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How It Works
About WELL Testing
WELL Testing is for non-residential buildings aiming to meet the WELL Building Standard.
We begin with a pre-assessment consultation to understand your building’s current air quality and your certification goals. Our engineers then carry out comprehensive on-site testing, measuring VOCs, particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and other key parameters against WELL thresholds.
You’ll receive a detailed report outlining your current air quality status and any gaps to address. If needed, we support you in implementing improvements – from ventilation upgrades to enhanced filtration.
Once changes are made, we return for final verification testing to confirm that all requirements are met, giving you the confidence to proceed with WELL submission.
Service Benefits
- Enhanced occupant well-being
- Increased productivity
- Regulatory compliance
- Attract and retain talent
Featured Project
BREEAM Indoor Air Quality Testing for 33 King William Street, London
Objectives
ARM Environments were tasked with conducting an air quality test to BREEAM's Refurbishment and fit-out (RFO) 2014 specification in a central London office building during a fit-out. This 11-storey building was becoming home to a major new client who wanted to retain their BREEAM accreditation and prove their dedication to a sustainable workplace for their 1200 team members.
We were contracted to perform the BREEAM air quality test whilst the client was still in the process of moving the bulk of their furniture and equipment to this new location. We theorised that this fit-out process might have released a lot of pollutants which might affect the test results. Upon arrival, we heard comments from the occupants about a 'new car smell'. This smell indicates that the Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs) in the air are likely too high to pass the BREEAM air quality test. During this initial test, we found concentrations of 786.3ug/m3, with the BREEAM limit being 300ug/m3. Although we expected TVOC concentrations to be high due to the movement of new furnishings and equipment, we discovered that the environment was far above TVOC thresholds to pass the RFO test.
Solutions
Understanding that the high levels of pollutants recorded was likely caused by the ongoing fit-out, we advised the client on what to do in order to remove the VOCs and return the air quality back to healthy levels. When we returned a few weeks later to perform a second test, the air quality was significantly improved, and the client passed (TVOCs now at 271ug/m3).
Results
This case study demonstrates the importance of creating an indoor air quality plan at the appropriate time, especially for new-builds and renovations where extensive flush-out procedures may be required. Because the client was in the process of a renovation when we conducted our first tests, they failed due to concentrations of pollutants that were abnormally higher than they would be under typical circumstances. Ultimately, this cost the client time and money as a second test had to be conducted for the RFO to be successful. If you're looking towards BREEAM certification, it is good practice to conduct your planning and testing as early as possible to avoid unforeseen challenges.
Challenges
- Client needed RFO 2014 for BREEAM 'Excellent'
- Testing conducted mid-fit-out
- Large-scale operation
"A whole five precious credits are available in the latest version of BREEAM’s Hea 02 section for Indoor Air Quality.
But they’re often ignored. Either seen as risky, or because the delivery team don’t know who to work with.
But that’s a mistake. These credits do more than tick boxes. They directly affect the comfort, health and productivity of future occupants."
Adam Taylor, CEO of ARM Environments
Pass
ESG
Wellbeing
Insights
Related Insights
Why Choose ARM?
ARM Environments is dedicated exclusively to indoor air quality in non-residential buildings.
Our certifications, including SafeContractor and BESA, reflect our commitment to excellence. Led by CEO Adam Taylor, chair of the IAQ Group at BESA, our team brings unparalleled expertise to your WELL Testing needs.
By choosing ARM, you're partnering with specialists focused on creating healthier, more productive environments.
