Week 2: Air ✅ Flashcards
What is the primary aim of the WELL Air concept?
Air > General
The primary aim of the WELL Air concept is to achieve high levels of indoor air quality across a building’s lifetime through diverse strategies, including source elimination or reduction, and active and passive building design and operation strategies.
This information comes from Page 10 of the WELL V2
How much of people’s time is spent in enclosed spaces?
Air > General
People spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces.
This information comes from Page 10 of the WELL V2
What are the most common indoor air contaminants?
Air > General
e most common indoor air contaminants include combustion sources like candles, tobacco products, stoves, furnaces, and fireplaces, as well as pollutants emitted by building materials, furnishings, fabrics, cleaning products, and personal care products.
This information comes from Page 10 of the WELL V2
How was household air pollution ranked in a recent global burden of disease study?
Air > General
In a recent global burden of disease study, household air pollution was rated as the tenth most important cause of ill health for the world’s population.
This information comes from Page 10 of the WELL V2
What is the primary goal of the WELL Air Concept?
Air > General
The primary goal of the WELL Air Concept is to implement holistic design strategies to promote clean air and minimize human exposure to harmful contaminants, aiming to maximize benefits to productivity, well-being, and health.
This information comes from Page 10 of the WELL V2
What is the primary intent of the WELL feature regarding indoor air quality?
A01 AIR QUALITY | P
The primary intent is to provide a basic level of indoor air quality that contributes to the health and well-being of building users.
This information comes from Page 12 of the WELL V2
What are some common air pollutants mentioned in the ISSUE section of the feature?
A01 AIR QUALITY | P
Common air pollutants include Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and radon.
This information comes from Page 12 of the WELL V2
Who establishes permissible levels for criteria pollutants, and how are these levels determined?
A01 AIR QUALITY | P
ermissible levels for criteria pollutants are established by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) based on epidemiological studies that show the relationships between pollutant concentrations, duration of exposure, and health risks.
This information comes from Page 12 of the WELL V2
What strategies are available for managing indoor air quality?
A01 AIR QUALITY | P
Strategies include source control strategies, passive and active building design and operation strategies, and human behavior interventions. Effective mechanical ventilation is highlighted as particularly effective for reducing radon levels.
This information comes from Page 12 of the WELL V2
What is the primary intent of the WELL feature related to smoking?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
The primary intent is to deter smoking, minimize occupant exposure to secondhand smoke, and reduce smoke pollution.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
What are some health issues associated with exposure to tobacco smoke, according to the information provided?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Health issues associated with tobacco smoke include asthma attacks, respiratory infections, coronary heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and sudden infant death syndrome.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
What percentage of the global population lives in countries not protected by 100% smoke-free regulations?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Despite adverse health impacts, 80% of the global population lives in countries not protected by 100% smoke-free regulations.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
How can projects prevent intrusion of cigarette smoke from outdoors, according to the information provided?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Projects can prevent intrusion of cigarette smoke by ensuring that smoking is not allowed in the vicinity of building entrances, operable windows, and building air intakes.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
What does Part 1 of the WELL feature related to smoking prohibit in all interior spaces within the project boundary?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Part 1 prohibits smoking and the use of e-cigarettes in interior spaces within the project boundary.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
According to Part 2 of the WELL feature, where is outdoor smoking prohibited within the project boundary?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Outdoor smoking is prohibited within 25 ft (7.5 m) of all entrances, operable windows, and building air intakes, as well as on decks, patios, balconies, rooftops, and other occupiable outdoor areas above ground level.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
What additional requirement is mentioned regarding outdoor smoking areas within the project boundary, as per Part 2 of the feature?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
For outdoor areas allowing smoking, signs must be placed along walkways, not more than 100 ft (30 m) between signs, that describe the hazards of smoking.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
How should projects implement the smoking prohibitions according to WELL Core Guidance?
A02 SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT | P
Projects should meet the smoking prohibitions in the whole building as per WELL Core Guidance.
This information comes from Page 16 of the WELL V2
What is the primary objective of the WELL feature related to ventilation?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
The primary objective is to minimize indoor air quality issues by providing adequate ventilation.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What are some symptoms associated with poorly ventilated spaces?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, cough, sneezing, shortness of breath, and eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, collectively referred to as sick building syndrome (SBS).
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What are some consequences of poorly ventilated spaces?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Consequences include increased rates of employee absences, higher operational costs for businesses, and decreased productivity in students. One study estimates that 35% of total absenteeism can be attributed to insufficient provision of fresh air in buildings.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What maintenance practices are recommended for mechanically ventilated projects to ensure adequate ventilation performance and indoor air quality?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Mechanically ventilated projects need to perform regular system maintenance to prevent reduced ventilation performance and a deterioration in indoor air quality and thermal conditions.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What are the requirements for mechanically ventilated spaces to ensure adequate ventilation, according to the WELL feature?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Mechanically ventilated spaces must meet the supply and exhaust rates set in one or more specified ventilation guidelines, and the ventilation system should be tested and balanced after project occupancy.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What are the design criteria for naturally ventilated projects with no mechanical ventilation, as outlined in the WELL feature?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
The design criteria include ventilation rates described in specified standards, such as the Natural Ventilation Procedure in ASHRAE 62.1-2010 or other relevant versions.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What thresholds must outdoor air meet, as an average for the previous year, for projects pursuing the strategy of naturally ventilated spaces in areas with elevated particulate matter?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
For PM2.5, outdoor air must be less than 35 μg/m³, and for PM10, it must be less than 70 μg/m³.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What verification method is required for ensuring compliance with ventilation requirements in mechanically ventilated spaces?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Compliance in mechanically ventilated spaces is verified through a Letter of Assurance from an engineer.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What limitation is placed on projects pursuing the strategy of naturally ventilated spaces in areas with elevated particulate matter, in terms of WELL Certification level?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
These projects are limited to achieving a maximum certification level of Silver, regardless of the total points achieved.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What action must mixed mode projects take regarding ventilation when outdoor PM2.5 levels exceed 15 μg/m³?
A03 VENTILATION DESIGN | P
Mixed mode projects must use mechanical ventilation when outdoor PM2.5 levels are above 15 μg/m³, based on measurements within 2.5 miles of the project.
This information comes from Page 18 of the WELL V2
What is the primary objective of the WELL feature focused on minimizing construction-related pollutants in indoor air?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
The primary objective is to protect indoor air quality during building construction and renovation.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What health risks are associated with air pollution originating from construction and demolition works?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Air pollution from construction sites is associated with increased mortality due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is positively correlated with respiratory diseases such as increased emissions of PM10.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What strategies are recommended to protect indoor air quality during building construction and renovation?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Strategies include envelope protection, moisture and dust management, filter replacement, air flush, and proper equipment selection to limit exposure to construction-related contaminants.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
How can building construction and renovation impact indoor air quality, and what measures can be taken to mitigate this impact?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Construction activities can compromise indoor air quality by introducing dust, chemical vapors, and debris. Measures such as air duct protection, moisture and dust management, filter replacement, and appropriate equipment selection can help improve indoor air quality during construction.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What are the requirements for maintaining ducts during construction after project registration?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Ducts must either be sealed and protected from contamination or cleaned prior to installing registers, grills, and diffusers.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What criteria must filters meet if the ventilation system is operating during construction?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Filters must have a PM10 removal rating of at least 70% (e.g., MERV 8), and all filters must be replaced prior to occupancy.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What procedures are recommended for moisture and dust management during construction to mitigate indoor air pollution, as per the WELL feature?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Recommended procedures include storing absorptive materials separately in a designated area, isolating active work areas from other spaces, using walk-off mats at entryways, and using dust guards or collectors on saws and similar tools.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
How can construction pollution be mitigated to protect indoor air quality, according to the WELL feature?
A04 CONSTRUCTION POLLUTION MANAGEMENT | P
Construction pollution can be mitigated by maintaining ducts, using appropriate filters, implementing moisture and dust management procedures, and using protective measures such as walk-off mats and dust guards.
This information comes from Page 21 of the WELL V2
What is the aim of the WELL feature related to indoor air quality enhancement?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
he aim is to encourage and recognize buildings with enhanced levels of indoor air quality that promote the health and well-being of people.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
How does indoor air quality impact human health and productivity in buildings?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Indoor air quality directly affects health and well-being, contributes to productivity loss in office buildings, and can disrupt physical and cognitive development in children.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
What are some of the strategies for managing indoor air quality?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Strategies include source control, passive and active building design, operation strategies, and human behavior intervention.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
What are some of the benefits associated with enhanced indoor air quality?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Enhanced air quality is correlated with improved health, cognitive and physical development, higher incomes, and better economic performance.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
How many point can a project reach with the A05 Optimization (Enhanced Air Quality)?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Maximum 4 points:
2 point for part 1 (Meet Enhanced Thresholds For Particulate Matter)
1 point for part 2 (Meet Enhanced Thresholds For Organic Gases)
1 point for part 3 (Meet Enhanced Thresholds For Inorganic Gases)
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
What are the enhanced thresholds for particulate matter (PM) that projects must meet to earn points?
*We are looking for Pm2.5 levels and PM10 levels. There is 2 possibility
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Projects must comply with PM2.5 levels of 12 µg/m³ or lower and PM10 levels of 30 µg/m³ or lower to meet the enhanced thresholds. (For 1 point)
Projects must comply with PM2.5 levels of 10 µg/m³ or lower and PM10 levels of 20 µg/m³ or lower to meet the enhanced thresholds. (For 2 points)
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
How are these enhanced thresholds for particulate matter verified?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Verification is done through performance testing.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
What are the threshold levels for organic gases that projects must meet to earn points?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Projects must ensure that levels of acetaldehyde are 140 µg/m³ or lower, acrylonitrile are 5 µg/m³ or lower, benzene are 3 µg/m³ or lower, caprolactam are 2.2 µg/m³ or lower, formaldehyde are 9 µg/m³ or lower, naphthalene are 9 µg/m³ or lower, and toluene are 300 µg/m³ or lower.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
Where should the threshold For Organic Gases levels be met within the building?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
These threshold levels must be met in occupiable spaces within the building.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
What are the enhanced thresholds for inorganic gases that projects must meet to earn points?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
Projects must ensure that levels of carbon monoxide are 7 mg/m³ [6 ppm] or lower and nitrogen dioxide are 40 µg/m³ [21 ppb] or lower.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
In which spaces should these enhanced thresholds for inorganic gases be met within the building?
A05 ENHANCED AIR QUALITY | O
These enhanced thresholds for inorganic gases must be met in all spaces within the building.
This information comes from Page 23-24 of the WELL V2
How many point can a project reach with the A06 Optimization (Enhanced Ventilation Design)?
Answer most be given for WELL Certification and WELL Core
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Maximum 3 points for WELL Certification and 5 points for WELL Core:
2|3 point for part 1 (Increase Outdoor Air Supply)
1|2 point for part 2 (Improve Ventilation Effectiveness)
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
What is the objective of the feature related to expelling internally generated pollutants and improving air quality?
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
The objective is to implement advanced ventilation strategies to achieve higher air quality levels, benefiting human health and productivity.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
What are some issues associated with conventional ventilation standards?
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Conventional ventilation standards typically aim for indoor air quality that is merely “acceptable,” which may not adequately reduce the risk of adverse health effects. Additionally, even with proper ventilation, indoor pollutant concentrations can exceed outdoor levels.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
How does demand-controlled ventilation contribute to improving indoor air quality?
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Demand-controlled ventilation adjusts the delivery rate of outside air based on measured CO2 levels within the space, ensuring that occupants are exposed to lower concentrations of pollutants while minimizing additional energy use.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
What is the significance of maintaining CO2 concentrations below 800 ppm in indoor spaces?
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Studies suggest that maintaining CO2 concentrations below 800 ppm significantly reduces the risk of sick building syndrome symptoms, contributing to better indoor air quality and occupant well-being
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
What is the objective of the “Increase Outdoor Air Supply” feature?
Part 1 of A06 | Option 1: Increased air supply
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
The objective is to meet increased air supply rates in all occupiable spaces, exceeding the outdoor air supply rates described in ASHRAE 62.1-2010 by specified percentages.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
How are points awarded for exceeding outdoor air supply rates in mechanically ventilated projects?
Part 1 of A06 | Option 1: Increased air supply
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Points are awarded based on the percentage by which the outdoor air supply rates exceed the thresholds specified in ASHRAE 62.1-2010. Exceeding the rates by 30% earns 1 point, while exceeding by 60% earns 2 points.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
How is compliance with the “Increase Outdoor Air Supply” feature verified?
Part 1 of A06 | Option 1: Increased air supply
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
Compliance is verified through a Letter of Assurance provided by the engineer involved in the project, confirming that the required outdoor air supply rates have been exceeded in all occupiable spaces.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
What are the requirements for demand control ventilation (DCV) systems in mechanically ventilated projects?
Part 1 of A06 | Option 2
CO2 levels
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
The DCV system must regulate outdoor air ventilation rates to maintain carbon dioxide (CO2) levels below specified thresholds based on maximum intended occupancy levels. CO2 levels should be 900 ppm or 500 ppm above outdoor levels for 1 point, or 750 ppm or 350 ppm above outdoor levels for 2 points.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2
Where should carbon dioxide (CO2) levels be measured in the demand control ventilation system?
Part 1 of A06 | Option 2: Demand control ventilation
A06 ENHANCED VENTILATION DESIGN | O
CO2 levels should be measured at the return air diffusers or in the breathing zone at least 3.3 ft away from doors, windows, air supply diffusers, or occupants. At least one sensor should be used for each occupancy zone or per air handling unit if multiple units serve a single zone.
This information comes from Page 25-27 of the WELL V2