Sunday, 19 May 2019

How To Become A LEED Commissioning Designer

By Sandra Barnes


While there have always been building inspection processes for buildings and equipment, there is now new software which can help assure buildings and equipment run efficiently. For, some 15 years back, the U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC) created LEED commissioning software which provides standards to be used in the construction and building industry. Using a holistic approach, these standards work to create quality indoor air, resources and materials and water efficiency with these and other standards in mind.

Upon recognizing the many benefits of environmentally sound building practices, including better indoor air quality, water efficiency and the use of recycled materials and resources, the USGB decided to include green equipment and buildings as part of the commissioning and certification process. At which time, a new role was created known as a commissioning agent, which assures that all regulations and standards have been met when it comes to the completion of a building, equipment or project.

Individuals in this position need to have knowledge with regards to green policies, practices and procedures. In addition, the individual must be able to ascertain whether or not projects meet LEED certification and commissioning requirements. During the process, buildings can earn points towards a higher overall LEED rating. Points are generally awarded for fundamental green building techniques, green building verification, retro and enhanced projects, analysis, implementation, green renovations and additions.

While often related to energy savings, there are other aspects of projects which can also be commissioned. A new rule related to LEED requirements also requires all agents be involved in a project before the end of the development phase. For, new rules also require that the design team, builders and associated partners work together as early in the process as possible.

The commissioning of building and construction projects has become extremely popular over the last several years. As a result, there is now a growing market for green building and construction projects which are certified and commissioned by the USGB. As such, it is essential that agents become knowledgeable with LEED, Version 4 and the associated requirements and standards in the building and construction phase of new projects.

It should be noted that Version 4 of the software includes an update to technical aspects and an upgrade to system requirements along with other modifications. New construction and building commissioning applies to verification that building plans and systems meet the owner's requirements during installation. Whereas, all aspects of a building, equipment and systems must operate as expected by the design engineer and engineering staff before commissioning can taken place.

Individuals desiring to become certified as an agent or designer must go through several steps. These include going to GBCI.org and creating a new account, logging into the system and clicking on My Credentials and applying for the exam. Once accepted, individuals can then log onto the My Credentials section and register for the exam. After which, individuals will then go to Prometric's website, schedule the exam, study and pass the test.

While there is a nominal charge for the exam, being $200 for members, $250 for non-members and $100 for students, the need for agents pretty much assures that those whom pass will obtain employment. In fact, the reduction in price for students is combination with hopes that young individuals whom pass the test will be willing to make a long term commitment as an agent or designer.




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