The NCIDQ IDPX exam tests the designer’s knowledge of sustainable design and material safety, particularly regarding chemicals of concern in building products. Formaldehyde, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and phthalates are chemicals often targeted in sustainable design due to their environmental and health impacts.
Option A (The Red List):This is the correct choice. The Red List, developed by the International Living Future Institute as part of the Living Building Challenge, identifies chemicals and materials that are harmful to human health and the environment and should be avoided in building projects. Formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), PVC (which can release toxins during production and disposal), and phthalates (endocrine disruptors often used in plastics) are all on the Red List due to their toxicity and environmental impact.
Option B (Class C finishes):Class C finishes refer to a fire classification for interior finishes based on flame spread and smoke development (e.g., per ASTM E84). This classification is unrelated to chemical composition or toxicity.
Option C (Hazardous building types):There is no standard category called “hazardous building types” in building codes or design standards. This option is incorrect and not a recognized term.
Option D (CAL 133 compliant products):CAL 133 (California Technical Bulletin 133) is a flammability standard for furniture, requiring resistance to open flame ignition. It focuses on fire safety, not the presence of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, PVC, or phthalates.
Verified Answer from Official Source:
The correct answer is verified from NCIDQ’s official study materials on sustainable design and material health.
“The Red List includes chemicals such as formaldehyde, PVC, and phthalates, which are identified as harmful to human health and the environment and should be avoided in sustainable design.” (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Sustainable Design Section)
The NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide confirms that formaldehyde, PVC, and phthalates are part of the Red List, a tool used in sustainable design to avoid toxic materials. This aligns with Option A, making it the correct answer.
Objectives:
Understand the Red List and its role in sustainable design (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Sustainable Design).
Apply material health knowledge to select safe products (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Materials and Finishes).
[References:, NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Sustainable Design Section., International Living Future Institute, Red List of Chemicals., National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), IDPX Exam Blueprint, Section on Sustainable Design., ]
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