The WELL Building Standard (WELL) is a performance-based, evidence-based certification system designed by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) to measure, certify, and monitor features of the built environment—such as air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, materials, mind, community and innovation—that impact human health and well-being. It focuses on enhancing employee productivity and occupant wellness.
IWBI is currently accepting public comments on the next version of the Well Building Standard. Sign in to preview the standard here. The public comment period is open through May 1.
Even if you are not currently pursuing Well certification, the proposed standard offers a lengthy list of steps you can be taking to enhance the health of your building and its occupants. Be sure to check it out.
As mentioned, features of the built environment include: air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, materials, mind, community and innovation.
Example of Level of Detail
The level of detail built into the proposed standard is impressive. Here is one example:
1. If you click on “Air” you are taken to a page with six themes: Air quality monitoring, Air pollution source minimization, Air supply and exhaust, Air infiltration minimization, Air treatment, and Air quality validation.
2. Click on each theme and you are taken to a Strategies page. In the case of Air quality monitoring, there are three strategies: Install indoor air monitors, Promote air quality awareness, and Monitor outdoor air quality.
3. Click on Install indoor air monitors and you are taken to a Requirements page where specific steps you must take are explained. For examining indoor air quality, three in a list of seven monitoring steps are required—carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone, for example.
WELL v2 is the second and latest version of the WELL Building Standard, a comprehensive framework designed to improve human health and well-being through the built environment.
IWBI releases changes to its existing standards and programs through quarterly addenda. The addenda may include updated language requirements, clarified program rules or other changes to help projects better utilize WELL. Click here for more details.
WELL Certification is valid for three years from the date of the award letter, requiring recertification and performance verification to maintain status. Projects must file for recertification via WELL Online by the third anniversary to ensure continued performance.
