New Construction / UK / 2018 /

02 Health and Wellbeing

Information correct as of 29thMarch 2024. Please see kb.breeam.com for the latest compliance information.

Accreditation – sampling and testing laboratories - KBCN1337

Analysis / testing laboratory NC 2016 or newer: Where an organisation used for the analysis of indoor air or emissions from building products is not accredited to ISO/IEC 17025, the organisation must be accredited, either by a national accreditation body, or by a member of any one of the following accreditation groups: European Cooperation for Accreditation International Accreditation Forum International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation The accreditation must specifically cover the analysis of indoor air or emissions from building products. Other schemes: Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 is not required in the criteria. However, this KBCN has been applied to encourage a consistent approach towards accreditation. Accreditation by a national or internationally recognised organisation helps to ensure rigorous, consistent and reliable testing results. Sampling organisation If another organisation carries out sampling on behalf of the analysis / testing laboratory, this organisation does not need to be accredited to the above. However, they must provide a brief report justifying: This report is provided to the BREEAM assessor and submitted as supporting evidence for this issue.
31-Oct-2022 Wording clarified. Scheme applicability updated.
10-Oct-2022 Title amended for clarity. Scheme applicability updated.
24-May-2022 Updated to differentiate between sampling and analysis requirements. 
07-May-2021 Added clarification regarding alternative qualifications. 
10-May-2021 Updated scheme applicability.

Air-conditioned spaces - KBCN00035

Air-conditioned spaces are assessed to ensure appropriate thermal comfort levels are achieved. Cooling capacity should be sufficient to comply with the requirements of CIBSE Guide A, however providing sufficient space to install additional capacity to meet the requirements at a later date in line with projected climate change scenarios is also acceptable. In addition, if it can be demonstrated that the air-conditioning system can achieve the thermal comfort criteria in accordance with CIBSE Guide A, Table 1.5, thermal modelling does not need to be carried out. The “time out of range” (TOR) metric should be reported as 0%.  

Alternative weather files - KBCN1182

Different or newer weather files can be used instead of those referenced in the manual, as long as they achieve the aim of the credit. Weather files based on climate projections with higher temperatures than those specified in the relevant criteria, set a more robust standard for overheating and so they are acceptable. The alternative weather files need to include same variables as the specified weather files e.g. dry bulb & wet bulb temperature, wind speed & direction, solar altitude & azimuth, cloud cover etc. for each hour of the year. It is the role of the assessor or design team to verify this and ensure that meeting the BREEAM criteria does not become easier by using the alternative weather file.

ANC membership/registration scheme compliance route - KBCN0246

The Association of Noise Consultants (ANC) registration scheme is only applicable to buildings covered in Approved Document E. It therefore covers Dwellings-Houses, flats and rooms for residential purposes and schools, and so would only apply to assessments that contain these room types. For these assessments, if the suitably qualified accoustician is a member of the ANC, they must also provide evidence to demonstrate that they are a full member of the ANC registration scheme. For all other building/room types, assessors can still demonstrate compliance by the other routes listed in the manual.

Applicability – industrial operational areas - KBCN1342

The aim of this issue is to encourage a healthy internal environment.  For the operational areas of industrial buildings, the internal environment is dictated by health and safety requirements.  This means that the BREEAM requirements should not be made applicable to them, and so the operational areas can be ignored in the assessment of Hea 02.
10-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Scheme applicability updated.

Applying internal partition sound insulation criteria to internal doors - KBCN0665

Where sound insulation criteria apply to internal partitions the calculations do need to include any doors which are part of the wall in question. While sound insulation performance of a typical door will be lower than for a typical wall, with careful design, specification and detailing, this can be overcome. 

Applying the requirements to shell only + shell and core assessments - KBCN00075

A Suitably Qualified Acoustician (SQA) must carry out a quantifiable assessment of the specification of the built form, construction and any external factors that are likely to affect the indoor ambient noise levels. From this assessment, the SQA must confirm that the developer’s scope of works will enable a future tenant utilising a typical fit-out and specification to meet the levels required to demonstrate compliance with the BREEAM criteria. Where the specific room functions and areas within the building are yet to be defined, the acoustician’s assessment should demonstrate that the criteria for the most sensitive room type likely to be present in the building is capable of being achieved. Where the typical fit out would include a range of requirements (e.g. offices with a mix of open plan, cellular offices, meeting rooms and breakout areas; or retail with sales floor, stock/storage, office and staff rest areas), the acoustician should make an assessment based on a speculative layout and outline specification to determine whether the requirements of the relevant best practice standard are achievable and include examples of the most sensitive room types. Where the majority of a building’s floor plan will require high performance acoustic environments (e.g. classroom/seminar buildings), then the BREEAM requirements must be achieved for the entire shell where specific layouts are not determined by the built form. Post-construction testing is not required subject to confirmation from the project team that the built form, construction and any external factors have not changed from those used in the SQA's assessment.
14-Feb-2024 - Scheme applicability updated. Clarified applicability to shell only assessments. Title updated.
09-Aug-2019 - Updated applicability to UK NC 2018
08-Dec-2017 - Clarification added regarding post-construction evidence.
   

Approach to thermal model when using BMS - KBCN0169

Where there are smart systems such as BMS in place, modelling must consider normal operating conditions, with the heating and cooling system in operation regardless of the control strategy. In order for the design team to size the heating/cooling plant, they will carry out modelling to calculate the heat/cold loss throughout the year. Results of these calculations must be submitted, with the heating/cooling plant specification which would demonstrate that the building has been designed to ensure internal winter/summer temperatures will not drop below an acceptable level, and that in effect the winter TOR is zero.
14 Apr 2023 Applicability to UK NC2018 and UK/Int V6 confirmed

Assessing industrial spaces – exemptions - KBCN0734

The thermal comfort criteria do not apply to the operational or storage areas typically found in industrial assets or other similar asset types. The criteria is still be applied to the other parts of the asset as appropriate. Operational and storage areas often have function-related thermal requirements determined by operational or storage needs. These functional requirements override the needs of any occupants.
17-Jan-2024 - Scheme applicability updated.
03-Nov-2020 - Issue 2.0 of UK RFO technical manual updated with new CN detailing the above.

Compliant test body – alternative compliance route using a Suitably Qualified Acoustician - KBCN1412

Where acoustic testing and measurement has not been performed by an organisation or individual that meets the definition of a compliant test body, compliance with this requirement can still be demonstrated where a Suitably Qualified Acoustician has reviewed the relevant test report(s). The test report must: a) Be countersigned or authorised by a Suitably Qualified Acoustician b) Include a clear statement that the acoustic testing and measurements have been carried out in accordance with the BREEAM or HQM testing requirements AND c) Include evidence that the verifier meets the definition for a Suitably Qualified Acoustician within the relevant BREEAM or HQM technical manual

Control of glare from sunlight – ‘openness factor’ of blinds - KBCN1446

The ‘openness factor’ or ‘openness coefficient’ is the ratio between the area of openings and the total area of fabric. It is one of the factors in determining how much light will pass through the fabric of the blind. For example, opaque Venetian blinds or close weave fabric blinds may have an openness factor of blind of 1% or less. For further details, please refer to: BS EN 14501:2005 ‘Blinds and shutters — Thermal and visual comfort — Performance characteristics and classification’
06/10/2023 Updated to provide a relevant example to the definition.

Control of glare from sunlight – adjacent buildings - KBCN1248

It is acceptable to account for surrounding buildings, structures or other permanent environmental features when using simulation modelling to assess the risk of glare, provided this accounts for both direct sunlight and reflected glare from glazing or reflective surfaces.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN1211 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – blackout blinds - KBCN1246

Blackout blinds can be used to meet the glare control requirements. Where the criteria set an upper limit for transmittance value, but no lower limit, blackout blinds will meet this requirement.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0447 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – hotel rooms - KBCN1087

The primary function attributed to hotel rooms is that of a bedroom and as such, lighting and resultant glare are not considered to be problematic for these spaces. The only exception to this is where designated additional office space is provided. In these circumstances it is the role of the assessor to determine if individual spaces should be determined as ‘relevant building areas’ in accordance with guidance provided. Glare control criteria apply to building areas where lighting and resultant glare could be problematic for users.
01 Nov 2023 - Applicability to BIU V6 Commercial confirmed
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0666 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – no relevant building areas - KBCN1086

If the scope of the assessment does not include any relevant building areas, as defined within the manual, the criteria for Control of glare from sunlight can be considered as met by default. Only spaces that fall within the definition of relevant areas and are within the assessment’s scope need to be assessed.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0429 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – residential areas - KBCN1092

Control of glare from sunlight criteria apply to building areas where lighting and resultant glare could be problematic for users. In residential buildings this would include areas such as study bedrooms or facility management offices, where work or study will be carried out and where glare would hinder such activities. It does not apply to other residential areas.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN00040 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – roof lights - KBCN1091

Where roof lights are present, they must be considered when demonstrating that the glare control strategy provides adequate control/measures for minimising glare in that space. All sources of glare need to be considered when designing out the potential for disabling glare.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0319 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – transmittance value - KBCN1089

Transmittance values should be based on those quoted for ‘visible' or 'optical' light transmittance.
23 Mar 2021 - Reference to the term 'optical' added, for clarity
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0709 of UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight – types of glare - KBCN1043

Assessors should ensure that the design team has considered the possibility of glare from all sources, including direct sunlight, reflected sunlight and contrast glare.

Control of glare from sunlight – use of tinted windows - KBCN1090

Solar control or ‘tinted’ glazing could potentially support the attainment of this requirement. However, the assessor must be satisfied and provide evidence to demonstrate that the particular glazing type, when used on the assessed building for a given location, is meeting this overarching aim of preventing disabling glare. It should be noted that whilst certain types of glazing, such as low emissivity glazing, may be slightly tinted, they may not necessarily be effective in reducing disabling glare. For facades receiving direct sunlight, tinted windows alone are unlikely to be sufficient in the majority of situations.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0862 from UKNC 2014

Control of glare from sunlight- no windows in relevant areas - KBCN1088

Where a ‘relevant area’ as defined in the manual does not include any windows, the glare control criteria can considered as met for this area. Note that the view out and daylight criteria would not be achieved in rooms with no windows. Where there are no windows in a room there would be no potential for disabling glare, so the aim of the credit would be achieved.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0146 of UKNC 2014

Cyclist safe access - KBCN0188

Safe access for cyclists must be via a compliant cycle lane, unless it is demonstrated that it would be impractical to cycle for a short distance between the site entrance and cycle storage. For example, where a gate, door or barrier forces the cyclist to dismount and walk for a short distance to access the cycle storage and it would be impractical for cyclists to re-mount1. Where it is not practical to provide compliant cycle lane from the entrance to the cycle storage, the safety of cyclists and pedestrians must be maintained. 1. The intent is that this be a short distance, over which cyclists would typically not choose to re-mount and is anticipated to be no greater than 10m. In order to be considered compliant for greater distances, evidence must be provided of effective additional physical measures to deter cyclists from re-mounting.
29/09/2021 - Additional note (1) added to provide further clarification of the intent
21/02/2020 Re-worded to clarify the intent
02 Jul 2021 - Applicability to UK NC2018 confirmed
 

Daylighting – speculative building - KBCN0269

Where the building is speculative and therefore the final layout is not defined (e.g. only an open plan shell is provided in each tenanted space), the required percentage of each open plan shell should meet the daylighting requirements. However, where it is possible to designate separable ancillary areas that would be required in the space (such as toilets or server room), these can be excluded from the calculation. For daylight calculations in speculative projects where the layout and colours are unknown, a realistic notional layout may be used.

Daylighting – ‘Internal association or atrium areas’ - KBCN1267

This term refers to areas intended to replace outdoor recreation spaces, typically found in prisons, but which may also be present in hospitals and residential accommodation for elderly people. The requirements relating to such spaces are, therefore, not generally applicable to other building types.  

Daylighting – alternative route to compliance - KBCN1047

The alternative route was developed for rooms in Healthcare developments with multiple functions within the same space, and as such, having different daylight needs at various points within the room. For other building types, an assessor wishing to use the alternative route to compliance for daylighting should contact the BREEAM technical team with details and justification. The alternative route was applied to Healthcare building types specifically because these building types are likely to have spaces that have varying needs for daylight. For example, in a hospital ward, the areas where patient beds are located will benefit from good daylight, whereas this is of less importance for the nurses stations, which are used intermittently.

Daylighting – Changing rooms - KBCN1132

The daylighting criteria are not applicable to changing rooms.

Daylighting – communal kitchens (multi-residential) - KBCN0217

Communal kitchens should be assessed under 'Non-residential / Communal Occupied Spaces. Communal kitchens outside of self-contained dwelling units, for example a kitchen within a self-contained student flat shared between several students would be classed as a private kitchen for the purposes of this issue. However, if it was shared between rooms along a communal corridor it would be considered a communal kitchen, and assessed under 'Non-residential buildings - occupied spaces'.

Daylighting – requirements differing by area - KBCN0176

Where areas within a building have different daylighting requirements for the same credit, all relevant areas must meet the requirements to award the daylighting credit(s). The aim is to improve daylight conditions in all applicable area types of an assessed building.

Daylighting – retail cafe / dining areas - KBCN0968

Customer seating/dining areas in a cafe or restaurant should be considered as 'sales areas'. Sales counters, staff areas or food preparation areas, for example, should be assessed as 'Other occupied areas' in accordance with the definition of 'Occupied space'.. The requirements for 'Sales areas' are applied to transient spaces.  

Daylighting – side-lit internal association and atrium areas - KBCN1198

In buildings where the design of internal associations or atriums areas means that the space cannot be top-lit and is instead side-lit, the Daylighting criteria can be applied as follows; Minimum values of average daylight factor: The internal association or atrium area space will need to achieve an average daylight factor of 3% across a minimum of 80% of the space and either a uniformity ratio of 0.3 or a minimum point daylight factor of 0.9%. Illuminance requirements: The internal association or atrium area space will need to achieve a minimum daylight illuminance of at least 90 lux for 2650 hours per year.

Daylighting – studio flats - KBCN0808

In the case of studio flats, the minimum area of compliance for the average daylight factor requirement is based on the combined area of kitchen, living room, bed and study area. Circulation areas do not need to be included in the calculation.

Daylighting – uniformity ratio applicability - KBCN0584

The uniformity ratio requirements apply to the percentage of the building’s relevant areas specified in the table. In the NC 2013 scheme, this is 80%.

Daylighting – Floor areas for average daylight calculations - KBCN1081

Where the room size is comparable and the function is the same, such as ‘kitchen’, the percentage rule needs to be applied to the total floor area. As the average daylight factor is a measure of daylight across the whole room, only whole rooms can be compliant. This is why we refer to rounding up the ‘80% of the floor area’ requirement to the rounded up number of compliant rooms. This rule applies to rooms of a similar size and function and the Daylight issue calculations methodology includes a simple example, where all the rooms are the same size. However, this rule can still be applied to rooms of different sizes. Spaces whose size is substantially larger should meet the average daylight factor requirement on their own. In these cases, the percentage requirement is still applicable to the floor area of the remaining rooms. Where a building contains different area types (as identified in tables 5.1, 5.3, 5.8 and 5.9), the 80% minimum floor area must be calculated by each separate area type. For example, a multi-residential building that contained kitchen areas and living room areas would need both of these areas to comply with the 80% minimum floor area requirement separately.
This KBCN aligns with KBCN0471 of UKNC 2014
 

Dedicated cycle lanes/paths - KBCN1384

The term 'dedicated' is not intended to preclude cycle routes which are shared with pedestrians or vehicles. The assessor may deem such arrangements compliant, provided that they meet the requirements of the approved external guidance referred to in the criteria.

EFSA daylight requirements for Schools - KBCN1272

For school buildings, it is acceptable to use the Education and Skills Funding Agency (EFSA) framework requirements as an alternative method of compliance with the  'Daylighting' criteria. In this case, evidence would be required to demonstrate that the requirements in the framework have been adhered to. At least 80% of all relevant room types (weighted by area) must meet the relevant criteria in the ESFA framework requirements.
Reworded to clarify that the 80% requirement still applies. 31/07/2019

Emissions from products – EU CLP Regulation and Category 1A/B carcinogen emission limits - KBCN1280

The European Regulation (EC) No.1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (‘the CLP Regulation’ or ‘CLP’) applies to all EU Member States. CLP requires manufacturers, importers, downstream users and distributors to communicate the identified hazards of a substance or mixture to the other parties in the supply chain, including to consumers. The regulation requires products with hazardous properties to be labelled in accordance with CLP before being placed on the market. CLP requires products containing any ingredients that have been classified as Category 1A and 1B carcinogens to be labelled as carcinogenic. Therefore, with respect to the BREEAM Category 1A and 1B carcinogens emission limit criteria, for products marketed in EU Member States, if a product’s safety information (e.g. safety data sheet) or a manufacturer’s declaration confirms that that the product does not need to be labelled as a Category 1A or 1B carcinogen in accordance with CLP, then this information would be an acceptable form of evidence for demonstrating compliance with the criteria.
10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.

Emissions from products – Guidance Note 22 (GN22) - KBCN0719

Latest version: v2.8, January 2024 Within the Health and Wellbeing category of several BREEAM schemes, credits are awarded for specifying materials that minimise emissions from building products of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The criteria involve meeting emission level performance requirements in accordance with compliant performance and testing standards. Guidance Note 22 (GN22) lists schemes that show equivalent or better performance than the current BREEAM and HQM criteria, and therefore can be used to demonstrate compliance with the criteria. This document should be read in conjunction with the relevant assessment issue guidance provided in the appropriate BREEAM or HQM technical manual. The guidance note contains two tables: Download Guidance Note 22 View all Guidance Notes on BREEAM Projects (licensed assessors only)
01-Feb-2024 - Updated for release of GN22 2.8
31-Jan-2023 - Updated for release of GN22 2.7 
10-Oct-2022 - This KBCN merged with KBCN0646. Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.
25-Jan-2019 - Link to Guidance Note updated
12-Mar-2018 - Link to Guidance Note updated

Emissions from products – installations manufactured off-site - KBCN0137

Internal finishes to installations manufactured off-site such as elevators need to be assessed for the emissions from products criteria. The specification of internal finishes (regardless of whether they are installed on site or in the factory) will impact on VOC emissions. By specifying low VOC finishes, design teams will be encouraging manufacturers to consider the environmental impacts of their products.
10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.
 

Emissions from products – manufacturers’ calculations for paints and varnishes - KBCN0452

Manufacturers' calculations of VOC content, based on the constituent ingredients, can be used to demonstrate compliance with the testing requirement for paints and varnishes.

10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Scheme applicability updated.

Emissions from products – paints and varnishes – historic buildings - KBCN1041

Scope This KBCN covers the use of paints and varnishes for the 'emissions from products' criteria. These are paints that: These paints may be used in new extensions to historic buildings (this KBCN is a manual compliance note in RFO 2014). Exemptions for use The use of such paints is allowable if: Localisation National conservation bodies and accepted grade listings applicable to this KBCN are: Remedial actions In all cases, procedures are in place to flush the building out for a sufficient period before occupation. This is to reduce the risks associated with VOCs in accordance with the criteria.
11-Oct-2022 KBCN restructured for clarity. Title amended for clarity. National conservation body for NI updated. Scheme applicability updated.

Emissions from products – scope of assessment - KBCN0212

General This issue covers any product installed or applied inside the inner surface of the building’s infiltration, vapour or waterproof membrane. Where this membrane is not present, it applies to the inside of the building envelope’s interior-facing thermal insulation layer. Only products that are installed or applied in parts of the building where their emissions are likely to affect indoor air quality need to be assessed. Paints and coatings Any decorative paints and varnishes that occupants are exposed to should be assessed. This is likely to include paints and coatings applied to walls, ceilings, floors, doors, etc. Whole products A finish applied to a product in the factory is assessed as a whole product, and not separately as a paint or coating. For instance, a wood panel has a finish applied in the factory. The whole panel, including all the elements that make up that panel, would need to comply with the requirements set for wood panel products in this issue. The finished product as a whole must meet the performance requirements / emission limits set in the manual.
11-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Content merged with KBCN0871.
10-Oct-2022 - Wording simplified. Scheme applicability updated.
16-Jun-2017 - Title and general principle amended to extend the applicability of the KBCN to all finishes. Paints specified for specialist applications covered in KBCN0872.
 

Emissions from products – specialist paints and coatings - KBCN0872

Where a paint or coating falls within: then the paint or coating must be assessed. Specialist paints and coatings are exempted from meeting the emission limits where there are no alternative products available that can perform the function, and still meet the emission limits. This must be clearly evidenced.
27-Oct-2022 Wording clarified. New compliance principle added from UKNC V6.
10-Oct-2022 Title amended for clarity. Scheme applicability updated.
13-Mar-2020 KBCN amended to clarify exceptions and applicability.
16-Jun-2017 Content merged with KBCN0212.

Emissions from products – testing to ISO 16000-10 - KBCN1134

Results of testing to ISO 16000-10 can be considered compliant with the relevant testing requirements of the emissions from construction products credit where the product manufacturer can demonstrate the results generated by testing to ISO 16000-10 correlate to results that would be achieved using EN 16516 or ISO 16000-9. This is because EN 16516 classifies ISO 16000-10 as an ‘indirect method’, which means “any simplified, screening, secondary, derived or alternative method. An indirect method can be applied if it provides a result that is comparable to or that correlates with the result of the reference method under the conditions applied. The validity of the correlation with the reference method is limited to the field of application for which it has been established.
11-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Scheme applicability updated.

Erratum – up to v1.0 – issue overview icons - KBCN1070

Some icons in the recently published UKNC2018 technical manual indicate incorrect numbers of credits available by assessment type. The table below summarises the error and correction needed.
12-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity.
10-Aug-2018 - Technical manual updated. Only relevant to v1.0 of the manual.

Erratum – up to v1.2 – timing of pre-requisite – indoor air quality plan - KBCN1206

In Issues 1.0 and 1.2 of the technical manual, the prerequisite requires the Indoor air quality plan to be produced no later than the end of Concept Design.  Clarification of the requirements in Hea 02: The prerequisite currently states: ‘1. A site-specific indoor air quality plan has been produced and implemented in accordance with the guidance in Guidance Note GN06. The plan must be produced no later than the end of Concept Design. The objective of the plan is to facilitate a process that leads to design, specification and installation decisions and actions that minimise indoor air pollution during occupation of the building…’ Clarified criterion: ‘1 A site-specific indoor air quality plan has been produced and implemented in accordance with the guidance in Guidance Note GN06. The objective of the plan is to facilitate a process that leads to design, specification and installation decisions and actions, which minimise indoor air pollution during occupation of the building…:’
12-Oct-2022 Title amended for clarity.
This will be confirmed in the next re-issue of the technical manual, but can be applied immediately in all issues of the UK NC2018 scheme.

Exemplary level credit - KBCN1131

The exemplary level credit of Hea 06 requires the use of a compliant risk based security rating scheme and for the project's performance against the scheme to be confirmed through independent assessment and verification. Where this criterion has been met and the exemplary level credit is achieved, the 'Security of site and building' credit of Hea 06 is also automatically achieved. This is because the compliant risk based security rating scheme will cover the requirements of the 'Security of site and building' credit, in addition to covering many other aspects.

Exemplary level credit – Non-compatible schemes - KBCN1228

The following cannot currently be considered compliant with the requirements of the exemplary level credit for this Issue, which requires certification through a ‘compliant risk-based security rating scheme’ where ‘performance against the scheme has been confirmed by independent assessment and verification’:
18 Mar 2022 - Title and content updated to include VSAT
11 Nov 2021 - Updated (superfluous commentary removed).

Exemplary level credit – Using SABRE - KBCN1499

Order of certification To achieve the BREEAM exemplary credit, the SABRE 'design stage' or 'as-built' certification (as applicable to the BREEAM assessment stage) must be completed before BREEAM certification. Please also refer to KBCN1549 - Shell only and Shell and Core assessments - using SABRE Evidence output The most appropriate evidence output for this exemplary credit is a SABRE certificate corresponding to the stage of the BREEAM assessment (i.e. ‘design stage’ or ‘post-construction stage’). Providing the certificate demonstrates that the requirements of SABRE have been met and validated, which can mitigate any potential delays to the BREEAM QA process. SABRE 'design stage' certification can be sought at any time during the RIBA design stages, whilst 'as-built' certification is sought at handover. Timing of SABRE assessment Unlike the 'Security of site and building' credit, there is no strict cut-off point by which the SABRE assessment process must commence, however RIBA Stage 2 is recommended as a reasonable time by which to begin working towards SABRE certification.
04 Nov 2022 - Reference to KBCN1549 added

Exemplary level criteria – not all product categories specified - KBCN0636

The assessment of exemplary level criteria assumes that every product category is specified. It awards credit(s) based on the number of product categories that meet the exemplary levels. Where the assessment does not contain every product category, all product categories must meet the exemplary level requirements. [accordion] [accordion_block title="1 exemplary credit"] Exemplary credit requirement:  3 out of 4 product types meet the exemplary requirements. An assessment has only specified 3 product types in total. To achieve the credit, all product types must meet the exemplary criteria. [/accordion_block] [accordion_block title="2 exemplary credits"] Exemplary credit requirement: An assessment has only specified 3 product types in total. [/accordion_block] [/accordion]
19-Oct-2022 - Wording and title clarified. Scheme applicability updated. Scenario added.

External lighting – architectural façade lighting - KBCN0650

Architectural façade (or other decorative) lighting, which does not provide users with lighting to perform tasks outdoors, does not need to be included in the assessment of external lighting. This Issue seeks to ensure that lighting levels are appropriate for tasks which building users will be undertaking outdoors.

Indoor air quality plan – Guidance Note 6 - KBCN0618

Latest version: v2.1 August 2022 Guidance Note 6 provides guidance to assessors and project teams regarding the content and rigour of an Indoor Air Quality Plan (IAQP) as required by the Hea 02 Indoor air quality criteria in the BREEAM New Construction and Refurbishment schemes. It should not be interpreted as BREEAM criteria. It is intended to provide assessors and project teams with further, flexible information and guidance regarding the rigour, content and tasks of an IAQP. Download Guidance Note 6 (licensed assessors only) View all Guidance Notes (licensed assessors only)
10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency.

Indoor air quality plan – later consideration - KBCN1544

Where BREEAM has been engaged at a later stage in the project (for instance, at the beginning of a Post-Construction Assessment) the IAQ plan must still be produced. The late stage plan must clearly identify opportunities to improve indoor air quality that: The plan is focused on decisions and actions that can still be practically carried out. The indoor air quality plan is an on-going consideration that extends into the operational life of the asset.

Indoor air quality plan – pre-requisite – no link to later performance - KBCN1541

The indoor air quality plan is a pre-requisite to achieving other credits in Hea 02. However, achieving the pre-requisite does not depend on achieving the other credits in the issue: The pre-requisite requirement is only for a compliant indoor air quality plan to be written.
17-Nov-2022 Wording clarified.

Indoor air quality plan – scope - KBCN0294

Where possible, the indoor air quality plan must cover all items in the criteria. This means the plan must be completed for: Within these requirements, there is flexibility for the design team to use their professional judgement to determine what is appropriate to meet the criteria. Any exclusions must be clearly evidenced and justified. As the basis for effective asset management, the indoor air quality plan must be written in a consistent and comprehensive manner. The report must address relevant aspects as fully as possible within the scope of the development.
11-Oct-2022 Title updated for clarity. Wording clarified. Content merged with KBCN0556. Reference to KBCN1544 added. Scheme applicability updated.

Manual errata – Passive design – Industrial assets with no occupied spaces - KBCN1492

This KBCN relates to industrial assessment targeting the 'Passive Design' credit in Ene 04. Specific note 2.1 in Ene 04 states:

Industrial

Hea 04 Thermal comfort: Criterion 1 is not applicable to industrial units that only contain an operational or storage area and are without office space or other occupied spaces. However, to achieve the Ene 04 Passive design analysis credit, compliance with criteria 1, 2 and 3.b.ii in Hea 04 Thermal comfort must be demonstrated.

This is incorrect. It should say: Hea 04 Thermal comfort: This issue is not applicable to industrial units that only contain an operational or storage area and are without office space or other occupied spaces. If the industrial asset is Shell Only without any occupied spaces, this specific note 2.1 overrides specific note 1.2 regarding thermal modelling requirements for Shell Only assets. This will be clarified and corrected in the next re-issue of the manual.  

Manual errata – Passive design – Shell only assets - KBCN1493

This KBCN relates to Shell Only assets targeting the ‘Passive Design’ credit in Ene 04. Specific note 1.2 in Ene 04 states:

Hea 04 Thermal comfort: Criterion 1 is not applicable to Shell only assessments. However, to achieve the Ene 04 Passive design analysis credit, compliance with criteria 1, 2 and 3.b.ii in Hea 04 Thermal comfort must be demonstrated.

This is incorrect. It should say: Ene 04 Low Carbon Design: Criterion 1 is not applicable to Shell only assessments. However, to achieve the Ene 04 Passive design analysis credit, compliance with criteria 1, 2 and 3.b.ii in Hea 04 Thermal comfort must be demonstrated. This will be corrected in the next re-issue of the manual.

No relevant areas for room acoustics - KBCN1291

Where a building does not have areas relevant to the 'room acoustics' criteria, the credit available for room acoustics can be awarded by default where the building complies with the indoor ambient noise levels and the sound insulation criteria.

Occupant control – spaces requiring user controls - KBCN0170

This guidance is intended to clarify the types of area for which user controls are required or would be considered beneficial. Zoning is required in all areas of the asset where specified in the assessment criteria. Please refer to the specific requirements of the applicable BREEAM standard to interpret this guidance appropriately. User controls required Spaces where users are expected to have independent control over their environment. User controls not required Spaces where users are not expected to have independent control over their environment.
14-Dec-2022 - KBCN applicability updated to include BIU. Wording clarified, and amended for compatibility with BIU criteria.

Outdoor space – shared with other buildings - KBCN1045

Where a building has existing external space, or will be developing new external space, that is or will be shared with other buildings, this can be deemed acceptable if the space meets the definition of ‘Outside space’ and is of a size able to cater for the building users of all the associated buildings.

Outside space – Appropriate seating areas - KBCN1509

For fully-fitted assessments, where the end-user is known, a compliant outside space must have suitable outdoor furniture installed . However, where justified by the design team, for shell only, shell and core and all speculative assessments, it is sufficient to provide evidence that an appropriate 'seating area' is provided including any associated hard landscaping, along with design drawings showing a suggested arrangement and type of furniture. The installation of outdoor furniture at an incomplete and unoccupied building could lead to security issues and attract antisocial behaviour.
03/05/21 Wording amended to clarify the level of detail required for the future fit-out.

Outside space – Public realm - KBCN1508

As per the definition, compliant outside space must be non-smoking. This requirement precludes compliance for areas within the public realm, where a non-smoking policy would be unenforceable.

PMV and PPD reporting for mixed mode ventilation buildings - KBCN0632

When assessing buildings where both naturally ventilated and air conditioned spaces are included, reporting the PMV and PPD indices is required.

Post-construction measurement – formaldehyde / VOC levels exceed limits - KBCN0258

If the measured formaldehyde / VOC concentrations were above the prescribed limits, the appropriate remedial action must be taken, as described in the IAQ Plan. The criterion requires confirmation of 'the measures that have or will be undertaken' however it does not specifically address re-testing. We would expect, however that the IAQ Plan should outline what remedial measures are appropriate depending upon the severity and type of the non-compliance with prescribed limits. Such measures may include re-testing as a matter of 'best practice'. Where levels are found to exceed these limits, the project team confirms the measures that have, or will be undertaken in accordance with the IAQ plan, to reduce the TVOC and formaldehyde levels to within the above limits.
10-Oct-2022 - Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Made applicable to UK and International NC V6.

Post-construction measurement – sampling methodology and KPIs - KBCN0380

When testing for VOCs post-completion and pre-occupancy, a representative sample of the building needs to be carried out. Each sample TVOC and formaldehyde measurement needs to achieve the threshold levels individually, either in the initial testing or after remedial measures have been implemented. This ensures that all tested areas of the building are below the limits, and that areas of non-compliance are not ‘averaged out’. 'When providing KPI test results for air quality post-construction / pre-occupancy within scoring and reporting tool, where the limits are exceeded and remediation and re-testing are carried out, the figure should be an average for the whole building post-remediation, as this is the key figure that reflects the building at its certified state'. Where testing is not a requirement of the IAQ Plan and this is not carried out, the original testing figures should be entered and the assessment report should provide details of the remediation measures undertaken to reduce these to within the prescribed limits.
10-Oct-2022 Title amended to align with standard KBCN naming format for clarity and consistency. Scheme applicability updated.
06-Dec-2017 Amended to account for situations where re-testing is not required by the IAQ Plan.

Post-construction measurement- TVOC concentration using BS ISO 16000-6: 2021 VOCs in air by active sampling - KBCN1642

Where BS ISO 16000-6: 2021 VOCs in air by active sampling is used, the TVOC concentration measurement can be performed over a 40-60 minute period.

Remedial works – timing of acoustic re-testing - KBCN1164

The intent of CN "Remedial works" is that, where these are required, re-testing is carried out prior to handover and occupation. However, it is permissible to carry out the re-testing post-occupation. This is provided any specific guidance for particular building types related test conditions have been met (for instance, it may be that some building specific guidance requires furniture or carpets to not be present during the testing). Compliance cannot be achieved based on a letter from the SQA confirming that the contractor has followed their advice to achieve the required performance.
07.11.18 KBCN amended to allow for re-testing to be carried-out post-handover.

Reporting PPD and PMV Figures - KBCN0867

The PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) and PPD (Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied) values need to be entered into the scoring & reporting tool for data recording purposes. The thermal modelling specialist should be able to provide values for both the PMV and PPD for the asset. The values to report are the observed range of values for PMV and PPD: If the software or calculation method used does not generate these PMV / PPD metrics, they do not have to be provided. [accordion] [accordion_block title="Example"] An asset has the following thermal comfort ranges across its occupied spaces: [/accordion_block] [/accordion]
15.09.22 Wording and example clarified.

Restricted movement within a secure perimeter - KBCN000009

Where the movement of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles is tightly controlled within a secure perimeter due to security considerations, these areas may be excluded from the safe access criteria. Where the whole assessment is within such a zone, the credit may be awarded by default.
08 Jun 2022 Applicability to UK NC2018 confirmed

Robust Details – Testing requirements - KBCN1251

For self-contained dwellings, which form part of a Multi-residential assessment, compliance can be demonstrated where the use of constructions for all relevant building elements have been registered with and assessed and approved by Robust Details Limited (RDL) and found to achieve the performance standards required for the number of credits sought. Robust Details (RDs) are construction solutions that provide an alternative to pre-completion sound insulation testing as a method of complying with Requirements E1 of Approved Document E (2003 Edition) of the Building Regulations (England and Wales), DOE Technical Booklet G - Sound 2012 (Northern Ireland) and Technical Handbook Section 5 - Noise, 2013 (Scotland). The relevant plots on a development must be registered with RDL and built in accordance with the RD specification. To give a reasonable level of assurance that these details will achieve the required minimum standards, RDL carry out random inspections during construction and random sound insulation tests after construction. A Robust Detail is deemed to be approved for BREEAM (Multi-residential building) credits only when it achieves a specified performance level as assessed by RDL. Robust Details can only be used in relation to assessment for new build dwellings and cannot be used to assess the performance of construction details in rooms for residential purposes or material change of use.

Room acoustics – residential institutions in Scotland - KBCN1512

For projects in Scotland, Approved Document E3 of the Building Regulations shall be used as the benchmark for the assessment of room acoustics. This Approved Document covers reverberation in the common areas of buildings containing flats or rooms for residential purposes. This addresses the absence of relevant requirements in the Scottish building regulations for this building type and ensures consistency between assessments.

Safe access – vehicle delivery routes - KBCN1046

Vehicle delivery routes which cross cycle or pedestrian routes may be acceptable provided there are adequate physical control measures in place to ensure safe access and thus minimise the possibility of delivery vehicles coming into conflict with cyclists and pedestrians. Examples of such measures could be vehicle barriers or retractable vehicle bollards, which only allow access to delivery vehicles when required and whose operation and controls account for cycle and pedestrian movements.
18 Mar 2021 wording clarified
07.06.2018 Intent and wording clarified.

Secure Government sites – Security criteria - KBCN1652

Government security procedures, such as those for MoD sites, may take precedence in dealing with security risk. Therefore, the security criteria under which this issue is assessed may not be fully appropriate. However, BREEAM requires that a Suitably Qualified Security Specialist (SQSS) or the relevant Government department's security consultant undertake a risk-based security needs assessment during or prior to the Concept Design stage. The final design must embody the recommendations of the security consultant. Evidence requirements Where it is confirmed that, due to security issues, the assessor cannot provide complete evidence of the security assessment and implementation of the recommended measures, the following can be accepted: A written statement or report from the SQSS confirming:

Security – Change of SQSS and recommendations - KBCN1044

If the SQSS working on the project changes during the assessment, the recommendations of the original SQSS can be modified if the new SQSS can provide justification for this.

Security needs assessment (SNA) – Formal consultation with relevant stakeholders - KBCN1470

Providing the SQSS can provide evidence of reasonable attempts to obtain feedback from relevant stakeholders, this aspect of the SNA requirements will be satisfied. In the event that a relevant stakeholder does not provide a response when consulted (e.g. if they do not respond following a reasonable period, or they confirm that are unable to deal with the enquiry), it would be expected that SQSS consider alternative sources of information. For example, the SQSS may decide to refer to freely-available crime data on the Police UK website, and include a summary or analysis of this in their SNA.
13 Sep 2021 Applicability to HQM confirmed

Shell only and Shell and Core assessments – using SABRE - KBCN1549

Where the SABRE assessment is registered and certified as shell & core, this can be accepted for meeting both the standard and exemplary level criteria of shell only/shell and core BREEAM assessments. Currently, Shell and Core SABRE certificates are identified as 'interim', but there is no requirement for further 'final certification' of shell & core SABRE assessments or any further evidence of the fit-out. Please also refer to KBCN1499 - Exemplary level credit – Using SABRE

SQSS – Individuals Recognised - KBCN1485

Individuals can continue to be considered a ‘Suitably Qualified Security Specialist’ (SQSS) for the purposes of compliance with HEA 06 (1 credit – Security of Site and Building) where adherence to the SQSS criteria 1-3, detailed below and in HEA 06, is evidenced to the BREEAM Assessor.
  1. Minimum of three years' experience in a relevant security profession (in the last five years). This experience must clearly demonstrate a practical understanding of factors affecting security in relation to construction and the built environment, relevant to the type and scale of the project being undertaken.
  2. Holds a qualification relevant to security.
  3. Maintains a full membership to a relevant professional body, institute or certification scheme that has a professional code of conduct, to which members adhere.
Alternatively, individuals can be considered a ‘Suitably Qualified Security Specialist’ where adherence to the SQSS criterion 4 (detailed below and in HEA 06) is demonstrated to the BREEAM Assessor.
  1. A specialist registered with a BREEAM recognised third party licensing or registration scheme for security specialists.
The following licensing/registration schemes are recognised as meeting the requirements of criterion 4 of the Suitably Qualified Security Specialist (SQSS) criteria. As such, individuals listed are also eligible to perform the role of SQSS:

A. SABRE Registered Professionals with ‘SQSS’ status – Live list here

B. Chartered Security Professionals (CSyP) - Live list here

C. Register of Security Engineers and Specialists (RSES) ‘General Security Advisor’ (GSA) - Live list here

  Note: DOCOs can be considered as suitably qualified subject to meeting criteria 1-3 and regional police forces may provide services in support of BREEAM. However, the Metropolitan Police has indicated that it will not provide services solely for the purposes of meeting the BREEAM Security Needs Assessment (SNA).   In all cases, Notes 1 and 2, below, shall apply to the appointment of the SQSS and the award of the available credit respectively.

Notes

  1. Security professionals often possess knowledge and skills in relation to specific aspects of the discipline, whilst others may possess more holistic knowledge. Therefore, when appointing an SQSS, consideration should also be given to their experience and background, as well as the appropriateness of the individual to carry out the task assigned. The SQSS should be able to demonstrate independence and that they have experience dealing with similar projects with comparable security levels and risks.
  2. Irrespective of who performs the role of SQSS, the 1 credit available for ‘Security of Site and Building’ may only be awarded if the assessment criteria are satisfied i.e. where a compliant, documented Security Needs Assessment (SNA) has been produced and subsequent risk-commensurate security recommendations have been implemented.

Definitions

SABRE Registered Professional SABRE Registered Professionals are deemed to meet the competency requirements of the various specialist deliverables within the SABRE security assessment scheme including: threat assessments, risk assessments, security strategies, technical design & engineering and concepts of operations (CONOPS). The registration is also intended to act as an indicator of professionalism for the benefit of the wider industry. Chartered Security Professional (CSyP) The Register of Chartered Security Professionals (CSyP) was established under a Royal Charter granted to the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals in the UK and launched in 2011. Registrants use CSyP as a post nominal. Being admitted to the Register and becoming a CSyP is a means of being recognised and continuing to represent the highest standards and ongoing proficiency. It is the gold standard of competence in security practice. CSyPs must comply with a Code of Conduct, a Professional Disciplinary Code, and also complete Continuous Professional Development each year. The Register is recognised across the UK, including by the Association of Security Consultants (ASC), the International Professional Security Association (IPSA), The Security Industry Authority (SIA) and CPNI (Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure). Register of Security Engineers and Specialists (RSES) The Register of Security Engineers and Specialists (RSES) was established to promote excellence in security engineering by providing a benchmark of professional quality against which its members have been independently assessed. Registration is open to engineers, applied scientists and specialists who apply their knowledge to securing the built environment and infrastructure. RSES is sponsored by the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) and administered by the Institution of Civil Engineers’ (ICE) Membership Division.
04 Aug 2023 - Additional paragraph added to clarify that, if a DOCO is willing and able to do so, they can undertake the role of SQSS for BREEAM, provided they meet the eligibility criteria set out in criteria 1-3
15 Jul/07 Sep 2022 - Reference to DOCOs' suitability to perform the role of SQSS under Option 4.D. removed - The Metropolitan Police has indicated that DOCOs will not provide a consultation service solely for the purposes of meeting the BREEAM Security Needs Assessment (SNA). 
10 Dec 2021 - Further clarification added
17 Nov 2021 - First paragraph updated for clarity

Suitably Qualified Acoustician – Associate membership of the Institute of Acoustics - KBCN00064

Associate membership of the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) can be considered to demonstrate that the individual is a member of an appropriate professional body. This supersedes previous guidance on this matter, which has been updated following confirmation from the IOA that ‘Associate members’ are bound by the same Members’ Code of Conduct as ‘Full members’.    
06/06/2022 - BRE stance on this has been revised - Title also updated for clarity
13/01/2020 Wording clarified and confirmed applicability to Issue Pol 05
06/01/2020 Clarification that this applies to BREEAM UK NC2018
 

Thermal comfort – Changing rooms - KBCN1133

Whilst thermal comfort in changing rooms may be considered as significant, such spaces are, generally, outside the scope of this Issue, as they would not fall within the definition of an 'occupied space'.
17/06/2019 - This supersedes the advice previously provided in this KBCN, which was published in error on 13/06/2018

Thermal modelling – mechanical ventilation with no heating or cooling - KBCN1579

Where the building services include mechanical ventilation with no heating or cooling element this is considered "free-running". These buildings do not need to follow the air-conditioned building criteria. If the building services do not include any mechanical cooling, then the risk of overheating is down to the use of the building fabric to afford attenuation of the diurnal swings / solar gains. Therefore the adaptive approach to thermal comfort from CIBSE AM10 is the correct approach to define and assess summer overheating /thermal comfort against. Following the Adaptive model is seen as allowing a lot of tolerance for the required indoor conditions. A full DTM assessment will be required to show the predicted summer internal conditions.

Thermal modelling – naturally ventilated buildings with heating for the winter months - KBCN1345

Where naturally ventilated occupied spaces are heated in the winter/heating season, as an alternative to demonstrating compliance with the winter operative temperature ranges in CIBSE Guide A or other appropriate industry standard, such occupied spaces can demonstrate compliance through meeting the Category B requirements for PPD, PMV and local discomfort set out in Table A.1 of Annex A of ISO 7730:2005. Where this alternative compliance route is used, when these naturally ventilated occupied spaces are in ‘free-running mode’ (i.e. outside of the winter/heating season), it is not possible to use the ISO 7730:2005 method and therefore these spaces must demonstrate compliance with the requirements to limit the risk overheating in accordance with CIBSE TM52.

Thermal modelling for large scale projects - KBCN1171

In cases where the scale of the project makes it unfeasible to provide thermal modelling for every space, it is acceptable to demonstrate compliance with a representative sample of floors or rooms, ensuring any worst case scenarios are included.

Thermal modelling – buildings with mixed-mode ventilation - KBCN1346

Where a building has some occupied spaces that are naturally ventilated and some occupied spaces that are air-conditioned, the thermal modelling must demonstrate that the naturally ventilated spaces meet the criteria for naturally ventilated buildings and that the air-conditioned spaces meet the criteria for air-conditioned buildings.

Ventilation – external requirement for window opening restrictors - KBCN1032

Opening restrictors to windows may sometimes need to be installed to meet: Where such external requirements are in force, these requirements cannot be used as a mitigating factor for meeting the BREEAM ventilation criteria. Even with window restrictors, adequate ventilation can still be achieved.
19-Oct-2022 Wording and title clarified. Scheme applicability updated.

Ventilation – filtration – non-residential assets - KBCN0797

Relevant specialist required The design and specification of air filtration for mechanical ventilation requires the input and review of a relevant ventilation designer or specialist. It is their responsibility to interpret the requirements of this KBCN to align with local conditions. Referenced standard The requirements for air filtration in mechanical ventilation systems follows EN 16798-3:2017 Section B4.2. This standard replaces EN 13779:2007. See KBCN1054. Supply air quality Outdoor air quality The filtering required to achieve SUP2 is affected by outdoor air quality. Outdoor air quality (ODA) in both EN 16798-3:2017 and EN 13779:2007 are defined as: As ODA definitions are relative to national air quality standards, these will depend on local regulations and the location of the asset. Please refer to the relevant specialist on how to correctly classify ODA for your asset.
18-Nov-2022 Title amended to differentiate between residential and non-residential filtration KBCNs.
06-Sep-2022 KBCN re-written and re-named to clarify BREEAM ventilation filtration requirements in relation to new ventilation standards. Scheme applicability updated.

Ventilation – school office areas - KBCN0223

Office areas in schools should comply with listed office ventilation rates set in  'BB 101: Guidelines on ventilation, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality in schools'.
19-Oct-2022 Title amended for clarity. Scheme applicability updated.

Ventilation – single room MVHRs - KBCN1042

Single room mechanical ventilation heat recovery units do not need to show that the air intake and exhaust are a suitable distance apart. However, the air intakes of these units must be located to minimise intake of other potential external pollutants.
11-Oct-2022 - Title amended for clarity and consistency. Wording simplified. Scheme applicability updated.

View out – alternative method of compliance for fixed workstations - KBCN1484

In relevant spaces that include fixed workstations* (such as a built-in cash registers or reception desks) an alternative method can be used. This is based on the number of compliant workstations. For instance, where the requirement is for 95% of the relevant area to comply, 95% of the fixed workstations must have a compliant view out, rounded up to the nearest workstation.   Example A retail assessment has 35 built-in cash registers, 95% of which must comply with the view out criteria. 35 x 0.95 = 33.25, rounded up to 34. The requirement is met for this area if 34 registers comply with the criteria.   Where an asset includes a mix of relevant areas; both fixed workstations and flexible areas, compliance for the whole assessment must be demonstrated for all areas, as appropriate, based on either area or number.   *freestanding desks and other items of moveable furniture cannot be considered as fixed workstations, regardless of whether their locations are pre-determined.

View out – Calculating the glazing to wall ratio - KBCN1506

This should be calculated based on the glazed area of window, expressed as a percentage of the area of the external wall in which the window sits. Where the ceiling height of the room is unusually high, relative to the window height, the wall area can be calculated based on a standard ceiling height for the building type.

View out – eye level - KBCN0581

BREEAM defines an adequate view out as being at seated eye level (1.2 – 1.3m) within the relevant building areas. However, where occupants will not have the option to be seated, for example in some industrial operational areas where the work being undertaken requires occupants to remain standing, the height of the view out can be changed accordingly to suit the eye level of occupants. All other view out requirements have to be met and clear justification provided for changing the height/level of the view out. In some relevant building areas, occupants may not be sitting down to undertake tasks. Allowing the view out height requirements to be changed accordingly ensures building occupants gain maximum benefit from the view out.   

View Out – First Aid Rooms - KBCN1104

The view out criteria do not apply to dedicated first aid or medical rooms in non-healthcare projects. BREEAM recognises the need for user privacy in such areas and that these are intermittently occupied.

View out – internal view within an atrium - KBCN1240

Where the criteria are otherwise met, an internal view across an unobstructed atrium void can be considered compliant. Internal views are generally not acceptable, however where it is physically impossible to obstruct the view with partitions, equipment or furniture, this can be accepted at the discretion of the assessor.

View out – no relevant areas - KBCN0876

If the scope of the assessment does not include any relevant building areas, as defined within the manual, the criteria for 'view out' can be considered as met by default. Only spaces that fall within the definition of relevant areas and are within the assessment's scope need to be assessed.

View out – percentage area - KBCN0166

For the view out credit, compliance must be demonstrated for the percentage of the floor area in each relevant building area, rather than the percentage of the total relevant building area in the building.
14/2/17 Wording amended to clarify that the percentage must be achieved for each 'relevant building area'.

View out – relevant areas - KBCN0268

The aim of the View Out criteria is to allow occupants to refocus their eyes from close work. Relevant areas are spaces where close work in a fixed position is carried out for sustained periods of time. The view out criteria are therefore not applicable to occupied areas such as meeting rooms, or other spaces where such close work is not being carried out. Where rooms contain areas of different functions, only relevant areas should be assessed. In this case a notional line can be drawn on the plans and calculations made based on these relevant areas only. However, spaces such circulation routes or other transient spaces within a relevant area can only be excluded if the route or area is clearly defined by the building layout. If this is arbitrary or based solely on a proposed furniture layout, it cannot be excluded. Features of the building layout which may be considered as dictating a function area would include, for example, the position of doors or fixed furniture such as a reception desk or canteen servery.
07-Oct-2022 Additional paragraph added to clarify how function areas must be defined. 
21-Sep-2022 General principle of 'relevant area' added, and applicability of KBCN extended to BIU V6 Commercial.

View out – rooms used for security or other critical functions - KBCN1040

The View out criteria are not applicable to rooms containing security or critical systems or sensitive material, such as CCTV monitoring rooms. Where it can be demonstrated that the presence of compliant windows would compromise a critical function of the space, the criteria can be considered not applicable.

View out – Shell only/Shell & Core - KBCN1354

Where it is not possible to confirm which areas of the building will contain workstations/benches or desks, then all areas of the building designed for and/or likely to be occupied by workstations/benches or desks must comply with the relevant criteria.

View out for commercial kitchens - KBCN1216

It is not necessary to provide a view out for commercial kitchens. This is because in such a space it is likely that kitchen staff will move around, doing various tasks. This makes the requirements for the view out to rest the eyes unnecessary.

Visual audit of site and surroundings - KBCN0685

The method of conducting the visual audit of the site and its surroundings required for a Security Needs Assessment (SNA) is at the discretion of the Suitably Qualified Security Specialist (SQSS). It can be carried out as a site visit, or through the review of relevant project information and drawings, provided the SQSS is satisfied that these are sufficient to inform their SNA & associated security recommendations. The approach should be justifiable in terms of the scale, complexity, location and any other specific aspects of the assessed development.
24/06/22 - Applicability to UK NC2018 confirmed

Zoning and control – dimming - KBCN1018

Localised dimming controls installed in line with the criteria, along with a master on/off switch, can be considered as meeting the aim of the requirement for 'controls' in open plan offices. The aim is for occupants to have local control over their lighting and maintain comfortable lighting levels.

Zoning and control – exemplary level criteria - KBCN1545

The exemplary level criteria applies only to lighting zones in the asset where: Where lighting zones do not have dimming controls fitted, these must be clearly evidenced and justified.

Zoning and control – PIR in circulation spaces - KBCN0332

PIR controls can be deemed compliant in circulation spaces such as corridors. In this instance 'separate occupant controls' are not required. The requirement for user control is so that the building users can have direct control over their immediate work environment to ensure it is suitable for their personal needs. In circulation spaces, occupancy is transient and PIR control in these spaces is acceptable.  

Zoning and occupant control – access to lighting controls - KBCN00032

The relevant areas for the criteria apply only to areas where users are expected to have control. For instance, this means that areas intended for the general public, or a shop floor would not be expected to have lighting controls. The general principle which applies to user access to general environmental controls (heating, cooling, ventilation) may also apply to access to lighting controls. See KBCN0170. However, the the exact approach may differ between the two types of systems and assessor judgement must be used to determine compliance. In all cases zoning is required in all areas of the asset where specified in the assessment criteria. Please refer to the specific requirements of the applicable BREEAM standard to interpret this guidance appropriately.
14-Dec-2022 - KBCN applicability updated to include BIU. Wording updated. Link to KBCN0170 created.

Zoning and occupant control – control via BMS - KBCN0703

Occupant control via a BMS is not normally considered a compliant BREEAM solution. Any solution that requires the action of a third party (eg facilities manager) is not considered under the control of the occupant. Solutions where all relevant building occupants have control via a user-interface via BMS may be considered compliant where the assessor is satisfied that the aim of the criteria are met. User-control must be available directly to the occupant.
01/08/2017 - KBCN applicability to Thermal comfort Issue removed.

Zoning and occupant control – PIR detection systems - KBCN0335

The aim of the Health & Wellbeing category is to recognise ways to benefit occupants through giving them control of their lighting environment. Without manual overrides, presence or absence detection lighting controls (such as PIR detection systems) are not compliant with the criteria. BREEAM recognises the energy efficiency benefits of detection systems in buildings through the Energy category. In some cases, the design team may have to prioritise one particular lighting strategy to the detriment of achieving a credit elsewhere.
28 04 2021 Wording amended to include absence detection systems.
18 09 2017 Wording amended to clarify the meaning.
 

Zoning and occupant control – whiteboards and display screens - KBCN1433

Whiteboards and display screens in dedicated teaching or presentation spaces require separate zoning and control for lighting, as specified in the criteria. Lighting around whiteboards and display screens which are typically found in general office areas, meeting rooms, or in other generic spaces do not require separate zoning and control to meet the criteria. In such cases, the assessor should provide justification. Whiteboards and display screens in dedicated teaching / presentation spaces are likely to be used frequently, and require appropriate zoning and control. An increasing number of offices and meeting rooms now include display screens - however separate zoning and control may not be appropriate.

Zoning and occupant controls – handheld remote controls - KBCN1243

Remote control light switches can be considered as compliant, on the basis that these are provided in sufficient numbers/locations to meet the aim of the criteria.

[KBCN withdrawn] ~ Daylighting – Education buildings - KBCN1031

This KBCN has been withdrawn and replaced with the more detailed KBCN1272.
KBCN withdrawn on 13/08/2019:

Where the requirements of Education and Skills Funding Agency Generic Design Brief, November 2017. Technical Annex 2E ‘Daylight and electric lighting’, have been demonstrably met, the BREEAM daylighting requirements can be deemed to have also been met. The two credits for daylighting can be awarded.
 

[KBCN withdrawn] ~ Erratum – Table 1 in GN22 v2.5 - KBCN1436

Table 1 in V2.5 of GN22 has two footnote symbols missing: • Product Type column – Paints and varnishes should read Paints and varnishes* • Product Type column – Wood panels should read Wood panels^
10-Oct-2022 KBCN withdrawn as GN22 has been re-issued with fixes.

[KBCN withdrawn] ~ Pre-requisite – indoor air quality (IAQ) plan after Concept Design stage - KBCN1155

Where the Indoor Air Quality Plan has been produced after the Concept Design stage credits may still be achievable for this issue. Provided that it can be demonstrated that the IAQP has influenced the design and that the late production of the IAQP has not hindered the ability to influence the design and specification of products this would be acceptable to meet this requirement. 
11-Oct-2022 - This KBCN superceded by KBCN1206.

[KBCN withdrawn] ~ Ventilation – BB101 - KBCN1242

This KBCN has been withdrawn and is no longer valid. This is because Building Bulletin 101 was updated in August 2018. 
KBCN withdrawn on 04/02/2019:

The web page that hosts the currently active version of Building Bulletin 101: ventilation for school buildings, available here, states that the document was published on 11th March 2014. However, when opening the document itself, the publishing date refers to '5th July 2006'.

The current version of the standard which should be used is Version 1.4 dated 5th July 2006 within the document.

Information correct as of 29thMarch 2024. Please see kb.breeam.com for the latest compliance information.