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

WELL Addenda

Feature 1: Air quality standards

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

Updated (Approved.)
Projects may exceed 500 µg/m³ in total VOCs (part 1c), so long as the following individual component VOCs do not exceed the limits listed in CDPH/EHLB/Standard Method V1.1, Table 4.1 (one half the Chronic Reference Exposure Levels (CREL) issued by Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment):

Compound Name CAS No. Allowable Conc (µg/m³)
Benzene 71-43-2 30
Carbon disulfide 75-15-0 400
Carbon tetrachloride 56-23-5 20
Chlorobenzene 108-90-7 500
Chloroform 67-66-3 150
Dichlorobenzene (1,4-) 106-46-7 400
Dichloroethylene (1,1) 75-35-4 35
Ethylbenzene 100-41-4 1000
Hexane (n-) 110-54-3 3500
Isopropyl Alcohol 67-63-0 3500
Methyl chloroform 71-55-6 500
Methylene chloride 75-09-2 200
Methyl tert-butyl ether 1634-04-4 4000
Styrene 100-42-5 450
Tetrachloroethene 127-18-4 17.5
Toluene 108-88-3 150
Trichloroethylene 79-01-6 300
Vinyl acetate 108-05-4 100
Xylene (m, o, p combined) 108-38-3 + 95-47-6 + 106-42-3, 179601-23-1 + 95-47-6, or 1330-20-7 350

Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 09 Feb, 2017

(Approved.)
Projects located in areas where annual average ambient PM2.5 levels are 35 µg/m³ or higher may utilize one of the following alternative strategies to satisfy Part 2.
- Replace the PM2.5 level in part 2b with 25 µg/m³. Projects using this option are limited in WELL Certification level to Gold, no matter how many optimizations are achieved.
- Replace the PM2.5 level in part 2b and the PM10 level in part 2c with a level equal to 30% of the 24- or 48-hr average of ambient outdoor levels on the day(s) of Performance Verification. Projects using this option are limited in WELL Certification level to Silver, no matter how many optimizations are achieved.


Feature 4: VOC reduction

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

(Approve)
For Feature 4, Part 5, as an alternative to the formaldehyde emissions thresholds cited in ANSI/BIFMA e3-2011 7.6.2, projects may use certain approved thresholds. For systems furniture laminates: CDPH Standard Method v1.1-2010 limits (9 ug/m3) may be used. For furniture substrates: CARB Phase II limits (50 ppb for hardwood plywood with veneer core, 50 ppb for hardwood plywood with composite core, 90 ppb for particleboard, 110 ppb for medium density fiberboard, and 113 ppb for thin medium density fiberboard) may be used. Additionally, note that the project will still be required to demonstrate Feature 01: Air Quality Standards.


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

(Approved.)
Products and materials that have an A or A+ class rating under the French legislation on VOC emissions meet the requirements of Parts 1, 2, 3, or 4.


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

(Approved.)
Field and Laboratory Emission Cell (FLEC) emissions testing is approved as an emissions testing methodology ONLY for furniture and furnishings that are made up of a uniform material and have flat testing surfaces on which the FLEC emissions testing methodology may be applied. For example, flat surfaced cabinetry that is made up of a uniform material may be tested using this methodology. However, chairs that are made from a variety of materials that lack flat surfaces may not be tested using this methodology. The emissions test must be administered by a third party investigator with no affiliation with the project. The associated costs are the responsibility of the project team.

Additional tests performed in accordance with ISO 16000 methodology must be performed for total aldehydes and 4-Phenylcyclohexane and must meet the thresholds specified in the WELL Building Standard.


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

(Approved.)
The following referenced standards may be used in lieu of ANSI/BIFMA e3-2011 Furniture Sustainability Standard Section 7.6.1 and 7.6.2, testing in accordance with ANSI/BIFMA Standard Method M7.1-2011:
- the Finnish M1 label for non-upholstered furniture
- the Blue Angel label for upholstered furniture
If these standards are used, the furniture must also be separately tested for 4-phenylcyclohexane and total aldehydes and held to the same limits specified in ANSI/BIFMA e3-2011 section 7.6.1 and 7.6.2


Feature 5: Air filtration

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

(Approved)
Projects registered as New and Existing Interiors that can demonstrate that aspects of the base building design is outside of their control are not required to achieve Feature 05, Part 1: Filter Accommodation.


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

(Approved)
In a project with a split-system air conditioning unit that does not allow for accommodating MERV 13 filters, the following measures may be implemented as an alternative. For Parts 1 and 2a of this feature, a standalone air purifier with carbon filter and HEPA filter performing equivalent to MERV 17-20 may be used in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines. Installation of the HEPA filters may not be conditional based on the criteria in Part 2b. A sufficient quantity of stand-alone air purifiers and carbon filters and HEPA filters must be provided in accordance with the manufacturers recommended area coverage. Provide a policy document to confirm Part 3 of this Feature, and a policy document that confirms that the project owner will maintain and replace the filters and filter units located within the project as per manufacturer specifications.


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

(Approved)
Projects unable to provide additional space for carbon filters may instead educate future tenants on their ability to buy and install stand-alone air purifiers with carbon filters. The project team must provide a letter signed by the project owner to confirm that if required for WELL certification in the future, the project owner will buy and install the air purifiers with filters on behalf of the tenant. It must be demonstrated that adequate wall space is accommodated to install wall-mounted air purifiers. The WELL Assessor will confirm the available wall space and examine a copy of all the information given to tenants during the project’s Performance Verification.


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

(Approved.)
In lieu of installing rack space for future carbon filters, an execution plan for future modifications to the HVAC system to create rack space for carbon filters may be provided in the event that the installation of carbon filters is a requirement of the WELL Building Standard in the future. To follow this approach, it must be confirmed that the system would be able to physically accept carbon filters should the necessary rack space be created, the plan must identify the cost estimates of renovating the HVAC system to include the necessary rack space to confirm that it is considered a capital improvement item, and the owner must commit to making the upgrades should the WELL Building Standard require carbon filters in a future recertification of the project.


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

(Approved.)
Multifamily Residential projects may use wall-mounted HEPA filters to meet the requirements of Feature 5 Parts 1 and 2, provided the project contains a sufficient quantity of wall mounted HEPA filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended area coverage. In addition, a policy document must be provided confirming Part 3 of the Feature and that the Owner will maintain the filters for the units that are located in both common and private areas.


Feature 6: Microbe and mold control

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

(Approved)
As an alternative to the quarterly inspection of cooling coils required in Feature 6, Part 1b, projects may sample 25% of the project’s cooling coils per quarter (representative of all building orientations and equal to 100% of cooling coils per year) through either visual inspection or performance inspection tests. Policy documentation must be provided that includes a detailed description of the inspection protocols for cooling coils and drain pans, and confirming that cleaning will be provided if mold is found before the annual inspection. The inspection and analyses must be performed in accordance with ISO 16000-18 and ISO 16000-17.
Note that dated photos must still be provided to IWBI on a yearly basis.


Feature 8: Healthy entrance

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

(Approved)
Where the options of an entry vestibule or revolving door are not possible for projects with regularly occupied lobbies, projects may create a healthy space by installing stand-alone air filters in the breathing zone near the primary seating of occupants, and near the entrance. A narrative must be included with documentation to describe the contaminants that will be filtered out along with an operations schedule for the maintenance of the air filters.


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

(Approved)
For projects that have an entryway walk off system that is less than 10 feet in length, but no smaller than 9’6’’, temporary rollout mats may be used during potential inclement weather (i.e. a 30% chance or higher) to bring the walk-off system up to 10 feet in length. In addition, projects must commit to cleaning the entrance/lobby multiple times daily, and demonstrate this through a cleaning plan. Provide the cleaning plan as well as a narrative detailing the project policy regarding rollout mats and inclement weather.


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

(Approved)
Where projects are restricted from using an entry vestibule or revolving door (for e.g. projects in the Philippines following the National Building Code, which prohibits revolving doors or vestibules for designated exits), they may use a permanent entryway system 3 meters long, and an air curtain to create an air seal. There are several specifications for this path:
1.       The air curtain must have a minimum velocity of not less than 2 meters per second (6.56 feet per second) at the floor, have been tested in accordance with ANSI/AMCA 220, and must be installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. It must also be commissioned prior to occupancy by a qualified agent.
2.       An indoor pressure sensor must be installed in the building lobby that is capable of providing automatic readings at least once an hour.
3.       The project team must specify target pressurization levels for these locations when the building is occupied. These levels have to keep air from entering the building more than the standard amount, allow occupants to open and close doors easily and not cause moisture problems due to exfiltration. Projects must provide documentation of these targeted levels and ensure they achieve the objectives outlines above.

Projects must also provide indoor pressure sensor readings from one day. This should include exhaust and supply sequences. Projects should also provide mechanical drawings of the project space and manufacturer documentation of the air curtain equipment.


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

(Approved.)
In areas where building vestibules and revolving entrance doors are not common architectural elements, the requirements of Part 2 (Entryway Seal) may be met by controlling building pressure according to the following requirements:

- An indoor pressure sensor must be installed in the building lobby and near any other entrance to the building from the outside. The pressure sensor must be capable of providing automatic readings on a frequency of at least one per hour.
- The project team must specify the targeted building pressurization levels for these locations for when the building is in both cooling mode and heating mode. The pressure levels must keep outside air from entering the building (more than standard practice), allow occupants to open and close doors easily, and must not cause undue condensation or other moisture problems due to exfiltration through the building envelope.

To document this alternative path, the project team must provide the following in the documentation application submission:
- A narrative describing the targeted building pressurization levels for both cooling mode and heating mode.
- A narrative (and other supporting documentation as necessary) demonstrating that the pressure levels keep outside air from entering the building (more than standard practice), allow occupants to open and close doors easily, and do not cause undue condensation or other moisture problems due to exfiltration through the building envelope.
- Indoor pressure readings demonstrating one day of pressure sensor readings from a cooling period, and one day of pressure sensor readings from a heating period. The exhaust and supply sequences must be provided to demonstrate that the desired pressure readings will be achieved.


Feature 9: Cleaning protocol

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

(Approved)
Projects registered as New and Existing Interiors that can demonstrate that aspects of the base building operation is outside of their control are not required to achieve Feature 09, Part 1: Cleaning Plan for Occupied Spaces.


Feature 14: Air infiltration management

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

(Approved.)
In lieu of performing envelope commissioning in accordance with ASHRAE Guideline 0-2005 and NIBS Guideline 3-2012 for new construction or structural renovation), the project may complete a thermographic survey, airtightness test, and inspection and correction of defects in accordance with ATTMA TSL2 guidelines.


Feature 18: Air quality monitoring and feedback

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

(Approved.)
In projects with strict data privacy requirements, the requirements of Part 3 (Environmental Measures Display) may be met by hosting the required data on a website accessible to occupants and in locations where the physical display would be located, placing signage indicating the website where the data may be accessed.


Feature 19: Operable windows

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

(Approved)
For Feature 19, Part 1, a dedicated outdoor terrace can be provided. The terrace must satisfy the following requirements:
a. Must be directly accessible from the tenant space
b. Must be able to accommodate a minimum of 15% of the total regular project occupants
c. Must be adequately shaded to allow occupants to perform their work without significant glare
d. Feature 19, Part 2 and Part 3 must be addressed


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

(Approved)
To fulfill Feature 19, Part 1, projects may provide operable windows to 95% of the regularly occupied spaces in the office, provided that regularly occupied spaces, which do not have windows, have larger doorways to allow fresh air in, when open.


Feature 22: Pest control

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

(Approved)
When desk bins are used to comply with Feature 22, Part 1, Requirement b, waste must be emptied at least once per day. Bins must be lined with appropriate liners (e.g. biodegradable liners for the compost bin) that will sufficiently retain all waste and waste residue. Bins must be wiped to remove waste residue when present or at least weekly.


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

(Not approved.)
Inquiry: For Part 1b, our garbage cans are integrated into casework. The casework has a 6 inch opening at the top for users to insert waste. The garbage is collected from the garbage cans daily to minimize the time that waste remains in the garbage cans. Will this design meet the requirements of Part 1b?

Ruling: No, the design as described is not approved. The openings are large enough to allow pests to gain access to the garbage and allow for discarded trash to fall outside the garbage receptacle within the casework.


Feature 24: Combustion minimization

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

(Approved)
Projects that wish to include a gas range within the project scope must provide range hoods with increased exhaust efficiency in order to exhaust combustion byproducts. The range hood must provide at least 100 cubic feet per minute of exhaust air for every 10,000 BTU’s of burner output. If the burner output is unknown or cannot be guaranteed, then the range hood should provide a minimum of 600 cubic feet per minute of exhaust air. In addition, the range hood shall be exhausted directly to the outdoors.


Feature 37: Drinking water promotion

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

For regularly occupied spaces that are not within 30 meters (100 feet) of a drinking water station, pitchers of filtered water and glasses may be provided that are monitored and refilled through the day. The Operations Schedule for the project must include information regarding the provision (location and quantities) of water and the monitoring and refilling of pitchers if this strategy is used.


Feature 39: Processed foods

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

(Approved.)
The following strategy may be used to meet the requirements of Part 1d (In any foods where a grain flour is the primary ingredient by weight, a whole grain must be the primary ingredient):
- for any foods where grain flour is the primary ingredient, at least 50% of the foods must use whole grain as the primary ingredient rather than a refined grain
- For each food type where refined grain flour is the primary ingredient, an alternative option that uses whole grains as the primary ingredient must be provided.
- the whole grain options must cost less than the refined grain options.


Feature 43: Artificial ingredients

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

(Approved.)
For projects located in India, the requirements for Feature 43 may be met by providing labeling for all high-shelf life packaged foods in addition to freshly prepared food items offered on-site. Foods must be labeled with the additives outlined by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Up to 30% of the low-shelf life packages goods prepared off site may be exempted from artificial substance labeling, but must include clear signage that they have not been evaluated for artificial ingredients or food additives. The latest version of the FSSAI regulation must be made available to building users upon request.


Feature 54: Circadian lighting design

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

(Approved)
Projects pursuing option a, in place of a letter of assurance and on-site spot checks as indicated in the Performance Verification Guidebook, may provide an annotated floor plan which identifies a subset of workstations that comprise at least 75% of the total number present on site. During Performance Verification, the WELL Assessor will restrict sampling to these workstations, and compliance with this feature will be based on 100% of samples equaling or exceeding 200 equivalent melanopic lux.


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

(Approved)
To increase the delivered Equivalent Melanopic Lux and fulfill Feature 54, projects may provide task lighting at workstations upon request. Projects choosing to pursue this option must demonstrate that they have sufficient funding to procure task lighting for at least 75% of the total workstations within the WELL boundary. Projects must also provide comprehensive education to employees that focuses on the benefits of task lighting and circadian lighting overall.
Note that during the Performance Verification, the project must provide a sample of these task lights and coordinate the placement and the power source at each applicable workstation prior to the lighting measurements. A sufficient number of task lights should be provided so as to not impede the site visit schedule.


Feature 56: Solar glare control

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

(Approved)
The following glare control strategies may be used in lieu of glare requirements for atriums. Project teams may submit a plan or narrative detailing the use of a combination of the following: glare reducing film that has a solar transmittance of 10% or less, space planning to ensure workstations are set back from atrium spaces by at least 7 feet, and building orientation to reduce solar glare. Project teams must demonstrate that occupant comfort is not impacted.


Feature 57: Low-glare workstation design

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

(Approved.)
Monitors with adjustable monitor arms that allow the occupant to move the computer screens to face within a 20 degree perpendicular to the plane of the nearest window may be used to meet the requirements of Part 1a (Glare Avoidance).


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

(Not approved.)
Inquiry: Can “free address” workstations, allowing occupants to change workstations to avoid glare, be used to meet the feature requirements?

Ruling: No, free address workstations may not be used to meet the feature requirements.


Feature 61: Right to light

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

(Not approved.)
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.


Feature 62: Daylight modeling

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

(Approved)
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 requirements to fulfil the requirement. The provided lighting analysis document must be updated to demonstrate that 90% of the regularly occupied floor area meets the requirements (i.e. 2 points under LEED v4 BD+C EQ Daylight credit).


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

(Not approved.)
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.


Feature 64: Interior fitness circulation

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

(Approved)
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.


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

(Approved.)
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.


Feature 65: Activity incentive programs

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

(Approved)
For Feature 65, Part 1, project employers may subsidize a series of recreational events in the form of races, charitable walks and sports tournaments, open to all project employees, as an activity incentive program. Projects should provide documentation with the listing of the recreational events with corresponding staff participation and subsidy information.


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

Updated (Approved):
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 (Approved):
Incentives for employees who demonstrate regular, independent exercise/physical activity engagement, healthy eating habits, or other independent activities to promote healthy 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.


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

(Approved)
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.


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

(Approved)
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.


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

(Approved.)
For Part 1 (Activity Incentive Programs), alternative monetary values may be accepted. For Part 1b, the owner must make available 50% of the cost of the average local (within 10 miles) gym membership. To comply with Part 1c, the owner must subsidize participation in up to two races, sports teams, or two group fitness activities. To comply with Part 1d, the owner must subsidize up to two training programs in professional gyms, studios, or other fitness facilities. Alternative monetary values that are based on the wages or salaries of the occupants are not approved.


Feature 68: Physical activity spaces

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

(Approved)
For Feature 68, Part 1, project teams may utilize a shared gym or similar physical activity space located within 50 m (164 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.


Feature 69: Active transportation support

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

(Approved)
Core and Shell projects pursuing Feature 69 may have a leasing agreement that requires future tenants to provide lockers for each future employee to fulfill the requirements of Part 2b. The developer must provide a budget to provide these lockers in the tenant space.


Feature 70: Fitness equipment

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

(Approved)
For Feature 70, project teams may utilize a shared gym or similar physical activity space located within 50m (164 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.


Feature 73: Ergonomics: visual and physical

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

(Approved)
For Feature 73, Part 2, the project may provide height adjustable tables and meeting tables apart from workstation desks to meet the feature requirements.


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

(Approved)
For Feature 73, Part 2, the project may provide a lower threshold of the required initial percentage of sit/stand workstations required by the feature, in conjunction with a future purchase commitment and an educational campaign. The campaign must encourage walking during the working day and highlight the benefits of sit-stand desks. The project must also provide instructions to occupants on how to request a sit-stand desk. The project must provide sit-stand desks in multiple options/styles (for trial use by occupants) and commit to accommodate all occupant requests for a sit-stand desk, even in exceedance of the feature requirement.


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

(Approved.)
For Part 3 (Seat Flexibility), alternative seat height adjustability and seat depth adjustability ranges may be accepted if the average height of the expected occupants differs significantly from the average height of the US population.


Feature 75: Internally generated noise

Type Description
Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 09 Feb, 2017

(Approved.)
Whereas Noise Criteria levels within a space is driven by sound produced by the HVAC and other mechanical systems which may be outside of a tenant’s control, New and Existing Interiors projects may achieve Feature 75 when achieving NC levels higher than listed, with the following conditions:
- Achieve NC levels of 5 higher, but the project is limited to Gold level of certification, no matter how many Optimization features are achieved.
- Achieve NC levels 10 higher, but the project is limited to Silver level of certification, no matter how many Optimization features are achieved.


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

(Approved.)
Noise Rating curve values may be used in lieu of Noise Criterion curve values for the mechanical equipment sound levels required in Part 2 of this feature using the same maximum criteria values listed for each space type. The project team must indicate in their documentation application if Noise Rating is to be used in lieu of Noise Criterion.


Feature 76: Thermal comfort

Type Description
Alternative Adherence Path
Type: Alternative Adherence Path
Post Date: 09 Feb, 2017

(Approved.)
Multifamily residential projects may certify when not supplying central-system air conditioning or air conditioning units in individual dwelling units, with the following conditions:
- Outdoor air is supplied at a volume to meet Feature 03 Part 4 and is filtered to meet Feature 05 Part 2.
- The developer allocates spaces for tenant-owned, supplemental air conditioning units to be installed.
- The developer supplies all occupants with tenant guidelines for selecting a high-performance air conditioner unit to maximize comfort and optimize efficiency. The guidelines should detail the importance of local thermal comfort standards including environmental factors of air temperature, humidity, radiant temperature, air speed; and personal factors of metabolic rate and clothing insulation.
- Projects using this option are limited to Gold level certification, no matter how many optimizations are achieved.


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

(Approved)
Core and Shell residential projects may fulfill the requirements of Feature 76 by providing a narrative of how the residential units meet local thermal comfort standards (environmental factors: air temperature, humidity, radiant temperature, air speed and personal factors: metabolic rate and clothing insulation) or by providing an allowance for tenants to select an air conditioning unit of their choice from options, which would allow the unit to meet the thermal comfort requirements.


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

(Approved.)
ISO 7730:2005 and/or CEN Standard EN 15251:2007 may be used in lieu of ASHRAE 55-2003 Sections 5.3 and 5.4. The requirements of these standards must be met in all spaces, rather than 75% of regularly occupied spaces in the project. When selecting either ISO 7730:2005 or CEN Standard EN 15251:2007, the most appropriate standard must be selected for the space. Note that some naturally ventilated spaces may not qualify to use CEN Standard EN 15251:2007 if certain criteria are not met.

In addition, when utilizing CEN Standard EN 15251:2007, the project must comply with either Category I or Category II as described in Table A.1 of the standard in order to be within +/- 0.5 of the PMV for the space.


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

(Not approved.)
Inquiry: In residential units, are the requirements of Feature 55 met if individual unit controls for heating are provided?

Ruling: No, an exemption from ASHRAE 55 requirements may not be granted in residential units if individual unit controls are provided. It is typical for each unit in a multifamily residential development to have individual control over space temperatures with controls allowing occupants to adjust temperatures. In order to rely on the controllability of the systems as an alternative strategy, it must be demonstrated that the local controls allow occupants to set conditions within the unit to meet ASHRAE 55.


Feature 77: Olfactory comfort

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

(Approved)
Core and Shell projects pursuing WELL compliance may submit Feature 77 as an Innovation feature under Features 101-105, provided all parts of the Feature are met for the whole building scope (i.e. The building core and shell and all parts of the interior finish-out that are completed by the project owner).


Feature 90: Healthy sleep policy

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

(Approved.)
The requirements of Part 1b (provide employees with a 50% subsidy on software and/or applications that monitor daytime sleep-related behavior patterns such as activity levels, caffeine and alcohol intake, and eating habits) may be met if employees are provided free, doctor recommended software applications that meet these requirements.


Feature 98: Organizational transparency

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

(Approved.)
A corporate annual report may be used to meet the requirements of Part 1 (Transparency Program Participation) if it meetings the following requirements:

1. The report includes information on each of the 22 JUST indicators (as applicable) as they apply to the organization as a whole, and areas where the organizational policies can be improved.
Depending on the type of organization, certain indicators (such as hazardous chemicals) may not be applicable. The 22 JUST indicators are as follows: non-discrimination, gender diversity, ethnic diversity, full time employment, pay scale equity, union friendly, living wage, gender pay equity, family friendly, occupational safety, hazardous chemicals, worker happiness, employee benefits, continuing education, local control, local sourcing, stewardship, volunteering, positive products, charitable giving, animal welfare, and transparency.

2. The report is publically available and employees are clearly made aware of how to access the report.


Feature 101 - 105: Innovation I

,

Feature 101 - 105: Innovation II

,

Feature 101 - 105: Innovation III

,

Feature 101 - 105: Innovation IV

,

Feature 101 - 105: Innovation V

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

(Approved)
Projects can earn one Innovation feature by engaging a WELL AP as a member of the project team.


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

(Approved)
Projects can earn one Innovation feature by engaging a WELL AP as a member of the project team.


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

(Approved)
Projects can earn one Innovation feature by engaging a WELL AP as a member of the project team.


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

(Approved)
Projects can earn one Innovation feature by engaging a WELL AP as a member of the project team.


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

(Approved)
Projects can earn one Innovation feature by engaging a WELL AP as a member of the project team.