Environmental Standards Flashcards

In building operations, indoor carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are mainly used as an indicator of:

Answer: Ventilation adequacy relative to occupancy

Occupants exhale CO2, so rising levels compared with outdoor air show whether outdoor air ventilation is keeping up with occupancy.

Which organization developed and oversees the LEED green building rating system?

Answer: U.S. Green Building Council

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) created LEED, and certification is administered through GBCI.

Which EPA program labels water-efficient products such as faucets, toilets, and irrigation controllers?

Answer: WaterSense

EPA's WaterSense label identifies products that use less water while meeting performance criteria.

Under RCRA, the 'cradle-to-grave' concept means that a hazardous waste generator:

Answer: Is responsible for the waste from generation through final disposal

Generators stay liable for hazardous waste throughout its life cycle, which is tracked through the manifest system.

Before renovating or demolishing a commercial building, the EPA asbestos NESHAP requires the owner or operator to:

Answer: Thoroughly inspect the affected area for asbestos

NESHAP requires a thorough asbestos inspection before renovation or demolition so that regulated material can be properly removed.

Odors and headaches after new carpet, paint, and furniture are installed are most likely caused by off-gassing of:

Answer: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

New building materials and finishes release VOCs, which can cause irritation and headaches until they dissipate.

Stormwater discharges from certain industrial and construction sites are regulated through which permit program?

Answer: NPDES permits under the Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System regulates point-source and stormwater discharges to U.S. waters.