855773520-LEED-v5-ID-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition-1 - Page 361

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The pre-occupancy testing provides this insight prior to building use to prevent occupant exposure to unsatisfactory air. Continuous indoor air monitoring provides this understanding throughout operations, to track contaminant levels over time and to proactively identify any issues and faults.

Teams may utilize both options for a total of two points and may find it beneficial to perform air testing prior to occupancy at the same time as setting up the continuous monitoring systems.

Option 1. Pre-occupancy Air Testing

Construction activities and building materials can introduce contaminants that may negatively affect a building’s IAQ . Testing after construction incentivizes the contractors to follow construction management practices in accordance with EQp1: Construction Management and follow low-emitting material specifications. It also verifies that the indoor environment is acceptable for human occupancy and ensures that ventilation systems are effectively maintaining adequate IAQ .

Number of measurements The number of measurement points required is outlined in Table 1 of the rating system. The table provides a consistent number of measurements per floor area (square feet or square meters) to help with planning for testing and the associated costs.

The floor area in Table 1 reflects the total occupied floor area for the project, including all regularly and nonregularly-occupied areas. For example, corridors are nonregularly-occupied and must be included in the total area for this calculation. Unoccupied areas, such as mechanical and electrical rooms, are excluded.

Projects may choose to test take more measurements beyond the minimum if desired. Exceeding the minimum number of measurements does not earn additional points but will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the IAQ.

Measurement locations Measurement locations must be selected to best represent the project occupancy and function(s). Use the following criteria to determine representative locations for the project:

• Regularly occupied spaces . Prioritize regularly occupied spaces. Non-regularlyoccupied spaces must be included in the total area for determining the occupied floor area, but need not be tested.

• Multiple space types . If more than one measurement is necessary per Table 1., test multiple space types. For example, in an office building, test open office spaces, but also

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Interior Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 350