EQ P1.0 Ventilation & IAQ
EQ C1.1 Enhanced Filtration, Ventilation, & Dedicated Outdoor Air System
EQ P2.0 Off-Gassing
EQ C2.1 Pollutant & Chemical Source Control
EQ C3.1 Outdoor Moisture Management
EQ C4.1 Construction IAQ Management
EQ C5.1 Post-Construction Indoor Air Quality
EQ P6.0 Low Emitting Materials
EQ C6.1 Additional Low Emitting Materials
EQ C7.1 Material Health Disclosures
EQ C8.1 Drinking Water: Toxin-Free Plumbing
EQ C9.1 Low Radon
EQ C10.1 Thermal Comfort - ASHRAE 55
EQ C11.1 Controllability of Indoor Environment
EQ P12.0 Daylight: Glare Protection
EQ C12.1 Daylight Availability
EQ C13.1 Views
EQ C14.1 Electric Light Performance & Circadian Lighting
EQ P15.0 Acoustical Performance
EQ C15.1 Enhanced Acoustical Performance
 

EQ P1.0     VENTILATION & IAQ

PREREQUISITE

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ P1.0         REQUIREMENTS

Design and construct the HVAC system to provide continuous outdoor air (OA) ventilation to each space during occupied hours, including all full- and part-load conditions. Follow ASHRAE 62.1-2016 unless a local equivalent is more stringent. Comply with all of the following:

1. The design shall ensure the ventilation system is not readily defeated. Assume no windows are open.
2. Ventilation rates during occupied hours including all full-and part-load conditions in all school areas shall be no less than required by the outdoor ventilation rate calculated according to the outdoor air ventilation rate procedure in ASHRAE 62.1-2016 §6.2 or §6.4 if natural ventilation is used.
3. The ASHRAE 62.1 Mechanical Ventilation Calculation Worksheet shall be completed in full and included in the project drawings and design documentation. The table shall list for each room: HVAC system ID number and HVAC type, minimum outdoor air flow rate, room air classification, and all exhaust fans.
4. HVAC systems and equipment shall meet the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016 §5.
5. Design of condensate pans shall meet all requirements in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016 §5.10.
6. Outdoor air intakes shall meet all requirements in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016 §5.5. All intakes must be 6 feet above landscaped grade including soil, lawn, shrubs, or any plant life within 1.5 ft. horizontally of intake.
7. The particulate matter filters or air cleaners shall meet all requirements in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016 §5.8, §6.2.1.1 and §6.2.1.2. In addition, filtration media shall have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 13 or higher for all new HVAC systems, excluding unit ventilators, which can have MERV 8. All HVAC filtration media must be replaced immediately prior to occupancy.
8. Mold resistance of air stream surfaces shall meet all requirements in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016 §5.4.
9. All in-room plug in Air Cleaning Devices used in the school classrooms shall be models that are Certified and Labeled in accordance with California Air Cleaning Device regulation California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 94804.
10. The school shall be in compliance with ASHRAE 62.1-2016 §6.2.1.3, as applicable.

For multiple spaces served by variable air volume (VAV) systems, this means that the minimum supply setting of each VAV box should be no less than the design outdoor ventilation rate calculated for each space. The box must be controlled so that the minimum required airflow is maintained at all times when the space is occupied, even when the fan has modulated to its minimum capacity. Additionally, for art classrooms, darkrooms, kitchens and kitchenettes, locker rooms, copy printing rooms, science lab classrooms, woodwork shops and any other rooms with significant pollutant sources, the pollutants shall be exhausted directly to the outside and not recirculated. Local contaminate exhaust in rooms such as fume hoods may meet this requirement. The exhaust airflow rates shall be no less than required in ASHRAE 62.1-2016 §6.5. Occupancy or CO₂-based demand control ventilation shall be in compliance with ASHRAE 62.1-2016 §6.2.7.

To avoid particulate accumulation and/or mold in the ductwork, duct liners must meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards C 1071 or UL 181 for surface erosion resistance and ASTM standards C 1104 or C 209 (at <0.5% absorption by volume) for water vapor sorption.

To minimize dust and microbial growth, this prerequisite encourages all regularly occupied spaces in the school to be served by a ducted HVAC Return. This prerequisite allows plenum returns at schools with limited plenum space and encourages best practices to minimize any negative impacts on the facility’s indoor environmental quality. 

EQ C1.1     ENHANCED FILTRATION, VENTILATION, AND DEDICATED OUTDOOR AIR SYSTEM

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects except 1.1.1 not applicable to those with unit ventilators.

EQ C1.1         REQUIREMENTS

EQ C1.1.1         Enhanced Filtration Media

Filtration media shall have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 15 or higher.

EQ C1.1.2         Enhanced Ventilation Rate

The outdoor airflow shall be no less than 130% of the value determined in accordance with the ASHRAE 62.1 ventilation rates.

EQ C1.1.3         Dedicated Outdoor Air System

Provide a dedicated outdoor air ventilation system (DOAS) that serves classrooms with the ability to efficiently process and manage ventilation down to the individual room level.  

EQ P2.0     OFF-GASSING

PREREQUISITE

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ P2.0         REQUIREMENTS

Where use of chemicals with likely VOCs occurs, including housekeeping areas, chemical mixing areas, copying/print rooms, photography labs, and vocational spaces, use deck-to-deck partitions with dedicated mechanical exhaust to the outdoors (no air recirculation, and negative pressure) at a rate of at least 0.50 cubic feet per minute per square foot, and adequate make up air. These spaces must have negative air pressure when the doors are closed. Negative air pressure is defined as mechanical exhaust to the outdoors at a rate of at least 0.50 cubic feet per minute per square foot. The spaces must maintain a negative pressure of at least 5 Pa (0.02 inches of water gauge) to a minimum of 1 Pa (0.004 inches of water) compared to their immediate environment and when their doors are closed. In photo labs, specify table vents to draw chemical vapors away from the breathing zone of dark room users.

Doors to areas where hazardous materials are stored and used must be secured with self-locking and closing mechanism.

EQ C2.1     POLLUTANT & CHEMICAL SOURCE CONTROL

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C2.1           REQUIREMENTS            

EQ C2.1.1         Walk Off Mats

Provide a minimum of a 20 foot walk off mat system with a combination of scraper, absorption mat, and finisher mat at every major outside common entryway to school buildings. These areas do not include entryways to kitchens and loading docks. Mat systems must be appropriate to the region, and the length of each segment may vary accordingly. Vacuuming of mats should be done with a HEPA vacuum that meets or exceeds the CRI Seal of Approval standards. The mat system must consist of one of the following:

• Non-Permanent Mats: The district must have at least a two-year signed contract for non-permanent mats to be cleaned as seasonally appropriate. It is expected that maintenance staff will provide regular cleaning in between.

OR

• Permanent Mats: Shall consist of a grate or grill 4-6 feet long exterior of every major entry or within an entry vestibule that scrapes and provides water drainage, an interior absorption mat at least 6 feet long that traps and hides dirt and water, and a finisher mat at least 8 feet long to clean and dry any residual dirt and moisture. Mats must be permanently installed. Any recessed grates, grills, or slotted materials must be designed to be lifted for cleaning. Specify daily cleaning and periodic maintenance of walk off mat systems.

EQ C2.1.2         Surface Dust Control

Control surface dust by providing hard-surfaced paving not less than eight feet by eight feet at all outside entrances or doorways to any school room (concrete or equivalent), together with covered walkways or entry canopies to keep rain from the walkway surface.

EQ C2.1.3         Electric Ignitions for Gas-Fired Equipment

Specify electric ignitions for the following gas-fired equipment: water heaters, boilers, air-handling units, and cooking stoves.

EQ C2.1.4         No Mobile Fossil Fuel Powered Equipment Indoors

Do not acquire fossil fuel-powered machinery that is mobile and whose specific function is for use inside the building. This is to prevent accumulation of exhaust inside the building from equipment such as polishers and burnishers. This criterion does not include stationary equipment such as gas stoves, chemistry equipment, and vocational equipment.

EQ C2.1.5         Carbon Monoxide (CO) Sensors

Install a carbon monoxide monitor in occupied spaces served by gas fired appliances, and/or adjacent to parking areas where cars may idle to prevent unhealthful exposures to carbon monoxide and other combustion gasses. These sensors are intended for life safety purposes. Sensors capable of detecting very low concentrations of CO are not required.

EQ C2.1.6         Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT)

All school electronic devices including computers, imaging devices, and TV/AV systems shall meet the requirements of the EPEAT rating system, Silver or Gold level. See EPEAT website for a comprehensive list of current Silver and Gold-rated products.

EQ C3.1     OUTDOOR MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C3.1         REQUIREMENTS

Drainage

Design surface grades to slope away from the building and the building foundation to drain away rainwater, snowmelt, and HVAC condensate and to prevent ponding, pooling or otherwise saturating the building envelope or foundation. Rain leaders, or downspouts, must be directed to infiltration structures, on site storage, rain gardens, or daylight provided that surface drainage moves water well away from the building and does not result in unintended ponding or pooling. HVAC systems that use evaporation drip pans for condensate removal are prohibited.

Lawn Irrigation Systems

Design to prevent spray on building walls.

EQ C4.1     CONSTRUCTION IAQ MANAGEMENT

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: 4.1.1 applies to renovations only. 4.1.2 applies to any project involving a new HVAC system. 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 apply to all projects.

EQ C4.1         REQUIREMENTS

EQ C4.1.1         SMACNA Guidelines for Occupied Renovations

During construction, meet the recommended Design Approaches of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Contractors Association (SMACNA) IAQ Guideline for Occupied Buildings Under Construction, 2007, Chapter 3. Include the erosion and sedimentation control measures to minimize site dust during occupied renovations.

EQ C4.1.2         SMACNA Guidelines for Duct Cleanliness – New Ducts Only

If installing a new duct system, follow the SMACNA guidelines for “Duct Cleanliness for New Construction Guidelines” according to Advanced Levels of cleanliness. Of specific importance are the following:

• Specify that ductwork be sealed when transported to the construction site.
• Store ductwork in clean, dry conditions and keep sealed while it is stored.
• Wipe down internal surfaces of ductwork immediately prior to installation to remove dust.
• Seal open ends on completed ductwork and overnight work-in-progress.
• During installation, protect ductwork waiting to be installed with surface wrapping, etc.
• During construction, seal HVAC supply and return openings to protect them from construction dust infiltration (e.g., from drywall installation or wood floor sanding).

EQ C4.1.3         Building Flush-Out

The project team shall develop a plan, and include it in the specifications, to flush out the building with outdoor air (no return air) based on the requirements and recommendations in the specifications to remove indoor pollutants prior to occupancy. The information should also be detailed in the projects TAB and control sequence of the specifications or project manual.

The specifications at minimum must state that the maximum amount of outdoor air (the design outdoor air flow rate for maximum occupancy) must be provided during and after installation of VOC emitting materials for the maximum amount of time feasible, but not less than continuously (i.e. 24 hrs.) for seven days. It should be noted that the maximum amount of ventilation provided by an HVAC system may be limited not only by the system's capacity but also by the temperature and humidity of the outdoor air.

After substantial completion, conduct the flush out for 24 hours a day continuous ventilation for 7 days with all supply fans at their maximum rate and position. Internal temperatures are maintained at the most energy efficient level above 60°F; relative humidity is maintained no higher than 60%. Under conditions where the heating cannot be met (60°F) at that fan speed, then adjust the fan to achieve 60°F.

All air handling unit dampers are at their maximum outdoor air position during the 7-day flush out. If the 60% relative humidity level cannot be achieved with maximum outdoor air position, reduce fan speed and/or outdoor air position as needed, but extend flush-out period beyond 7 days to accomplish roughly the same amount of total air throughput that would have occurred at maximum outdoor air position.

After flush-out, replace air filters with new filters and provide two sets of additional replacement filters prior to occupancy.

Occupied Flush-Out:

For the case where a project has fallen behind schedule, the contractor may alternatively conduct the flush-out while the building is occupied according to the requirements below or conduct air testing to identify classrooms that exceed the limits below and remedy any non-compliant rooms.

1. Conducting Occupied Flush-Out

Conduct the flush-out for 24 hours a day with continuous ventilation for the total number of days identified in the plan with all supply fans at their maximum rate and position. Thermal comfort must be maintained during occupied hours, per the criteria in ASHRAE Standard 55. Internal temperatures must be maintained at the most energy efficient level above 60°F; relative humidity must be maintained no higher than 60% during non-occupancy hours.

All air handling unit dampers are at their maximum outdoor air position during the flush-out. If the 60% relative humidity level cannot be achieved with maximum outdoor air position, reduce fan speed and/or outdoor air position as needed, but extend flush-out period beyond the established period to accomplish roughly the same amount of total air throughput that would have occurred at maximum outdoor air position. Classrooms shall not be “baked out”. The temperature in the building space shall not be increased to attempt to bake out contaminants. (If continuous ventilation is not possible, flush-out must total the equivalent of 14 days of maximum outdoor air.)

2. Air Testing

The square root of the total number of all classrooms must be tested for compliance with the following criteria. Any non-compliant rooms must be remedied and re-tested until they are compliant. Two additional classrooms per non-compliant classroom must also be tested in all items below in the event of non-compliance. Conduct IAQ testing using protocols consistent with the methods listed in Table EQ4-1. Use current versions of ASTM standard methods, EPA compendium methods, or ISO methods, as indicated. Laboratories that conduct the tests for chemical analysis of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds must be accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 for the test methods they use. Demonstrate that contaminants do not exceed the concentration levels listed in Table EQ4-1.

Remedies may include spot ventilation or flush-out.

Table EQ4-1. Maximum Concentration Levels* by Contaminant
 and Testing Method

*ppb = parts per billion; ppm = parts per million; μg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter

**Only required if located in an EPA non-attainment area.

Post-Occupancy Ventilation

When the contractor is required to perform touch-up (including furniture after occupancy) work involving products with chemical emissions, provide temporary construction ventilation during application and extend the building flush-out by a minimum of 4 days after touch-up application, with 100% tempered outdoor air for 24 hours each day.(1)

EQ 4.1.4           Mold Prevention/Moisture Management

Building materials, especially gypsum wallboard, wood, porous insulation, paper, and fabric, should be kept dry to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Cover these materials to prevent rain damage, and if resting on the ground, use spacers to allow air to circulate between the ground and the materials. Water damaged materials shall be dried within 24 hours. Due to the possibility of mold and bacterial growth, materials susceptible to moisture that are damp or wet for more than 24 hours must be discarded. Immediately remove materials showing signs of mold and mildew, including any with moisture stains, from the site and properly dispose of them. Replace moldy materials with new, undamaged materials.

EQ C5.1     POST-CONSTRUCTION INDOOR AIR QUALITY

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C5.1         REQUIREMENTS

Vacuum carpeted and soft surfaces with a certified vacuum or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum that meets or exceeds the CRI Seal of Approval program after construction is complete and prior to occupancy. For phased, occupied renovations, HEPA vacuum the carpet daily in occupied areas and in areas adjacent to those affected by construction activities.

For hard surfaces, either use a HEPA vacuum that meets the above criteria with a brush or hard floor attachment, or use microfiber mops, cloths, and sponges that will capture the dust.

EQ P6.0     LOW EMITTING MATERIALS

PREREQUISITE

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ P6.0         REQUIREMENTS

EQ P6.0            Paints & Coatings

This prerequisite addresses all paints and coatings that are applied onsite in the project’s interior. The affected products include but are not limited to sealers, stains, clear wood finishes, floor sealers and coatings, waterproofing sealers, primers, flat paints and coatings, non-flat paints and coatings, and rust preventative coatings. 90%, or more, of the total volumes of such products shall meet the applicable VOC content requirements of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2007 Suggested Control Measure (SCM) for Architectural Coatings or the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, amended February 5, 2016.

EQ P6.0            Flooring Systems

Applicable to all resilient flooring and carpet systems installed in the project’s interior. Seventy-five percent or more of the installed area of such products shall be shall be tested for emissions of VOCs of concern with respect to chronic inhalation exposures following the specifications of the CDPH Standard Method V1.2, dated January 2017, and shall be compliant with the Standard Method when modeled to the school classroom scenario described therein.

EQ P6.0            Composite Wood

All composite wood panels and building products with composite wood cores that are installed onsite in the project’s interior. Composite wood is defined in the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) to Reduce Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood Products (California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Sections 93120-93120.12). Affected materials are composite core and veneer core hardwood plywood (HWPW, particleboard (PB), medium density fiberboard (MDF), and thin MDF. 90 percent or more of the total area of composite wood panels and the composite wood cores of finished building products (e.g. engineered wood floors, doors, trim/molding, cabinetry, and counter tops) shall meet the applicable ATCM Phase 2 formaldehyde emission standards.

EQ C6.1     ADDITIONAL LOW EMITTING MATERIALS

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C6.1         REQUIREMENTS

Meet the requirements in up to four of the following six categories of materials:

EQ C6.1.1         Adhesives & Sealants

Products in this category include but are not limited to carpet and resilient and wood flooring adhesives; base cove adhesives; ceramic tile adhesives; drywall and panel adhesives; aerosol adhesives; adhesive primers; acoustical sealants; fire stop sealants; HVAC duct sealants, sealant primers; and caulks. Note that structural adhesives are excluded, and sealers including concrete floor sealers and other waterproofing sealers are treated under C6.1.5 for Paints & Coatings. All adhesives and sealants used on the project in quantities of 2.5 gal (10 liters) or more and totaling 90% or more of the total volumes of such products applied onsite in the project's interior shall meet the VOC content requirements in the applicable category of South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168, Adhesive and Sealant Applications, amended January 2005.

Further, 90% or more, by volume, of the flooring, wall covering and wall base adhesives and sealants covered under this criterion shall be tested for emissions of VOCs of concern with respect to chronic inhalation exposures following the specifications of the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method V1.2, 2017. The test results shall be compliant with the Standard Method when modeled to the school classroom scenario as follows: Flooring adhesives and sealants shall be modeled using the manufacturer’s specified coverage and the classroom flooring area. Wall applied adhesives and sealants shall be modeled using the manufacturer’s specified coverage and the classroom wall paint and wall coverings area. Wall base adhesives shall be modeled similarly using the wall base area.

EQ C6.1.2         Flooring Systems

Flooring systems include but are not limited to: carpet with or without an integral cushion, carpet with an integral adhesive system, and separate cushion; resilient flooring; wood flooring with the exception of solid wood flooring; ceramic tile flooring; other mineral-based flooring (either natural or manmade) without any organic component, and concrete flooring. For the purposes of this option, it is assumed that ceramic tile, organic-free mineral-based flooring, and concrete flooring are negligible sources of VOCs and are available for credit without any testing requirements. Site applied flooring adhesives are treated under Adhesives & Sealants, and site applied flooring stains, sealers and coatings are treated under Paints & Coatings. All flooring systems installed in the project’s interior totaling 90% or more of the total floor area shall be tested for emissions of VOCs of concern with respect to chronic inhalation exposures following the specifications of the CDPH Standard Method V1.2, 2017 (CDPH Standard Method). The test results shall be compliant with the Standard Method when modeled to the school classroom scenario using the classroom flooring area. For systems consisting of more than one distinct layer (e.g., carpet with separate cushion), all layers shall individually meet the requirements of the CDPH Standard Method.

Selected flooring shall not require the use of heavy-duty strippers and finishes.

Solid wood flooring is exempt, although adhesives and sealants used with it must comply.

EQ C6.1.3         Composite Wood & Agrifiber Products

Composite wood is defined in the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) to Reduce Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood Products (California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Sections 93120-93120.12). The affected materials are composite core and veneer core hardwood plywood (HWPW, particleboard (PB), medium density fiberboard (MDF), and thin MDF.

Agrifiber products are composite boards produced from agricultural/biobased materials and a chemical binder system. At least 90%, by area, of the composite wood and the composite wood cores of finished building products (e.g., engineered wood floors, doors, trim/molding, cabinetry, and counter tops) installed onsite in the project’s interior shall either 1) be manufactured with no-added formaldehyde (NAF) based resins, or 2) be manufactured with ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins and shall meet the appropriate emission requirements established by the ATCM for NAF and ULEF products.

Additionally, at least 90%, by area, of all agrifiber products installed onsite in the project’s interior shall be manufactured with NAF based resins.

Structural plywood, structural panels, oriented strand board, structural lumber, glue laminated timber, prefabricated wood joists, and finger jointed lumber, are excluded from this option and these requirements.

EQ C6.1.4         Furniture & Furnishings

This option is only available if 75% or more of the total number of individual stations (defined as a chair and associated work surface, i.e., either a desk or a desk/chair combination) are new and/or newly remanufactured/refurbished. All such furniture totaling 90% or more of new individual stations (e.g., combined classroom and administrative stations) shall meet this requirement.

The furniture, both classroom and administrative, shall be tested for VOC emissions following the procedures in ANSI/BIFMA M7.1-2011. Workstations and seating, both classroom and administrative, shall be tested individually except a pupil desk/chair combination is treated as a single unit. Administrative area and teacher workstations and seating shall be evaluated for VOC emissions using the parameters for an open plan workstation and seating as defined in M7.1. Pupil classroom workstations and seating shall be evaluated for emissions using parameters defined for the classroom in CDPH Standard Method V1.2, 2017. The furniture modeling parameters are listed in f., below. The furniture shall meet the VOC emissions guidelines defined in ANSI/BIFMA X7.1-2011 (reaffirmed 2016), FES Test Method, and ANSI/BIFMA e3-2014, Furniture Sustainability Standard, as specified in Table EQ6-1.

Table EQ6-1: Modeling Parameters and VOC Emission
Guideline Requirements

1. CDPH Standard Method specifies 27 occupants per classroom.
2. Air flow rates specified in M7.1 for open plan workstations and seating.
3. Classroom air flow rate from CDPH Standard Method.
4. Total open plan workstation area (work surface + storage + panel) as defined in M7.1.
5. Not applicable. Modeling of seating is performed on a per unit basis, not area.
6. Administrative workstations shall meet the requirements using either the concentration or the emission factor approach defined in M7.1. For the latter, use the open-plan workstation emission factor requirements. Classroom furniture (either workstations, seating, or combined desk seating units) shall meet the concentration limits for a workstation system as specified in the e3 standard.
7. Workstation individual VOC concentration limits and open-plan workstation emission factor limits are defined in the e3 standard, Annex C.
8. The formaldehyde concentration limit is 9 µg/m3.

EQ C6.1.5            Paints & Coatings

See EQ P6.0 for the description of the paints and coatings covered under this criterion. 90%, or more, by volume of all interior paints and coatings normally applied to walls, ceilings, floors or trim shall be tested for emissions of VOCs of concern with respect to chronic inhalation exposures following the specifications of the CDPH Standard Method V1.2, January 2017. The test results shall be compliant with the Standard Method when modeled to the school classroom scenario as follows. Flooring sealers and paints shall be modeled using the manufacturer’s specified coverage and the classroom flooring area. Wall applied paints and coatings shall be modeled using the manufacturer’s specified coverage and the classroom wall paint and wall coverings area. Ceiling applied paints and coatings shall be modeled similarly using the ceiling area. Wood stains and finishes and trim applied paint shall be modeled similarly using the area of the classroom door plus the area of the wall base (i.e., 125 ft² or 11.6 m²).

EQ C6.1.6         Ceiling & Wall Systems

Ceiling and wall systems include but are not limited to ceiling insulation installed within the structural envelope, wall insulation, acoustical ceiling panels, gypsum board wall panels, tackable wall panels, and wall coverings. Ceramic tile and other organic-free, metal-, or mineral-based wall coverings are available for credit without any testing requirements. Site applied adhesives and sealants are treated under EQ C6.1.1 Adhesives & Sealants, and site applied paints and coatings associated with ceiling and wall systems are treated under EQ C6.1.5 Paints & Coatings. All ceiling and wall systems installed in the project’s interior totaling 90% or more of the total areas of such products shall be tested for emissions of VOCs of concern with respect to chronic inhalation exposures following the specifications of the CDPH Standard Method V1.2, January 2017. The test results shall be compliant with the Standard Method when modeled to the school classroom scenario using the classroom ceiling area and/or wall area as appropriate. For systems consisting of more than one distinct layer (e.g., walls comprised of insulation, wall panel and wall covering), all layers shall individually meet the requirements of the CDPH Standard Method.

EQ C7.1     MATERIAL HEALTH DISCLOSURES

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C7.1         REQUIREMENTS

The following programs are approved for use in this credit, using either the Performance or Prescriptive Approach below:

• Health Product Declaration (HPD): the product has a published HPD with full disclosure of known hazards in accordance with the HPD Standard.
• Cradle to Cradle Product Certification Standard (C2C): the product has been certified at the C2C v2 Silver Level or above or the C2C v3 Bronze Level or above.
• Cradle to Cradle Material Health Certificate (MHC): the product has an MHC at the Bronze level or above
• Declare: the product has a Declare label
• Manufacturer Inventory: the product has a published list of ingredients identified by name and CAS number and a GreenScreen Benchmark and/or GreenScreen List Translator Benchmark.
• UL Product Lens: the product has been certified to Product Lens for materials transparency and disclosure.
• Other CHPS approved certification program meeting the criteria.

EQ C7.1            Performance Approach

Use at least 20 permanently installed products from at least five different manufacturers that use any of the approved programs to demonstrate the material health and inventory of a product down to 1000 ppm (0.1%).

OR

EQ C7.1            Prescriptive Approach

Specify the use of at least 50% (by cost) of two or more of the following major interior finish or structural materials categories demonstrating the material health and inventory of a product down to 1000 ppm (0.1%) using the approved programs.

• Paints & Coatings
• Flooring Systems
• Composite Wood and Agrifiber Products
• Furniture & Furnishings
• Ceiling & Wall Systems

EQ C8.1     DRINKING WATER QUALITY: TOXIN-FREE PLUMBING

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: 8.1.1 applies to Renovation/Modernization projects only; 8.1.2 applies to all projects

EQ C8.1         REQUIREMENTS

EQ C8.1.1         Plumbing System Components

In Renovation/Modernization projects with or without Additions, for the potable water system, specify and install only components that are certified to meet the NSF/ANSI 61 requirements for low-lead content and chemical extraction. If the plumbing system is not part of the scope of work, the project may alternatively apply for 1 point under 8.1.2. The list of covered components includes but is not limited to:

• Pipes, fittings, and related products
• Drinking fountains, faucets, and other end-point devices
• Mechanical parts such as meters, valves, and filters
• Protective barriers, including paints, coatings, and cements
• Joining/sealing materials
• Process media such as sand, ion exchange resins, and filter media

AND/OR

EQ C8.1.2         District Resolution to Test Drinking Water

For all projects, adopt a school or district resolution to test drinking water for lead annually and publish results for the community. Commit to implement mitigation measures, if warranted, including replacement of plumbing components in compliance with 8.1.1. Testing procedures should follow EPA’s 3Ts program for lead sampling and remediation or an equivalent state or local program.

EQ C9.1     LOW RADON

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects

EQ C9.1         REQUIREMENTS

For new construction, institute radon reduction measures specifically, but not limited to: soil gas barrier, gas permeable layer, and vent pipes for fan-activated radon removal systems (should testing warrant system activation). Designs and strategies depend on the types of building foundations and other factors. See CC-1000 Soil Gas Control Systems in New Construction of Buildings by ANSI/AARST for radon reduction measures that work best for different construction types and scopes

Radon reduction measures are not deemed effective until testing verifies radon levels below 4 pCi/L. Test for radon according to MALB Protocol for Conducting Measurements of Radon and Radon Decay Products in Schools and Large Buildings.

For renovations/modernizations, perform post-renovation radon testing and make necessary mitigations should radon levels meet or exceed 4 pCi/L. Test for radon after HVAC systems are commissioned and performing as intended prior to occupancy. If mitigation is warranted, such as HVAC manipulations or sub-slab depressurization, procedures must follow RMS-LB Radon Mitigation Standards for Schools and Large Buildings as soon as possible. If radon levels are near 100 pCi/L or greater, school officials should call their State Radon Contact and consider relocating from affected rooms until the levels can be reduced. All radon testing must follow the MALB Protocol for Conducting Measurements of Radon and Radon Decay Products in Schools and Large Buildings.

EQ C10.1  THERMAL COMFORT – ASHRAE 55

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C10.1      REQUIREMENTS

Comply with the latest edition of the ASHRAE Standard 55 for thermal comfort.

EQ C11.1  CONTROLLABILITY OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENT

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects; in renovations, applies if new HVAC is part of scope

EQ C11.1      REQUIREMENTS

Temperature Controls

Provide an individual temperature control for each classroom with an independent temperature sensor.

AND

Operable Windows

Ninety percent (90%) for new schools and new school buildings, and seventy five percent (75%) for major renovations, of all classrooms shall have a minimum of one operable window per classroom that is reasonably accessible to the occupants. This precludes the use of ladders to adjust the window opening. If external shading devices are included, controls for their use and management must be made accessible to teachers and staff.

EQ P12.0   DAYLIGHT: GLARE PROTECTION

PREREQUISITE

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ P12.0       REQUIREMENTS

Design regularly occupied spaces to optimize daylight while preventing glare by controlling direct sunlight ingress with blinds, shades, overhangs, light shelves, translucent material, or other effective means. Use either of the following two metrics to document achievement of this criterion, and refer to the implementation section for documentation requirements:

• No direct sunlight incident on the teaching surfaces or the workplane at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm on the winter and summer solstice and the equinox.

OR

• The ratio of maximum to average illuminance measured on the workplane cannot exceed 15 at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm on the winter and summer solstice and the equinox.

EQ C12.1  DAYLIGHT AVAILABILITY

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects. To earn these points for major renovations/modernizations, it may be necessary to add skylights or modify the size and location of windows.

EQ C12.1      REQUIREMENTS

For all regularly occupied spaces, a daylight responsive electric lighting control system or control plan must be implemented for the daylit spaces. In renovation/modernization projects that do not modify lighting systems, this requirement does not apply.

AND

Comply with the Multiple Point in Time Approach or the Daylight Saturation (DS) Approach as shown below:

EQ C12.1.1       All Classroom Spaces

Daylight Sufficiency – Multiple Point in Time Approach

OR

Daylight Sufficiency - Daylight Saturation (DS) Approach

EQ C12.1.2       All Support Spaces

Daylight Sufficiency - Multiple Point in Time Approach

OR

Daylight Sufficiency - Daylight Saturation (DS) Approach

• Any spaces where daylight would have an adverse impact on the use of the space are excluded. Provide documentation illustrating impact.
• Spaces can use a design illuminance different than the target illuminance used in Daylight Saturation calculation (30fc for classroom/admin, 50fc for other) provided good reasoning. Provide documentation justifying variance.

EQ C13.1  VIEWS

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C13.1      REQUIREMENTS

To qualify, a space shall have view glazing area equal to or greater than 7% of the floor area. View glazing shall be transparent, but not translucent, and only include window area above 2.5 ft. and below 7.5 ft. from the floor. The total width of view windows shall be greater than 1% of the floor area. Exception: For school buildings that share at least two sides with other buildings, shared walls are exempted from this requirement. Every effort shall be made to meet the view glazing requirement on walls not shared with other buildings.

Provide direct line of sight to view glazing from at least 70% of the combined floor area of classrooms, library reading rooms, and administration areas. Points are awarded as shown in the table.

EQ C14.1  ELECTRIC LIGHTING PERFORMANCE & CIRCADIAN LIGHTING

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: This criterion applies to all new classrooms and can also be earned in renovation/modernization projects when classroom lighting is included in the scope of work.

EQ C14.1      REQUIREMENTS

EQ C14.1.1       High Performance Lighting

Achieve the following:

1. 1. 1. Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) TM-30-15: Method for Evaluating Light Source Color Rendition: All luminaires shall have light sources with a Fidelity (Rf) of 80 or greater and a Gamut Area (Rg) of between 80 and 100.
      2. Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Requirements: All luminaires shall be RoHS compliant following the most current European RoHS regulations, including all applicable exemptions.
      3. LED Lighting: If an LED-based system used, all LED-based luminaires shall meet the ENERGY STAR criteria in the latest ENERGY STAR Luminaires Specification or be listed by the Design Lights Consortium (DLC). Exceptions may be accepted for specialty fixtures not listed by either source.

EQ C14.1.2       Illumination Levels & Multimodal Systems

Achieve the following:

1. Provide multi-scene indirect/direct lighting systems for all classrooms, with the exception for specialty classrooms where multi-scene lighting is not required.
2. At a minimum, the lighting system shall work in at least two modes: General and Audio Visual (AV). The modes shall be recalled through a preset lighting control system via dimming the fixtures to meet required light levels for each mode. Daylight sensors shall be used to dim the lighting system in response to available daylight. A 3-minute fade shall be used to slow the daylight system to prevent distracting changes in the electric lighting. The daylighting system shall not dim the electric lighting below 10% initial output.
3. In general illumination mode, achieve the average illumination at the desk level based on the classroom type in the IES Lighting Handbook, Tenth Edition, or its most recent update.
4. In A/V mode the average illumination levels shall be 10 to 30-foot candles, not including contribution from the teaching wall light, for any point in the room greater than 3-feet from the side walls, or 10-feet from the front wall. Limit vertical illumination on the AV screen to no more than 7-footcandles at any point on the screen.
5. Whiteboard Illumination: Provide a separately switched lighting system that provides whiteboard vertical illumination of at least 30-footcandles average with a maximum-to-minimum illuminance ratio of 8:1 or better for all points on the whiteboard.

EQ C14.1.3       Lighting Controls

Achieve the following:

1. All lighting must be dimmable by users in all regularly occupied spaces.
2. Enhanced Teacher Controls: Provide teacher control at the front of the classroom for general/AV mode and whiteboard control.
3. Advanced Classroom Controls: Link the on/off occupancy signal into a school-wide management system.

EQ C14.1.4       Superior Performance Lighting Systems

Achieve the following:

1. All luminaires shall have light sources with Fidelity (Rf) of 85 or greater and a Gamut Area (Rg) of between 90 and 105.
2. If LED-based systems are used, they must meet the following criteria for flicker and performance:

Flicker

In all school classrooms and educational learning spaces, the measured Percent Amplitude Modulation (flicker percent and frequency) from LED integrated systems (include driver, LED array, dimming controls, daylight sensor) shall be less than 30% at greater than 200 Hz across the entire dimming range or meet IEEE PAR1789.

Performance

LED-based luminaires shall maintain at least 80% of their initial light output (L80) at 60,000 projected hours of operation.

EQ C14.1.5       Circadian Lighting

Achieve the following:

1. For all classrooms and regularly occupied support spaces:
   • • Proposed lighting program shall account for latitude and provide adequate light in winter months.
     • Proposed lighting program shall adjust to age group category for population being served (i.e. majority of occupants in that space). A ratio of brightness based upon age where as younger than 25 years old = 0.5, 25-65 = 1, and older than 65 years = 2; meaning that children and young adults need half the brightness of middle age and elderly need 2 times that of middle age. Reference Table 3 of IES-ANSI RP-3-13.
     • Baseline light intensity and color temperature schedule must be programmed into lights.

2.   For all classroom spaces:

• Lighting model shall demonstrate that the appropriate EML or CS is present at 75% or more of desks (may include daylight) on a vertical plane facing the primary teaching wall 4 ft above finished floor (to simulate the view of the student). This light level to be present for at least 4 hours per day for each day of scheduled instruction.
• Manual override or pedagogical programming for lighting fluctuations to support learning (e.g. dim after lunch to calm, increase light intensity for exams) shall be demonstrated as beneficial and not disrupt circadian entrainment by more than 1 hour per day.

3. For regularly occupied support spaces:

Lighting model shall demonstrate that 75% or more of workstations and regularly utilized work surfaces receive at least 200 EML or equivalent CS measured on a vertical plane 4’ above finished floor for workstations and at 5’6” above finish floor standing access work surfaces (to simulate the view of occupants). This light level is to be present at least between the hours of 9am and 1pm for each day of regular occupancy (may include daylight).

EQ P15.0   ACOUSTICAL PERFORMANCE

PREREQUISITE

APPLICABILITY: All classroom projects. Renovation/modernization projects must meet the acoustics prerequisite according to Table A: Renovation/Modernization Requirements at the front of the document.

EQ P15.0       REQUIREMENTS

Note on Definitions in ANSI 12.60

For the purpose of this criterion, general terms and definitions are the same as those found in Section 3 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1, with the introduction of the following amendments and additional categories:

Amendments:

1. 1. The Core Learning Spaces category does not include special education rooms, libraries, music instruction and practice rooms. For the purpose of this criterion, these spaces are re-categorized as shown below.
   2. The Ancillary Learning Spaces category does not include corridors. CHPS exempts corridors from acoustical requirements.

Additional Categories:

1. 3. Inter-Classroom Workspaces (ICWS) include: small spaces in between two or more classrooms where student groups from any of the classrooms can gather for separate activities. For the purposes of the present criteria, Inter-Classroom Workspaces shall not be treated as regular classrooms, except where the district designates the ICWS as a core learning space.
   4. Special Education Rooms (SER) include classrooms for special needs students.
   5. Confidential Speech Privacy Rooms (CSPR) are rooms for which confidential speech privacy, as defined by Appendix X1 of ASTM standard E1130, is required for conversations held at normal voice levels, such as educational council offices and therapy rooms.
   6. Performance Arts Spaces (PAS) include: music and choir classrooms, ensemble rooms, practice rooms, dance classrooms, drama classrooms, auditoria and theaters.
   7. Audio/Video Production Spaces (APS) include: audio/video recording or production studios and control rooms, and audio/video editing suites.
   8. Large Assembly Spaces (LAS) include: multipurpose rooms, libraries, and gymnasia when the school program requirements include the use of any of these rooms as group instruction rooms or assembly spaces where good understanding of speech (amplified or unamplified) is important.

EQ P15.0.1       Criteria for Sound Reverberation

Comply with either the performance or prescriptive option listed below. The prescriptive and performance methods may be used interchangeably within a single project. While each room shall comply with one method, compliance with both methods is not required for any one space.

Performance Method:

The maximum reverberation times in the one-octave frequency bands centered at 500 Hz, 1,000 Hz and 2,000 Hz shall be:

• Core learning spaces with volume less than 10,000 ft³: 0.60 seconds
• Core learning spaces with volume between 10,000 ft³ and 20,000 ft³: 0.70 seconds
• Core learning spaces with volume greater than 20,000 ft³: 1.0 seconds

In spaces designated as ICWS and SER (see Implementation), the ideal reverberation times depend on the specific program for each space. The design team shall submit a narrative stating the Basis of Design for reverberation times for each of these spaces and calculations showing achievement of such Basis of Design.

Prescriptive Method:

Provide the following minimum finishes:

• Core learning spaces with volume less than 10,000 ft3: Ceiling finish with a minimum NRC of 0.70, covering minimum 95% of ceiling area (excluding lights, diffusers and grilles).
• Core learning spaces with volume between 10,000 ft3 and 20,000 ft3: Ceiling finish with a minimum NRC of 0.70, covering minimum 85% of ceiling area (excluding lights, diffusers and grilles).

For core learning areas greater than 20,000 ft³ and/or spaces designated as ICWS and SER, follow the performance method.

EQ P15.0.2       Criteria for Background Noise

In Core Learning Spaces and in spaces designated as ICWS and SER, the total background noise from the combination of building HVAC systems and exterior noise shall not exceed 40 dBA.

• The metric for HVAC and exterior noise shall be the Equivalent Sound Level (L_eq).
• For exterior noise sources, the maximum hourly L_eq during instructional hours shall be used.

Acoustical modeling or measurement shall be conducted to determine the interior sound levels from exterior sources.

• For HVAC noise, the L_eq when the HVAC system is in operation continuously shall be used. Acoustical calculation or measurement shall be conducted to determine the interior sound levels from HVAC.
• The total background noise level shall be defined as the energy sum of the maximum hourly L_eq from exterior sources and the HVAC system noise L_eq.

For background noise requirements, Section 5.2.3 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1 does not apply. Sections 5.2.2.2 and 5.2.4 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1 apply.

EQ P15.0.3       Criteria for Sound Isolation

1. Outdoor-to-Indoor Attenuation of Airborne Sound: Refer to background noise criteria.
2. Indoor-to-Indoor Attenuation of Airborne Sound:

1. Wall and floor-ceiling assemblies shall be designed to achieve the minimum STC ratings specified in Table EQ15-1.
2. The STC rating requirements of Table 6 also shall apply to the design of temporary full-height partitions that subdivide a learning space into smaller enclosed areas. The ratings in Table 6 apply to wall construction only.
3. Design according to Section 5.4.2.2 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1.
4. Table EQ15-1 requirements do not apply to toilets opening only into the receiving space and used only by occupants of the receiving space.
5. In any wall between a classroom and a public restroom, no plumbing shall be rigidly attached to the classroom wall framing. The wall assembly shall not contain large penetrations such as for restroom supply dispensers or disposals and shall not support rigidly attached electric hand dryer devices.
6. The isolation between mechanical equipment rooms and Core Learning Spaces, ICWSs or SERs shall have a STC rating of 60 or greater unless it is shown that the sound level in the mechanical equipment room combined with a lower STC rating can achieve the required background noise level from building services in the core learning space. In no case shall the design STC between such spaces be less than 45.
7. Operable partitions shall have same minimum STC rating as the wall they replace.
8. Interior glazing in walls with STC ratings of 40 or higher shall have the same minimum STC requirement as the wall.
1. Doors shall be selected to achieve the minimum requirements specified in
   Table EQ15-2.
10. A minimum sound rating is not required for doors between classrooms and corridors. The absence of such requirement assumes that noise generated by corridor traffic can be controlled administratively by school staff.
11. Vestibules functioning as a sound lock may be provided as an alternate to sound-rated door assemblies.

Table EQ15-1 - Minimum STC Ratings for Wall and
Floor-Ceiling Assemblies

Table EQ15-2 - Minimum STC Ratings for Doors

3. Isolation from Structure-Borne Sound:

Design according to Section 5.4.3 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1, with the exception that carpeting is allowed to contribute to the assembly IIC rating when used as a permanent finish.

EQ P15.0.4       Criteria for Classroom Audio Distribution Systems

Where installed, design according to Section 5.5 of ANSI/ASA Standard S12.60-2010/Part1.

EQ C15.1  ENHANCED ACOUSTICAL PERFORMANCE

CREDIT

APPLICABILITY: All projects.

EQ C15.1      REQUIREMENTS

EQ C15.1.1       Reverberation Time

In spaces designated as PAS, APS, and LAS, the ideal reverberation times depend on the specific program for each space. The design team shall submit a narrative stating the Basis of Design for reverberation.

EQ C15.1.2       Background Noise

In Core Learning Spaces and in spaces designated as ICWS, SER and CSPR, the total background noise from the combination of building HVAC systems and exterior noise shall not exceed 35 dBA.

In Ancillary Learning Spaces and in spaces designated as LAS, the total background noise from the combination of building HVAC systems and exterior noise shall not exceed 40 dBA.

In spaces designated as PAS and APS, the ideal background noise levels depend on the specific program for each space. The design team shall submit a narrative stating the Basis of Design for background noise levels for each of these spaces and calculations showing achievement of such Basis of Design.

EQ C15.1.3       Noise Isolation

Wall and floor-ceiling assemblies shall be upgraded to achieve the minimum STC ratings specified in Table EQ15-3. Doors shall be upgraded to achieve the minimum requirements specified in Table EQ15-4.

Table EQ15-3 - Minimum STC Ratings for Wall and
Floor-Ceiling Assemblies

Table EQ15-4 - Minimum STC Ratings for Doors