DELOITTE LONDON HQ Furniture selections In terms of VOC certification, the project team found the UK/European furniture market to be in its infancy. However, given the size and scope of the development, many manufacturers were willing to get their products tested to be used on the project, again demonstrating how assessment methods can be drivers forchange. However, with significant levels of bespoke furniture, it was not always possible to produce the level of certification required by Well. For this remaining furniture approximately 20% by cost a detailed analysis of the materials used in the manufacturing of the products was undertaken to demonstrate that the furniture met the intent of the criteria and would not jeopardise the overall air quality of the space. By analysing the material breakdown, the team was able to identify nonapproved products and, in some instances, discuss and convince manufacturers to use compliant products (for example, adhesives). This led to factory tests being undertaken to demonstrate that neither quality nor warranty was compromised when using approved products. Pre-handover testing To ensure compliance with the performance-based targets of Well and Breeam, an extensive pre-handover testing schedule was developed, which highlighted any snags for resolution prior to the official Well performance verification. In terms of air quality, the testing was undertaken as outlined in Table 1. Table 1: Pre-handover testing schedule Testing schedule Rationale 1 Upon completion of the first three floors To highlight any exceedances on the air quality threshold and raise the need for immediate remediation 2 Pre- and post-furniture To assess the impact furniture has on air quality 3 Pre- and post-flush-out To assess the impact a flush-out has on air quality Air quality testing results n Well threshold g.m-3 concluded that these measures may not be necessary and, instead, an iterative testing process was introduced to ensure the performance outcomes were achieved. The contractor ensured all subcontractors received introductory Well training, highlighting the importance of the performance-based outcomes. This also led to the introduction of a product gate guard, with powers to confiscate any non-approved products. A list of approved adhesives was also signposted around thesite. Another measure to remove and reduce the level of VOCs and particulates introduced during construction was to carry out ventilation flush-outs. These occurred throughout construction, upon handover, and during initial occupancy. g.m-3 | g.m-3 INDOOR AIR QUALITY n Preliminary testing n Performance verification Environmental sensing systemfor ongoing IEQ monitoring by occupants Human-centric design does not end at handover, and the building has more than 600 sensors monitoring indoor environmental quality (IEQ) indicators, including CO2, particulates and VOCs. While the FM team will be analysing this data to optimise the building, digital signage on each floor means employees can use the data about temperature, humidity and air quality to inform their seating choice. Conclusions A performance-based target is essential to get the design team engaged with indoor air quality from an early stage of the project. A summary of the conclusions is outlined in the points below: W ith a focus on internal finishes and furniture, low levels of tVOC and formaldehyde can be achieved. However, introduction of furniture generally increased the overall tVOC levels. T o achieve the above, extensive engagement with the whole project team is required. A s expected, levels of PM2.5 and PM10 were elevated when any level of construction work was being undertaken. It is possible to achieve the particulate levels required by Well, via a combination of good practice construction methods and an extended flush-out, in addition to the use of compliant materials andfurniture. Pre-completion testing is highly recommended. Once the building is operational, it is important that the facilities management team is briefed in terms of additional maintenance requirements, to maintain good levels of IAQ. This involves additional engagement with an FM team, which may not usually occur. IAQ should be more thoroughly assessed when it comes to designing reception areas. Next steps for the research would be analysing the operational data to determine the longer-term impacts of the measures undertaken during design and construction, and the on-going impacts and optimisation through operation. CJ References: 1 Well Building Standard (v1). 2 City of London Air Quality Annual Status Report for 2017, 31 May 2018. SAM CARLSSON is a senior sustainability consultant at Hoare Lea 10 June 2019 www.cibsejournal.com CIBSE Jun19 pp08-10 Hoare lea Deloitte Supp.indd 10 24/05/2019 14:15