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  1. Light
  2. Automated shading and dimming controls

Automated shading and dimming controls

Features>Light>60. Automated shading and dimming controls

60. Automated shading and dimming controls

Design features such as adjustable window shades and lights with dimmers must be actively managed to be effective. However, automated controls can help to ensure that these systems continually operate as intended and meet designed benefits such as glare avoidance and energy reduction.

This feature requires automated control systems to ensure that window shades are effectively utilized to block glare from sunlight and that lighting controls are employed to limit artificial light output when sunlight is meeting designed light levels.

Part 1: Automated Sunlight Control

All windows larger than 0.55 m² [6 ft²] have the following:

a) Shading devices that automatically engage when light sensors indicate that sunlight could contribute to glare at workstations.
Part 2: Responsive Light Control

The following requirements are met in all major workspace areas:

a) All lighting except decorative fixtures are programmed into motion sensors to automatically dim to 20% or less (or switch off) when the zone is unoccupied.
b) All lighting has the capacity and is programmed to dim continuously in response to daylight.
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Applicability Matrix

Core & Shell New Construction WELL Interiors
Part 1: Automated Sunlight Control - O O
Part 2: Responsive Light Control - O O
Commercial Kitchen Education Multifamily Residential Retail
Part 1: Automated Sunlight Control O O O O
Part 2: Responsive Light Control O O O O

Verification Methods Matrix

Letters of Assurance Annotated Documents On-Site Checks
PART 1 (Design)
Automated Sunlight Control 		Architect Spot Check
PART 2 (Design)
Responsive Light Control 		Architect Spot Check

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U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service. Washington D.C.: U.S. General Services Administration (GSA); March 2014: 135-136.
60.1.a

The GSA's Facilities Standard for the Public Buildings Service notes that automatic shade controls help occupants manage luminance levels.
60.2.a

The GSA's Facilities Standard for the Public Buildings Service notes that automatic controls for occupancy save energy.
60.2.b

The GSA's Facilities Standard for the Public Buildings Service notes that automatic controls for daylight dimming save energy.
Features>Light>60. Automated shading and dimming controls