Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.0

Inquiry

Our project is a new dining hall and welcoming center to replace the old dining hall for an existing retreat center. In regards to the EQ Credit 5, we have the following concerns: First, we would like to verify the accurate number of required entryway systems for our project, since there is no quantifiable method that we know of to determine a "high volume" entryway. At present, we will be equipping the four main high volume entryways with exterior, weather protected (by overhangs), permanent walk-off mats. In addition, there are five secondary doors. Three of these are designed for egress only, and would be seldom used for entrance by the staff members only. The fourth is a back entry door, entered only by staff. The fifth is an entry door that goes to the service and kitchen areas, also only entered by staff. Since the staff makes up only 5% of the building\'s occupants, and we assume that 5% or less of occupants is not considered high volume, these entryways will not be outfitted with walk-off mats. Have we accurately interpreted this requirement? Our second question regards the requirement for chemical segregation and ventilation in housekeeping areas. If the chemicals and detergents are acceptable for sink disposal and approved by the local water treatment plants, do the ventilation requirements still apply? Also, do we still need the drains plumbed separately?