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WELL Addenda

WELL ADDENDA

Review the complete list of addenda changes made to the WELL Building Standard.

Feature 61: Right to light

Type Description
Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Inquiry: Can a daylighting analysis confirming that at least 90% of regularly occupied spaces have sufficient daylight illumination levels (at least 30 footcandles) and that 100% of spaces have access to quality outdoor views be used to meet the feature requirements?

Ruling: No, a daylighting simulation combined with access to quality views may not be utilized to meet the feature requirements. The intent of Feature 61 is to include proximity to windows, outdoor views, and daylight in indoor spaces.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

In Part 2a, change “75% of all desks or regularly occupied seats…” to “75% of all workstations…”


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

In Part 2b, change “95% of all desks or regularly occupied seats…” to “95% of all workstations…”


Feature 62: Daylight modeling

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

In 24 Oct, 2016 AAP, add: "(Option 2 or Option 3)" after "Daylight Credit"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

In 24 Oct, 2016 AAP, add: ", at least" before "2 points"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

In 24 Oct, 2016 AAP, add: "for Option 2 or 75% for Option 3" after "90%"


Equivalency
Type: Equivalency
Post Date: 17 Jan, 2017

BREEAM UK New Construction 2014, Credit Hea 01: Visual comfort, criteria 3a or 3b has been approved to comply with F62 of the Multifamily Residential Pilot.
Note that projects are required to include bedrooms in addition to kitchens, living and dining rooms, when pursuing option 3a or 3b.


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
Intent: 'To support circadian and psychological health by setting thresholds for indoor sunlight exposure.'


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

As an alternative to a lighting simulation to determine the sDA of the space, project teams may use the LEED v4 BD+C EQ Daylight Credit (Option 2 or Option 3) requirements to fulfill the requirement. The provided lighting analysis document must be updated to demonstrate that 90% for Option 2 or 75% for Option 3 of the regularly occupied floor area meets the requirements (i.e., at least 2 points under LEED v4 BD+C EQ Daylight credit).


Equivalency
Type: Equivalency
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

The Green Star Daylight criterion is deemed partially equivalent to the requirements of Feature 62. Compliance with the Green Star credit is sufficient to comply with Part 1a of the WELL feature. 


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Inquiry: Can an automatic shading system that draws shades when sensors indicate that daylight can contribute to glare at workstations be used in lieu of meeting the feature requirements?

Ruling: No, the installation of automated shading devices alone does not meet the feature requirements, as this feature requires demonstration that as a result of the overall lighting design, the project is able to achieve the proper amount of daylighting.


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add annotated modeling report as required documentation, remove annotated architectural drawing.


Feature 63: Daylighting fenestration

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

For Part 2a, add: "(excluding skylights)" after "All glazing..."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For Part 1b, remove: "(Daylight Glass)", after "above the floor"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For Part 2a, remove: "(Daylight Glass)", after "from the floor"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For Part 2b, remove: "(Vision Glass)" after "from the floor"


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To optimize occupant exposure to daylight and limit glare through optimizing fenestration parameters.'


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Change “The following conditions are met:” to “The following conditions are met on façades along regularly occupied spaces:”


Feature 64: Interior fitness circulation

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

For Part 2a and Part 2b, remove: "building's main entrance". Add: "main project entrance"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

Projects with more than one staircase that meets the requirements of Part 1 and Part 3 of this feature may use a staircase less than 1.4 m wide to comply with Part 2c.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

In part description, remove: "the stair" after "throughout"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

For Part 3e, remove: "the stairs are" after "when"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 20 Oct, 2017

For Part 2c, remove: "maximum" after ", or the". Add: "width"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 20 Oct, 2017

Add: "throughout the stair:" after "...by incorporating at least 2 of the following"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "STAIR PROMOTION" after "PART 2:". Add: " STAIRCASE DESIGN"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "entrance to the building or the edge of its lobby". Add: "building's main entrance, main entry check-point (e.g., welcome/reception desk), the edge of its main lobby, or edge of its main welcome area."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "Clearly visible from the main entrance to the project, or located visually before any elevators present upon entering from the main entrance". Add: "Clearly visible from the building’s main entrance, main entry check-point (e.g., welcome/reception desk), the edge of its main lobby, or edge of its main welcome area, or are located visually before any elevators present upon entering from the main entrance"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: ", or the maximum allowable by local code" after "between handrails"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Projects that have significantly progressed through or have completed development, design, and/or planning processes may be exempt from Part 2 and may still achieve credit for this feature if achieving Parts 1 and 3. Projects pursuing this AAP are required to submit documentation that demonstrates significant hardship, such as financial or scheduling implications, in order to be exempt from Part 2.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: ", including, decorative painting" after "Artwork"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "f. Biophilic elements"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "AND PROMOTION" after "STAIR ACCESSIBILITY"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "throughout the space" before "Wayfinding signage"


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To encourage intermittent bouts of physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior through accessible, safe, and visually appealing stairs, entryways, and corridors.'


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

Change the first line of Part 1 from "The following requirements are met for at least one common staircase:" to "In projects of 2 to 4 floors, at least one common staircase meets the following requirements:"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

Change the first line of Part 3 from "Both common stairs and paths of frequent travel display elements of aesthetic appeal in incorporating at least 2 of the following:" to "In projects of 2 to 4 floors, common stairs, entryways and corridors display elements of aesthetic appeal by incorporating at least 2 of the following:"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Staircases located in residential units may be exempt from meeting the requirements of Part 2c (stair width set at a minimum of 1.4m [56 in] between handrails).


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Change “The following requirements are met:” to “The following requirements are met for at least one common staircase:”


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Change “In projects of 2 to 4 floors, at least one staircase meets the following requirements:” to “In projects of 2 to 4 floors, at least one common staircase meets the following requirements:”


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 06 May, 2016

Change “Both stairs and paths of frequent travel…” to “Both common stairs and paths of frequent travel…”


Feature 65: Activity incentive programs

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

In part description, remove: "elementary and middle schools". Add: "early education and primary schools"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For AAP with post date 27 Apr, 2017, after "Incentives for employees...with Feature 65", remove:
"Existing (Removed):
Incentives of a $200 amount provided to employees for demonstration of independent regular exercise, healthy eating habits, biometric screenings or other independent activities to promote a healthy lifestyle may be used as one of the two required compliance strategies for Feature 65."

Add: "Updated from AAP with post date 24 Oct, 2016."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For AAP with post date 27 Apr 2017, after "Comprehensive corporate wellness programs...engagement or active commuting", remove:
"Existing (Removed):
As an alternative to one of the activity incentives provided under Feature 65, Part 1: Activity Incentive Programs, projects may create company sponsored sports teams, provided the sports teams are selected by the employees and ensure there is capacity to accommodate all employees who elect to participate. Note that a second activity incentive program must be implemented in order to demonstrate achievement of Feature 65."

Add: "Updated from AAP with post date 1 Jul, 2016"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

For AAP with post date 27 Apr 2017, after "Comprehensive corporate wellness programs...engagement or active commuting", remove:
"Existing (Removed):
As an alternative to one of the activity incentives provided under Feature 65, Part 1: Activity Incentive Programs, projects may create company sponsored sports teams, provided the sports teams are selected by the employees and ensure there is capacity to accommodate all employees who elect to participate.
Note that a second activity incentive program must be implemented in order to demonstrate achievement of Feature 65."

Add: "Updated from AAP with post date 1 Jul, 2016"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "A plan with at least 2 of the following is developed and implemented". Add: "At least two of the following are implemented for all full-time employees"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "a. Tax-exempt payroll deductions relating to bicycle commuting and mass transit (such as the
Transportation Fringe Benefits in Section 132(f) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code) or a direct
subsidy for an equivalent amount". Add: "a. Tax-exempt payroll deductions relating to active transportation (e.g., a subsidy to purchase a personal bicycle) or mass transit (includes public transportation) use. Direct subsidies of an equivalent amount are also acceptable".


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "b. $200 or greater reimbursements or incentive payments in every 6-month period that an employee
meets a 50-visit minimum to the gym or professional program". Add: "b. Meaningful reimbursements or incentive payments (including non-monetary) offered for every 6-month period that an employee meets a 50-visit minimum to a gym or physical activity program"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "c. A subsidy of at least $240 per year is available to each interested employee to cover the costs of
participation in races, group fitness activities and sports teams". Add: "c. A meaningful subsidy offered at least yearly towards participation or membership costs for fitness activities such as: races, group fitness classes, sports teams, fitness centers, training centers, gyms, or studios. Direct subsidies of an equivalent amount are also acceptable"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "d. A subsidy of at least $240 per year is available to employees to cover the costs of fitness or training
programs offered in professional gyms or studios". Add: "d. A meaningful subsidy offered at least yearly towards the cost of an annual bicycle share membership"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "e. A subsidy of at least $50 per year is available to employees to cover the costs of a bicycle share
membership". Add: "e. No cost or discounted physical activity opportunities or memberships, in which it can be demonstrated that 30% of occupants have utilized on a regular basis (at least weekly) over the last six months"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Updated:
Comprehensive corporate wellness programs that offer meaningful incentives for regular physical activity or active commuting may be used to comply with Feature 65. Projects may also create company-sponsored sports teams, provided the sports teams are selected by the employees. Projects should ensure there is capacity to accommodate all employees who elect to participate and work with employees to accommodate similar incentives upon request. Projects must provide supporting documentation that demonstrates that the wellness offerings promote physical activity and incentivize employees to maintain regular levels of activity engagement or active commuting.

Existing (Removed):
As an alternative to one of the activity incentives provided under Feature 65, Part 1: Activity Incentive Programs, projects may create company sponsored sports teams, provided the sports teams are selected by the employees and ensure there is capacity to accommodate all employees who elect to participate.
Note that a second activity incentive program must be implemented in order to demonstrate achievement of Feature 65.


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Updated:
Incentives for employees who demonstrate regular, independent exercise/physical activity engagement, healthy eating habits, or other independent activities to promote a healthy lifestyle may be used to comply with Feature 65.

Existing (Removed):
Incentives of a $200 amount provided to employees for demonstration of independent regular exercise, healthy eating habits, biometric screenings or other independent activities to promote a healthy lifestyle may be used as one of the two required compliance strategies for Feature 65.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "Incentives that encourage greater levels of physical activity through reimbursement of gym memberships or other means of physical activity can help people develop and maintain regular exercise routines and achieve greater fitness levels".
Add: "However, the effectiveness of varying types of incentives (e.g., monetary, non-monetary), their distribution schedule, their magnitude, and their relationship to specific types of activity engagement remain largely unknown. In addition, implementation of physical activity incentives for different populations and geographic regions adds an additional layer of complexity in prescribing and implementing effective incentive programs. Therefore, projects play a fundamental role in defining and creating incentive programs that are meaningful to their project population and aim to help develop and maintain regular exercise and physical activity behaviors"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 17 Jan, 2017

As an alternative to one of the activity incentives provided under Feature 65, Part 1: Activity Incentive Programs, projects may create company sponsored sports teams, provided the sports teams are selected by the employees and the owner will accommodate similar incentives for alternatives upon employee request.
Note that a second activity incentive program must be implemented in order to demonstrate achievement of Feature 65.


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To promote active lifestyles through the provision of physical activity incentive programs.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

Under Appendix D, change the feature type for Part 1 from "(Protocol)" to "(Organizational Protocol)"


Feature 66: Structured fitness opportunities

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

In part description, remove: "Early education, elementary and middle schools". Add: "Early education and primary schools"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

In part title, remove: "Professional"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

Add: "from a qualified professional" after "The following is offered"


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To promote safe and convenient exercise through access to on-site professional fitness training and education.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

Under Appendix D, change the feature type for Parts 1 and 2 from "(Protocol)" to "(Organizational Protocol)"


Feature 67: Exterior active design

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 20 Oct, 2017

In 26 Jul, 2017 AAP, remove: “per hectare [17.5 DU/acre]”. Add: "per acre [17.5 DU/hectare]"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 20 Oct, 2017

In 26 Jul, 2017 AAP, remove: “5,050 m2/hectare [22,000 ft2/acre]”. Add: "5,050 m2/acre [22,000 ft2/hectare]"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

Projects may use Option 1. Surround Density of the LEED BD+C Surrounding density and diverse uses Credit to comply with Part 3: Neighborhood Connectivity. Documentation must demonstrate that the project is located on a site where the surrounding density within 400 m [1/4 mi] of the project boundary has a minimum combined density of at least 5,050 m²/acre [22,000 ft²/hectare] of buildable land, a minimum residential density of 7 dwelling units (DU) per acre [17.5 DU/hectare], or a minimum nonresidential density (FAR) of 0.5.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "and plazas" after "walking paths"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "or open air courtyard" after "b. A plaza"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "or other landscaped elements" after "c. A garden"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "The project is eligible for at least 3 points in the LEED BD+C: New Construction "Surrounding
density and diverse uses" credit". Add: "At least four existing and publicly available diverse uses (listed in LEED BD+C: Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses, Appendix 1) are present within 800 m [0.5 mi] of the main building entrance"


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To promote active lifestyles through the integration of active design elements into the building exterior.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add Owner Letters of Assurance as required documentation, remove Architect Letter of Assurance.


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add annotated map as required documentation, remove Architect Letter of Assurance.


Feature 68: Physical activity spaces

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

In part description, remove: "building's main entrance". Add: "main building entrance"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 05 Feb, 2018

In 27 Apr, 2017 AAP, remove: "50 m [164 ft]". Add: "200 m [650 ft]"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

Remove: "accessible" after "following spaces is". Add: "with complimentary access" after "building's main entrance"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "complimentary access to" after "occupants provide"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "At least one of the following is accessible within 0.8 km [0.5 mi] walking distance of the building". Add: "At least one of the following spaces is accessible within 0.8 km [0.5 mi] walking distance of the building’s main entrance"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "a. Parks with playgrounds, workout stations, trails or an accessible body of water". Add: "a. A green space or park with playground features"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Remove: "b. Complimentary access to gyms, playing fields or swimming pools". Add: "A workout station or fitness zone"


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "c. A trail network."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "d. An accessible body of water or public swimming pool."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "e. A gym, fitness, or training center."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "f. A recreational field."


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "access to" after "through complimentary"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

For Feature 68, Part 1, project teams may utilize a shared gym or similar physical activity space located within 200 m [650 ft] of the WELL project boundary. These spaces must be available for complimentary use by occupants. The project is required to submit documentation demonstrating that the space has adequate capacity for the project population, in addition to any other population that this shared amenity supports. Note: This ruling is specifically for Feature 68 and Feature 70. Compliance with other related features such as Feature 65 and Feature 66 is not implied.


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'To promote physical activity through complementary on-site indoor and local outdoor physical activity spaces.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add annotated map as required documentation, remove Architect Letter of Assurance.


Feature 69: Active transportation support

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 07 Jun, 2018

In part description, remove: "building's main entrance". Add: "main building entrance"


Equivalency
Type: Equivalency
Post Date: 20 Mar, 2018

BREEAM NL New Construction 2014, Tra 3a: Cyclist Facilities has been accepted as an equivalent to the requirements of Feature 69. Note that Issue Tra 3a: Cyclist Facilities must be awarded the maximum credits available (3 credits) in order to comply with Feature 69 requirements.


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 26 Jul, 2017

Projects may include bike share docking stations toward the bike storage requirements of this feature. The docks must meet the same proximity requirements listed in the feature. The project must provide a minimum of 1 storage space for privately owned bicycles, with at least 1 additional storage space for every 6 bike share docks.


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To promote daily physical activity through the provision of on-site support for active commuting.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add Owner Letter of Assurance as required documentation, remove Architect Letter of Assurance.


Feature 70: Fitness equipment

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 20 Oct, 2017

In 27 Apr, 2017 AAP, remove: "50 m (164 ft.)". Add: "200 m [650 ft]"


Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

For Feature 70, project teams may utilize a shared gym or similar physical activity space located within 200 m [650 ft] of the WELL project boundary. These spaces must be available for complimentary use by occupants. The project is required to submit documentation demonstrating that the space has adequate capacity for the project population, in addition to any other population that this shared amenity supports. Note: This ruling is specifically for Feature 68 and Feature 70. Compliance with other related features such as Feature 65 and Feature 66 is not implied.


Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "complimentary access to" after "exercise by providing"


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To promote both cardiovascular and muscle-strengthening exercise by providing on-site fitness equipment.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add Owner Letters of Assurance as required documentation, add on-site spot checks as required verification, remove visual inspections.


Feature 71: Active furnishings

Type Description
Amendment
Type: Amendment
Post Date: 27 Apr, 2017

Add: "c. Pairs of fixed-height desks of standing and seated heights (which need not be located adjacent to each other)."


Intent
Type: Intent
Post Date: 24 Oct, 2016

In the Feature description, remove the second paragraph. Replace with the following text:
'Intent: To reduce sedentary behavior by making active workstations readily available to occupants.'


Verification type
Type: Verification type
Post Date: 10 Feb, 2016

Add Owner Letters of Assurance as required documentation, add on-site spot checks as required verification, remove visual inspections.


Feature 72: Accessible design

Type Description
Equivalency
Type: Equivalency
Post Date: 29 May, 2018

Fukushino Machizukuri Johrei has been accepted as an alternative for the requirements of Feature 72 Part 1 for Japan.