A LEED-designed building is only as sustainable as its day-to-day operation, according to an article on the Medical Construction & Design website.
Generating engagement and quality input from maintenance staff at every stage of design is needed for creating sustainable designs that are sustainable in real life.
To achieve sustainable operation:
1. Start with integrative design
2. Involve line-level maintenance staff early in the design
3. Be clear about maintenance hazards
4. Train staff
True sustainability is active, starting with a design process that accounts for the real-world needs of maintenance staff, and continuing throughout the life of the building.