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

Which standard must be followed for thermal comfort design?

1. ASHRAE Standard 55-10

2. ISO 14001

3. ASHRAE Standard 90.1

4. LEED v4.1 Standards

The correct answer is: ASHRAE Standard 55-10

ASHRAE Standard 55-10 is the relevant standard for thermal comfort design. This standard provides guidelines for designing and evaluating indoor environments with respect to the comfort of occupants. It outlines criteria for thermal comfort based on factors such as air temperature, humidity, radiant temperature, air velocity, occupancy, and clothing insulation, which are crucial for creating spaces that promote the well-being and productivity of occupants. Using ASHRAE Standard 55-10 allows architects and engineers to ensure that buildings maintain an appropriate thermal environment, which is essential for achieving a high level of occupant satisfaction. Compliance with this standard can also contribute to LEED certification, as it is part of the prerequisites and credits related to indoor environmental quality. The other standards mentioned serve different purposes. ISO 14001 focuses on environmental management systems, while ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is concerned with energy efficiency in building design. LEED v4.1 Standards contain various criteria, including those for thermal comfort, but do not singularly define comfort requirements the way ASHRAE Standard 55-10 does. Therefore, ASHRAE Standard 55-10 is the specific standard to follow for thermal comfort design.