

Toxic material reduction

Toxic material reduction


To minimize the impact of hazardous building material chemicals on indoor air quality and protect the health of manufacturing and maintenance workers.


Various chemicals are still used in the manufacture of building materials, despite known or suspected health hazards. Flame retardant chemicals, which are used to increase fire-resistance of materials, include PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers)—which, based on animal tests, are associated with potential neurobehavioral, carcinogenic and immune effects. Some of these chemicals can bioaccumulate in fat and result in food chain contamination, including human milk. All parts of this feature only apply to materials installed inside the weather proofing membrane of a project.

Part 1
Perfluorinated Compound Limitation

No perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are present in the following condition:
At levels equal to or greater than 100 ppm in components that constitute at least 5% by weight of a furniture or furnishing (drapes/curtains) assembly.

Part 2
Flame Retardant Limitation

Halogenated flame retardants are limited in the following components to 0.01% (100 ppm) to the extent allowable by local code:
Window and waterproofing membranes, door and window frames and siding.
Flooring, ceiling tiles and wall coverings.
Piping and electrical cables, conduits and junction boxes.
Sound and thermal insulation.
Upholstered furniture and furnishings, textiles and fabrics.

Part 3
Phthalate (Plasticizers) Limitation

DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP or DNOP (often found in polyvinyl chloride [PVC]) are limited in the following components to 0.01% (100 ppm):
Flooring, including resilient and hard surface flooring and carpet.
Wall coverings, window blinds and shades, shower curtains, furniture and upholstery.
Plumbing pipes and moisture barriers.

Part 4
Isocyanate-Based Polyurethane Limitation

Isocyanate-based polyurethane products are not used in:
Interior finishes.

Part 5
Urea-Formaldehyde Restriction

Urea-formaldehyde presence is limited in the following components to 100 ppm:
Furniture or any composite wood products.
Laminating adhesives and resins.
Thermal insulation.