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)
Dates of Assessment: November 2 and 11, 2020.
On October 30, 2020, the Construction Office notified the Office of Enviornment of mold growth on the carpet of rooms 215 and 216. Construction personnel indicated a leak during the summer from the penthouse above moistened the protective carpet covering placed on the floors of rooms involved with the renovation. The protective covering was being removed from rooms 215 and 216 when the mold growth was observed. Ceiling tiles were not in place due to the renovation work which allowed the water to directly enter the room instead of absorbing into and staining ceiling tiles that are normally present.
On November 2, 2020, the Office of Environment noted carpet, drwywall, and casework were dry as determined by the use of a moisture meter calibrated for such materials. The Office of Environment directed Contsruction Office to remove the carpet in room 216 due to heavy staining. The carpet in 215 was to be cleaned, disinfected, and reassessed since the mold growth was topical. In addition, a bookcase was to be moved from the wall to assess the back side. The work was performed by a Board approved restoration company on November 5.
On November 11, 2020, the Office of Environment reviewed the area after the restoration work. The carpet was removed from room 216. The wall behind the bookcase and the bookcase's backing did not experience mold growth. The carpet in 215 will remain since cleaning was effective. New flooring will be installed in room 216 in the near future.
The air handling unit in the penthouse above leaks from the condensate pan (condensate produced as a result of removing moisture from the air via cooling coils during air conditioning). The ventilation unit is scheduled to be replaced this coming summer as part of the school's renovation.