Introduction

IEQ Credit 3.2 of LEED allows a credit for either flushing the building with outdoor air to remove particles and off-gassing volatile chemicals or (Option 2) for air quality testing prior to occupancy to show that contaminants are low.

The flush-out option requires 14,000 cubic feet of outdoor air per square foot of floor area while maintaining an internal temperature of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit and a relative humidity no higher than 60%. In winter, the heating costs of flush-out are staggering. In summer, keeping the relative humidity below 60% is sometimes impossible.

IEQ testing is an attractive option in winter and summer months, or when time is not available to complete the flush-out.

What We Do

After construction and installation of finishes, but before occupancy, we test for the levels of the following contaminants: carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC's), particulates, and 4-Phenylcyclohexene.

How We Do It

Using direct reading sensors, we are able to screen the building prior to testing. We can tell you right away if there are significant sources of these contaminants that must be addressed prior to testing. This pre-screening significantly enhances the chance that the building will pass testing and receive the credit.

A report of the test methods, site conditions, and test results are provided in an attractive document for presentation to the USGBC reviewer.