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

Pest control

Unhygienic conditions lead to the presence of pests and dust mites, which are common sources of indoor allergens. Their bodies, feces and saliva contain allergens which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Asthma can also be compounded by sensitivity to other allergens; up to 60% of individuals with asthma who live in urban environments also have a sensitivity to cockroach allergens.

To minimize allergenic pests, this feature requires that pest inspections be conducted regularly, food be stored and sealed and furniture be covered in washable covers.

Part 1: Pest Reduction

The following are met:

a. All non-refrigerated perishable food, including pet food, is stored in sealed containers.
b. All indoor garbage cans (except paper recycling bins) less than 113 liters [30 gallons] have lids and hands-free operation, or are enclosed by cabinetry in an under-counter pull-out drawer, with a handle separate from the trash can.
c. All indoor garbage cans greater than 113 liters [30 gallons] have a lid.
Part 2: Pest Inspection

Inspections show that the following are not present:

a. Signs of infestation by cockroaches, termites or other pests.
Immune
Respiratory

Applicability Matrix

Core & Shell New & Existing Buildings New & Existing Interiors
Part 1: Pest Reduction - O O
Part 2: Pest Inspection - O O
Commercial Kitchen Education Multifamily Residential Restaurant Retail
Part 1: Pest Reduction P P O P O
Part 2: Pest Inspection P P O P O

Verification Methods Matrix

Letters of Assurance Annotated Documents On-Site Checks
Part 1: Pest Reduction Operations Schedule Visual Inspection
Part 2: Pest Inspection Visual Inspection