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(s) of Assessment: May 6, 2019
Several weeks ago, room B29 experienced an odor from a dead mouse. The odor diffused into the adjacent room (B31).
The odor reported in association with this concern was detected in Room B31 and was reported to have lasted for two days. A similar odor occurred months ago and was reported to have lasted for three days.
An odor and/or odor sources were not detected in rooms B29, B31, or surrounding classrooms, mechanical areas, and storage closets during the assessment.
B29 is the Family Consumer Science (FACS) classroom. Floor drain, dryer vent, dishwasher, cabinets, and sink traps were inspected and acceptable. The sanitary vents for the sinks and nearby water fixtures (i.e. water fountains) were connected and vented through the roof.
The condition above the drop ceilings in B29 and B31 was acceptable.
The ventilation systems (individual heat pump units connected to a dedicated outdoor air handling unit) serving the rooms were acceptable.
The floor drain trap between heat pump 30 and 31 was dried out in mechanical room 262. A dried out trap can allow for odors to back-flow. Any air leakage in the heat pump equipment may draw in the odor and introduce into the occupied space.
School administration is to inform custodial staff to dump water down the floor drain between heat pump units 30 and 31 (labeled) located in the mechanical room 262. When walking into 262, it is the two units on the far left side towards the back corner (air filters stored nearby). Custodial staff should periodically pour water (~5 gallons) down the floor drains in the mechanical room to keep the traps from drying out.
School administration is to inform staff to immediately contact the Office of Environment when the odor is detected. The Office of Environment will visit if readily available.