LEED® is a market driving machine in many areas, including Indoor Air Quality. But we shouldn’t discount IAQ in non-LEED® projects. I urge you to consider IAQ beyond code-required minimum ventilation on all projects. Whether or not a project is applying for LEED® certification, consider the following low-cost, big impact design ideas for your projects:
· Better efficiency filtration (MERV 8 or better)
· Exhaust for areas where chemicals or pollutants are stored (janitor’s closets)
· Duct insulation instead of duct liner
· Specify low-VOC duct sealant
· Recommend walk-off systems at primary entries to eliminate dirt into the building