T07: Humidity Control – Above Green

(1 point)

INTENT

Limit the growth of pathogens, reduce off-gassing and maintain thermal comfort by providing the appropriate level of humidity.

SUMMARY

This WELL feature requires projects to maintain optimum relative humidity levels that are conducive to human health and well-being.

ISSUE

Humidity can influence degradation of building materials and the ability of the human body to release heat through evaporation. If the humidity is too high, the human body has a limited capacity to cool down through sweating. Elevated humidity can lead to increased off-gassing; for example, an increase in relative humidity of 35% can increase the emissions of formaldehyde by a factor of 1.8 to 2.6. Moreover, high humidity may promote the accumulation and growth of microbial pathogens including bacteria, dust mites and mold, which can lead to odors and cause respiratory irritation and allergies in sensitive individuals. Conversely, low humidity can lead to dryness and irritation of the airways, skin, eyes, throat and mucous membranes. Low relative humidity is also associated with longer survival (slower inactivation) of viruses.

SOLUTIONS

Buildings situated in climates with broad humidity ranges can maintain relative humidity within healthy and comfortable levels by adding or removing moisture from the air.

IMPACT

The provision of recommended relative humidity levels has multiple benefits to human health through control of pathogen growth, improved air quality and thermal comfort

REQUIREMENTS

Part 1

Manage Relative Humidity (1 point)

Verified by MEP, Performance Test

For All Spaces

All parts of the project except high-humidity areas meet one of the following requirements:

The mechanical system has the capability of maintaining relative humidity between 30% and 60% at all times by adding or removing moisture from the air.
The modeled relative humidity levels in the space are between 30% and 60% for at least 98% of all business hours of the year.

Note: for WELL Core, projects must facilitate tenant achievement in leased spaces. At least 10% of leased space should be available for testing.