Johnson Controls has deepened its collaboration with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). The company aims to expand on its existing building certification consulting services to incorporate WELL certification into its technologies and services.

The move by Johnson Controls is designed to help building operators meet objectives in areas such as ESG reporting, human and social capital management, and workplace strategy and policy.

In April 2021, Johnson Controls announced a global relationship with IWBI to accelerate the reinvention of healthy buildings through technology development, outcome-based planning and best practices that improve the health and safety of people in buildings and communities. In addition to certifying its headquarters facilities, Johnson Controls has also committed to embedding the programme into its organisation to bring the WELL Building Standard to its global customers.

Two of Johnson Controls’ global headquarters buildings in Shanghai and Glendale, Wisconsin have also achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating from IWBI for the second year. The WELL Health-Safety Rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating for all facility types focused on operational policies, maintenance protocols, emergency plans and stakeholder education to address acute health threats now and broader health- and safety-related issues into the future.

Enhancements implemented at the Glendale, Wisconsin and Shanghai facility include updates to the company’s emergency preparedness, health-service resources, and air and water quality.

“The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role that buildings – and those who operate and manage them – play in supporting people’s health, safety and well-being,” said Thad Steffen, vice president, Enterprise Property Group & Security, Johnson Controls. “Having confidence in the safety of their work environment is of utmost importance to our workforce, and that’s why pursuing this rating means so much to Johnson Controls and our employees.” 

“Now more than ever, ensuring that our indoor spaces are healthy is a critical business need – especially as our customers manage hybrid work models,” said Tyler Smith, vice president, Healthy Buildings, Johnson Controls. “Partnering with IWBI to advance the WELL Building Standard supports our holistic approach in creating healthier and safer environments that cut building costs, raise productivity and deliver on sustainability goals. We look forward to leveraging our new WELL EP designation to help our customers realise the business value of operating buildings that prioritise health and wellness.”

“In leveraging and engaging in WELL, Johnson Controls is able to drive organisational returns while also integrating evidence-based building strategies that advance health and well-being,” said Jessica Cooper, Chief Product Officer, IWBI. “We are thrilled to have Johnson Controls—a marked industry leader in transforming the built environment—onboard as a WELL Enterprise Provider, deepening its commitment to creating people-first places and helping others do the same.”