. Some fan-coil unit designs cannot accept the pressure-drop and/or filter size.

Helpful Hints:

1. Credit requirements are readily included in the project design and most codes include requirements for plumbing where chemical use occurs.
2. Residential or dormitory units with separate, exterior entrances must have permanent entry mats. However, if the units share one exterior entrance, only central entry walk-off mats will be required.
3. Small, low-volume copiers are not considered pollutant sources and do not require full height partition walls.
4. Copy rooms generating more than 40,000 copies (20,000 double-sided) per month must to be exhausted.

Historical Data (updated June 2006):

• 48% of all California LEED Certified projects achieved this credit for LEED v2.1.

Additional EDR Resources

Design Briefs: Indoor Air Quality

Design Briefs: Field Review

Design Guidelines: Commissioning Guidelines - Part I