Concern: Fulton Elementary School: June 1st, 2020 (CXXFES2020000168)

Location
Portable
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
I am concerned that there is a mold issue in the portable, perhaps the carpet holding moisture? My colleague and I have noted that within a few minutes of entering there I begin to cough terribly. It doesn’t happen in the main building. It doesn’t happen at my other school either. I have been assigned to the FES portable for the Fall and am concerned for my health.
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 of Assessment:  June 16, 2020

Partly sunny day with temperature of 72 degrees, relative humidity 46%, and dew point 49 degrees.

All classrooms, restrooms, and utility closets were inspected.

Odors were not detected within the portable wing.

Mold growth was not observed on inspected surfaces.

Carpeting was dry as determined by the use of a moisture probe.

The area above the drop ceiling was found to be acceptable.

Drywall along exterior walls, HVAC return air wall cavity (plastic access panel removed), and restroom walls containing plumbing were tested with a moisture meter calibrated for drywall.  All locations were dry with exception to room 3. The drywall below the right window showed possible signs of moisture damage (paper layer rippled) and showed moderate moisture when tested with the moisture meter.  The suspect area was cut out for inspection.  No mold growth was observed.

Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in rooms 2, 8, 9, and in the utility closet.

Carbon dioxide wall sensors in rooms 1 and 8 were missing their top cover exposing electronic circuit board.

Ventilation units were off per HCPSS summer time / break guidelines to reduce the potential for mold growth in portables.

Corrective Actions
June 19th, 2020

Building Services will assess and correct cause of stained ceiling tiles.  The ceiling tiles are to be replaced after repairs have been made.

June 19th, 2020

The carbon dioxide sensors are to be fully covered to protect circuit board.

June 19th, 2020

The drywall and window in room 3 are to be evaluated, source corrected, and wall damage repaired.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXXFES2020000168