Clarksville, Tenn.—Florim USA earned the WELL health-safety rating through the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). According to the company, Florim USA is the first porcelain tile manufacturer and the largest size manufacturer to accomplish this goal.
The WELL health-safety rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating for all new and existing building and space types, focusing on operational policies, maintenance protocols, stakeholder engagement and emergency plans to address a post-COVID-19 environment now and into the future. WELL health-safety rating can help guide users in preparing their spaces for re-entry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, instilling confidence in those who come through the building as well as the broader community, according to the company.
The WELL health-safety rating provides a centralized source and governing body to validate efforts made by owners and operators. It leverages insights drawn from the IWBI Task, the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as recognized standard-making associations such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and ASHRAE. It sets the building standard and premier framework for advancing health in buildings and spaces of all kinds, according to the company.
“The WELL health-safety rating represents the company’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of our employees and customers,” said Don Haynes, sustainability and environmental manager. “This intersects with Florim’s longstanding efforts and core values that places emphasis on health, safety and the environment.”
For achievement of the WELL health-safety rating, Florim USA said it implemented a range of internal protocols and measures such as extra surface cleaning, masking policies at least in accordance with local requirements, remote work policies and a staged return to the office. Policies and procedures such as indoor air quality, employee benefits and natural disaster response rates were reviewed as part of achieving the rating, according to the company.
Florim USA was awarded the WELL health-safety rating following the successful completion of third-party documentation review by GBCI to confirm it has met the feature specific intents and requirements.