Which of the following is an IEQ strategy that supports occupant well-being?

• A. Enhanced ventilation and daylighting
• B. Water-efficient fixtures
• C. Exterior building orientation
• D. Sound masking devices

Answer: (A)

Focusing on how IEQ strategies influence occupant well-being, enhanced ventilation and daylighting address two of the most direct and impactful factors: air quality and lighting. Adequate ventilation lowers indoor pollutant levels and CO2, which helps reduce symptoms like headaches and fatigue and supports better cognitive function. Daylighting brings in natural light, improving visual comfort, mood, and circadian alignment, which enhances alertness and overall well-being. Together, they improve the daily living and working environment in ways that most strongly support occupant health and comfort.

Water-efficient fixtures mainly target water use and resource conservation rather than occupant well-being inside the space. Exterior building orientation influences daylight access and energy performance at a broader design level but isn’t an indoor environmental quality strategy itself. Sound masking devices improve acoustical comfort, which is important, but they don’t address air quality and daylight in the same foundational way as combining ventilation with daylighting.