A common headache among building owners, LEED notwithstanding, is controlling debris tracked into a building through foot traffic. The LEED rating system addresses this issue specifically in EQ 5 (LEED-CI) Indoor Chemical & Pollutant Source Control.
In this credit, walk-off mats are required at outside entries into the tenant space, though no specific sizes are recommended. LEED-NC, however, requires a minimum of 6 feet in length.
An efficient barrier to debris should include three stages:
- Scraper grid at outermost section
- Grass mat beyond the door entry
- Fiber mat to trap remaining debris inside the space
Given that the average cost to clean one pound of dirt is $600, and up to 24 pounds of dirt can be tracked in by 1000 people over a 20-day work timeframe, controlling entryway soiling makes sound economic sense as well.
Regular inspection and maintenance will ensure the efficacy of the system and certainly prolong the life of flooring within the space.
Given the above information, increasing LEED credit impact can be accomplished by choosing sustainable materials to meet the entry-mat goal. The following table shows how, with the appropriate materials selection, entry mats can contribute to earning points in the following credit categories:
| LEED FOR GREEN BUILDING OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE | ||
| Materials & Resources (MR) | ||
| MR Credit 2 | Sustainable Purchasing / Durable Goods | 1-2 Points |
| MR Credit 5 | Sustainable Purchasing / Facility Alterations & Additions | 1 Point |
| Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) | ||
| IEQ Credit 4.3 | Low-Emitting Materials / Flooring Systems | 1 Point |
|
LEED for Green Interior Design & Construction LEED for Green Building Design & Construction, New Construction, Schools |
||
| Materials & Resources (MR) | ||
| MR Credit 4 | Recycled Content | 1-2 Points |
| MR Credit 5 | Regional Materials (within 500-mile radius of manufacture point as applicable) | 1-2 Points |
| MR Credit 6 | Rapidly Renewable Materials | 1 Point |
| Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) | ||
| IEQ Credit 4.3 | Low-Emitting Materials / Flooring Systems | 1 Point |
For more info: USGBC Website
Comments
We carry a complete line of fully-customizable, sustainable entry mats under our "Eco Mat" program, exclusive to CCA.
Email me for more information.
We carry a complete line of fully-customizable, sustainable entry mats under our "Eco Mat" program, exclusive to CCA.
Email me for more information.
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