LEEDS protocols can be tough taskmasters. The increased record keeping and verification requirements stagger an already paper-choked industry. So how can you comply with LEEDS in a risk managed culture?
First, organize. Separate the LEEDS protocol into two main concerns. Materials, products and installation issues; and waste and recycling issues.
Check deliverables for compliance, waste is in the details. Do the materials or products match the specification? If not, source the correct item and send back the deliverable. Don’t wait for the mismatched product to show up on site.
Source materials as close to the site as possible. One of the more difficult LEEDs requirements concerns transporting materials long distances. Transportation and sustainability coexist uncomfortably.
Check every delivered item to confirm compliance with the LEEDs requirements. You may need the documentation to earn the correct ranking.
Plan trash reduction, recycling and removal from the site. Confirm these rules are followed by every contractor. Most construction scrap material can be recycled. Excess product can either be left on site as replacement parts for maintenance or taken to the next site. The next site, however, may not spec that product.
Risk management begins with identifying and assessing risk. Checking deliverables and managing waste implies a gatekeeper on duty to record everything in and everything out. This solution is exactly correct.
Risk reduction, or in this case, increased compliance implies a coordinated effort. Take a leadership role in recycling and trash reduction. Be innovative. Reward active participants in some small way.
Reducing the volume of excess material brought to the site might require simply limiting storage or lay down space. Force subcontractors to right-size their incoming material orders.
Finally, commission the final product. Commissioning companies find defects or confirm completion. Either way, you have the opportunity to correct LEEDs defects or rejoice in a job well done.
Leeds is about documenting the process. Confirm and document everything, every day on the job site. The audit will move along much smoother.
