The WELL Building Standard is a global benchmark prioritizing the health and well-being of building occupants. Achieving WELL certification is a collaborative journey, and understanding the roles of the key players involved is crucial for a smooth and successful process.
This article will guide you through the main stakeholders in WELL certification and provide insights into the timelines involved. We’ll also explore how crosswalk algorithms can streamline your certification efforts.
The Growing Importance of WELL Certification
Buildings significantly impact the environment throughout their life cycle, from construction to demolition. Green building standards like WELL are designed to minimize this environmental impact while maximizing comfort and well-being for tenants and visitors. WELL stands out by prioritizing the health and well-being of building occupants through specific design and operational strategies.
Key Stakeholders in the WELL Certification Process
Several stakeholders work together to bring the WELL vision to life:
1. Project Owner / Developer: The Visionary
The project owner or developer initiates the WELL certification process. They provide resources and ensure WELL standards are incorporated throughout the project.
Responsibilities:
- Committing to WELL: Deciding to pursue WELL certification as a core objective.
- Budget Allocation: Allocating necessary budget and resources for certification.
- Ensuring Alignment: Collaborating with other stakeholders to align design and systems with WELL standards.
- Long-Term Compliance: Ensuring ongoing maintenance and adherence to WELL standards after certification (see our guide on Annual Reporting and Recertification of WELL-Certified Projects).
2. Architects, Engineers, and Interior Designers: The Creative Team
These professionals integrate WELL concepts into the building’s design and systems.
Responsibilities:
- Designing Healthy Spaces: Planning spaces with a focus on air quality, thermal comfort, natural lighting, and acoustics.
- Integrating Wellness Features: Incorporating features like circadian lighting, wellness areas, and biophilic design.
- Using Healthy Materials: Selecting non-toxic finishes and low-VOC paints.
- Optimizing Natural Light and Air: Maximizing natural light and air circulation for a comfortable environment.
- Promoting Activity and Relaxation: Designing spaces that encourage physical activity and relaxation.
3. WELL AP: The Expert Guide
A WELL Accredited Professional (AP) guides the project team through the intricacies of the WELL Building Standard.
Responsibilities:
- Providing Expert Advice: Advising on relevant WELL features and their implementation.
- Assisting with Documentation: Completing WELL documentation, including performance data, policies, and plans.
- Conducting Gap Analysis: Ensuring the building meets all necessary WELL standards.
- Streamlining Coordination: Facilitating communication between stakeholders.
- Earning Innovation Points: Including a WELL AP can earn extra points in the “Innovation” category.
4. WELL Performance Testing Organization: The Verifier
These organizations conduct performance tests to verify compliance with WELL standards.
Responsibilities:
- Conducting Performance Tests: Testing air quality, water quality, lighting, and other wellness-related factors.
- Analyzing and Validating Data: Verifying that the building meets standards for indoor environmental quality, acoustics, and thermal comfort.
- Providing Documentation: Supplying testing reports and building performance audits for WELL’s review.
5. Building Operations Team: The Sustainer
This team maintains the building’s health and wellness features post-certification.
Responsibilities:
- Implementing Management Plans: Implementing air quality, water quality, and cleaning protocols.
- Monitoring Building Systems: Ensuring HVAC, lighting, and water systems adhere to WELL parameters.
Why You Need a WELL AP and WELL PTA
WELL APs and WELL PTAs provide invaluable expertise and services for those looking to achieve WELL Certification. Their expertise increases the likelihood of achieving certification efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Expertise and Knowledge: WELL APs possess in-depth knowledge of the WELL Building Standard and can provide valuable guidance throughout the certification process.
- Time and Cost Savings: Their expertise can help streamline the process, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure efficient use of resources.
- Increased Likelihood of Success: With their guidance, the project is more likely to achieve the desired level of WELL certification.
- Accurate Verification: WELL PTAs ensure accurate and reliable testing, providing confidence in the building’s performance.
