HES Receives Silver Level of LEED Certification
ASSA ABLOY's drive to make sustainability an integral part of its business philosophy and culture is apparent in the newly constructed ASSA ABLOY Phoenix building. The Phoenix, Arizona home of Group brands Adams Rite, Alarm Controls, HES, Securitron and LifeSafety Power, incorporates sustainable construction methods that have earned the facility LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
USGBC is an internationally recognized organization that provides the LEED rating system, a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. The Phoenix facility is the first ASSA ABLOY Americas building designed to the LEED Silver level.
Adams Rite moved to the 94,000 square-foot Phoenix facility in 2012, joining HES and Securitron under one roof. Alarm Controls moved in 2013 and LifeSafety Power joined in 2021. When designing the facility, one main priority was to make it as eco-friendly as possible. ASSA ABLOY Phoenix incorporated a wide variety of building design features to help improve energy efficiency, air quality, and sustainability.
New mechanical and electrical systems include a high efficiency air conditioning system, plus Energy Star® applicances and equipment. The building features skylights, automatic controls and sensors that conserve energy as well as lights on motion sensors and timers for climate control. Upgraded insulation and reduced water consumption for plumbing fixtures reduce energy and water usage. Employees in the new building benefit from improved interior air ventilation.
Site features that contribute to the Silver LEED rating include close proximity toa variety of services for employees and the use of native plants in landscapingfor reduced irrigation water use. Bicycle parking and shower facilities support a reduced carbon footprint.
Sustainable practices used in the construction process include recycling and minimizing construction waste, using FSC-certified wood, and low VOC emitting paints, adhesives, and other surfaces throughout the building. Air was also filtered during construction to reduce the spread of dust.
Employees and guests play a significant role in making the work environment healthy and sustainable. Recycling bins are strategically located throughout the building to facilitate recycling for operations and employees. Signs located throughout the building help educate guests and employees of the “green” features of the space and its smoke-free work environment. Environmentally responsible cleaning practices are used to maintain the building. Employees are encouraged and compensated for carpooling and other eco-friendly travel practices. Employees have formed an internal action committee that meets regularly to assess means for improviing our environment for future generations by focusing on our community, facility, and environment.
ASSA ABLOY Phoenix received formal conveyance of its LEED Silver certification in 2012 and enjoy the opportunity to showcase its new home as an example of ASSA ABLOY’s commitment to sustainability.