855773520-LEED-v5-ID-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition-1 - Page 364

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Monitor locations Monitors must be placed to best represent the project occupancy and function(s). This will vary depending on the purpose of the monitoring. Use the following criteria to determine representative locations for the project:

• Multiple space types . Consider including monitors in multiple space types. For example, in an office building, monitor the open office spaces, but also consider closed offices, conference rooms, quiet spaces, and other occupied space types. In a school building, monitor classroom spaces, but also consider the auditorium, administrative offices, student assembly areas and lab spaces.

• Different ventilation systems . If the project has multiple ventilation systems, consider placing monitors in areas served by each ventilation system.

• Multiple floors . For projects with multiple floors, consider placing monitors on different floors.

• Spaces where the highest concentrations of contaminants are likely to occur . This could be due to the construction or fit-out of the space, a lower ventilation rate or air filtration level, the presence of combustion or operable windows, or occupant activities. For example, cafeterias may have a higher concentration of contaminants compared to classrooms, due to the presence of cooking.

• Spaces occupied by at-risk populations or spaces designated for cleaner air . Consider placing monitors in areas where people who are more susceptible to poor IAQ congregate. For example, this may include spaces with infants, children, pregnant women, acute care facilities, and assisted living facilities.

If monitoring to support IAQ management during wildfires and prescribed burn events, review ASHRAE Guideline 44, Section 5.5.1.2 for considerations for monitor placement.

Monitors must be permanently installed at a height corresponding to the breathing zone of a typical occupant. In most situations, the breathing zone is 3–6 feet (0.9–1.8 meters) above finished floor height, based on the location of an occupant’s head when seated or standing. Alternative mounting heights based on the anticipated occupant position in a space may be considered.

Where possible, place monitors at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) away from doors, windows, air filters, air supply outlets, exhaust intakes, stoves, printers, and other potential airborne contaminant sources or sinks. In areas where this is not possible, locate monitors closer to air returns than air diffusers.

Monitors located in ducts do not meet the requirements.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Interior Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 353