This is a legacy version of the WELL Building Standard. Please check the latest version here.

Construction pollution management

Construction pollution management

Intent: 

To minimize the introduction of construction-related pollutants into indoor air and protect building products from degradation.

BACKGROUND

Proper design and material selection is essential in creating healthy indoor air quality. However, this strategy can be compromised if equal care is not taken during construction to clear the space of dust, chemical vapors and other debris. Pollutants inadvertently introduced into the space can lead to various respiratory symptoms and will increase the likelihood of failing indoor air quality standards.

Part 1
Duct Protection

To prevent pollutants from entering the ventilation system, all newly installed ducts are either:
a.1
Sealed and protected from possible contamination during construction.
b.
Vacuumed out prior to installing registers, grills and diffusers.

Part 2
Filter Replacement

To prevent pollutants from entering the air supply post-occupancy, if the ventilation system is operating during building construction occurring within one year prior to Performance Verification, the following requirement is met:
a.1
All filters are replaced prior to occupancy.

Part 3
Moisture Absorption Management

To prevent building materials from absorbing water or moisture during construction occurring within one year prior to Performance Verification, the following requirements are met:
a.1
A separate area is designated to store and protect absorptive materials, including but not limited to carpets, acoustical ceiling panels, fabric wall coverings, insulation, upholstery and furnishings.

Part 4
Dust Containment and Removal

The following procedures are followed during building construction occurring within one year prior to Performance Verification:
a.1
All active areas of work are isolated from other spaces by sealed doorways or windows or through the use of temporary barriers.
b.1
Walk-off mats are used at entryways to reduce the transfer of dirt and pollutants.
c.1
Saws and other tools use dust guards or collectors to capture generated dust.