LEED Green Associate Practice Test

What is a flush-out process used for in buildings?

1. To clean the exterior of the building

2. To improve aesthetic value with fresh air

3. To remove airborne contaminants from the interior

4. To increase humidity inside the building

The correct answer is: To remove airborne contaminants from the interior

The flush-out process in buildings is primarily used to remove airborne contaminants from the interior environment. This process typically involves increasing the ventilation rate and introducing large volumes of fresh outdoor air into the interior spaces, which helps to dilute and exhaust pollutants that may have accumulated during construction or prior occupancy. By effectively ventilating the space, the flush-out helps enhance indoor air quality, making the environment safer and more comfortable for occupants. This is particularly important in achieving and maintaining health-focused goals in sustainable building practices, such as those promoted by LEED. The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of a flush-out process: cleaning the exterior of the building does not relate to indoor air quality; while fresh air may improve aesthetics, it is not the primary function of the flush-out; and increasing humidity is not a goal of this process, as flush-out typically aims to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.