Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.0

Inquiry

Controlling Toxic Mold Growth Besides allergies and asthma, breathing air that contains high concentrations of fungal spores can cause other illnesses. The spores of a number of different types of mold may contain toxins which, when breathed in over a long period of time may result in a kind of poisoning. One such fungus, named Stachybotrys chartarum has been linked to a wide range of serious illness in adults, and in several alarming, recent cases where extensive contamination was present, to fatal lung hemorrhage in infants. In order to prevent these illnesses to the occupants, an ultraviolet irradiation mechanical system is being proposed for this project. Ultraviolet irradiation instantaneously kills the bacteria, viruses, anthrax, and mold spores traveling through the mechanical system, therefore reducing the spread of airborne pathogens and the causes of "sick buildings". Since this strategy demonstrates exemplary IAQ performance, we believe this should be an acceptable innovation credit.