Log in
LEED v2009
Core & Shell
Indoor Environmental Quality

Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control

LEED CREDIT

CS-2009 IEQc5: Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control 1 point

See all forum discussions about this credit »

Credit achievement rate

XX%

Upgrade to LEEDuser Premium to see how many projects achieved this credit. Try it free »

LEEDuser expert

Mohammad H Abbasi

WSP
Senior Consultant

LEEDuser’s viewpoint

Frank advice from LEED experts

LEED is changing all the time, and every project is unique. Even seasoned professionals can miss a critical detail and lose a credit or even a prerequisite at the last minute. Our expert advice guides our LEEDuser Premium members and saves you valuable time.

Credit language

USGBC logo

© Copyright U.S. Green Building Council, Inc. All rights reserved.

Requirements

Design to minimize and control the entry of pollutants into buildings and later cross-contamination of regularly occupied areas through the following strategies:

  • Employ permanent entryway systems at least 10 feet long (3 meters) in the primary direction of travel to capture dirt and particulates entering the building at regularly used exterior entrances. Acceptable entryway systems include permanently installed grates, grills and slotted systems that allow for cleaning underneath. Roll-out mats are acceptable only when maintained on a weekly basis by a contracted service organization. Projects that do not have entryway systems cannot achieve this credit.
  • Sufficiently exhaust each space where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used (e.g. garages, housekeeping and laundry areas and copying and printing rooms) to create negative pressure with respect to adjacent spaces when the doors to the room are closed. For each of these spaces, provide self-closing doors and deck-to-deck partitions or a hard-lid ceiling. The exhaust rate must be at least 0.50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per square foot (0.15 cubic meters per minute per square meter), with no air recirculation. The pressure differential with the surrounding spaces must be at least 5 Pascals (Pa) (0.02 inches of water gauge) on average and 1 Pa (0.004 inches of water) at a minimum when the doors to the rooms are closed.
  • In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
    • Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
    • These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:
      • Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2
      • Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance
      • [East Asia ACP: Filtration Media]
      • Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3–10 µg.
    • Clean air filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.

Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs)

IAQ-HIGH">East Asia ACP: Filtration Media
Projects in East Asia may use filtration media classified as high efficiency (高中效过滤器) or higher as defined by Chinese standard GB/T 14295-2008 (空气过滤器). [view:embed_resource=page_1=4787157] See all forum discussions about this credit »

What does it cost?

Cost estimates for this credit

On each BD+C v4 credit, LEEDuser offers the wisdom of a team of architects, engineers, cost estimators, and LEED experts with hundreds of LEED projects between then. They analyzed the sustainable design strategies associated with each LEED credit, but also to assign actual costs to those strategies.

Our tab contains overall cost guidance, notes on what “soft costs” to expect, and a strategy-by-strategy breakdown of what to consider and what it might cost, in percentage premiums, actual costs, or both.

This information is also available in a full PDF download in The Cost of LEED v4 report.

Learn more about The Cost of LEED v4 »

Frequently asked questions

What does ‘regularly used exterior entrance’ mean and how do I know which of my building entrances falls under this category?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Are entryway mats required for a building entrance from another building?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Can I use carpet tile as a track-off system? What about carpet?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Our building has a green cleaning program and is earning an ID credit for it, based on the LEED-EBOM IEQc3 requirements. Can we skip the exhaust requirements for our janitor rooms?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

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

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

What is the definition of a high-volume copier?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Do I need to provide dedicated exhaust for my printer or copier?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

I do not have 10' of space inside my building entrance to install a walk-off system. Can I include one on the exterior? Can the shape be irregular?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

See all forum discussions about this credit »

Addenda

7/1/2014Updated: 3/29/2018
Regional ACP
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: “Projects in East Asia may use filtration media classified as high efficiency (高中效过滤器) or higher as defined by Chinese standard GB/T 14295-2008 (空气过滤器).”
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The second new bullet should read: "Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the sixth paragraph of the section:Rooms where chemicals are mixed and disposed of should be isolated.These rooms should include sinks and/or drains in appropriate locations toensure that chemicals are disposed of properly and are not dumped intoinadequate spaces (e.g., restrooms). Local codes requiring separate drainlines must be followed.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Add 3 new bullets below the second sub-bullet. Indent these bullets farther.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the paragraph with the following:This credit recognizes projects that reduce or mitigate human contact withairborne chemicals and particles. Additional materials and energy may berequired to provide entryway systems and isolated chemical-use areas.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: "Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3-10
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The first new bullet should read: "Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the second paragraph with the following text:During the design phase, the architect should consider the location andtype of entryway systems and allow adequate space for entryway systems.During the schematic design phase, the team should confirm the locationsof areas where chemicals and high-volume copy, fax, and print equipmentwill be used. It may be possible to locate such rooms above or adjacent to1 another to make individual exhaust systems unnecessary and minimizeexhaust ductwork. Also confirm that chemical and equipment rooms areproperly isolated from adjacent spaces. The mechanical engineer shouldincorporate MERV 13 filters, dedicated exhaust systems; these elementswill affect the fan sizing, shaft layout, and underground coordination.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace the third bullet item with the following text:
• In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
o Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
o These filters or devices shall be rated a minimum efficiencyreporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2.
o Clean air Filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The second sub-bullet (5th bullet overall) should read: "These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first and second paragraphs, replace both instances of "high-traffic" with "regularly used"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete the Alternative Compliance Path for Projects Outside the U.S.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The first new bullet should read: "Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fourth line of the paragraph, remove the text "...; in addition, the storage, mixing and disposal of housekeeping liquids may adversely affect human health"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The second sub-bullet (5th bullet overall) should read: "These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The second new bullet should read: "Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the fourth bullet item:Provide containment (i.e. a closed container for storage for off-site disposalin a regulatory compliant storage area, preferably outside the building) forappropriate disposal of hazardous liquid wastes in places where water andchemical concentrate mixing occurs (e.g., housekeeping, janitorial andscience laboratories).
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Remove the fourth bullet item:Provide containment (i.e. a closed container for storage for off-site disposalin a regulatory compliant storage area, preferably outside the building) forappropriate disposal of hazardous liquid wastes in places where water andchemical concentrate mixing occurs (e.g., housekeeping, janitorial andscience laboratories).
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Add 3 new bullets below the second sub-bullet. Indent these bullets farther.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the third bullet item with the following text:
• In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
o Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
o These filters or devices shall be rated a minimum efficiencyreporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2.
o Clean air Filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: "Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3-10
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/30/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

In our first floor computer server areas, we will have some workbenches where equipment is tested and repaired. Occasionally workers have to fix a connection with a soldering iron. Typically, these soldering irons have been located at each workbench for occasional and very short use. It is an industry standard practice to allow the soldering to occur at work benches for convenience and efficiency (rather than to require it be done in an enclosed room). The company\'s EHS leaders are not concerned about soldering smoke inhalation because it is very brief. Moreover, these server areas are provided with ample air changes well above even the LEED EQ 2 Increased Ventilation credit (this is needed just to keep the servers cool). However, these air changes probably don\'t provide the amount of pressure required for this credit (EQ 5). How does EQ 5 Indoor Chemical & Pollutant Source Control apply to this situation? We propose several options for addressing this, in order of difficulty for our client: 1. Do nothing. The soldering is very limited (typically just a few seconds and very infrequent), and comparable to the amount of fumes produced by typical desktop office equipment such as desktop printers (which are also exempt from the exhaust requirement). 2. Provide portable fume hoods to employees for soldering use. 3. Provide carbon filters in the air return to make sure even the small amount of fumes are cleaned from the air before it goes through a cycle. 4. Provide the soldering irons at each workbench for short use, but also provide an enclosed/exhausted room for workers to use when performing more intensive soldering activities longer than a few seconds. (This would be a large expense where square-footage is at a premium.) 5. Restrict all soldering to an enclosed/exhausted room. Please let us know which option(s) would allow us to maintain the LEED credit.

Ruling:

The CIR has indicated that minor computer repairs, involving minor soldering, takes place within the computer server areas and is inquiring if special IAQ control measures are required to enable compliance with the intent of EQc5. Although the soldering that takes place in the computer server areas is minor and intermittent as indicated by the CIR inquiry, there are still emissions being introduced into the air for the computer server room. The inquiry has indicated a number of options to comply with the intent and requirements of EQc5. The two options that are acceptable to satisfy the credit requirements for this specific project case are: Option 2 - Provide portable fume hoods to employees for use when field soldering components*; and Option 5 - Restrict all soldering to an enclosed room with appropriate separations, negative pressurization, and separate exhaust. *The portable fume hood must be capable of achieving the negative pressurization required for chemical use areas and must have onboard filtration media to remove generated contaminants from the air that is exhausted back into the computer server areas. The project team should/must provide manufacturer\'s documentation for the selected fume hood to confirm the performance complies with the noted requirements. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2014
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is using a demand controlled exhaust system for a parking garage to meet the exhaust requirements for Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance as approved in LEED Interpretation 10247. Is this approach also acceptable to meet the hazardous gases or chemicals requirements in EQ Credit: Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control?

Ruling:

Yes, for parking garages, the demand exhaust strategy determined in EQ Prerequisite Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance is an acceptable alternative to the exhaust requirements for spaces where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used. The other requirements for these spaces must also be met (negative pressure, self-closing doors and deck-to-deck partitions or hard lid ceiling, no air recirculation, pressure differential).

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Where there are physical impediments to locating 10 ft of walk-off mats inside the building, is it acceptable to locate a portion of the mat or grate outside and then the remainder of the required 10 ft inside?

Ruling:

The intent for the entryway system (grilles, grates, walk-off mats) is to capture dirt and dust. An exception to the 10 ft length and/or indoor location is acceptable provided your alternative solution meets this intent and is thoroughly justified. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are meeting the IEQp1: Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance with Option 2, CEN standards EN 15251:2007 and EN 13779:2007. The CEN standards provide minimum outdoor air requirements for most spaces but refer to local codes for certain specialty spaces such as parking garages. To meet the intent of the prerequisite, we propose using our local code requirements for garages, which is Teil 5 Garagen (“Section 5 – Parking Garages”) of the Verordnung über Bau und Betrieb von Sonderbauten - Nordrhein-Westfalen (“Local Law of North Rhine-Westphalia for the Construction and Operation of Specialty Buildings”), dated 17 November 2009 (SBauVO). To meet this local code, our design will use demand control ventilation with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors to limit the CO concentration. Is this approach acceptable?

Ruling:

**Update 10/01/2014: Ruling has been revised
Yes, garage demand control ventilation is an acceptable ventilation approach for parking garages. This approach is acceptable for projects pursuing Option 2 (EN 15251 and EN 13779) of EQ Prerequisite Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance as well as the hazardous exhaust requirements in EQ Credit Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control. The demand control ventilation strategy must meet the following requirements:

  • • Consider the number of cars expected to be operating in the garage at any given time and the length of time a car remains in operation in the parking garage.
  • • Consider the emission rates associated with the car exhaust for the average car.
  • • Detect the primary contaminant(s) of concern in the parking garage (for example: carbon monoxide, particulates, VOCs, NO2, etc.).
  • • Modulate airflow such that contaminant levels are maintained below a specified contaminant concentration limit and corresponding exposure period. All concentration limits must be based on local code or some other cognizant authority. If the contaminant is carbon monoxide, a concentration limit of 35 ppm time-weighted average (8 hours) and levels not to exceed 50 ppm at any time is recommended.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/30/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Background: Our project is a high rise building with street level entrances and below grade level building entrances from an inter-modal transportation hall, public transportation systems, and directly from other buildings. This inter-modal transportation hall includes an indoor shopping / amenity arcade, which connects a wide range of retail shops and public transportation (PATH, MTA). This inter-modal transportation network (which is not included in the scope of Tower One) will be a fully enclosed space with conditioned and filtered air, that will also be clean and maintained. The distance traveled from the closest outdoor entry point through the inter-modal transportation hall to the building concourse level entrance is over 500 feet Project Design Approach for Applying EQc5: The entire project design does meet and exceed the air filtration, partitioning, and exhaust requirements of EQc5. The street level entryways designs do have permanent walk off systems that meet the requirements in EQc5. Conclusion and CIR: The concourse entrances will be regular entry points to the building. The concourse entrances are accessed via a conditioned, filtered, clean indoor space and as such it is a significantly cleaner adjacent environment than the street. We are requesting confirmation of our interpretation that the concourse entrances are not "entryways that are directly connected to the out doors" as stated in the EQc5 requirement for the application of walk off systems.

Ruling:

The requirements of EQc5 apply only to entryways that are directly connected to the outdoors. The connection between concourses and interior space does not apply to the requirements of this credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Carpet tile is not currently considered an acceptable entryway system. One reason carpet tile is not accepted is because it cannot be cleaned underneath and therefore does not meet the performance of mechanical systems (such as grates/grilles), or roll-out mats. Carpet tile is a highly desired material for walk off areas due to its ease of maintenance as compared to mechanical systems, avoidance of trip hazards associated with roll-out mats, and numerous other factors. The ability to clean underneath carpet tile is not necessary. Carpet tile creates a sealed floor where dirt and moisture do not penetrate the seams. Though not specifically required by the rating system, the reference guide provides suggestions for optimal performance attributes for entryway systems. The carpet tile product we are suggesting meets the performance-related attributes as follows:
Capture particles & prevent interior contamination- the carpet tile product is specifically designed to withstand heavy traffic at entranceways. Captures and hides soil, requires minimal maintenance and helps prevent slips and falls. Extend 10 feet: the carpet tile will extend 15' into the interior from the exterior entrance and 40' in left-right directions along the building lobby. Solid backings & appropriate for climate- the carpet tile backing is stable even under extreme changes in temperature and humidity. It will not move, create gaps, or curl up over time. High-void-volume & high fiber height- the carpet tile is produced with needlepunch hair-like face fibers with pile height of 0.165 in. Electrostatic propensity- the electrostatic propensity level is less than 2.5 kV. Weekly cleaning - the walk-off system will be maintained by the in-house school maintenance staff. The tiles are vacuumed daily and spot cleaned with appropriate environmentally-preferable cleaning products as needed. If an individual tile is deemed to be damaged beyond repair, it is simply removed and immediately replaced with a new identical tile.

How can we demonstrate that carpet tile is an equally performing or better solution for entryway systems?

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that carpet tiles may be used as acceptable entryway systems. Yes, carpet tiles with similar attributes to the product described are acceptable entryway systems.Conventional carpet is not acceptable, the carpet tile must be specifically designed for entryway system or similar use, have performance attributes equivalent to other acceptable entryway systems, and must be regularly maintained. Applicable Internationally.

***Updated 01/012013 to add applicability for LEED 2009 for Healthcare and to remove the text "(such as high pile height)".

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Does the described design for dealing with hazardous gas/chemicals in at a nail salon\'s manicure/pedicure workstation meet the requirements of this credit.

Ruling:

Yes, as the project is implementing individual dedicated exhaust intake at each manicure/pedicure workstation the approach is acceptable. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
See all forum discussions about this credit »

Checklists

Step by step to LEED certification

LEEDuser’s checklists walk you through the key action steps you need to earn a credit, including how to avoid common pitfalls and save money.

See all forum discussions about this credit »

Documentation toolkit

The motherlode of cheat sheets

LEEDuser’s Documentation Toolkit is loaded with calculators to help assess credit compliance, tracking spreadsheets for materials, sample templates to help guide your narratives and LEED Online submissions, and examples of actual submissions from certified LEED projects for you to check your work against. To get your plaque, start with the right toolkit.

Credit achievement rate

XX%

Upgrade to LEEDuser Premium to see how many projects achieved this credit. Try it free »

LEEDuser expert

Mohammad H Abbasi

WSP
Senior Consultant

Get the inside scoop

Our editors have written a detailed analysis of nearly every LEED credit, and LEEDuser premium members get full access. We’ll tell you whether the credit is easy to accomplish or better left alone, and we provide insider tips on how to document it successfully.

USGBC logo

© Copyright U.S. Green Building Council, Inc. All rights reserved.

Requirements

Design to minimize and control the entry of pollutants into buildings and later cross-contamination of regularly occupied areas through the following strategies:

  • Employ permanent entryway systems at least 10 feet long (3 meters) in the primary direction of travel to capture dirt and particulates entering the building at regularly used exterior entrances. Acceptable entryway systems include permanently installed grates, grills and slotted systems that allow for cleaning underneath. Roll-out mats are acceptable only when maintained on a weekly basis by a contracted service organization. Projects that do not have entryway systems cannot achieve this credit.
  • Sufficiently exhaust each space where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used (e.g. garages, housekeeping and laundry areas and copying and printing rooms) to create negative pressure with respect to adjacent spaces when the doors to the room are closed. For each of these spaces, provide self-closing doors and deck-to-deck partitions or a hard-lid ceiling. The exhaust rate must be at least 0.50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per square foot (0.15 cubic meters per minute per square meter), with no air recirculation. The pressure differential with the surrounding spaces must be at least 5 Pascals (Pa) (0.02 inches of water gauge) on average and 1 Pa (0.004 inches of water) at a minimum when the doors to the rooms are closed.
  • In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
    • Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
    • These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:
      • Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2
      • Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance
      • [East Asia ACP: Filtration Media]
      • Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3–10 µg.
    • Clean air filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.

Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs)

IAQ-HIGH">East Asia ACP: Filtration Media
Projects in East Asia may use filtration media classified as high efficiency (高中效过滤器) or higher as defined by Chinese standard GB/T 14295-2008 (空气过滤器). [view:embed_resource=page_1=4787157]

XX%

Upgrade to LEEDuser Premium to see how many projects achieved this credit. Try it free »

Got the gist of IEQc5 but not sure how to actually achieve it? LEEDuser gives step-by-step help. Premium members get:

  • Checklists covering all the key action steps you'll need to earn the credit.
  • Hot tips to give you shortcuts and avoid pitfalls.
  • Cost tips to assess what a credit will actually cost, and how to make it affordable.
  • Ideas for going beyond LEED with best practices.
  • All checklists organized by project phase.
  • On-the-fly suggestions of useful items from the Documentation Toolkit and Credit Language.

In the end, LEED is all about documentation. LEEDuser’s Documentation Toolkit, for premium members only, saves you time and helps you avoid mistakes with:

  • Calculators to help assess credit compliance.
  • Tracking spreadsheets for materials purchases.
  • Spreadsheets and forms to give to subs and other team members.
  • Guidance documents on arcane LEED issues.
  • Sample templates to help guide your narratives and LEED Online submissions.
  • Examples of actual submissions from certified LEED projects.

What does ‘regularly used exterior entrance’ mean and how do I know which of my building entrances falls under this category?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Are entryway mats required for a building entrance from another building?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Can I use carpet tile as a track-off system? What about carpet?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Our building has a green cleaning program and is earning an ID credit for it, based on the LEED-EBOM IEQc3 requirements. Can we skip the exhaust requirements for our janitor rooms?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

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

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

What is the definition of a high-volume copier?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

Do I need to provide dedicated exhaust for my printer or copier?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

I do not have 10' of space inside my building entrance to install a walk-off system. Can I include one on the exterior? Can the shape be irregular?

The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial »

(If you're already a premium member, log in here.)

7/1/2014Updated: 3/29/2018
Regional ACP
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: “Projects in East Asia may use filtration media classified as high efficiency (高中效过滤器) or higher as defined by Chinese standard GB/T 14295-2008 (空气过滤器).”
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The second new bullet should read: "Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the sixth paragraph of the section:Rooms where chemicals are mixed and disposed of should be isolated.These rooms should include sinks and/or drains in appropriate locations toensure that chemicals are disposed of properly and are not dumped intoinadequate spaces (e.g., restrooms). Local codes requiring separate drainlines must be followed.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Add 3 new bullets below the second sub-bullet. Indent these bullets farther.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the paragraph with the following:This credit recognizes projects that reduce or mitigate human contact withairborne chemicals and particles. Additional materials and energy may berequired to provide entryway systems and isolated chemical-use areas.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: "Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3-10
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The first new bullet should read: "Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the second paragraph with the following text:During the design phase, the architect should consider the location andtype of entryway systems and allow adequate space for entryway systems.During the schematic design phase, the team should confirm the locationsof areas where chemicals and high-volume copy, fax, and print equipmentwill be used. It may be possible to locate such rooms above or adjacent to1 another to make individual exhaust systems unnecessary and minimizeexhaust ductwork. Also confirm that chemical and equipment rooms areproperly isolated from adjacent spaces. The mechanical engineer shouldincorporate MERV 13 filters, dedicated exhaust systems; these elementswill affect the fan sizing, shaft layout, and underground coordination.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace the third bullet item with the following text:
• In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
o Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
o These filters or devices shall be rated a minimum efficiencyreporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2.
o Clean air Filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The second sub-bullet (5th bullet overall) should read: "These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first and second paragraphs, replace both instances of "high-traffic" with "regularly used"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete the Alternative Compliance Path for Projects Outside the U.S.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The first new bullet should read: "Filtration media is rated at a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fourth line of the paragraph, remove the text "...; in addition, the storage, mixing and disposal of housekeeping liquids may adversely affect human health"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
The second sub-bullet (5th bullet overall) should read: "These filters or devices shall meet one of the following criteria:"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The second new bullet should read: "Filtration media is Class F7 or higher, as defined by CEN Standard EN 779: 2002, Particulate air filters for general ventilation, Determination of the filtration performance"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the fourth bullet item:Provide containment (i.e. a closed container for storage for off-site disposalin a regulatory compliant storage area, preferably outside the building) forappropriate disposal of hazardous liquid wastes in places where water andchemical concentrate mixing occurs (e.g., housekeeping, janitorial andscience laboratories).
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Remove the fourth bullet item:Provide containment (i.e. a closed container for storage for off-site disposalin a regulatory compliant storage area, preferably outside the building) forappropriate disposal of hazardous liquid wastes in places where water andchemical concentrate mixing occurs (e.g., housekeeping, janitorial andscience laboratories).
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Add 3 new bullets below the second sub-bullet. Indent these bullets farther.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the third bullet item with the following text:
• In mechanically ventilated buildings, each ventilation system that supplies outdoor air shall comply with the following:
o Particle filters or air cleaning devices shall be provided to clean the outdoor air at any location prior to its introduction to occupied spaces.
o These filters or devices shall be rated a minimum efficiencyreporting value (MERV) of 13 or higher in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 52.2.
o Clean air Filtration media shall be installed in all air systems after completion of construction and prior to occupancy.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
The third new bullet should read: "Filtration media has a minimum dust spot efficiency of 80% or higher and greater than 98% arrestance on a particle size of 3-10
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/30/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

In our first floor computer server areas, we will have some workbenches where equipment is tested and repaired. Occasionally workers have to fix a connection with a soldering iron. Typically, these soldering irons have been located at each workbench for occasional and very short use. It is an industry standard practice to allow the soldering to occur at work benches for convenience and efficiency (rather than to require it be done in an enclosed room). The company\'s EHS leaders are not concerned about soldering smoke inhalation because it is very brief. Moreover, these server areas are provided with ample air changes well above even the LEED EQ 2 Increased Ventilation credit (this is needed just to keep the servers cool). However, these air changes probably don\'t provide the amount of pressure required for this credit (EQ 5). How does EQ 5 Indoor Chemical & Pollutant Source Control apply to this situation? We propose several options for addressing this, in order of difficulty for our client: 1. Do nothing. The soldering is very limited (typically just a few seconds and very infrequent), and comparable to the amount of fumes produced by typical desktop office equipment such as desktop printers (which are also exempt from the exhaust requirement). 2. Provide portable fume hoods to employees for soldering use. 3. Provide carbon filters in the air return to make sure even the small amount of fumes are cleaned from the air before it goes through a cycle. 4. Provide the soldering irons at each workbench for short use, but also provide an enclosed/exhausted room for workers to use when performing more intensive soldering activities longer than a few seconds. (This would be a large expense where square-footage is at a premium.) 5. Restrict all soldering to an enclosed/exhausted room. Please let us know which option(s) would allow us to maintain the LEED credit.

Ruling:

The CIR has indicated that minor computer repairs, involving minor soldering, takes place within the computer server areas and is inquiring if special IAQ control measures are required to enable compliance with the intent of EQc5. Although the soldering that takes place in the computer server areas is minor and intermittent as indicated by the CIR inquiry, there are still emissions being introduced into the air for the computer server room. The inquiry has indicated a number of options to comply with the intent and requirements of EQc5. The two options that are acceptable to satisfy the credit requirements for this specific project case are: Option 2 - Provide portable fume hoods to employees for use when field soldering components*; and Option 5 - Restrict all soldering to an enclosed room with appropriate separations, negative pressurization, and separate exhaust. *The portable fume hood must be capable of achieving the negative pressurization required for chemical use areas and must have onboard filtration media to remove generated contaminants from the air that is exhausted back into the computer server areas. The project team should/must provide manufacturer\'s documentation for the selected fume hood to confirm the performance complies with the noted requirements. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2014
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is using a demand controlled exhaust system for a parking garage to meet the exhaust requirements for Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance as approved in LEED Interpretation 10247. Is this approach also acceptable to meet the hazardous gases or chemicals requirements in EQ Credit: Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control?

Ruling:

Yes, for parking garages, the demand exhaust strategy determined in EQ Prerequisite Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance is an acceptable alternative to the exhaust requirements for spaces where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used. The other requirements for these spaces must also be met (negative pressure, self-closing doors and deck-to-deck partitions or hard lid ceiling, no air recirculation, pressure differential).

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Where there are physical impediments to locating 10 ft of walk-off mats inside the building, is it acceptable to locate a portion of the mat or grate outside and then the remainder of the required 10 ft inside?

Ruling:

The intent for the entryway system (grilles, grates, walk-off mats) is to capture dirt and dust. An exception to the 10 ft length and/or indoor location is acceptable provided your alternative solution meets this intent and is thoroughly justified. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are meeting the IEQp1: Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance with Option 2, CEN standards EN 15251:2007 and EN 13779:2007. The CEN standards provide minimum outdoor air requirements for most spaces but refer to local codes for certain specialty spaces such as parking garages. To meet the intent of the prerequisite, we propose using our local code requirements for garages, which is Teil 5 Garagen (“Section 5 – Parking Garages”) of the Verordnung über Bau und Betrieb von Sonderbauten - Nordrhein-Westfalen (“Local Law of North Rhine-Westphalia for the Construction and Operation of Specialty Buildings”), dated 17 November 2009 (SBauVO). To meet this local code, our design will use demand control ventilation with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors to limit the CO concentration. Is this approach acceptable?

Ruling:

**Update 10/01/2014: Ruling has been revised
Yes, garage demand control ventilation is an acceptable ventilation approach for parking garages. This approach is acceptable for projects pursuing Option 2 (EN 15251 and EN 13779) of EQ Prerequisite Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance as well as the hazardous exhaust requirements in EQ Credit Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control. The demand control ventilation strategy must meet the following requirements:

  • • Consider the number of cars expected to be operating in the garage at any given time and the length of time a car remains in operation in the parking garage.
  • • Consider the emission rates associated with the car exhaust for the average car.
  • • Detect the primary contaminant(s) of concern in the parking garage (for example: carbon monoxide, particulates, VOCs, NO2, etc.).
  • • Modulate airflow such that contaminant levels are maintained below a specified contaminant concentration limit and corresponding exposure period. All concentration limits must be based on local code or some other cognizant authority. If the contaminant is carbon monoxide, a concentration limit of 35 ppm time-weighted average (8 hours) and levels not to exceed 50 ppm at any time is recommended.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/30/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Background: Our project is a high rise building with street level entrances and below grade level building entrances from an inter-modal transportation hall, public transportation systems, and directly from other buildings. This inter-modal transportation hall includes an indoor shopping / amenity arcade, which connects a wide range of retail shops and public transportation (PATH, MTA). This inter-modal transportation network (which is not included in the scope of Tower One) will be a fully enclosed space with conditioned and filtered air, that will also be clean and maintained. The distance traveled from the closest outdoor entry point through the inter-modal transportation hall to the building concourse level entrance is over 500 feet Project Design Approach for Applying EQc5: The entire project design does meet and exceed the air filtration, partitioning, and exhaust requirements of EQc5. The street level entryways designs do have permanent walk off systems that meet the requirements in EQc5. Conclusion and CIR: The concourse entrances will be regular entry points to the building. The concourse entrances are accessed via a conditioned, filtered, clean indoor space and as such it is a significantly cleaner adjacent environment than the street. We are requesting confirmation of our interpretation that the concourse entrances are not "entryways that are directly connected to the out doors" as stated in the EQc5 requirement for the application of walk off systems.

Ruling:

The requirements of EQc5 apply only to entryways that are directly connected to the outdoors. The connection between concourses and interior space does not apply to the requirements of this credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Carpet tile is not currently considered an acceptable entryway system. One reason carpet tile is not accepted is because it cannot be cleaned underneath and therefore does not meet the performance of mechanical systems (such as grates/grilles), or roll-out mats. Carpet tile is a highly desired material for walk off areas due to its ease of maintenance as compared to mechanical systems, avoidance of trip hazards associated with roll-out mats, and numerous other factors. The ability to clean underneath carpet tile is not necessary. Carpet tile creates a sealed floor where dirt and moisture do not penetrate the seams. Though not specifically required by the rating system, the reference guide provides suggestions for optimal performance attributes for entryway systems. The carpet tile product we are suggesting meets the performance-related attributes as follows:
Capture particles & prevent interior contamination- the carpet tile product is specifically designed to withstand heavy traffic at entranceways. Captures and hides soil, requires minimal maintenance and helps prevent slips and falls. Extend 10 feet: the carpet tile will extend 15' into the interior from the exterior entrance and 40' in left-right directions along the building lobby. Solid backings & appropriate for climate- the carpet tile backing is stable even under extreme changes in temperature and humidity. It will not move, create gaps, or curl up over time. High-void-volume & high fiber height- the carpet tile is produced with needlepunch hair-like face fibers with pile height of 0.165 in. Electrostatic propensity- the electrostatic propensity level is less than 2.5 kV. Weekly cleaning - the walk-off system will be maintained by the in-house school maintenance staff. The tiles are vacuumed daily and spot cleaned with appropriate environmentally-preferable cleaning products as needed. If an individual tile is deemed to be damaged beyond repair, it is simply removed and immediately replaced with a new identical tile.

How can we demonstrate that carpet tile is an equally performing or better solution for entryway systems?

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that carpet tiles may be used as acceptable entryway systems. Yes, carpet tiles with similar attributes to the product described are acceptable entryway systems.Conventional carpet is not acceptable, the carpet tile must be specifically designed for entryway system or similar use, have performance attributes equivalent to other acceptable entryway systems, and must be regularly maintained. Applicable Internationally.

***Updated 01/012013 to add applicability for LEED 2009 for Healthcare and to remove the text "(such as high pile height)".

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Does the described design for dealing with hazardous gas/chemicals in at a nail salon\'s manicure/pedicure workstation meet the requirements of this credit.

Ruling:

Yes, as the project is implementing individual dedicated exhaust intake at each manicure/pedicure workstation the approach is acceptable. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes

LEEDuser expert

Mohammad H Abbasi

WSP
Senior Consultant

See all LEEDuser forum discussions about this credit » Subscribe to new discussions about CS-2009 IEQc5