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5 Assuring Building Performance Page 72

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1 5 Assuring Building Performance Page 72
[Green buildings are designed for high performance. In this chapter we will discuss commissioning, which proves and tracks performance during the construction process through occupancy, and Measurement & Verification, which confirms ongoing performance after occupancy.] With many complex systems to be installed and integrated within the same building, a careful process called commissioning is needed to ensure these different systems are not interfering with each other, and that all controls have been set to operate correctly in each particular building. Commissioning will be discussed for the first half of this chapter. Once a building is up and running, it is important to measure how much electricity and fuel it is actually using. This is especially important in the case of green buildings, where considerable effort has been invested in a smaller environmental footprint. Is the building delivering on that investment Measurement is the only way to be sure, and “Measurement and Verification” is the subject of the second half of this chapter. 5 Assuring Building Performance EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Page 72

2 Commissioning (Cx) Commissioning (Cx):
[Commissioning (Cx) verifies that a facility has been designed, constructed and tested to perform as expected. The construction process makes this coordination even more complex as each system may be installed by a separate contractor who must consider the interconnections with other systems.] Commissioning (Cx): Verifies that a facility has been designed, constructed and tested to perform as expected. Relies on coordination and cooperation with all contractors for a successful project. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Commissioning Page 72

3 The Importance of Commissioning
[Cx will uncover and correct many defects that might otherwise lie hidden until well into occupancy.] Commissioning shouldn't be thought of as just another administrative requirement. Rather, it is an opportunity to uncover and correct defects that might otherwise remain hidden well into occupancy. It is extremely valuable to the construction team, the owner, and the future occupants to identify any potential defects during the construction process. It will lessen the impact of the defects, simplify the correction process and save everyone a lot of time, money and headache. Cx will uncover and correct many defects that might otherwise lie hidden until well into occupancy. Uncovering these problems during the construction process reduces the impact of the defects and provides the opportunity to make corrections. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Commissioning Page 73 3

4 The Commissioning Process
[The Cx process is involved in every phase of project development and is led by the CxA.] To ensure that commissioning is done consistently and correctly, the Commissioning Agent (sometimes called the Commissioning Authority) (CxA) is responsible for the process from beginning to end. The CxA is normally an independent third party, not an employee of either the developer, the contractor, or the design professionals. The CxA creates a detailed Cx plan for the Cx process based on the Owner's Project Requirements (OPR), the design documents, plans, drawings, and equipment specification sheets. Commissioning starts in the design phase and continues until turnover. The Commissioning Agent (CxA) is responsible for the entire commissioning process Independent third party who should be certified Prepares Cx Plan, forms, tests, and reports EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Commissioning Page 73 4 4

5 The Commissioning Plan
[The Commissioning Plan identifies the role and responsibilities of each member of the team and determines the required tests and inspections.] The Commissioning Plan is generated during the design phase. The Plan includes: Which systems should be commissioned The level of testing that will occur Personnel roles and responsibilities The schedule of when acceptance and routine tests should be performed Forms to be used to record test outcomes Listing of required test devices Intended outcome of the commissioning process The work items and schedule depend on many items, including: the importance and cost of the equipment, consequences of failure, age of equipment, past and future frequency of service, hours of operation, future maintenance availability, environmental conditions, and safety requirements. The Commissioning Plan is generated during the design phase. Cx Plan Details: Overall testing plan and schedule of tests Forms to record outcome Required test devices Personnel responsibilities EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 The Commissioning Process Page 73 5

6 Coordination with the Trades
[The key to a successful project relies on coordination and cooperation on everyone's part.] The best known benefit of commissioning is a smoother, quicker turnover of the commissioned systems to the operations staff. However, this transition is based on the cooperation and coordination of many trades. To aid in this process, a thorough commissioning plan will be generated to identify the expectations and responsibilities of each member of the team. Since individual contractors typically don't do systems-level testing, the commissioning process is designed to test the systems as a whole. It is important for the electrical contractors to stay updated on the development of the commissioning plan, as it involves substantial work on the part of all staff, specifically helping to plan and execute system tests. The only way to provide accurate bids on jobs is to be aware of these requirements and account for them in your bid. Best known benefit of Cx: Smoother, quicker turnover of building systems to operations staff. A clear description of the expectations and responsibilities of each team member will help the Cx process. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 The Commissioning Process Page 73 6

7 Pretest and Test Plan [Electrical contractors should know what pretest and test items are required. If this is unclear, ask the CxA.] A more detailed list of the technical requirements for pretest and test plans are included in the manual on page 74. Electrical contractors should meet with CxA prior to testing to go over forms and what will happen on test day. Some pretest requirements: Survey of equipment Generation and review of the system’s one-line diagram Review of the control sequences (see manual for more requirements) EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 The Commissioning Process Page 74 7

8 Electrical Work and Commissioning
[The electrical distribution system is fundamental to building operation. Electricians play a critical role in building performance by preventing electrical failures.] Since electrical systems are typically installed prior to mechanical systems, electrical component and sub- system testing has an added benefit of identifying and correcting defective equipment early enough to avoid impacting the final completion schedule. Failures in electrical systems can be dramatic, immediate, and potentially damaging. Component-level testing, sub-system testing, and full- system testing will ultimately discover defects that otherwise might not be found until after the building is occupied. It is clearly in the best interest of the construction team to correct all defects prior to occupancy. The electrical distribution system is the foundation for all other systems in the building. Electricians play a critical role in building performance by preventing electrical failures. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 8 Commissioning Page 75

9 What Electrical Systems are Commissioned?
[Understand the electrical systems that are typically commissioned and briefly discuss components of each system that are particularly important to check.] Lighting and Lighting Control Systems Are occupancy sensors set correctly? Are daylighting controls responding to daylight? Are time delays for shut-off correct? Do occupancy sensors give false turn-ons? Emergency Generator and Emergency Power Systems Do they start automatically as needed? Is there adequate power for specified services, esp. elevators? Electrical Aspects of HVAC Equipment (motors, VFDs, wiring, etc.) Are heating and cooling systems appropriately interconnected to avoid simultaneous operation? Uninterruptable Power Supply Systems Do they operate as specified? Automatic Transfer Switches, Switchgear, and Power Distribution Panels Satisfactory test under realistic loads? Lighting and lighting controls Emergency power HVAC electrics Uninterruptible power Power distribution EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 9 Commissioning Page 75

10 Commissioned Electrical Systems & Components
[Depending on the complexity of they systems, parties other than the electrician may need to be part of the Cx testing.] The number of personnel involved in each test will vary by project and system. While a test may require only the electrician, controls technician, and commissioning authority, it is often recommended to have the manufacturer or associated party on-site representing every piece of equipment that is being tested or that will affect the tests. Without these staff people on-site, a small problem that could have easily been resolved can result in a failed test that must be rescheduled. Who Participates in Commissioning? Depends on the project and system! Electrician Controls Technician Commissioning Authority Manufacturer, if possible EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Electrical Work and Commissioning Page 76 10

11 What Occurs During Testing?
[The main goal of testing is to verify proper installation of the equipment and to perform tests to ensure that, when energized, the system will function properly.] Commissioning tests may be performed by independent contractors, the installation contractor, or the manufacturer. In some instances, the testing may be performed by the CxA. Regardless of who conducts the test, each test should be witnessed and approved by the CxA and a representative from the operations staff. The system should initially be checked for damage, deterioration, and component failures using the agreed upon pre-functional tests. If it is safe to proceed, the functional tests should then be completed on the individual components. The interconnection of the components should be checked, using de-energized and energized methods, to verify the correct interconnection and operation of the components, including on/off controls, system process interlocks, and protective relaying functions. Once the above tests have been completed, the system can be energized, and operational tests and measurements should be performed. During testing: Check for damage, deterioration, and component failures Functional tests of individual components Operational tests and measurements of the energized system (Deferred testing may not occur until after occupancy) EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Electrical Work and Commissioning Page 76 11

12 Troubleshooting During Testing
[Problems may arise during the testing of the equipment and systems. To identify and correct these problems, well-ordered troubleshooting techniques should be developed.] Problems that arise during the testing of the equipment and systems provide an opportunity to identify, correct, and troubleshoot the system. If problems persist, make sure to read the equipment and component manuals thoroughly. Check equipment such as fuses, lights, and breakers for continuity Check to make sure everything is calibrated and set properly Check factory wiring When wiring problems are found and repaired, all affected wiring terminations should be re-verified for their proper connections All safety checks should be performed prior to and throughout the testing process to ensure the safety of the testing personnel If problems occur: Troubleshooting techniques Consult equipment and component manuals Check wiring Re-verify wiring terminations Safety checks should be performed at all times. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Electrical Work and Commissioning Page 76 12

13 Documentation for Commissioning
[Keeping documentation is important – especially with failed tests and remedial actions to help support future troubleshooting.] Managing the documentation from the tests is vital because these represent the baseline operating condition and that contractual requirements were met. It is highly likely that one or more of the functional tests will result in failure for one reason or another. When this occurs, a deficiency report is prepared by the CxA that describes the failure, lists the affected systems, and suggests remedial action. With this report, the project team can undertake the suggested action and, if all goes well, the next round of testing will show that all systems are functioning correctly. Once all systems are functioning, a resolution record is prepared to provide a clear history of what happened, how it was fixed, and how correct function was verified. This is to ensure that if future problems arise with these systems, those responsible for the repair will have a clear understanding of the system and its history. Keep track of all documentation including failed tests and remedial actions. Deficiency reports leads to remedial action Resolution record will show that the system functions correctly Use these records to help support future troubleshooting (Don't forget to take photos) EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 13 Commissioning Pages 76-77

14 O&M Training [Since the testing during Cx is the first time the equipment is being operated as it is intended, it's a good idea to involve the O&M staff.] The operational testing carried out as part of Cx is the first time the equipment is operated as intended. Since the building's operational staff has long-term responsibility for the systems, it is important to get them involved in the testing process as soon as they are available. This is the responsibility of the CxA, but the electrical contracting staff should be prepared to meet with future building staff and explain the operation of the systems they installed. Equipment is fully operational for the first time during Cx – use the opportunity to train O&M staff to prevent callbacks. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 14 Commissioning Page 77

15 Retro-Commissioning and Continuous Commissioning®
[Retro-Commissioning and Continuous Commissioning are the processes of performing Cx on existing buildings and are extremely cost-effective. Electrical contractors and workers may find themselves called in to help fix problems that have been going on for years. When that happens, they will find a similar set of documents, tests, and responsibilities as with new building commissioning.] As commissioning of new buildings is gaining wide acceptance, existing buildings are also being commissioned. Retro-commissioning (Retro-Cx) is the process of going into an existing building and performing a set of inspections and tests that mirror those used in the Cx process on a new building. Poorly performing equipment is usually uncovered in these existing buildings. In moderately large buildings, retro-Cx can pay for itself in 1 or 2 years in reduced electrical and fuel bills. Continuous Commissioning® is similar to Retro-Cx, but has an ongoing relationship between the CxA and the building with inspections and tests repeated regularly every few years. Continuous Commissioning is a trademarked process developed at Texas A&M University, but similar or directly related processes are becoming increasingly widespread. For both retro- and Continuous Commissioning, electricians may find themselves called in to fix malfunctions that have been issues for years. Even the greenest buildings can find equipment that can be improved during the retro-commissioning process. Retro-commissioning (Retro-Cx) is the process of going into an existing building and performing a set of inspections and tests that mirror those used in the Cx process on a new building. Continuous Commissioning® is similar to Retro-Cx, but has an ongoing relationship between the CxA and the building, with inspections and tests repeated regularly every few years. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 15 Commissioning Page 77 15

16 Measurement and Verification (M&V)
[Measurement and Verification helps to prove that a building performs as it was designed.] It is easy to say that a new project will use 30% less energy than a project built using conventional techniques, but it has to be shown after completion that the goal was actually met. You can’t manage what you don’t measure! There are well-developed standards for how Measurement and Verification (M&V) should be planned and implemented. The responsibility for this process typically falls to the engineers and architects designing the project. This section will briefly outline the M&V process, followed by a description of the electrician's role. The simplest type of verification is with products and components that must have specified characteristics: For example, electricians may need to retain and submit documentation that light fixtures are ENERGY STAR certified or motors are NEMA certified, or may find they are installing submeters in places they have never seen them used. Measurement and Verification helps to determine a building’s actual energy performance. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 78

17 M&V and Retrofits Simple!
[When a building is retrofitted it is easy to compare the energy use "before" and "after" the retrofit by collecting utility data.] If there were changes to the use of the building that affect energy consumption, such as a new pool or bank of computers, it may be necessary to install submeters to isolate these changes to get a clear picture of how the building is now performing as compared to its performance before the retrofit. Simple! Measure energy consumption before and after retrofits and improvements by collecting utility data. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 78 17

18 M&V and New Construction
[M&V in new construction is based on computer models that predict the performance of the building but they have overestimated savings in many cases.] How can we define savings in a building that has not even been built? Savings compared to what? How do you calculate the consumption of an unbuilt structure? To do that, the designers construct a computer model of the high performing building, which can estimate the building's annual use of fuel, electricity, and water. This is then compared to a “standard” or “code” building to predict savings. However, this is not a very accurate way to predict performance. In many cases, the actual energy and water use in the building was much greater than the computerized estimates, meaning the savings had been overestimated. These problems of overestimating savings can be traced to two root causes: some equipment may not meet design specifications or be installed correctly building equipment may not be used correctly after occupancy In either case, careful assessment of actual energy use in the operating building is needed to find and correct the errors. ….Not as simple Computer models are used to estimate performance but have overestimated savings in many cases. These models don't always match reality. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 78 18

19 Standards for Verifying Energy Efficiency in Buildings
[Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO) publishes the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) which is the standard for verifying efficiency in buildings. IPMVP offers four options for M&V. ] In the 1990s, a group of people involved in funding energy efficiency projects realized a need for standards and formed the Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO). The EVO maintains and publishes the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP), a set of books that are available for free download at the EVO website. We can’t cover it in detail but we can make it clear why various types of energy meters are needed in different circumstances, which is the primary thing electricians need to understand. IPMVP offers four options for M&V, corresponding to whether the situation is a retrofit or new construction, concerns the whole building or just particular items. These options are explained further in the manual and require different metering configurations. International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) by the Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO) Four options for M&V depending on whether it's a: Retrofit New Construction Project Whole Building Portion of a Building IPMVP from the EVO EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 79 19

20 What is Included in an M&V Plan
[A M&V Plan outlines the process and methods used to properly accomplish M&V.] The first item that the IPMVP requires for a project is a thorough M&V plan, describing the types of expected savings and the techniques used to measure them. [See the blue box in your manual on page 79] Items in the M&V Plan include: Description of the energy efficiency measures implemented Selection of the IPMVP options and boundaries of the systems to be evaluated Selection of the baseline and reporting periods Identification of routine adjustments, such as those caused by weather changes Identification of non-routine adjustments such as changes in facility use Selection of which meters are used or needed, including utility and vendor meters, and additional, equipment- specific meters Description of the energy efficiency measures implemented Selection of the baseline and reporting periods Identification of routine and non-routine adjustments Selection of meters EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 79 20

21 Electric Meters for M&V
[Utilities use different meters to monitor energy use. Meters can be used to encourage users to change behavior.] Electric meters have changed dramatically in recent years and now have a wide range of functions that supply different information with varying precision. Since complex meters cost more, it is important to choose meters that will provide measurements as necessary for the project, but not to spend money on capabilities that are not needed. The simplest electric meters measure how much energy is consumed in kilowatt-hours. In the older electromechanical meters a rotating wheel indicates the rate of energy use, and a set of dials provides a record of the total energy that has passed through the meter. Modern digital devices can provide the same measurements without the use of moving parts that can wear out. Time-of-day meters measure “on-peak” and “off-peak” loads so the utility can charge more during “on-peak” times and encourage customers to shift energy use off-peak hours, easing the strain on utilities. Demand meters measure instantaneous power demand. Demand meters can be purchased that measure demand once per month, or that are capable of measuring on-peak and off-peak demand separately. Interval meters can record energy and demand in real time. Smart meters may be capable of reading remotely over wireless networks, others tell customers what the current cost of electricity is so they can adjust their behavior accordingly, and some even turn appliances on and off to reduce load at times the system is under stress. More capability is expected to be developed soon. Standard energy meters Time-of-day meters Demand meters Interval meters Smart meters Digital meter Electromechanical meter EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Measurement & Verification Page 80 21

22 Operational Savings through Submeters
[You can expect to see more and more submeters in the future. This increased attention to metering should result in substantial operational savings, as building owners and managers become aware of previously unnoticed waste.] The devices discussed so far are utility meters that are used for billing and must be very accurate, as must submeters used for billing. However, submeters are used to monitor equipment for faults and to provide indications of consumption and do not need to have the same precision as utility meters, and are therefore less expensive. Submeters will often be installed on large equipment as part of M&V plans. It is important for electricians to pay attention to placement requirements on wireless meters to ensure that communication is error-free. Smart meters will also have additional wiring if they are controlling building systems. If so, the diagrams will be included in the plans you receive. Unless used for billing, don't need to be as accurate as utility meters Connected the same as utility meters Pay attention to location Check wireless connection EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Electric Meters for M&V Page 80 22

23 CLASSROOM EXERCISE #3 LOCATING SUBMETERS INSTRUCTIONS:
[Divide the class into pairs or small groups depending on class size.] INSTRUCTIONS: In the scenarios on pages 82-83, where would it be most useful to place submeters on a commercial building to improve energy efficiency through M&V? Review and discuss the systems with your team. List them in order of importance for submetering and be ready to explain your choices to the class. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 23 Pages 82-83

24 CLASSROOM EXERCISE #3 LOCATING SUBMETERS QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
ANSWERS: Produce energy therefore need meters: 3 & 8 Use substantial energy, meter to assess use patterns: 1, 5, & 6 Use substantial energy, meter to detect malfunctions: 1, 4, 5, & 7 Achievable results include: Reduced electric bills by increased monitoring of A/C system: 1 Identify tenant energy usage for proper billing: 5 Understand how much energy cogen unit is supplying: 8 QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: Which building systems use the most energy? On which building systems would submetering reveal crucial information about building functioning issues? On which building systems would submetering reveal occupants' behavioral use of electricity? What are 3 achievable results from making adjustments using the information gained by submetering? EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 24 Pages 82-83

25 [Green practice is good practice and becoming common practice.]
Several aspects of green job management discussed in this chapter are particular to electrical work while others are common to all trades. In many cases, you will see that "green practice" is actually the same as "good practice," and you will find that carrying these techniques onto any job-site will result in greater customer satisfaction and fewer callbacks. 6 Job Management EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Page 84

26 Whole-Building Coordination
[Buildings are complex, integrated systems where work in one area can have a profound impact on the success of a green measure in another area.] We discussed this at length in Fundamentals. [Ask the class]: Can you list any examples of integrated systems working together? Buildings are complex, integrated systems, where work done in one area can have a profound impact on the success of a green measure in another area. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 26 Whole-Building Coordination Page 84 26

27 Inter-Trade Coordination
[Where trades' work overlaps, good coordination is critical.] Floor penetrations have a big impact on air infiltration. Unless a ventilation connection is specified, all feed-throughs and chases should be caulked and air-sealed, even though they may seem to connect similar internal spaces. Underfloor distribution of HVAC and wiring is increasingly popular because it is flexible even after occupancy. As with ceiling plenums, electricians must be mindful of the needs of HVAC workers for air distribution space, and vice versa. Building management systems (BMS) affect all building systems, including elevators, HVAC, fire and suppression, and will require participation from all trades during start-up, troubleshooting, and commissioning. Coatings, sealants, and glues with high volatile organic compounds (VOCs) will not be acceptable for any trade. Coordination in finding acceptable low VOC materials will make everyone's livessimpler. Where trades' work overlaps, good coordination is critical. Floor penetrations Underfloor distribution of HVAC and wiring BMS systems Low VOC coatings and glues EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Whole-Building Coordination Pages 84-85 27 27

28 Scheduling Make sure to budget time for: Flush-out Documentation
[Make sure to budget adequate time for documentation, commissioning, and other requirements on a green job.] See the blue box on page 85 for examples of items requiring extra scheduling time. Indoor air quality (IAQ) treatment may require a substantial "flush-out" after construction ends and prior to occupancy. This extra time should be budgeted into the schedule. Gathering, sorting, and storing the required documentation verifying green attributes such as VOC content will require time and effort. Ensuring that non-green materials, components, or systems have not been substituted, either accidentally or intentionally. Adjusting occupancy or vacancy sensors as needed. Assisting with the Cx process. Make sure to budget time for: Flush-out Documentation Verification of substitutions Adjusting controls and sensors Assisting with the Cx process EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Whole-Building Coordination Page 85 28

29 Material Submissions [Anyone involved in specifying, ordering, and installing building components must ensure that the materials used exactly match the specifications. Green specifications are much less flexible than those in conventional buildings.] If T-5 HO (high output) lamps have been specified, it is NOT okay to accept regular T-5 lamps. These substitutions may jeopardize LEED or other certifications, and the building will not perform as designed. Since high-efficiency items often have a higher first cost, suppliers may be tempted to try to make substitutions, and it will be important to let them know this is not acceptable. It is also important that proper records and receipts be kept so that the use of specified materials can be documented clearly. The materials used on a green building must exactly match the specifications Green specifications are much less flexible than those in conventional buildings Substitutions require careful review and analysis EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Whole-Building Coordination Page 85 29 29

30 Waste Disposal Recycling of discharge lamps
[Electricians need to comply with the construction waste management procedures on the project and pay particular attention to recycling of fluorescent lamps, disposal of magnetic ballasts, and recycling or reuse of steel conduit.] Electricians need to comply with the site Construction Waste Management (CWM) procedures. Pay particular attention to: Recycling discharge lamps: Even though the amount of mercury in discharge lamps has dropped substantially in recent years, you still need to carefully follow recycling requirements, which are law in most parts of the country outside of the household market. With careful practice, almost all the mercury can be captured and reused, keeping this hazardous material out of the waste stream and lowering the demand for new mercury. PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) were used as an insulating oil to prevent high-voltage arcing in old magnetic ballasts. If you find yourself removing these ballasts, it's best to treat them as hazardous waste by avoiding skin contact with any leaking fluids and by disposing of them through a toxic waste disposal company. Putting PCB ballasts in the normal waste stream is a crime with substantial fines and is also, of course, not a sustainable practice. Recycle or reuse steel conduit. Recycling of discharge lamps Disposal of magnetic ballasts (PCBs) Recycle or reuse steel conduit Recovered steel conduit Recycling fluorescent lamps EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Whole-Building Coordination Page 86 30 30

31 Site Environmental Quality
[A truly sustainable project will be as concerned with the health and safety of the workforce as with that of the future occupants.] No-Smoking Policy: Productivity is affected by a stringent no-smoking policy, either through lowered morale or time needed to vacate the site for a cigarette break. Most workers will not leave the site throughout the entire day, due to the time it takes to wait for the hoist/elevator or for fear of tools and materials going missing. A better policy is to require that no smoking take place in enclosed areas or in areas where absorptive materials such as insulation or drywall have already been installed. Many municipalities already have "No Smoking" laws on job-sites, and such laws should be obeyed. Just as with smoking, productivity and site environmental quality are affected when adequate bathrooms are not provided. Another area of concern is proper disposal of food waste. Leaving food waste behind creates the potential for pest and rodent problems and possible IAQ problems due to mold. One solution is to designate some semi-finished areas of the work site that will not be in use that day as an "eating area" that is cleaned daily. Clearly marked trash cans for food waste should be used to make sure that food waste does not mix with construction demolition to be recycled. Pay attention to conditions while construction is underway. Bathroom policy Smoking policy: No smoking in finished areas Disposal of food waste: All food waste in specially designated trash bins EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Site Environmental Quality Page 86 31

32 Job-Site Education [Job-site education lets everyone know what the expectations are on a green project.] Educating workers directly always works better than trying to educate management and hoping for a trickle-down effect. A quick 5 to 10-minute orientation by the construction manager or other knowledgeable person on- site is usually sufficient. It's best if the orientation occurs whenever a new trade arrives on the job- site, with follow-up orientations during other regular meetings or tool talks to reinforce policies. Any noncompliance should be documented and brought up at weekly project meetings. For a building to be truly sustainable, everyone on the team needs to work together. Whether you are a general contractor, subcontractor, supervisor, or tradesperson, each of us has a responsibility to follow the specifications of the job and cooperate with the other trades. The quick orientation should cover: This is a green building Rating systems (if appropriate) What makes this project green: Better air quality Very good expected energy performance Nontoxic products Air quality testing Bathroom and Smoking Policy: Urinating on walls and smoking in enclosed areas or near permeable materials will create lasting affects and will be costly if the IAQ tests fail. These will not be tolerated. The policy for locating bathrooms and designated smoking areas; explain that the policy will be policed. Quick orientation to make sure every worker on the job understands: Safety should never be compromised This is a green and sustainable building project – special conditions will apply What makes this project green Policy for locating bathrooms and designated smoking areas EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Site Environmental Quality Page 87 32

33 Conclusion [A knowledgeable and prepared electrician is critical to the success of green buildings.] Throughout the GPRO Electrical Systems course, we described the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to facilitate green projects. This course is an overview to show you how to incorporate sustainable practices in your work. We encourage you to to pursue more in-depth training in those areas most valuable for your projects and for your career. Applying this knowledge is increasingly important as the construction industry dramatically shifts to adopt sustainable building technologies and work practices. By completing this course, you are now part of a growing green building workforce and industry. Implementing the best practices described in this manual will help your project team to construct buildings that use energy and water more efficiently, provide healthier indoor air quality, and reduce material waste. Not only are you constructing the buildings in which we work, live, and play, but you are also moving us closer to a more sustainable world. Thank you for your commitment to the environment and for being a leader in the forward progress of the construction industry. A knowledgeable and prepared electrician is critical to the successful construction of a green building. You now have the tools and knowledge needed to facilitate a green project and are now part of a growing green building workforce and industry. EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 Page 88 33 33

34 Thank You! Green Professional Building Skills Training Program
EL_v1.5_PPT_ch5-6_120622 34


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