Indoor Environmental Quality Credit 3.1,3.2- Construction IAQ Management Plan: During Construction, Before Occupancy
Both EQ3.1 and 3.2 have the same intent: “Reduce indoor air quality problems resulting from the construction/renovation process in order to help sustain the comfort and well-being of construction workers and building occupants.” The contractor is responsible for handling the duties involving both Construction IAQ management credits.
EQ3.1-During Construction must meet/exceed SMACNA IAQ Guidelines for Occupied Buildings under Construction. All absorptive materials must be protected from moisture damage, as well as filtration media with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) of 8. The contractor must also give attention to controlling pollutant sources, interrupting contamination pathways, housekeeping activities, scheduling and coordination with the IAQ manager.
EQ3.2-Before Occupancy IAQ management plan can decide between two different options. In Option 1-Flush Out, a building supplies a total air volume of 14,000 cu. Ft. of outdoor air per sq. ft. of floor area. Temperature and humidity must be maintained below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If occupancy is desired before Flush Out, 3,500 cu. Ft. of outdoor air can be delivered per sq. ft. of floor area.
Option 2 under IAQ3.2 involves air-quality testing. After conducting a baseline EQ test, you must document that all contaminants are below the maximum concentrations given by the US EPA- United States Environmental Protection Agency. With minimum added costs, many projects look to air-quality testing to help fulfill this credit.
(Source: -NC 2. 2 Reference Guide)