Concern: Bonnie Branch Middle School: September 17th, 2019 (CXBBMS2019000111)

Location
Room 44
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
I believe the filter in my room needs to be changed. I sneeze and cough constantly from the time I enter my classroom, throughout the day, until a few hours after I am home. This does not happen to me on the weekends; it happens at school, despite being on allergy meds. If the problem is not in my classroom, then it is in the school. I believe the air filtration system needs to be refreshed and filters replaced. I am allergic to all outdoor and indoor irritants, and my triggers are ignited from the time I enter this building until a few hours after I return home each day.
IEQ Investigation Process

Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:

  • interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
  • inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
  • inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
  • inspection of exterior
  • inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Findings

Date(s) of Assessment: September 19, 2019

Temperature and relative humidity readings were acceptable. Carbon dioxide readings were elevated (1,486 parts per million (ppm)). Elevated carbon dioxide measurements are indicative of a lack of outdoor ventilation.

No mold growth was observed in the space.

No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet or drywall.

No concerns were identified above the drop-ceiling.

The room is serviced by a Dedicated Outdoor Air Unit (DOAU) (Unit #1) and a Fan Coil Unit (FCU).

No concerns were identified with the FCU.

The outdoor air unit was off at the time of the inspection. The filters were heavily loaded and out-of-date.

Building Services (HVAC) indicated that the unit was shut-off because the overloaded filters were causing the unit to malfunction.

Corrective Actions
September 24th, 2019

Building Services reported that the filters were changed and the unit was turned back on.

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXBBMS2019000111