Abbreviated LEED AP O+M, the operations and maintenance credential by the USGBC is the replacement specialty for the previous designation of AP for Existing Buildings (EB), which will be phased out during the course of 2009.
LEED AP O+M professionals, who deal with the operation and maintenance of existing structures that implement sustainable practices, must attempt to keep the structures’ carbon footprint in check for the life of the building. In all practicality, it’s a program to promote responsible practices within a LEED-certified structure, ensuring that the practices kept in mind during the course of the project remain as eco-friendly as they were intended.
Honestly, what good does it do to have a LEED certified structure if the people who manage the building are not familiar with the energy efficient components installed within and do not utilize those components to their full potential?
This may be the most useful of all the LEED designations because it ensures responsible practices are used consistently year-in and year-out. In the long run being eco-friendly on a consistent basis is much more important than just building an efficient building -- it’s how you use it that will make the difference.
The differences between the EB and O+M credentials have more to do with LEED points and paperwork than actual practice. The newer program will be more streamlined, making it clearer where additional green points can be scored and reducing the amount of prerequisites needed to acquire the designation.
O+M will also make it easier for LEED professionals to report on large portfolios of projects and will increasingly emphasize the operations and maintenance aspects of sustaining a LEED certified structure.
Not only will the new program make it easier to earn additional points for responsible everyday practices within the green building, they have implemented points for encouraging building occupants to be more eco-friendly while not in the building. For example, points can be earned for installing bike racks or putting up carpool signs.
All in all, the changeover in LEED programs has more to do with making their designations more specific and streamlining the process by which professionals can report back to the USBGC; but hopefully the improvements will trickle down to the general masses by way of reduced administrative costs and more knowledgeable, less frustrated professionals working on our building projects.
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