WELLopedia v2: Air & Light Concepts

Abstract for WELL Air Concept

Why Air Concept is Important?

In our current global context, marked by a pandemic that has resonated deeply with every corner of the world, the essence of pristine indoor air quality has emerged as a priority. The WELL Air concept, rooted in this very essence, underscores the pursuit of unparalleled indoor air quality throughout a building's lifetime. GBRI’s WELL Air module, approved by AIA and GBCI for WELL-specific content, sheds light on an array of strategies, from eradicating air pollutants at their source to the nuances of enhanced ventilation techniques.

In the "Air" module, participants are introduced to the integral aspects of the WELL Building Standard that focus on indoor air quality and its direct impact on human health and well-being. Delving deep into the nuances of indoor air quality, the module covers topics such as Air Quality Monitoring, Pollution Infiltration Management, Combustion Minimization, Source Separation, Enhanced Supply Air, and Prevention of Mold.

Through an exploration of each topic, participants will gain an understanding of the significance of air quality, the challenges posed by various pollutants, and the strategies and technologies available to mitigate these issues. Practical insights are provided, from the intricacies of the building envelope and HVAC systems to the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring.

The module emphasizes the relevance of the topics covered in real-world scenarios, ensuring participants can apply the knowledge in practical settings. WELL Building Standard sheds light on vital aspects like Air Quality Monitoring, Pollution Infiltration Management, and Combustion Minimization. Learn about Source Separation, Enhanced Supply Air, and the Prevention of Mold through strategies that make a real difference.

WELL Building standard sheds light on vital aspects like Air Quality Monitoring, Pollution Infiltration Management, and Combustion Minimization. Learn about Source Separation, Enhanced Supply Air, and the Prevention of Mold through strategies that make a real difference.

Light is as vital as air, water, and food for our holistic well-being. Scientific research has consistently highlighted how our exposure to light has a significant bearing on mood, often helping to diminish the symptoms of depression. Beyond just affecting our mood, light plays a pivotal role in our broader health spectrum, impacting the speed and efficiency of our healing and recovery processes.

Abstract for WELL Light Concept

Why light concept is important?

Light, akin to essential elements like air, water, and food, plays a pivotal role in our overall wellbeing. Research underscores the profound effects of light exposure on mood, showing marked reductions in depressive symptoms. The significance of light also extends to physical health and recovery. For instance, in hospitals, rooms equipped with sun-facing windows have expedited the recovery time for patients with severe depression or those recuperating from heart attacks, as opposed to rooms with windows facing obstructions like buildings. Furthermore, a lack of daylight exposure has been directly linked to the onset of depression and cognitive function impairment. In the professional sphere, offices illuminated with brighter light and offering better views have been shown to foster enhanced performance among employees.

Our internal body clock, or circadian rhythm, is paramount for maintaining health. Disruptions or desynchronizations in this rhythm, often due to exposure to bright light during nighttime, are associated with various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, depression, and other metabolic disorders. Such disturbances extend to severe health implications, including risks of breast cancer, metabolic and sleep disorders.

Introduced within this context is the WELL Building Standard, a pioneering framework aiming to enhance health and well-being in constructed environments. One of its fundamental aspects is the Light Concept. The WELL Light concept is dedicated to championing exposure to light, intending to foster environments conducive to visual, mental, and biological health. This framework is designed to minimize circadian phase disruptions, thereby enhancing sleep quality, mood, and overall productivity. Within the Light Concept of the WELL Building Standard, there are nine distinct features. Two are mandatory preconditions essential for certification, while the other seven, termed optimizations, offer optional but comprehensive approaches to holistic lighting design.

1. Light Exposure: Light influences our circadian system, regulating processes like digestion, hormone release, body temperature, and sleep. With the advent of electric lighting over the past two centuries, indoor spaces have come to rely more on artificial light than natural daylight. Yet, limited light exposure has been tied to depression, cognitive impairment, and irregular sleep-wake cycles, which can impact academic performance. This feature emphasizes both daylight and electric light strategies to ensure proper indoor light exposure.
2. Visual Lighting Design: Light levels influence our task performance and our perception of space. Moreover, as people age, they require more light for clear vision due to reduced lens transparency. This feature focuses on ensuring visual comfort and acuity through electric lighting for all age groups.
3. Circadian Lighting Design: Our circadian rhythms are synchronized by cues, prominently light. Disruptions to this rhythm can lead to various health concerns. This feature aims to promote circadian health by aligning indoor light exposure with the natural day-night cycle.
4. Electric Light Glare Control: Glare can cause discomfort, eye fatigue, headaches, migraines, and even workplace accidents. The younger population is particularly sensitive. This feature seeks to mitigate glare through calculated strategies and appropriate fixture selection.
5. Daylight Design Strategies: Daylight significantly affects mood, circadian health, and productivity. This feature emphasizes design strategies to merge natural and electric lighting for indoor tasks.
6. Daylight Simulation: This involves predicting daylight patterns to optimize indoor exposure. By conducting simulations, informed decisions can be made about window placements and shading.
7. Visual Balance: Fluctuating light levels can strain the eyes and divert attention. This feature's objective is to establish consistent, visually comfortable lighting environments.
8. Electric Light Quality: High color rendering in electric light enhances space perception, whereas low color rendering can distort visual clarity. Furthermore, flicker from electric lights has been linked to several health issues. This feature mandates the use of lighting with optimal color rendering and minimal flicker.
9. Occupant Lighting Control: Recognizing the importance of individual preferences, this feature promotes adaptable lighting strategies that resonate with user needs and spatial interactions.

In our GBRI Community Center project, we've integrated these principles. The design incorporates an atrium that bathes the interior with natural light, reducing artificial light dependence. Classrooms feature wide windows for abundant daylight, fostering productivity. Additionally, open corridors usher in diffused sunlight, enhancing the ambience. Completing this course series will earn participants the coveted GBRI’=ddacac