Page 394 - The Engineering Guide to LEED-New Construction Sustainable Construction for Engineers

DoD Sustainable Construction and IAQ 355

systems, although if a unique system design is selected with appropriate calculations
demonstrating removal efficiency, credits could be applied for under the Innovation and
Design Process (ID) category. However, LEED 2009 does address the filters in mechanical
HVAC systems and requires certain minimum MERV ratings for them, or replacement
of these filters prior to occupancy, for attaining IEQc3.1, IEQc3.2 or IEQc5.

Future Combined Technologies
Several other methods are being developed for improvement of IAQ. Many
combine both source control and air cleaning in the HVAC system. One mentioned
previously related to the UV disinfection and VOC removal methods. Another
related to microbes and mold production is the introduction of antimicrobial
surfaces such as copper and other antimicrobial products into the HVAC systems.
Due to the importance of improved IAQ within military facilities, particularly in
housing, medical facilities, and other 24-h occupied spaces such as submarines
and ships, the DoD is interested in research into many of these areas. Current
research on the opportunities for copper as an antimicrobial in HVAC systems is
being led by the Copper Development Association (CDA) and funded through a
Congressional Special Interest (CSI) Medical Program overseen by TATRC, the
Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center of the U.S. Army Medical
Research & Materiel Command (USAMRMC). Copper was recently approved by
the U.S. EPA as a solid antimicrobial material for touch surfaces.
The occupants of a facility are perhaps the most significant portion of the “environment”
that should be considered when designing for sustainability. Reduction or elimination of
indoor air contaminants is vital to enabling healthy working or living conditions. Ultimately,
the most effective means of maintaining good IAQ involves effective facility design and
proper application of ventilation systems considering all strategies for IAQ management.

9.5 Summary
As the largest facility manager within the federal government, the DoD bears a great
responsibility for leadership in adopting strategies and developing guidance for
reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental impact. Although all the
military services started from different approaches, they have merged in recent years by
incorporating sustainable requirements into standardized construction specifications
and uniformly establishing the LEED green building rating system as the primary
metric for sustainable military construction. Since the construction of military facilities,
particularly low-rise lodging facilities such as dormitories or barracks, often entails
unique requirements, it has been recognized that additional guidance and interpretation
of the intent of certain USGBC LEED green building rating system credits are necessary.
The U.S. Air Force, through AFCEE, has developed one such guide, the LEEDApplication
Guide for Lodging. One of the greatest impacts LEEDhas on the performance of military
personnel comes from the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) category, specifically
related to the prerequisites and credits for IAQ. Source control, ventilation, and air
cleaning are the three primary strategies for controlling IAQ. LEED-NC 2009 provides
specific credits for the first two, and some minimum filter requirements for air cleaning.
Regardless, it is important for designers and engineers to consider all possible strategies
and technologies available to maximize the facility’s IAQ and provide a healthy working
and living environment for occupants.