Environmental Standards Flashcards
7 cards from real BOC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Environmental Standards flashcards as text
What is the minimum ENERGY STAR score a building must earn to qualify for ENERGY STAR certification?
Answer: 75
A score of 75 or higher means the building outperforms at least 75% of similar buildings nationwide.
Which EPA program labels water-efficient plumbing fixtures such as toilets and faucets?
Answer: WaterSense
WaterSense labels products that use at least 20% less water and still perform well.
Stormwater discharges from industrial and construction sites are regulated through which permit program?
Answer: NPDES
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System under the Clean Water Act regulates point source and stormwater discharges.
What does raising the cycles of concentration in a cooling tower mainly achieve?
Answer: Less blowdown and makeup water use
Higher cycles mean water is reused longer before blowdown, which saves makeup water.
Which type of backflow preventer is usually required on high-hazard connections and must be tested at least once a year?
Answer: Reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assembly
RPZ assemblies protect high-hazard cross-connections, and most jurisdictions require annual testing.
What minimum MERV rating do ASHRAE and CDC guidance commonly recommend for HVAC filters to capture airborne particles more effectively?
Answer: MERV 13
MERV 13 filters capture a high share of fine particles in the 0.3–10 micron range when the system can handle them.
Which strategy best reduces VOC emissions during an interior renovation in an occupied building?
Answer: Specify low-VOC materials and increase ventilation or flush-out
Low-emitting products plus extra outdoor air or a flush-out lower VOC exposure for occupants.