Concern: Guilford Elementary School: March 15th, 2021 (CXXGES20210001AE)

Location
ALS Classroom / Room 121- in the closet
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
This morning we found mold growing in our closet and on some of our belongings for the program in the closet. Some was white mold and some was black mold.
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:  March 15, 2021

The Office of Environment gathered information from staff within the room to assist with assessment.

The item in question was a camouflage vinyl bean bag chair with white powdery mildew thought to be from a past extended period of elevated relative humidity (>70%).

Surfaces of various materials, casework, and furniture were inspected within the closet and classroom.  No additional surfaces were found to have mold growth.

The ventilation roof top unit 7 serves this classroom along with five others.  Classrooms 119 and 137 were inspected to ensure the ventilation unit was not a contributing factor.  No additional mold growth was observed. 

The bean bag chair was considered an isolated incident and was clean/disinfected.

The closet in room 119 (music room) has various wood items and there was heavy dust buildup in the closet. The dust buildup is a potential source for mold growth under the right conditions.  In addition, dust (allergens) will be disturbed when handling and/or retrieving items from the closet.

Corrective Actions
March 16th, 2021

Teachers using the room and custodial staff are to work together when time permits to clean the closet of visible settled dust.  It is recommended to vacuum off using a custodial HEPA vacuum with a brush attachment.  If necessary than wipe off with a microfiber cloth.

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXXGES20210001AE