USGBC announces the opening of the second public comment period for its LEED for Healthcare green building rating system. LEED for Healthcare was developed to meet the unique needs of a 24-hour operational facility, including process water use related to medical equipment, rural facility locations, sensitivity to chemicals and pollutants, patient and staff health and many other issues that are unique to this building type. Once launched, LEED for Healthcare will help a diverse pool of project types achieve LEED certification, from inpatient, outpatient, assisted living and long term care facilities, to medical offices, education and research centers.
LEED for Healthcare represents a culmination of close collaboration between the Green Guide for Healthcare (GGHC) and USGBC. GGHC has been the point of entry for healthcare facilities interested in learning more about green building practices as they apply specifically to this complex environment, particularly as they relate to healthier indoor environments and cost reductions associated with energy and water efficiency.
The second public comment period is open for 30 days and will close on Tuesday, May 18th 2010 at 5:00 pm ET. View the LEED for Healthcare draft and submit comments online.
