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)
Date of Assessment: October 4, 2021
A concern of the same nature was reported and investigated on October 2018. This is documented on HCPSS IEQ Web Page under Bushy Park Elementary as CXBPES201800006D dated October 3, 2021.
The Office of Environment detected the odor within the media and continues to conclude the odor is associated with the skylight system during certain extreme and extended weather patterns (summer time, moisture/relative humidity/dew point).
Available information suggests that if skylights are not maintained (coated), the surfacing may start to fail where water vapor interacts with fiberglass components which promotes an odor.
The condition of ventilation unit serving the media center is acceptable. The outdoor air dampers were open which provides dilution.
Building Services issued a purchase order with a roofing contractor to further investigate the sky light as for possible failure and confirming the source of odor before moving forward with possible solutions, such as repairing or replacing the skylight.
The Office of Environment is in the process of reaching out to the skylight manufacturer to collect any additional information that may assist with addressing the concern.