George Washington University
OP-3: Indoor Air Quality

The University requires that all LEED certified projects achieve the following credits: IEQ 1 (Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring), IEQ 3.1 & 3.2 (Construction IAQ Mgmt Plan - During Construction and Before Occupancy), IEQ 4.1, 4.2 & 4.3 (Low-Emitting Adhesives, Sealants, Paints, Coatings, and Flooring), IEQ 5 (Chemical and Pollutant Source Control) and IEQ 7.1 & 7.2 (Thermal Comfort Design and Verification Survey). As part of GW's Ecosystems Enhancement Strategy, GW has committed to promoting healthy air and climate within the buildings on its campuses, in the Chesapeake region, and across its global footprint. One way of doing this is to enhance the livability of indoor space and increasing indoor air filtration capacity. Under this goal, GW will enhance the livability of indoor space and increase indoor air filtration capacity in university-owned and operated buildings. One indicator to measure progress towards this target is the number of plantings in indoor spaces. The university is exploring potential tactics to achieve this target including: 1) Encourage the adoption of interior green spaces (such as living walls and biophyllic design) in new constructions and major renovation design 2) Encourage the adoption of potted plants or other greenery as part of the Green Office Network 3) Purchase materials and equipment comprised of non-toxic or less toxic components (e.g., low volatile organic compounds (VOC) carpets and paints, green cleaning products, Green Guard/Green Seal products, FloorScore hard surface flooring, Green Label carpeting) 4) Achieve Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) LEED credit 3.2 where the intent is “to reduce indoor air quality problems resulting from construction or renovation to promote the comfort and well-being of construction workers and building occupants” in projects where LEED certification is targeted 5) Assess air handling & filtration technology 6) Ensure HVAC systems are properly maintained (regular filter change, coils cleaning and repair of damaged parts) 7) Maintain and evaluate a green or blue cleaning program 8) Ensure interior spaces are properly sealed off during building construction/renovation projects