LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

At what height should air samples be collected to represent the breathing zone in IAQ Assessment?

1. 1 to 2 feet above the floor

2. 3 to 6 feet above the floor

3. 6 to 10 feet above the floor

4. 2 to 4 feet above the floor

The correct answer is: 3 to 6 feet above the floor

The correct choice, which indicates that air samples should be collected at a height of 3 to 6 feet above the floor, aligns with the established standards for assessing indoor air quality (IAQ). This range is commonly accepted as it represents the typical breathing zone for adults while they are standing or sitting. Sampling within this height range ensures that the collected air accurately reflects what occupants are inhaling under normal conditions, thereby providing relevant data for evaluating air quality. This is crucial for determining compliance with health and safety regulations, as well as for identifying potential sources of indoor air pollutants at a height where people are most likely to be exposed. In contrast, sampling below this range—such as at 1 to 2 feet or 2 to 4 feet—may not adequately represent the air quality experienced by occupants, particularly for those seated or standing, as these lower levels can be influenced more by dust or other contaminants settling on the floor rather than the air that is actively inhaled at breathing height. Collecting samples higher than 6 feet could also miss critical pollutants that are typically found within the breathing space of occupants, making those options less suitable for a comprehensive assessment of indoor air quality.