WELL
Certification framework for occupant health in buildings
SQF
GFSI-benchmarked food safety certification standard
Quick Verdict
WELL certifies buildings for occupant health via 10 concepts and on-site testing, while SQF ensures food safety through HACCP and GMP audits. Companies adopt WELL for ESG and productivity, SQF for retailer compliance and recall prevention.
WELL
WELL Building Standard v2
Key Features
- Mandatory on-site performance verification testing
- 10 core concepts with Preconditions and Optimizations
- Point-based tiers: Bronze to Platinum certification
- People-first focus complementing LEED sustainability
- Continuous monitoring pathways for ongoing compliance
SQF
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular architecture: Module 2 plus sector GMPs
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan mandatory
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer acceptance
- Designated full-time SQF Practitioner required
- Annual audits with unannounced verification
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
WELL Details
What It Is
WELL Building Standard v2 is a performance-based certification framework administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). It focuses on designing, operating, and verifying buildings to advance human health and well-being through evidence-based strategies. Its concept-based approach organizes requirements into 10 core areas with mandatory Preconditions and optional Optimizations.
Key Components
- **10 conceptsAir, Water, Nourishment, Light, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Mind, Community (plus Innovation).
- 24 Preconditions and 102 Optimizations for scoring.
- Built on public health research; certification via Bronze (40 points), Silver (50), Gold (60), Platinum (80) with concept minimums.
- Emphasizes on-site performance verification and continuous monitoring.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives occupant health, productivity, and ESG reporting; complements LEED. Reduces risks like poor IEQ; boosts rents, retention, reputation.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, scorecard, documentation, third-party review/testing, recertification every 3 years. Applies to new/existing buildings across industries; requires cross-functional teams.
SQF Details
What It Is
Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program administered by SQFI, focusing on food safety and quality across the supply chain from farm to fork. It employs a HACCP-based, risk-oriented approach with modular codes for sectors like manufacturing and storage.
Key Components
- Module 2 (universal system elements: management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability)
- Sector-specific GMP/PRP modules (e.g., Module 11 for processing)
- Over 200 auditable clauses emphasizing PRPs, CAPA, internal audits
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; certification via third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades)
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer/brand mandatory requirements for market access
- Reduces recalls, audit duplication; enhances supply chain resilience
- Builds food safety culture via leadership accountability
- Provides GFSI recognition for global trade confidence
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification audit
- Applies to manufacturers, distributors; scalable by size/sector
- Requires SQF Practitioner, annual surveillance audits including unannounced
Key Differences
| Aspect | WELL | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Occupant health, 10 concepts (air, water, mind) | Food safety, HACCP, GMP modules |
| Industry | Buildings, real estate, all sectors globally | Food manufacturing, supply chain, global |
| Nature | Voluntary performance certification | Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked certification |
| Testing | On-site performance verification, continuous monitoring | Annual third-party audits, internal audits |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, no legal penalties | Loss of certification, market access denial |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about WELL and SQF
WELL FAQ
SQF FAQ
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