Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

BREEAM Evidence referencing

2018-03-14T14:41:27Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "BREEAM Good practice (efficient!) evidence referencing = Aim and benefits = Clear evidence aids both the assessor in writing up the report and the QA auditor in reviewing the e..."

BREEAM Good practice (efficient!) evidence referencing

= Aim and benefits =

Clear evidence aids both the assessor in writing up the report and the QA auditor in reviewing the evidence and report to ensure the building is fully compliant.

= When to consider =

The beginning of the assessment right through to the end.

Any credit can be audited and every piece of evidence will have a write up.

= Step by step guidance =

== Assessors ==

The Assessment Evidence Reference should clearly identify as best possible where the required information is found in the evidence document.

For example – Energy folder/ Ene 3 folder/ Ene 3-1 Thermal comfort report/ Section 2.0/ Section 2.1.1/Paragraph 3

If a report is being used then it is easy to identify the relevant section, but if there are no sections then pages numbers are best with the paragraph, if information is only in one paragraph.

Where information is found in multiple places then multiple places should be listed e.g.

Energy folder/ Ene 3 folder/ Ene 3-1 Thermal comfort report/ Section 2.1.1/Section 4.3/ Section 6.9.4

It will assist the QA auditor and yourself if you need to revisit information

It is important that each criteria is addressed, it should be easy to see in the report that each criteria has an evidence document assigned to it.

== Evidence providers ==

When forwarding evidence to the assessor it is beneficial to provide guidance on where the appropriate information is in the document as it may save questions from the assessor and ensure nothing is missed.

Each credit has criteria and to achieve the credit all applicable criteria must have evidence to support it. Review compliance notes as they will likely contain additional explanation on what is required and how to demonstrate it.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

Can someone who has never seen this document find the required information?

Does this document show the criteria indicated?

= Tools and resources =

[https://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/getting-the-referencing-right/ https://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/getting-the-referencing-right/]

Webinar available in My Projects – Documents and tools – BREEAM Assessor Guidance

= Tips and best practice =

Reference and report as you review and you will save a lot of time. If you go on a sabbatical or maternity leave good referencing helps your colleagues while you are away. Additionally, if you leave a company it means things are in order.

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 14:41, 14 Mar 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]

BREEAM Protection of ecological features

2018-01-18T11:44:24Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "BREEAM Protection of ecological features = Aim and benefits = To protect existing ecological features from substantial damage during site preparation and completion of construc..."

BREEAM Protection of ecological features

= Aim and benefits =

To protect existing ecological features from substantial damage during site preparation and completion of construction works. Often consideration is not given to the fact established ecological features have taken years to grow and develop. Their value is not easily replaced and removal of them has lasting effects.

= When to consider =

Before RIBA stage 1 where possible. A site inspection by an ecologist must be carried out before any works begin on the chosen site. If an area of the site needs to be protected then the design and works will have to work around that and the earlier this is known the better.

= Step by step guidance =

This credit can only be achieved if the assessment zone is defined as ‘land of low ecological value’.

It is recommended that a suitably qualified ecologist be procured from the earliest point.

Before procuring an ecologist, it should be checked that they are suitably qualified in line with BREEAM requirements.

If using an ecologist, they will need to carry out a site inspection prior to any works beginning on site and at appropriate times of the year to determine if there is any ecological value in the site. If the overall value of the site is low the credit will be achievable but if there is value the site cannot gain the credit. See compliance notes in the BREEAM manual if the site was cleared prior to purchase.

Where the ecologist confirms the overall value is low but there are some features that should be retained and protected during construction these should be highlighted to the design team as early as possible.

The contractor should know they must put in place protection measures before they are appointed.

Before site works being the protection measures recommended by the suitably qualified ecologist should be put in place. BS42020:2013 should be consulted by the ecologist and for best practice the contractor. These measures may be protection around existing trees, rivers or ponds. Specific measures to prevent water pollution. Siting and timing of all construction-type activities to avoid harm to important nature conservation features. Erection of information or warning signs for site workers specifying location, type and means of installation. Erection of wildlife exclusion barriers to prevent, where necessary, particular species (e.g. water voles, badgers, amphibians and reptiles) from moving from one area or feature to another.

If any features of value have been removed from the site pre-of post purchase then credit cannot be achieved.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

What state is the site in?

Is it mostly hard standing?

Is it a greenfield site or a brown field site?

What surrounds the site, urban, semi rural, rural?

Are there any derelict buildings?

Are there trees on site, if so are they established?

= Tools and resources =

Knowledge base - [http://kb.breeam.com/section/new-construction/uk/2014-uk/landuseandecology/le02/ http://kb.breeam.com/section/new-construction/uk/2014-uk/landuseandecology/le02/]

BS42020:2013 can be purchased from a number of suppliers such as - [https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030258704 https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030258704]

= Tips and best practice =

Good ecologist used from the earliest point.

It should be noted the assessment zone is defined as any land on the site which is being developed (and therefore disturbed) for buildings, hard standing, soft landscaping, site access, plus a 3m wide zone measured outward from the boundary around these areas irrespective of site boundary. It also includes any areas used for temporary site storage and buildings.

= Typical evidence =

Ecology report produced by suitably qualified ecologist.

Confirmation ecologist is suitably qualified

Site photographs

Confirmation from the design team/contractor that the features of value will be protected in line with the ecologists recommendations.

= Disclaimer =

BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:44, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Hard landscaping and boundary protection

2018-01-18T11:17:32Z

Emma Houston:

BREEAM Hard landscaping and boundary protection

= Aim and benefits =

To recognise and encourage the specification of materials for boundary protection and

external hard surfaces that have a low environmental impact, taking account of the full life

cycle of materials used.

Hard landscaping can make up a significant area of the development and mitigating its impact can make a significant different to the site.

= When to consider =

Stage 2

When the design is moving into detailed design. Green guide ratings of materials should be checked and the areas being dealt with should be calculated as early as possible.

= Step by step guidance =

Landscape architect or Architect is responsible for this credit.

The landscape specification and design drawings should be provided with the green guide ratings for each applicable element detailed.

The green guide to specification should be consulted when the specification is being put together -[http://www.thegreenguide.org.uk/ www.thegreenguide.org.uk]

Access to the Green guide requires a log in, an email address is all that is needed and anyone can access it.

Where a green guide rating cannot be found to match a proposed element the BREEAM assessor can contact the BRE for a bespoke rating. Many manufacturers have green guide ratings for their products.

The areas of each applicable element are required to confirm that 80% of the products are A or A+. Where all the elements are A or A+ areas are not needed.

The areas of each element are best shown on design drawings.

Any existing or specified natural boundary protection gets an A+.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

Who is specifying the hard landscaping and boundary protection?

Has the green guide been used when choosing the materials?

Are there any materials that must be used due to the requirements of a third party (e.g. local council)? See KBCN00062.

Can natural boundary protection such as hedges be used?

How much hard landscaping does there need to be?

= Tools and resources =

[http://www.thegreenguide.org.uk/ www.thegreenguide.org.uk]

= Tips and best practice =

Determine the green guide ratings as early as possible.

The more soft landscaping you have the less areas that need calculated.

= Typical evidence =

Landscape specification

Landscape drawings

Areas of the hard landscaping and boundary protection

Green guide ratings for each element.

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:17, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Site Selection

2018-01-18T11:17:03Z

Emma Houston:

BREEAM Site Selection

= Aim and benefits =

To encourage the reuse of land that has been previously developed and discourage the use of previously undeveloped land for building.

To encourage positive action to use contaminated land that otherwise would not have been remediated and developed.

To avoid land which has not been previously disturbed.

= When to consider =

Stage A - as early as possible.

Once the site has been selected there is nothing that can be done to change the situation.

A site investigation report will be done at the earliest stage and should indicate if there is any contamination. But often it has already been decided that this is the site whether it is contaminated or not.

These credits are very difficult to choose to achieve as they are mainly situational.

= Step by step guidance =

=== Previously developed land credit ===

Was the site previously developed?

An early Site investigation report will detail this but often it is known by the design team from the onset.

As evidence, previous use will likely be detailed in the Design statement or Site investigation report. The Ecologists habitat survey may demonstrate previous land use. A Geotechnical and Geo-environmental interpretative report or Ground investigation report would also detail any previous uses.

The 2011 assessment asked that the previous development to have been within the last 50 years. It is common that the land has clearly had a previous land use but if not, historical maps can be used.

The design team must demonstrate that more than 75% of the site was previously used. The most straight forward method to demonstrate this is with an existing site plan showing the site boundary and the area of previously used land and the area of proposed development. Separate drawings can be used. The areas in m2 must be detailed so the 75% can be calculated.

There is a compliance note in relation to education assessments and use of playing fields.

=== Contaminated land credit ===

It is unlikely that a site would be chosen because it is contaminated but where there is a choice hopefully the client would choose it.

A ground investigation report or Geotechnical and Geo-environmental interpretative report would demonstrate that there is contamination.

A specialist in contamination would then likely compile a separate report or section on the contamination and the remediation measures required.

The ecology report may also detail some contamination as some non-native invasive species are contaminants. Currently the two species which currently qualify are Japanese knotweed and Giant hogweed. The DEFRA website provides more information on these species. 2014 assessments can approach the BRE if they find a species which acts as a barrier to development and see if it can qualify. The ecologist would likely be able to advise on the appropriate removal of invasive species.

The specialist report with the remediation instructions should be used as evidence but to achieve the credit the remediation must be carried out. For the design stage assessment, the team must confirm that the remediation is to be carried out as the specialist has instructed.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

Was the site previously developed?

How much of the site was previously developed?

What was the previous land use?

How long ago was it developed?

Is there likely to be contamination?

Has the ground been investigated?

Has a habitat survey or environmental impact assessment been carried out?

= Tools and resources =

DEFRA website e.g.- [https://www.gov.uk/contaminated-land https://www.gov.uk/contaminated-land]

SEPA e.g.- [https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/biodiversity/invasive-non-native-species/ https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/biodiversity/invasive-non-native-species/]

= Tips and best practice =

Make sure it is very clear for the auditor that 75% of the proposed site is on previously developed land.

= Typical evidence =

(All of these documents are not required).

Existing site drawing

Proposed site drawing

Design statement

Site investigation report

Geotechnical and Geo-environmental interpretative report

Contamination report

Confirmation of remediation

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:17, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Visual comfort View out

2018-01-18T11:16:36Z

Emma Houston:

= Aim and benefits =

To allow occupants to refocus their eyes from close work and enjoy an external view, thus reducing the risk of eyestrain and breaking the monotony of the indoor environment.

Where close work is being carried out the availability of a view out provides opportunity for the eyes to relax and readjust.

= When to consider =

RIBA stages 1 - 2

= Step by step guidance =

Areas within 7m of a window should be identified.

It should be checked that the area of the relevant window(s) is greater than or equal to 20% of the surrounding wall. If so then the area within 7m of that window is compliant.

Permanent workstations, desks, receptions, anywhere a building user will be located for a significant amount of time (e.g. more than 30 mins), and carrying out work, should be located within these compliant areas. Windows or room depth could be adjusted to allow compliance.

Areas which are greater than 7m from a window can still comply but BS8206 (BS 8206-2:2008 Lighting for buildings. Code of Practice for daylighting) should be consulted. Table 1 ‘Minimum glazed areas for view when windows are restricted to one wall’ of this document provides a range of percentages for the window of the wall depending on how far away the desk is. If the percentage is greater than 35% the area will comply no matter the depth.

The view out should be visible from a seated position unless a person would be expected to be standing at the workstation.

For 2014 assessments 95% of the floor area of the relevant building areas needs to comply to achieve the credit. For 2014 prison cells and patient occupied areas must have a view out that is not obstructed by something closer than 10m away.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

What is the room depth?

Where are permanent workstations?

How big are the windows?

= Tools and resources =

BREEAM manual

BS 8206-2:2008 Lighting for buildings. Code of Practice for daylighting

[http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/nc11-hea-01-are-the-view-out-requirements-applicable-to-all-areas-defined-as-an-occupied-space-or-are-these-only-applicable-to-relevant-building-areas/ http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/nc11-hea-01-are-the-view-out-requirements-applicable-to-all-areas-defined-as-an-occupied-space-or-are-these-only-applicable-to-relevant-building-areas/]

[http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/level-of-view-out/ http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/level-of-view-out/]

[http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/view-out-no-relevant-areas/ http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/view-out-no-relevant-areas/]

[http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/nc14-hea-01-for-the-view-out-credit-what-is-meant-by-x-of-the-floor-area-2/ http://kb.breeam.com/knowledgebase/nc14-hea-01-for-the-view-out-credit-what-is-meant-by-x-of-the-floor-area-2/]

= Tips and best practice =

The following areas are excluded (see manual):

1. Nurse bases where they are located centrally in a ward/patient area in order to enable patient observation.

2. Courtrooms and interview rooms where compliance is not possible due to security or privacy criteria.

3. Prison staff areas containing workstations that for security or observational purposes must be located centrally within the building.

4. Any clinical areas where the control of environmental/operational conditions prevents such spaces from providing a view out.

5. Conference rooms, lecture theatres, sports halls, acute SEN and also any spaces where the exclusion or limitation of natural light is a functional requirement e.g. laboratories, media spaces, etc.

= Typical evidence =

=== Design stage ===

Design drawings showing room depth and permanent work stations.

Design drawings showing window sizes and location.

Window area calculations carried out by a design team member.

=== Post construction ===

As built drawings showing the room depth and permanent work stations

Confirmation from design team if there were any changes to window sizes or locations.

Assessors site inspection, room depth and location of work stations with windows.

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:16, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

Common contractor errors

2018-01-18T11:16:11Z

Emma Houston:

This article highlights some common contractor errors which should be considered when approaching construction.

= Step by step guidance =

=== Responsible construction practices ===

Considerate Construction scores count and it is the last assessment which contributes to the final BREEAM assessment. This can be forgotten.

=== Construction site impacts ===

The contractor must be aware from the beginning what they are required to monitor. It is usual for all energy and water use to be monitored but transport is less common. The contractor should be informed about what needs to be in place to achieve the credit. Sometimes the required units are not provided.

Most contractors have a ISO 14001 certificate. This should be part of the contractors prelims as without an ISO 14001 one credit cannot be achieved.

Contractors may have pollution prevention policies but may not be familiar with the environmental checklist and so should have this highlighted to them as soon as possible.

All contractors should be using timber in line with the government procurement policy but sometimes there is a misunderstanding between timber used in the project and timber used on site.

=== Stakeholder participation ===

Building User guide, all contractors will be familiar with O and M manuals and can be mistaken thinking they are appropriate here. The Building User Guide requirements should be highlighted to them, they are found in the BREEAM manual. It is important that each relevant heading is addressed. This document is often left to the end of the construction and then drags on. If the guide is begun early it should not be as much of a burden at the end. There are companies available which will out a BUG together for a fee.

=== Indoor Air Quality ===

Minimising Sources of Air pollution. The architect’s specification should detail compliant products, sometimes specific products. The contractor may be unaware of the importance of the standards detailed and the effect a change could have on the BREEAM score. The contractor should be made aware that any change in product needs to still be compliant. Collection of manufacturers datasheets as the products are procured is helpful to negate a paperchase exercise at the end of the project.

=== Thermal Comfort ===

A change to window choice can mean the thermal comfort levels in the development fail. Contractors should involve the engineers in changes like this and check which BREEAM credits are being targeted.

=== Acoustic Performance ===

The acoustician will carry out calculations and make recommendations for compliance during the design. The contractor can forget that when the acoustician carries out testing at the end of construction, if the building does not pass remediation must be carried out and this is a cost. Careful consideration to the acoustician’s recommendations should help avoid this.

=== Energy ===

The contractor should be wary of changes to insulation, lighting, u-values these can have impacts on the energy model and resultant BRUKL. Energy monitoring can be queried as more metering means more of a cost. The metering provision should be checked that it meets the criteria and is not in excess of it if cost is an issue.

=== Water consumption ===

Sometimes sanitary fittings are changed without consideration to flow rate. The flow rate and flush volume is what dictates the achievement of Wat 1. Increase in volumes can mean loss of credits.

=== Responsible Sourcing of Materials ===

It is important that an exercise to determine the achievable responsible sourcing credits is carried out early and where possible with the contractors input. The contractor will likely know who will supply their materials and so the level of responsible sourcing will be known. Certificates should be collected as materials are procured to negate a paper chase at the end of the project. Credits are easily lost here because suppliers were not compliant or did not provide certification.

=== Waste ===

Overly ambitious project managers or design teams can sometimes commit to difficult waste reduction levels. If possible, the contractor should have input before commitments are made or be fully aware of the requirement in their pre-lims. There is no way to get waste credits back.

=== Ecology ===

The contractor if targeting ‘Long term impact on biodiversity’ will need to have a biodiversity champion. There are training requirements and a log book which must be carried out. If one item is not completed the credit is likely lost.

=== NOx Emissions ===

A change in plant can have a big impact on the Nox emissions. Where any change is made the calculations should carried out again.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

Is the Contractor aware of the requirement to achieve BREEAM?

Are BREEAM requirements part of the contractor’s contract?

= Tools and resources =

BREEAM Manual and Knowledgebase

= Tips and best practice =

When the contractor has a sustainability champion or person dedicated to environmental management and BREEAM the process often runs much smoother.

= Typical evidence =

Formal letters – signed, dated and on headed paper

Extracts from the Pre-lims. Must be clear they are for the specific project

Policy documents

Training sign in sheets

Manufacturers literature

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:16, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Cyclist Facilities

2018-01-18T11:15:45Z

Emma Houston:

= Aim and benefits =

Aim is to encourage building users to cycle by ensuring adequate provision of cyclist facilities.

Building users are more likely to use their bikes when safe, comfortable and accessible facilities are provided. They can lock their bike up safely in an area which will keep it dry. Shower and changing facilities are beneficial for those who travel a far distance and lockers keep the work areas free of helmets and bags. The number of bike racks needs to be related to the number of buildings users as if there are not enough spaces people will be discouraged.

= When to consider =

Provision of cyclist facilities should be considered from Stage 1.

Cyclist facilities have implications on the internal and external areas of the building, requiring input from almost all members of the design team. What is to be provided must be considered from the beginning to ensure appropriate provision is made.

Once construction has started changes cannot be made.

= Step by step guidance =

Firstly the number of building users should be determined, the number of cycle spaces or facilities required is dependent on this.

Generally, for buildings with less than 500 building users BREEAM requires 1 cycle space per 10 people. Schools, hospitals and other buildings have a variation on this. Where buildings have more than 500 uses the ratio changes. For between 500 and 1000 users it is 1 per 15 people and for greater than 1000 people it is 1 per 20 people.

The Architect or Landscape Architect will design the storage area and bicycle racks. There is a compliance note detailing how the storage space can comply. The architect should be made aware of this to ensure all requirements are met. The electrical engineer will need to input as the lighting must be complaint with BS 5489-1:2003+A2:2008 Lighting of roads and public amenity areas.

The team should decide if the second cyclist facilities credit is to be sought.

The other facilities required for the second credit are either showers, a drying space or a changing area with lockers.

Generally, a shower is required for every 10 cycle spaces with a maximum of 8 showers needed. Male and female showers should be available split 50:50. Note that disabled toilets with a shower do not count see Knowledgebase KBCN00050. Schools have a different requirement. There is a compliance note outlining how showers comply. The Architect and Building Services Engineers should be made aware of the requirements.

A drying space should be a designated room with appropriate heating and ventilation to ensure drying takes place. There is a compliance note on drying space. The Building Services Engineers will need to ensure the space will allow drying.

Where changing areas are to be provided they should be of a size appropriate to the number of expected users. There should be a locker per cycle space, again spilt 50:50 between male and female areas. The lockers should be of a size which allows the user to store their helmet, full change of clothes, towel etc. 2008 BREEAM guidance was each locker is at least 900mm X 300mm X 450mm. Handy to have some idea of what is acceptable.

A toilet area/cubicle does not count as a changing space. The changing rooms should be easily accessed from the cycle storage. There is a compliance note on the changing areas. The Architect and Building Services Engineer will need to know the requirements.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

What is the number of building users? Are there enough facilities to be compliant?

= Tools and resources =

BREEAM Manual and BREEAM Knowledgebase

= Tips and best practice =

Remind the team the storage area must be covered.

The storage area must be in view of the building, this is to ensure building users are aware it is there. If it can’t be obvious, signage should be provided directing them to it see KBCN00053.

Toilets can’t be also counted as showers.

= Typical evidence =

Design drawings and the specification extracts should demonstrate to the assessor all the requirements for the design stage assessment. The number of buildings users may need to be noted on a drawing.

Architect, Landscape Architect and Building services engineer will need to provide evidence.

Post construction assessment requires inspection by the assessor, almost all aspects can be confirmed by the assessor. As built drawings or confirmation from the design team may be needed in regards to the heating and ventilation and the lighting.

BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:15, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Ecological value of site

2018-01-18T11:15:01Z

Emma Houston:

BREEAM Ecological value of site

= Aim and benefits =

To encourage development on land that already has limited value to wildlife and to protect existing ecological features from substantial damage during site preparation and completion of construction works.

= When to consider =

Before RIBA stage 1 where possible. A site inspection by an ecologist must be carried out before any works begin on the chosen site. Where there is a choice of sites, inspections will be required of each and where able the site with the lowest ecological value should be selected. If an area of the site needs to be protected then the design and works will have to work around that and the earlier this is known the better.

= Step by step guidance =

The ‘BREEAM checklist for defining land of low ecological value’ can be used by the Assessor. Where a project wishes to achieve a BREEAM Very Good rating an ecologist will need to be involved as part of the minimum requirements anyway and so would be best placed to advise on the ecological value of the site too.

Where the BREEAM checklist is being used the assessor will need to be provided with the following information:

* If planning required an ecological survey or statement? (Most likely yes)
* Where exactly the site is located and the assessor can investigate or design team can provide evidence to show if there are any Special areas of conservation, Special protection areas, Sites of special scientific interest or Ramsar sites nearby. [http://www.magic.gov.uk/ http://www.magic.gov.uk/] can be used for sites in England.
* What kind of habitats and features are found on the site.

When using the BREEAM checklist if any of the answers to the questions are yes then an ecologist will need to become involved to determine if the site if of low ecological value.

For ease, it is best to involve a suitably qualified ecologist from the start.

Before procuring an ecologist, it should be checked that they are suitably qualified in line with BREEAM requirements.

If using an ecologist, they will need to carry out a site inspection prior to any works beginning on site and at appropriate times of the year to determine if there is any ecological value in the site. If the overall value of the site is low the credit will be achievable but if there is value the site cannot gain the credit. See compliance notes in the BREEAM manual if the site was cleared prior to purchase.

Where the ecologist confirms the overall value is low but there are some features that should be retained and protected during construction these should be highlighted to the design team as early as possible.

The contractor should know they must put in place protection measures before they are appointed.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

What state is the site in?

Is it mostly hard standing?

Is it a greenfield site or a brown field site?

What surrounds the site, urban, semi rural, rural?

Are there any derelict buildings?

Are there trees on site, if so are they established?

= Tools and resources =

Knowledge base - [http://kb.breeam.com/section/new-construction/uk/2014-uk/landuseandecology/le02/ http://kb.breeam.com/section/new-construction/uk/2014-uk/landuseandecology/le02/]

[http://www.magic.gov.uk/ http://www.magic.gov.uk/]

[https://www.gov.uk/check-your-business-protected-area https://www.gov.uk/check-your-business-protected-area] which provides links to sites such as - [http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/protectedsites/sacselection/SAC_list.asp?Country=E http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/protectedsites/sacselection/SAC_list.asp?Country=E], [http://gateway.snh.gov.uk/sitelink/index.jsp http://gateway.snh.gov.uk/sitelink/index.jsp] and [http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-162 http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-162]

= Tips and best practice =

Good ecologist used from the earliest point.

= Typical evidence =

Ecology report produced by suitably qualified ecologist.

Confirmation ecologist is suitably qualified

Correspondence from the local authority to demonstrate if an ecology statement was needed.

Maps and extracts from websites and authorities on location of protected areas.

Site photographs

= Disclaimer =

BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

--[[User:Emma Houston|Emma Houston]] 11:15, 18 Jan 2018 (BST)

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Ecological value of site

2018-01-18T11:10:13Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "BREEAM Ecological value of site = Aim and benefits = To encourage development on land that already has limited value to wildlife and to protect existing ecological features fro..."

BREEAM Hard landscaping and boundary protection

2018-01-04T14:49:45Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "BREEAM Hard landscaping and boundary protection = Aim and benefits = To recognise and encourage the specification of materials for boundary protection and external hard surfac..."

BREEAM Site Selection

2018-01-04T14:13:38Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "BREEAM Site Selection = Aim and benefits = To encourage the reuse of land that has been previously developed and discourage the use of previously undeveloped land for building...."

BREEAM Visual comfort View out

2017-12-13T16:21:55Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "= Aim and benefits = To allow occupants to refocus their eyes from close work and enjoy an external view, thus reducing the risk of eyestrain and breaking the monotony of the in..."

Common contractor errors

2017-12-05T09:32:11Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "= Aim and benefits = Highlights things which can trip contractors up or slip their minds. = When to consider = When approaching construction. Run through the requirements of t..."

= Aim and benefits =

Highlights things which can trip contractors up or slip their minds.

= When to consider =

When approaching construction. Run through the requirements of the Post Construction assessment with the Contractor to ensure they are fully aware of their obligations and the requirements of the assessment.

= Step by step guidance =

=== Responsible Construction practices ===

Considerate construction scores count and it is the last assessment which contributes to the final BREEAM assessment. This can be forgotten.

=== Construction Site Impacts ===

The contractor must be aware from the beginning what they are required to monitor. It is usual for all energy and water use to be monitored but transport is less common. The contractor should be informed on what needs to be in place to achieve the credit. Sometimes the required units are not provided.

Most contractors have a ISO14001 certificate. This should be part of the contractors pre-lims as without an ISO14001 one credit cannot be achieved.

Contractors will have pollution prevention policies but may not be familiar with the Environmental checklist and so should have this highlighted to them as soon as possible.

All Contractors should be using timber in line with the government procurement policy but sometimes there is a miss understanding between timber used in the project and timber used on site.

=== Stakeholder participation ===

Building User guide, all contractors will be familiar with O and M manuals and can be mistaken thinking they are appropriate here. The Building User Guide requirements should be highlighted to them, they are found in the BREEAM manual. It is important that each relevant heading is addressed. This document is often left to the end of the construction and then drags on. If the guide is begun early it should not be as much of a burden at the end. There are companies available which will out a BUG together for a fee.

=== Indoor Air Quality ===

Minimizing Sources of Air pollution. The architect’s specification should detail compliant products, sometimes specific products. The contractor may be unaware of the importance of the standards detailed and the effect a change could have on the BREEAM score. The contractor should be made aware that any change in product needs to still be compliant. Collection of manufacturers datasheets as the products are procured is helpful to negate a paperchase exercise at the end of the project.

=== Thermal Comfort ===

A change to window choice can mean the thermal comfort levels in the development fail. Contractors should involve the engineers in changes like this and check which BREEAM credits are being targeted.

=== Acoustic Performance ===

The acoustician will carry out calculations and make recommendations for compliance during the design. The contractor can forget that when the acoustician carries out testing at the end of construction, if the building does not pass remediation must be carried out and this is a cost. Careful consideration to the acoustician’s recommendations should help avoid this.

=== Energy ===

The contractor should be wary of changes to insulation, lighting, u-values these can have impacts on the energy model and resultant BRUKL. Energy monitoring can be queried as more metering means more of a cost. The metering provision should be checked that it meets the criteria and is not in excess of it if cost is an issue.

=== Water consumption ===

Sometimes sanitary fittings are changed without consideration to flow rate. The flow rate and flush volume is what dictates the achievement of Wat 1. Increase in volumes can mean loss of credits.

=== Responsible Sourcing of Materials ===

It is important that an exercise to determine the achievable responsible sourcing credits is carried out early and where possible with the contractors input. The contractor will likely know who will supply their materials and so the level of responsible sourcing will be known. Certificates should be collected as materials are procured to negate a paper chase at the end of the project. Credits are easily lost here because suppliers were not compliant or did not provide certification.

=== Waste ===

Overly ambitious project managers or design teams can sometimes commit to difficult waste reduction levels. If possible, the contractor should have input before commitments are made or be fully aware of the requirement in their pre-lims. There is no way to get waste credits back.

=== Ecology ===

The contractor if targeting ‘Long term impact on biodiversity’ will need to have a biodiversity champion. There are training requirements and a log book which must be carried out. If one item is not completed the credit is likely lost.

=== NOx Emissions ===

A change in plant can have a big impact on the Nox emissions. Where any change is made the calculations should carried out again.

= Questions to ask while seeking compliance =

Is the Contractor aware of the requirement to achieve BREEAM?

Are BREEAM requirements part of the contractor’s contract?

= Tools and resources =

BREEAM Manual and Knowledgebase

= Tips and best practice =

When the contractor has a sustainability champion or person dedicated to environmental management and BREEAM the process often runs much smoother.

= Typical evidence =

Formal letters – signed, dated and on headed paper

Extracts from the Pre-lims. Must be clear they are for the specific project

Policy documents

Training sign in sheets

Manufacturers literature

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BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

BREEAM Cyclist Facilities

2017-12-04T15:31:38Z

Emma Houston:

BREEAM Cyclist Facilities

2017-12-04T15:24:32Z

Emma Houston: Created page with "Aim and benefits Aim is to encourage building users to cycle by ensuring adequate provision of cyclist facilities. Building users are more likely to use their bikes when safe, ..."

Aim and benefits

Aim is to encourage building users to cycle by ensuring adequate provision of cyclist facilities.

Building users are more likely to use their bikes when safe, comfortable and accessible facilities are provided. They can lock their bike up safely in an area which will keep it dry. Shower and changing facilities are beneficial for those who travel a far distance and lockers keep the work areas free of helmets and bags. The number of bike racks needs to be related to the number of buildings users as if there are not enough spaces people will be discouraged.

When to consider

Provision of cyclist facilities should be considered from Stage 1.

Cyclist facilities have implications on the internal and external areas of the building, requiring input from almost all members of the design team. What is to be provided must be considered from the beginning to ensure appropriate provision is made.

Once construction has started changes cannot be made.

Step by step guidance

Firstly the number of building users should be determined, the number of cycle spaces or facilities required is dependent on this.

Generally, for buildings with less than 500 building users BREEAM requires 1 cycle space per 10 people. Schools, hospitals and other buildings have a variation on this. Where buildings have more than 500 uses the ratio changes. For between 500 and 1000 users it is 1 per 15 people and for greater than 1000 people it is 1 per 20 people.

The Architect or Landscape Architect will design the storage area and bicycle racks. There is a compliance note detailing how the storage space can comply. The architect should be made aware of this to ensure all requirements are met. The electrical engineer will need to input as the lighting must be complaint with BS 5489-1:2003+A2:2008 Lighting of roads and public amenity areas.

The team should decide if the second cyclist facilities credit is to be sought.

The other facilities required for the second credit are either showers, a drying space or a changing area with lockers.

Generally, a shower is required for every 10 cycle spaces with a maximum of 8 showers needed. Male and female showers should be available split 50:50. Note that disabled toilets with a shower do not count see Knowledgebase KBCN00050. Schools have a different requirement. There is a compliance note outlining how showers comply. The Architect and Building Services Engineers should be made aware of the requirements.

A drying space should be a designated room with appropriate heating and ventilation to ensure drying takes place. There is a compliance note on drying space. The Building Services Engineers will need to ensure the space will allow drying.

Where changing areas are to be provided they should be of a size appropriate to the number of expected users. There should be a locker per cycle space, again spilt 50:50 between male and female areas. The lockers should be of a size which allows the user to store their helmet, full change of clothes, towel etc. 2008 BREEAM guidance was each locker is at least 900mm X 300mm X 450mm. Handy to have some idea of what is acceptable.

A toilet area/cubicle does not count as a changing space. The changing rooms should be easily accessed from the cycle storage. There is a compliance note on the changing areas. The Architect and Building Services Engineer will need to know the requirements.

Questions to ask while seeking compliance

What is the number of building users? Are there enough facilities to be compliant?

Tools and resources

BREEAM Manual and BREEAM Knowledgebase

Tips and best practice

Remind the team the storage area must be covered.

The storage area must be in view of the building, this is to ensure building users are aware it is there. If it can’t be obvious, signage should be provided directing them to it see KBCN00053.

Toilets can’t be also counted as showers.

Typical evidence

Design drawings and the specification extracts should demonstrate to the assessor all the requirements for the design stage assessment. The number of buildings users may need to be noted on a drawing.

Architect, Landscape Architect and Building services engineer will need to provide evidence.

Post construction assessment requires inspection by the assessor, almost all aspects can be confirmed by the assessor. As built drawings or confirmation from the design team may be needed in regards to the heating and ventilation and the lighting.

BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.

[[Category:BREEAM]] [[Category:Sustainability]]