CI-2009 IEQc4.3: Low-Emitting Materials—Flooring Systems

  • Use either inert or certified flooring

    IEQc4.3

    Resilient flooring, rubber flooring, and prefinished wood flooring all must be FloorScore or Greenguard Children and Schools certified. Wood, concrete, and other flooring installed raw need not be certified as long all coatings and finished applied to them meet the requirements of IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings.

    Key changes to this credit

    This credit represents a significant change from past versions of LEED, which focused on just carpeting. LEED 2009 now mandates low-emitting standards for resilient and hard-surface flooring as well.

    Another big change to this credit took place in the April 2010 LEED addenda from USGBC, in which USGBC responded to complaints that inert flooring materials shouldn't be subject to the testing requirements. Tile, masonry, terrazzo, cut stone, and solid-wood flooring without organic coatings or sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. now qualify for this credit without further testing.

    Both designers and contractors have to understand the rules

    While this is a construction-phase credit—and the contractor will need to ensure that VOC-compliant adhesives, sealants and coatings have been applied to flooring systems—it can be dealt with primarily during the design phase by choosing specific manufacturers and flooring products for the contractor to use. Allocating adequate time for product research, and identifying compliant flooring products before construction begins, helps to ensure that the right products are used. 

    FloorScore lists a few compliant products on its website, but a limited number of manufacturers that have had their products tested by FloorScore. Products certified to the Greenguard for Children and Schools standard are also okay, because that standard meets the California Department of Health Services protocol. Beware: the generic Greenguard standard does not meet this protocol. (See Resources for links to products.)

    Make sure the contractor and subcontractors know what information to look for. Don’t allow them to use products that merely claim to be low-VOC. Find the manufacturer’s data stating that carpets are Green Label Plus, carpet padding is Green Label, and hard-surface flooring is FloorScore or has been tested by an accredited lab and complies with the California Department of Health Services protocol.

    Carpet testing samplesCarpet samples like these are tested in closed chambers for emissions levels. Samples are fit into trays covering their edges, to avoid skewing results. Photo – Berkeley Analytical AssociatesYou’ll have to document flooring adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings twice—once for IEQc4.1 or IEQc4.2, and again for this credit. Enter the same VOC data for flooring adhesives, sealants, and coatings in the LEED forms for IEQc4.1, IEQc4.2 and IEQc4.3. 

    Only 20% of product cut sheets selected at random need to be uploaded to LEED Online to document this credit although it is best to keep all product cut sheets on file in case the credit is audited.

    FAQs for IEQc4.3

    Should track-off mats being used on the project to meet IEQc5 requirements be included in IEQc4.3 credit requirements?

    There is no definitive information from USGBC on this one way or another. It is recommended that project teams do their best to find low-emitting options for IEQc5, and that IEQc4.3 compliance is recommended. However, LEEDuser has heard that project teams have had success not including track-off mats, such as the type with grilles and small strips of carpeting. Also, mats that are removed for cleaning are not permanently installed and thus not subject to credit requirements. Carpet tiles may be used as track-off mats, and are available with the requisite certification.

    If I have no flooring products in my project, can I earn this credit?

    This situation is not definitively addressed by USGBC. However, because the credit requires the use of flooring products that meet specific requirements, it makes sense to assume that flooring must be used.

    How do I handle a polished concrete floor?

    The concrete is not considered under the credit requirements because it is not a flooring product. Any coatings used to finish the concrete would be applicable under IEQc4.1 and IEQc4.2.

    Should mineral-based finish flooring products (without any integral organic-based coatings and sealants) and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring be documented on the IEQc4.3 LEED Online form, even though they are exempt from certification requirements?

    According to LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. #10267, the project team should mark the form to indicate an Alternative Compliance Path, and include a narrative with a statement that the project is applying the April 14, 2010 addenda, as well as the manufacturer and specific product description of the product claiming the exemption. Manufacturer documentation for each product claiming an exemption is not required.

    On a renovation, should flooring that is previously installed be subject to the credit requirements?

    No. The credit requirements only refer to flooring installed within the project scope.

    One flooring adhesive we are using falls under both IEQc4.1 and IEQc4.3, and is over the VOC limit. We are using the VOC budget method to meet IEQc4.1 requirements, but are we automatically disqualifed from IEQc4.3?

    Technically speaking, the IEQc4.3 credit language would not allow you to earn the credit in this situation. The budget method is not referenced in IEQc4.3. However, there has not been an official ruling on this from USGBC, and a case could be made through a narrative or a LEED Interpretation for earning the credit.

    Are throw rugs subject to the credit requirements?

    While finding low-emitting throw rugs would be a good idea, they would not be considered "permanently installed" and so would not be subject to credit requirements.

    If a ceramic tile receives a top coat after it is manufactured, is it exempt from the credit requirements?

    No. A tile or similar product that is coated after being manufactured must meet the credit requirements for flooring product certification.

    The credit requirements are allowed to exempt unfinished wood flooring from the credit requirements, but wood flooring is almost always finished. This is confusing!

    Yes, it is odd. All the same, unfinished flooring is exempt, while finished flooring must meet relevant requirements.

Legend

  • Best Practices
  • Gotcha
  • Action Steps
  • Cost Tip

Design Development

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  • Consider using low-emitting flooring materials and systems.

  • Review the table shown in the Bird's Eye View, and the credit language, for low-emitting requirements for different flooring materials.  

  • The cost premium for low-emitting flooring varies. Carpet, for example, should not have much of a premium, if any. Many hard-surface flooring materials such as concrete and wood are typically low-emitting themselves, and simply need a low-emitting finish, which is unlikely to have much of a cost premium. With higher-end flooring products, the cost of credit-compliant and non-compliant products should be comparable for all types of flooring. 

  • Durability and performance of flooring materials that are compliant with this credit should not be an issue, compared with conventional materials. 

  • Carpeted officeBolyu's Flair carpet tile contains 85% recycled content backing and matches the company's broadloom product. Photo – Beaulieu CommercialCarpeting all of your regularly occupied spaces will make earning this credit easier, because compliant carpeting is easy to find and should be available without a cost premium. FloorScore-certified hard-surface flooring, on the other hand, is harder to find as there may be limited variety and availability. However, consider durability as part of your design—hard-surface flooring offers better durability than carpet.

  • FloorScore lists a few compliant products on its website, but a limited number of manufacturers that have had their products tested by FloorScore. Products certified under the Greenguard for Children and Schools program are also okay, because that standard meets the California Department of Health Services protocol. Beware: the generic Greenguard standard does not meet this protocol.

  • Resilient flooring, rubber flooring, and prefinished wood flooring all must be FloorScore-certified. Solid wood flooring, ceramic tile, concrete, and other flooring installed without binders or coatings need not be certified, but all coatings and finished applied to them must meet the requirements of IEQc4.2: Low-Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings.

Construction Documents

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  • Make sure low-emitting flooring requirements have been integrated into the construction specifications.  

  • Guidance on incorporating LEED specifications into construction documents, along with samples, is available from MasterSpec and from the Whole Building Design Guide (see Resources).

  • It is best to require subcontractors to supply all LEED-required VOC information on the products they purchase at the time they are submitting products for approval. This way contractors do not wait until the end of construction to supply information, and you have the opportunity to review products for LEED compliance before products are purchased.

  • If possible, incorporate in the specifications specific, compliant low-emitting products by product line and manufacturer. 

  • Contracts for contractors and subcontractors should include their responsibility for ensuring that products they supply comply with LEED’s requirements.

  • Low-emitting requirements can also be incorporated in a more comprehensive IAQ management plan (required for IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—During Construction) specifying low-emitting flooring systems to control a source of construction pollution.

  • Achieving this credit can also help achieve IEQc3.2: Construction IAQ Management Plan—Before Occupancy, if your project pursues the air-testing option for this credit. Using low-emitting flooring products improves your odds of passing the air quality tests. 

  • Polished concreteUnfinished concrete floors in mechanical rooms are not covered by this credit. Floor finishes like this low-VOC siliconate polished concrete finish are covered, however. Photo – ConspecThe credit only applies to flooring products installed inside. You can exclude flooring or decking in exterior spaces. Unfinished flooring, including floors in mechanical, electrical, and elevator service rooms also are not included. 

  • Hiring construction teams with LEED experience is helpful, as is reviewing LEED requirements and responsibilities with the contractor during the bidding process. Construction teams without LEED experience can be successful with this credit, but will require more training and a closer eye on quality control to make sure compliant materials are used and that items are documented correctly.  

  • As accountability is key to successfully implementing low VOC materials, contractors and subcontractors should be contractually required to provide LEED submittal product information. 

Construction

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  • Research compliant, low-emitting products before construction begins. If product decisions are made after construction begins, with less time to carefully review data sheets, there is a much greater risk of using a non-compliant product. 

  • A master spreadsheet helps ease information collection for subcontractors, giving them a road map of exactly what types of information to collect for each product.  

  • Preparation Before Construction Begins

  • The general contractor (GC) should be oriented to all LEED-related issues, including IAQ management, low-emitting materials, environmental material tracking tools, construction waste management, and so on. A list of acceptable products for each use type, and the list of VOC limits, should be provided to aid subcontractors in product selection. 

  • The GC should hold orientation meetings with the subcontractors to review 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.

  • Coordination and communication among the GC, subcontractors and design team early in the process can minimize scheduling delays and pushback from subcontractors.

  • Give the GC and subcontractors the following tools to help them track materials data for all MR and IEQ credits. (See the Documentation Toolkit for access.)

    • Materials Calculator:  This is a master tracking spreadsheet that the GC can use internally to compile product information received from the subcontractors. The spreadsheet tracks LEED values across multiple LEED MR and IEQ credits.
    • Environmental Materials Reporting Form: This is a material tracking form that helps subcontractors record the environmental values for products they purchase. This can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing. 
    • Low-Emitting Materials Reporting Form: This is a VOC tracking sheet that helps subcontractors record the low-emitting qualities of the products they purchase and can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing.
    • Low-Emitting Material Limits: These tables, found with each credit here on LEEDuser, summarize the maximum VOC limits for different types of adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, composite wood, and flooring products. When subcontractors search for low-emitting products, they should consult these charts.

  • When researching low-emitting products, double check that the manufacturer’s printed information is not misleading. A common example is a product cut sheet that states: “This is low-emitting flooring” without providing the product’s certification status and number. You need a copy of the flooring certification to demonstrate the product’s compliance. 

  • You’ll have to document flooring adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings twice—once for IEQc4.1 or IEQc4.2, and again for this credit.

  • The MSDS for flooring adhesive, sealant, or coating might just list the chemical contents without providing an overall VOC g/L number. If this is the case, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer for a VOC number.  

  • The VOC Budget method described in IEQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials—Adhesives and Sealants and IEQc4.2: Low Emitting Materials—Paints and Coatings is not available for this credit.

  • The GC should be aware of any warranty issues that may exist if alternative adhesives or sealants are used. For example, a carpet company’s warranty may insist that a specific carpet adhesive that doesn’t meet the credit requirements. In this case, you’ll have to choose whether to forgo the credit for the sake of the warranty, to get the manufacturer to approve a low-emitting alternative, or to find an alternative product that complies with this credit.

  • During Construction

  • Throughout construction, the GC collects copies of flooring certifications and VOC data from subcontractors for all flooring adhesives, sealants, and coatings. VOC content is measured in grams per liter (g/l), and VOC levels can be found on each product’s MSDS.  

  • The GC functions as the overall quality assurance provider for this credit. Responsibilities include conducting weekly reviews of subcontractor product safety data sheets and tracking forms, as well as spot checks in dumpsters to determine which products are actually being used.

  • Assign someone to be responsible for inputting the subcontractors’ tracking forms into the master spreadsheet. A LEED consultant or an administrative assistant in the GC’s office may be the best choice for this role. 

  • Review subcontractor product suggestions ahead of time to avoid the purchase of inappropriate materials and eliminate the need for costly change orders.

  • Streamline documentation and research by keeping a master spreadsheet of all items being tracked for each material across MR and IEQ credits. For example, you may need to ask the carpet manufacturer for regional manufacturing and extraction locations for MRc5, recycled-content information for MRc4, and the CRI Green Label Plus information for this credit—all for one carpet selection. (See the Documentation Toolkit for a sample tracking spreadsheet.)

  • Schedule the installation of absorptive flooring systems so that they are protected from construction air contaminants. This is required if your project is pursuing IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan—During Construction. For example, carpet tiles installed before walls are painted will absorb VOCs from the paint, and then offgas over a longer period.

  • It is usually a good idea to do a “mini air flush” (if your project is not attempting IEQc3.2) before occupancy to help remove any lingering VOCs from the construction process. This can be as simple as putting industrial sized fans in the window and pumping in fresh air overnight or running the HVAC exhaust on high for a few days. (See IEQc3.2: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—Before Occupancy if the team wants to do a full flush-out for an additional LEED point.)

  • Transfer all the data collected in the master material tracking spreadsheet to the LEED Online form and upload the product cut sheets.

Operations & Maintenance

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  • Keep a list of compliant flooring systems used on the project so that O&M staff can use these products for future renovations.

  • Follow specific maintenance practices for the flooring products used. Follow a green cleaning and maintenance policy that limits products with VOCs and other indoor pollutants.

  • USGBC

    Excerpted from LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors

    COPYRIGHT © 2009 BY THE U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

    IEQ Credit 4.3: Low-emitting materials - flooring systems

    1 Point

    Intent

    To reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers and occupants.

    Requirements

    Option 1

    All flooring must comply with the following as applicable to the project scope:

    • All carpet installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:

      • Meets the testing and product requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus1 program.
      • Maximum VOC concentrations are less than or equal to those specified in the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the practice. The additional VOC concentration limits listed in Section 9.1a must also be met.
      • Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based on the following:
        • California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using test results obtained at the 14 day time point
        • Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.

          If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.
    • All carpet cushion installed in the building interior must meet the requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program.
    • All carpet adhesive must meet the requirements of IEQ Credit 4.1: Adhesives and SealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid., which includes a volatile organic compound (VOC) limit of 50 g/L (0.4 lb/gal).
    • All hard surface flooring installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements:
      • Meet the requirements of the FloorScore2 standard (current as of the date of this rating system, or more stringent version) as shown with testing by an independent third-party.
      • Demonstrate maximum VOC concentrations less than or equal to those specified in the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the practice.
      • Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based on the following:
        • California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using test results obtained at the 14 day time point
        • Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points.

          If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.

      Mineral based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings and sealants and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit.

      • Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes such as sealer, stain and finish must meet the requirements of South Coast Air Quality Management District SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings, rules in effect on January 1, 2004.
      • Tile setting adhesives and grout must meet South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168. VOC limits correspond to an effective date of July 1, 2005 and rule amendment date of January 7, 2005.
      • For carpet adhesive, concrete, wood, bamboo and cork floor finishes, and tile setting adhesives, compliance can be demonstrated with test results of:
        • Total volatiles fraction, based on one of the following, provided that water and exempt compounds are subtracted from total volatiles test results and the mass VOC content is calculated consistent with SCAQMD Rule 1113 and Rule 1168:

          • ASTMVoluntary standards development organization which creates source technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services D2369
          • EPA method 24
          • ISO 11890 part 1
        • Total volatile organic compounds fraction, based on one of the following, provided that all VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate. with a boiling point up to 280°C (536°F) are included, and exempt compounds are subtracted from total volatiles test results and the mass VOC content is calculated consistent with SCAQMD Rule 1113 and Rule 1168.
          • ASTM D6886
          • ISO 11890 part 2

        1 The Green Label Plus program for carpets and its associated VOC emission criteria in micrograms per square meter per hour, along with information on testing method and sample collection developed by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) in coordination with California’s Sustainable Building Task Force and the California Department of Public Health , are described in Section 9, Acceptable Emissions Testing for Carpet, DHS Standard Practice CA/DHS/EHLB/R-174, dated 07/15/04.
        2 FloorScore is a voluntary, independent certification program that tests and certifies hard surface flooring and associated products for compliance with criteria adopted in California for indoor air emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) with potential health effects. The program uses a small-scale chamber test protocol and incorporates VOC emissions criteria, developed by the California Department of Public Health.

    OPTION 2

    All flooring elements installed in the building interior must meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic based coatings and sealants and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQ testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealers must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit.

    Potential Technologies & Strategies

    Clearly specify requirements for product testing and/or certification in the construction documents. Select products that are either certified under the Green Label Plus program or for which testing has been done by qualified independent laboratories in accordance with the appropriate requirements.

    FOOTNOTES

    1. The Green Label Plus program for carpets and its associated VOC emission criteria in micrograms per square meter per hour, along with information on testing method and sample collection developed by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) in coordination with California’s Sustainable Building Task Force and the California Department of Public Health , are described in Section 9, Acceptable Emissions Testing for Carpet, DHS Standard Practice CA/DHS/EHLB/R-174, dated 07/15/04.

    2. FloorScore is a voluntary, independent certification program that tests and certifies hard surface flooring and associated products for compliance with criteria adopted in California for indoor air emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate.) with potential health effects. The program uses a small-scale chamber test protocol and incorporates VOC emissions criteria, developed by the California Department of Public Health.

Organizations

Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) — Federal Green Construction Guide for Specifiers

Support on incorporating LEED requirements into specifications. 

Floorscore

The FloorScore program, developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) in conjunction with Scientific Certification Systems (SCS), tests and certifies flooring products for compliance with indoor air quality emission requirements adopted in California. 

GreenGuard Environmental Institute (GEI)

The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) is an industry-independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification ProgramSM.  As an ANSI Authorized Standards Developer, GEI establishes acceptable indoor air standards for indoor products, environments, and buildings.

Scientific Certification Systems, Inc.

A global leader in third-party environmental, sustainability and food quality certification, auditing, testing and standards development.

Publications

South Coast Air Quality Management District - Rules and Regulations

AQMD is the air pollution control agency for all of Orange County and the urban portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the smoggiest region of the U.S. We are committed to protecting the health of residents, while remaining sensitive to businesses.

Greenguard Children & Schools

Searchable List of Compliant products.

Technical Guides

Standard Practice For the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions From Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers

This is the referenced California standard that sets out the procedures and specific criteria for conducting VOC chamber tests.

MasterSpec “Specifying LEED Requirements Reference Book and CD ROM

A guide to specifying for LEED projects, with samples.

Materials Calculator

Teams can use this tool to track all materials across various MR and IEQ credits. It helps teams develop a roadmap of what information needs to be tracked for different products. It can also be used early on to create the baseline budget and ensure the products that are being used will apply to the various credit thresholds.

Environmental Materials Reporting Form

This is a materials tracking form that helps subcontractors record the environmental values of products they purchase. This can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing.

Low-Emitting Materials Reporting Form

This is a VOC tracking sheet that helps subcontractors record the low-emitting qualities of the products they purchase and can be distributed to each trade subcontractor and submitted to the GC for filing. Use it specifically for earning low-emitting materials credits, but in conjunction with documentation for MR credits.

Jobsite Signs

Products with VOC content not meeting credit requirements for VOC levels can inadvertently get used on the jobsite. A sign like this sample helps remind subcontractors and construction workers of their responsibilities.

Product Cut Sheets

Look to product cut sheets for information on the certifications and VOC content of flooring and adhesives or coatings associated with flooring. The example here of a tile clearly states that it is FloorScore-certified, but the VOC level for the tile adhesive is not given, and will need to be requested from the manufacturer.

Letter to Contractor for MR and IEQ Credits

Use a letter like this sample to orient the contractor to their responsibilities for all MR and IEQ credits. This letter is an introduction that can be customized for the credits your project is pursuing.

LEED Online Forms: CI-2009 IEQ

The following links take you to the public, informational versions of the dynamic LEED Online forms for each CI-2009 IEQ credit. You'll need to fill out the live versions of these forms on LEED Online for each credit you hope to earn.

Version 4 forms (newest):

Version 3 forms:

These links are posted by LEEDuser with USGBC's permission. USGBC has certain usage restrictions for these forms; for more information, visit LEED Online and click "Sample Forms Download."

Construction Submittal

HardhatDocumentation for this credit is part of the Construction Phase submittal.

Flooring Materials Tracking Form

Provide this form to contractors or other team members to track flooring materials used on the project, and LEED compliance.

90 Comments

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María Fernanda Aguirre Architect LEED AP BD + C - LEED AP ID + C Renato Miranda and Associates
May 04 2013
LEEDuser Member
8 Thumbs Up

What about Greenguard instead of Floorscore

We have a project pursuing LEED CI and the project team is considering to install laminate flooring which is Greenguard certified but not Floorscore. If Greenguard certification is addressed in other credits can it be possible we can present it instead of Floorscore?.

Thanks in advance,

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment May 04 2013 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

The product would need to be GREENGUARD Children & Schools/UL GREENGUARD Gold certified to qualify. This certification shows compliance to CA 01350 and USGBC has accepted for all low-emitting criteria for years.

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María Fernanda Aguirre Architect LEED AP BD + C - LEED AP ID + C, Renato Miranda and Associates May 04 2013 LEEDuser Member 8 Thumbs Up

Thanks so much, seems we must need to look for another product as it is just Greenguard certified.

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David Vu Project Manager Brae Burn Construction Company
Apr 23 2013
LEEDuser Member

Stains

Do Concrete Stains need to be FloorScore Certified. Would it be fine if they just meet the SCAQMD 1113?

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Dwayne Fuhlhage Sustainability and Environment Director, PROSOCO, Inc. Apr 23 2013 LEEDuser Member 767 Thumbs Up

Concrete stains count as coatings and are regulated under SCAQMD Rule 1113 and other state and national regulatory systems. This class of product would not be included in the scope of FloorScore.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner ArchEcology, LLC
Mar 20 2013
LEEDuser Member
1463 Thumbs Up

Aluminum Flooring

Okay so what about aluminum flooring? It's not a mineral. So it doesn't appear to be explicitly excluded. Yet, there are no binders or resins to be concerned about. Is this type of flooring subject to the requirement?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Mar 20 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

I would submit it as exempt, but include an exlanatory note. It seems like it should be exempt but no one thought to put "uncoated metals" in the addendum.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner, ArchEcology, LLC Mar 21 2013 LEEDuser Member 1463 Thumbs Up

Well, the small hitch is that it does have a coating - aluminum oxide. Though I see that coating is possible on wood flooring, it does not appear to be an "organic based integral coating". So I'm still thinking exempt. Would you concur?

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Tristan Roberts LEED AP BD+C, Editorial Director – LEEDuser, BuildingGreen, Inc. Mar 22 2013 LEEDuser Moderator

Aluminum oxide coatings, I believe, need a carrier of water or solvent. Seems like we have a potential emitter of VOCsA volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions (excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides and carbonates, and ammonium carbonate) to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate.. I'd include it.

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SOHA YAMANI
Jan 14 2013
Guest
38 Thumbs Up

French VOC labeling rule

I have an HDF that is which have the following emissions level of TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions. (class valid for the French VOC labeling rule) : Class A

Does that make it comply for this credit ?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jan 14 2013 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Soha,

I would need more information to assist. Assuming that this is a hard surface flooring product then the options are to comply with FloorScore Certification testing requirements or to meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice requirements (see above for more details). Class A within the French regulations seems to indicate that the the product is <15000 TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions. but you would need to be sure that it complies with either Option 1 or Option 2 above.

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SOHA YAMANI Jan 15 2013 Guest 38 Thumbs Up

Hello Lauren ,

Thank you so much , also kindly find below the link for the product used for more data regarding the product

http://professionals.tarkett.com/products/laminate/laminate-pro/select-933

when i sent for them asking about voc they sent me a certificate , stating that emissions level of TVOCThe sum or total of all volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from a product or measured in a space under certain defined conditions. (class valid for the French VOC labeling rule) : Class A

I was wondering also is there any way that i can compare between the requirements of California department of public health standard practice , and the french voc regulations

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jan 15 2013 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Soha,

I don't know of any direct comparisons. Maybe other LEEDusers may know? Another approach would be to go back to the Manufacturer and request that they give you the exact VOC in g/L.

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jan 15 2013 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

The latest addenda has the following guidance: All hard surface flooring installed in the building interior must meet one of the following requirements: Meet the requirements of the FloorScore standard (current as of the date of this rating system, or more stringent version) as shown with testing by an independent third-party. Demonstrate maximum VOC concentrations less than or equal to those specified in the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda, using the office scenario as defined in Table 7.5 within the practice. Maximum VOC concentrations meet the California requirements specified above based on the following: California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method V1.1-2010 using test results obtained at the 14 day time point Projects outside the U.S. may use the German AgBB/DIBt testing method and all testing methods based on AgBB/DIBt method (GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) using test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day or 14 day time point. For caprolactam, if test results obtained at the 3 day or 7 day time point is used, the emission concentration must be less than ½ of the concentration limit specified above because the emission may not have peaked at the measured time points. If a European testing method (AgBB/DIBt GUT, EMICODE, Blue Angel) had used parameters for calculating test results different from those specified in the referenced California method, then the European test results for carpets or floorings need to be converted into California air concentrations by multiplication with 0.7.

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Esteban Martinez LEED Consultant Green Loop
Oct 23 2012
LEEDuser Member
68 Thumbs Up

Cushion - Green Label program

We are confused about carpet padding requirement. In our case, the project is about to use Milliken carpets that meet CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. Green Label Plus program. However, Milliken carpet cushion does not state compliance with CRI Green Label program. Since the modular carpet is CRI Green Label Plus Certified, is it assumed that the carpet cushion complies with the credit requirements as well ? - Is the carpet cushion CRI Green Label program applicable only to independly manufacured carpet cushions ?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Oct 29 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

In short - yes. Is your carpet's padding incorporated as part of the carpet itself? If so, then your modular CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. GLP carpet should be just fine.

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Esteban Martinez LEED Consultant, Green Loop Oct 31 2012 LEEDuser Member 68 Thumbs Up

Yes, It is incorporated as part of the carpet. Thank you very much for your help.

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Melissa Decatur
Aug 02 2012
Guest
102 Thumbs Up

Wall Base-Flooring EQ4.3 included

Should the wall base material be included in the EQ4.3 credit for Flooring or is it only for resilient, stone, and carpet?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Aug 31 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Melissa,

The LEED-CI 2009 Reference Guide provides some clarification for this question on page 343, under Option 1 which states:

"All hard surface flooring must be certified as compliant with the FloorScore standard (current as of the date of this rating system, or more stringent version) by an independent third-party. Flooring products covered by FloorScore include vinyl, linoleum, laminate flooring, wood flooring, ceramic flooring, rubber flooring and wall base"

In the Reference Guide wall base is referenced within this section. Additionally, the credit is referencing "Flooring Systems" which would suggest inclusion of more than just the direct flooring surfaces but also the wall base.

Under the Definitions section of the LEED CI 2009 Reference Guide "hard surface flooring" includes wall base and "associated sundries".

So - to answer your question - I do think that your wall base should be included and listed and compliance can be obtained through all of the means mentioned (Option 1 and Option 2) within the credit. Additionally, any adhesives should comply with SCAQMD Rule 1168.

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Petr Lhoták Technologist, Sustainability Consultant, Skanska Czech Republic Sep 17 2012 Guest 1048 Thumbs Up

Hi.
We just recently recieved a comment from our review tema on this issue that we should include all wall base materials and adhesives.

Petr

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Nandana Kumar LEAD Consultancy & Engineering Services
Jun 12 2012
Guest
28 Thumbs Up

is Reach compliance equivalent to floor score?

Our client has proposed tarkett flooring products that meet REACH complaince standards. Can this be considered equivalent to floorscore?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jun 12 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Nandana,

Right now only FloorScore is accepted. Alternatively the product could meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Public Health Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda.

Lauren

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jun 12 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

This seems to be a pretty good summary of the relation of european standards and LEED:
http://www.eurofins.com/product-testing-services/highlights/green-buildi...

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Tanmay Tathagat Environmental Design Solutions
Apr 23 2012
LEEDuser Member
322 Thumbs Up

FloorScore Alternative Compliance Path

I am seeking clarity on the alternative compliance for FloorScore certified materials. Per the User Guide, "100% of non-carpet finished flooring must be FloorScore certified, and must constitute atleast 25% of the finished floor area." Does this mean, if the non-carpet (i.e.Hard Surface floor) area is less than 25% of the total finished floor, it does not have to be FloorScore certified?

In my project, only about 8% of the finished floor area has hard surface flooring while the remaining area is carpeted. So was wondering if it needed to comply with FloorScore requirements?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Apr 23 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Tanmay,

My understanding is that your hard surface flooring, even if only 8% of your finished floor area, must also be FloorScore (or tested to show compliance) in order to meet this credit. Your carpet would also need to be CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. Green Label Plus.

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Tanmay Tathagat Environmental Design Solutions
Apr 23 2012
LEEDuser Member
322 Thumbs Up

Ceramic Tile, applicable areas for credit compliance

The credit language mentions that "all flooring materials" should comply with this credit requirements. Since the intent of this credit is about the effect of indoor air quality on occupants, I have the following queries:

1. The LEED boundary of my project includes the lobby and restrooms located in the building core. Since these areas are "non-regularly occupied spacesRegularly occupied spaces are areas where one or more individuals normally spend time (more than one hour per person per day on average) seated or standing as they work, study, or perform other focused activities inside a building.", do the flooring materials used in these areas need to comply with this credit requirements?
2. The lobby area has natural stone flooring and the entire restroom area has ceramic tiles. In the case of having to comply, is it correct that ceramic tiles qualify without certification? Additionally, I would like to know if the cement grout used for laying the ceramic tiles (restrooms) need to comply with VOC requirements?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Apr 23 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Tanmay,

All flooring materials in your project need to be included, not just regularly occupied spacesRegularly occupied spaces are areas where one or more individuals normally spend time (more than one hour per person per day on average) seated or standing as they work, study, or perform other focused activities inside a building. with flooring.

The tiles comply without testing or certification. Grouts have been discussed a lot in this forum. I would look for low-VOC options despite the fact that it is not necessary (in my opinion) to include grout.

Lauren

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner ArchEcology, LLC
Apr 09 2012
LEEDuser Member
1463 Thumbs Up

Cork Plank Flooring

Is cork plank flooring a hard surface flooring requiring FloorScore certification? I do not see it specifically listed as a "hard surface" nor do I see it excluded.

The reference manual reflects a separate requirement for "concrete, wood, bamboo and cork flooring" sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. to meet the SCAQMD requirements, much as grout and mortar are listed separate. However, mineral-based flooring is explicitly excluded while cork is not unless it is considered a solid wood?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Apr 09 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Michelle,

It does look like there is one FloorScore cork product available from these guys: http://www.capricork.com/

If you go here: http://www.scscertified.com/products/index.php you can search for cork FloorScore products and then get this product.

Mediterra

Capri Cork LLC

Product Category: Flooring; Cork

Certification: FloorScore®

Certification Period: May 1, 2011 - April 30, 2012

Registration Number: SCS-FS-02476

Contact:
Margaret Buchholz
Office: 630.832.5792
buchholz@capricork.com
WebSite

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Apr 09 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Also, to answer your question more direclty, I do believe that if you have cork in your project and you're hoping to achieve this credit then your cork needs to be Floor Score certified. Additionally, its coatings needed to comply with SCAQMD requirements.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner, ArchEcology, LLC Apr 10 2012 LEEDuser Member 1463 Thumbs Up

Morning Lauren,
Thanks, that was my impression. I appreciate the confirmation and the pointer toward a compliant product.

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Apr 10 2012 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

Also remember that FloorScore is not the only compliance pathway - showing that a product is low emitting by passing the CDPH VOC Emission Standard (CA 01350) is an option as well. A number of programs show compliance to this - including GREENGUARD Children & Schools which has 48 cork products that would qualify for this credit (http://greenguard.org/en/SearchResults.aspx?CategoryID=1&SubCategoryID=1...) - and a number of test labs are qualified to do the emission testing for flooring.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner, ArchEcology, LLC Apr 10 2012 LEEDuser Member 1463 Thumbs Up

Hi Josh,
Thanks for the reminder. I just wanted to be sure before I began the dance that the cork flooring actually needed to meet the testing protocol requirements. Appreciate it.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner, ArchEcology, LLC May 15 2012 LEEDuser Member 1463 Thumbs Up

Josh,
A question for you on the alternate CA 01350 compliance path. I have seen this reference before (it seems like just a testing protocol) and also on the EQ4.3 credit form it refers to the California Department of Health standard. I have also had suppliers tell me their product is "on the list" for this type of compliance. Other than a Greenguard Children & Schools cert, what is the documentation requirement? Product data with some specific reference? Or is there actually a list somewhere like FloorScore or Greenguard that I could check for the product?

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment May 16 2012 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

Michelle,

Unfortunately there is no central list of products compliant with CA 01350 (CDPH standard method). As you referenced, the easy most utilized way is through 3rd party certifications (GREENGUARD, Green Label Plus, Indoor Advantage, FloorScore, etc.). There is another way though - a product manufacturer could provide you with a test lab report (from a lab that has the CA 01350 test method in their scope of ISO 17025 accreditation - there are a number of them in the US and around the world) that shows a product is compliant. This should be accepted by USGBC as proof of compliance to the CA 01350 criteria.

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Michelle Rosenberger Partner, ArchEcology, LLC May 16 2012 LEEDuser Member 1463 Thumbs Up

Thanks, Josh.

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David Edenburn ESD Consultant Commtech Asia
Mar 13 2012
LEEDuser Member
96 Thumbs Up

Floorscore versus Greenguard

I have a solid wood flooring vendor (Shaw) who claims that they do not have Floorscore but they do have Greenguard (usually used for furniture). Does anyone know if LEED would accept Greenguard in lieu of Floorscore for IEQ C4.4?

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Mar 13 2012 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

USGBC has accepted the GREENGUARD Children & Schools certification as showing compliance to the CA 01350 requirements.

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Jonathan Weiss May 30 2012 LEEDuser Member 1629 Thumbs Up

Just to clarify - can we mix and match? If we find one FloorScore product and another GreenGuard product, can we use both? And can we mix that with our CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. green labels for Carpet? Or do we need to do all or nothing?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability May 30 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Jonathan,
Yes, either works. Each product can comply one way or the other. For simplicity on your end, choosing one route might be easier logistically but either works.

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Scott Adams Architectural Standards Specialist, Starbucks Coffee Company Jun 13 2012 Guest 83 Thumbs Up

Be aware that there is a difference between Greenguard and Greenguard Children and Schools. Greenguard Children and Schools will be accepted but standard Greenguard will not.

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jun 22 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Thanks for clarifying, Scott.

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Vivien Fairlamb
Mar 01 2012
LEEDuser Member
510 Thumbs Up

Walk off mats (linked to IEQ5)

Do projects have to consider the requirements for IEQ4.3 either through the CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. green label plus or other testing method for the walk off mats required under IEQ5 Indoor Chemical Pollutant Source Control?

Searching through the CRI site i haven't found a specific mention of mats other than its a good idea to have them and for them to be regularly cleaned.

If they are in a grille like system the adhesive might be an issue as well

thank you

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Susan Walter Sr Project Architect, Wilmot/Sanz Mar 01 2012 LEEDuser Member 6678 Thumbs Up

Look through the IEQ c5 conversations. I'm sure this is covered there. Adhesives applied on site always count.

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Mar 01 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hello,
This topic has been covered before...though I'm having a hard time "grabbing it" quickly through the site.

I have not been able to find a walk off mat that is CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100. Green Label Plus. My feeling is that the mats themselves, often with just strips of carpet between metal grilles, do not need to be CRI Green Label.
It all comes down to whether or not these things are being applied inside the weatherproofing membrane and on-site.

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Sheela I
Jan 27 2012
LEEDuser Member
468 Thumbs Up

Wood Flooring from Italy

We are installing wood flooring on our project and it is manufactured in Italy. As they do not have floor score certification - How can this product be documented? Their website says all their products meet formaldehyde1. Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring VOC found in small amounts in animals and plants but is carcinogenic and an irritant to most people when present in high concentrations, causing headaches, dizziness, mental impairment, and other symptoms. When present in the air at levels above 0.1 ppm, it can cause watery eyes; burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; nausea; coughing; chest tightness; wheezing; skin rashes; and asthmatic and allergic reactions. 2. A known carcinogen with no known safe exposure level. Formaldehyde occurs naturally, but appears in unnaturally high concentra­tions in many buildings because it is an ingredient in binders used in many building materials and furnishings. standards as per Japanese main standard. Here's the web link of their certifications.

http://www.stile.com/Stile/certificazioni.aspx

All the remaining products on the project meet the standards. Not sure how to document this wood floor? Can anyone please advise.

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Jan 27 2012 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

The flooring doesn't have to meet Floorscore - that is a compliance path. The flooring needs to show compliance to the CA 01350 criteria (which is what Floorscore's requirements are) and that requires showing the minimization of 35 chemicals. Formaldehyde1. Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring VOC found in small amounts in animals and plants but is carcinogenic and an irritant to most people when present in high concentrations, causing headaches, dizziness, mental impairment, and other symptoms. When present in the air at levels above 0.1 ppm, it can cause watery eyes; burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; nausea; coughing; chest tightness; wheezing; skin rashes; and asthmatic and allergic reactions. 2. A known carcinogen with no known safe exposure level. Formaldehyde occurs naturally, but appears in unnaturally high concentra­tions in many buildings because it is an ingredient in binders used in many building materials and furnishings. is one of those chemicals, but it isn't the only one. If they are referring to the Japanese F Star program levels then they have multiple different levels of formaldehyde compliance and the testing, modeling and criteria is very different from the CA 01350/Floorscore way of doing things.

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Sheela I Jan 27 2012 LEEDuser Member 468 Thumbs Up

Thank You Josh! Yes it is Japanese F Star program and their products are rated F (4) stars. which means the products have less than 0.3g/l. can we still document the flooring for the credit as a special circumstance?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jan 27 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Sheela,

If it is solid wood flooring it does not need to be tested and it does not need to be FloorScore. See above for the credit description. However, if it is an engineered wood product then you would need to make sure it was FloorScore or that it showed compliance with CA 01350.

Check out this link for an example of other FloorScore engineered wood products: http://www.scscertified.com/products/index.php

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Sheela I Jan 30 2012 LEEDuser Member 468 Thumbs Up

Thanks Lauren. Where can i find the requirements for CA standards?

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Feb 03 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Sheela,

You should be able to find the requirements for testing in the Reference Guide.

"All flooring products must meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Public Health Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit."

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Natalie Wong
Jan 04 2012
Guest
65 Thumbs Up

Raised Floor

Hi, I would like to ask whether a raised floor applies to IEQc4.3?
If yes, what criteria does it need to meet?
As the product is from Europe, it is hard to find the certificate to proof if it is complied with IEQc4.3.
Thanks!

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Jan 04 2012 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

I would believe that a reviewer would consider the raised flooring as having to meet this criteria to get the credit. The floor would need to show compliance to the California Department of Health Services' CA 01350 requirements in order to show compliance.

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Susann Geithner Director of Sustainability, HSB Architects & Engineers Jan 04 2012 LEEDuser Expert 7755 Thumbs Up

Unless your raised floor is actual the finished product, so you don't have any floor covering on it like carpet, tiles or such, I think it doesn't have to comply with IEQ 4.3. But you should check the LEED interpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. database in regards to that.
However if you are applying for the Pilot credit, you will have to include it. Also keep in mind that there are exemptions for mineral based products and I'm pretty sure metal (as more raised floors) won't need a certificate either.
Also check the new guidelines for international projects in regards to alternative compliance paths. They do include European Norms and standards now also.

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Jan 05 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

I agree with Susann's understanding. The EQ credits are really intended to address the finish materials, though one should still aim to find the appropriate low-emitting options for all products in a project.

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Natalie Wong Feb 09 2012 Guest 65 Thumbs Up

Thanks. I think it should be the finished flooring material.
As it is manufactured in Germany, it does not have floor score certificate. However, it passed the IBR standard in Germany with VOC testing which is similar to CA01350 . Can it apply for the credit as well?
And what should I pay attention to when applying for the credit?

Thank you so much!

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Feb 10 2012 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

Hi Natalie,

My understanding is that you would have to meet the CA 01350 testing requirements exactly if it is a hard surface flooring product and is not Floor Score certified. What exactly is the product material? It would help in deciding how best to approach your next steps.

If pursuing the testing requirements, I would review the reference guide for the requirements.

"All flooring products must meet the testing and product requirements of the California Department of Public Health Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. Mineral-based finish flooring products such as tile, masonry, terrazzo, and cut stone without integral organic-based coatings and sealantsA sealant has adhesive properties and is formulated primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between 2 surfaces. Sealants include sealant primers and caulks. (SCAQMD Rule 1168. )Sealants are used on wood, fabric, paper, corrugated paperboard, plastic foam and other materials with tiny openings, often microscopic, that may absorb or discharge gas or fluid. and unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring qualify for credit without any IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testing requirements. However, associated site-applied adhesives, grouts, finishes and sealersSealers are coatings applied to either block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate, to prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate. must be compliant for a mineral-based or unfinished/untreated solid wood flooring system to qualify for credit."

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Juliana Malho LEED consultancy manager Athie Wohnrath
Oct 17 2011
LEEDuser Member
176 Thumbs Up

FloorScore certification

Are Limestone and Marmoglass considered as hard flooring system, and thus, has to be FloorScore certified fo IEAc4.3? I could not find any supplier for Limestone and Marmoglass with FloorScore certification.

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Susann Geithner Director of Sustainability, HSB Architects & Engineers Oct 17 2011 LEEDuser Expert 7755 Thumbs Up

Mineral based flooring products such as yours are exempt. see also LEED reference guide addendum 4/14/2010
You just have to make sure your adhesives, grout, coatings and such are compliant with the maximum VOC limits.

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Oct 17 2011 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

Also remember that FloorScore is not the only way to show that a flooring product helps achieve the credit - the product simply has to show that it passes the California Department of Health Services CA 01350 requirements.

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Lauren Glasscock Sr. Sustainability Professional, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Nov 11 2011 LEEDuser Expert 8630 Thumbs Up

I agree with Susann. Thanks.

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Colleen Ice Project Manager, LEED AP, NCIDQ ADC
Sep 27 2011
Guest
89 Thumbs Up

Creme Marfil Marble

I see a lot of threads based on hard surface materials being exempt, but what about marble. I need to find the life cycle data for other credits, but do I need FloorScore information on this product. I do see Marble from other companies listed on the FloorScore. http://www.scscertified.com/products/program.php?a=FloorScore

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Susan Walter Sr Project Architect, Wilmot/Sanz Sep 27 2011 LEEDuser Member 6678 Thumbs Up

Marble should fall into Option 2 cut stone which qualifies without testing. Is your floor product backed with something else that is causing you concern?

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Colleen Ice Project Manager, LEED AP, NCIDQ, ADC Sep 27 2011 Guest 89 Thumbs Up

Thank you Susan. Not that I know of, but I am checking with the GC to find out. I just haven't completed the 3.0 version before, so I just wanted to double check. Thanks again.

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Raymond Loo Senior Manager, Corporate Services MEA & Associates Limited (Hong Kong)
Sep 24 2011
Guest
495 Thumbs Up

GLP certification required or could you just meet the testing..?

Working on a project in Hong Kong where the client is considering the purchase of some carpets that are manufactured in Japan. I do not see any Green Label Plus certification in their spec sheets.

Two part question:

1) Is it a requirement that the carpet be GLP certified or would earning this credit also be possible by tests to confirm that carpets meet the testing and product requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute GLP program? If the latter is eligible, what are these requirements?

2) Has anyone successfully earned this credit with carpet that was not officially GLP certified?

Substantially all of the project flooring will be carpet.

Thanks in advance for any comments and tips.

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Sep 26 2011 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

Raymond,

You would look towards Option 2 in the credit, which simply allows a representative sample of the carpet that you are going to use be tested to CA 01350 requirements by a lab that has that standard in the scope of its ISO 17025 accreditation.

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Melissa Vernon Director of Sustainable Strategy, Interface Sep 29 2011 LEEDuser Member 338 Thumbs Up

Raymond,
The carpet does not have to be certified by CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100., it just needs to meet the requirements of GLP. We have had European manufactured carpet tested by an independent lab using the CRI Green Label Plus criteria and they have successfully been used on numerous LEED projects.

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Raymond Loo Senior Manager, Corporate Services, MEA & Associates Limited (Hong Kong) Sep 30 2011 Guest 495 Thumbs Up

Josh and Melissa,

Thank you very much for your prompt and helpful replies to my question.

Just a quick follow up question although I believe the answer should be obvious but just to double check. The designer on this project has selected a carpet that he believes (still checking) to not be GLP certified but he states that the manufacturer is GLP certified. My assumption is that the carpet in question needs to be GLP certified and that fact that the manufacturer is GLP certified (also assuming this is possible) by itself does not meet the requirements of this credit.

Can anyone just give a quick confirmation on my assumption?

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Josh Jacobs Technical Information & Public Affairs Manager, UL Environment Sep 30 2011 LEEDuser Expert 3061 Thumbs Up

Raymond,

You are correct in your skepticism as manufacturers can not be GLP certified - only products. So either the product is certified or it isn't, it does not matter if the manufacturer has other products that are certified. If you want to check and see if the carpet is certified or not, here is the website with all the listings: http://www.carpet-rug.org/commercial-customers/green-building-and-the-en...

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Melissa Vernon Director of Sustainable Strategy, Interface Sep 30 2011 LEEDuser Member 338 Thumbs Up

The product does not have to be GLP certified officially through CRIColor-rendering index, or CRI, is a scale of 0 to 100, used by manufacturers of fluorescent, metal halide, and other non-incandescent lighting equipment to describe the visual effect of the light on colored surfaces. Natural daylight is assigned a CRI of 100.. It must meet the product and testing requirements of GLP or CHPS 01350. What does this mean? A product can be tested by an independent lab to demonstrate compliance.

The Option 2 test method is located here:
http://www.cal-iaq.org/download-standard-method-publications/standard-me...

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