Page 088 - natural light, have higher levels of artificial light.
Source section: Section 4 - Green Building Core Concepts and Application Strategies PDF page: 88 Guide page: 81 OCR quality: high (447 words)
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Daylight can also decrease the need for artificial lighting. Daylight controls help in dimming or turning off electrical lights entirely when daylight is sufficient. These controls should be zoned so that the spaces near the windows have dimmed artificial lighting, and the spaces farther away from the perimeter, with less natural light, have higher levels of artificial light. When designing buildings, consider energy conservation and indoor environmental quality together. It is easy to view these considerations as contradictory. However, a systems-based, integrated approach can identify solutions that contribute to both goals. For example, daylighting and natural ventilation can not only save energy but also improve occupants’ experience. Furthermore, once the building design team members understand who the occupants are, what they will be doing, and how they will be doing it, they can create environments tailored to those needs while providing sufficient control and flexibility. EQ systems must be evaluated and adjusted once the building is occupied. Installing sensors to monitor conditions and conducting occupant surveys are important parts of green building operations. sss iissssssssssssssssssSqq STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING OCCUPANTS’ COMFORT AND CONTROL: ¢ USE DAYLIGHTING. Design the building to provide ample access to natural light and views for the occupants. Optimize access to views by using low partitions and vision panels.
- INSTALL OPERABLE WINDOWS. If possible, provide windows that can be opened to the outside. To save energy, sensors may be included to inform the HVAC system to shut down if a window is open.
- GIVE OCCUPANTS TEMPERATURE AND VENTILATION CONTROL. In mechanically ventilated buildings, provide thermostats that allow occupants to control the temperature in their immediate environment. Provide adjustable air diffusers that allow occupants to adjust the air flow as well.
- GIVE OCCUPANTS LIGHTING CONTROL. Provide adjustable lighting controls so that occupants can match lighting levels to their tasks. These may be designed in combination with daylight and occupancy sensors to conserve energy.
- CONDUCT OCCUPANT SURVEYS. Use valid survey protocols to assess occupants’ satisfaction with the indoor environment. Evaluate results to identify areas of dissatisfaction and prepare a corrective action plan to make the necessary operational changes.
- PROVIDE ERGONOMIC FURNITURE. Include furniture that is adjustable to prevent repetitive stress injuries.
- INCLUDE APPROPRIATE ACOUSTIC DESIGN. Use soft surfaces and other strategies to ensure that sound levels remain comfortable for the activity level of the space. ee LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance encourages facilities managers to assess occupants’ comfort levels while at work. Through a confidential survey, occupants can rate the heating and air- < conditioning, acoustics, air quality, lighting levels, cleanliness, and other aspects of their work spaces. Ss Facilities managers evaluate the responses to determine any areas of dissatisfaction, then develop a 5 corrective action plan to address problems and improve occupants’ comfort. a 81