LEED (BD+C)- Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite: Environmental tobacco smoke control

Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control is an important prerequisite in LEED certification, which aims to reduce the exposure of occupants to tobacco smoke. Here are the step by step methods to comply with the LEED credit related to Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control:

Step 1: Develop a No-Smoking Policy
The first step is to develop a no-smoking policy that includes information on how the policy is communicated to building occupants and enforced. The policy should be clear and concise and should cover all areas of the building, including common areas and individual units. The policy should also outline the penalties for violating the policy.

Step 2: Install Permanent Signages
Once the no-smoking policy is developed, permanent signages must be installed at every entry of the building and common areas. The signage must be placed at a distance of 10 feet from the building’s entry, stating that smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of all entries of the building. The signage must be visible to all occupants.

Step 3: Submit Supporting Documentation
Documentation must be submitted to demonstrate compliance with the credit requirements. For projects where smoking is prohibited, documentation should include a description of the project’s no-smoking policy, a copy of the no-smoking policy, and a signed letter from the owner describing the project’s no-smoking policy and enforcement.

For residential projects where smoking is permitted, the documentation should include a copy of any legally binding covenants or restrictions to verify the status of residential units as non-smoking. In addition, a door schedule demonstrating weather-stripping at exterior unit doors and doors leading from units to common hallways and a differential air pressure test report for units in the project building should be submitted.

Step 4: Provide Evidence of Signage Communication
Drawings, photos, or other evidence of signage communicating the no-smoking policy should be submitted. This evidence should demonstrate that the signage is clear and visible to occupants.

Step 5: Provide Evidence of Outdoor Smoking Designations
For projects where smoking is permitted, a scaled site plan or map must be submitted showing the location of designated outdoor smoking and no-smoking areas. The map should also indicate the location of the property line and site boundary and indicate the 25-foot (7.5-meter) distance from building openings.

Step 6: Check for Code
Any code or restrictions that prevent the establishment of no-smoking requirements should be identified and documented.

Complying with the LEED credit related to Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control requires the implementation of a clear no-smoking policy, the installation of permanent signages, submission of supporting documentation, provision of evidence of signage communication, and evidence of outdoor smoking designations.