Concern: Guilford Elementary School: July 7th, 2022 (CXXGES2022000228)

Location
Room 162
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
In this classroom, myself and other teachers have experienced allergy like symptoms after being in the classroom within an hour. We experienced runny nose, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and sneezing while being in there, but those symptoms stopped when we were not in the classroom for some time.
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: July 21 and 26, 2022

The temperature (76.8 degrees Fahrenheit) and relative humidity (52.8%) were acceptable.

No mold indicative of extended elevated humidity was observed on surfaces. 

The carpet, drywall, and bookcase (under window) were probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected. 

The room was screened with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were observed. 

No moldy/musty odors were sensed within the space.

Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. No indication of moisture intrusion issues were identified. No odors were identified above the ceiling. 

Areas around the chalkboard had significant chalk dust in the tray and on the carpet around the chalkboard. Additionally, chalk was observed on the ground. The air purifier was located directly next to a significant portion of the chalk dust. The air purifiers outlet was directed towards the chalk dust and appeared to be significant enough to render the chalk dust airborne creating a potential for inhalation or skin contact. 

The space is served by Roof Top Unit-3 (RTU-3) and Variable Air Volume (VAV) Box 3-7.

The flexible duct for the ventilation system was connected when observing above the drop ceiling. The thermal infrared camera indicated that the supply diffusers were supplying conditioned air.

No odors or noises were identified in association with the VAV box.

During the assessment of RTU-3, the following was noted:

  • The filters were in good condition.
  • The outside air dampers were open.
  • The condensate drain pan and and coils appeared acceptable.
  • The condensate drain pipe was cracked.
Corrective Actions
July 26th, 2022

Custodial Services is to vacuum the chalk dust from the floor, chalk trays and the air purifier (top and sides). Consider moving the air purifier to a different location in the room to avoid incidental disturbance of chalk dust in the future. 

July 26th, 2022

A work order was created for Building Maintenance (HVAC) to correct the broken condensate pipe (on roof).

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXXGES2022000228