Concern: Glenwood Middle School: January 23rd, 2019 (CXXGMS20190000AA)

Location
Media Center
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
A general health symptom was reported and believed to be associated with the work environment.
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(s) of Assessment: February 7 and 12, March 7, April 24, May 15 and 21, 2019

No elevated moisture was detected in the casework or shelving.

Minor dust deposits were observed on bookshelves. It was reported that the bookshelves are not routinely cleaned.

No thermal anomalies were noted in the media center (particularly the skylight) indicative of moisture intrusion.

No odors were detected.

It was reported that during heavy rain events the skylight (media storage) leaks. No mold growth was identified in this area.

The Roof Top Unit (RTU) that services the room was in excellent condition. The filters in the unit were outdated.

The volume of outside air was measured and was less than designed. This information was provided to Building Maintenance (HVAC). Building Maintenance indicated that the ductwork supplying outside air to the computer lab and media center was leaking.

Areas above the drop-ceiling contained exposed fiberglass insulation. It should be noted that it would be unlikely for a significant amount of fibers to enter the supply ductwork as the ductwork would be under positive pressure. If fibers entered the return, they would be exhausted out or filtered by the HVAC system. 

Cleaning supplies, soaps, etc. were observed within the Media Center. The Office of the Environment is unaware if these materials were approved by the Office of Risk Management.

An access port was cut into the ductwork serving the Computer Lab. The ductwork was visibly clean. A sound liner/insulation was not observed within the ductwork (potential source of fiberglass).

Crawlspace

The crawlspace under the media center was assessed. The crawl space is in good condition with plastic sheeting on the ground and sealed at the walls. Additionally, penetrations have been sealed with spray foam. There does not appear to be a significant nexus between the crawl space and the occupied potions of the building.

Corrective Actions
February 11th, 2019

The outdated HVAC filters were replaced.

February 14th, 2019

A request was made for Custodial Service's speacilized cleaning crew to perform a detailed cleaning of the Media Center. This included removing the bottom shelving of bookcases and cleaning the floor underneath. Cleaning of the Media Center was completed on February 25, 2019.

July 1st, 2019

Administration is to ensure that all chemicals (adhesives, household cleaning chemicals, cosmetics, etc.) not approved by HCPSS are removed from the work areas. 

July 1st, 2019

Building Services reported that in order to properly correct the persistent leak within the storage closet, the skylight windows would need to be removed so that a new sill plate could be installed. This item will be added to the deferred maintenance list and work will be completed based on available funding and priority.

August 9th, 2019

Building Maintenance (HVAC) is currently working with an Engineer to have the duct work to the media center (including the TV Studio and Computer lab) unit sealed. The exposed fiberglass insulation above the drop-ceiling will be removed during this work. According to Building Services, the insulation is no longer needed due to a recent roof replacement. Physical work will occur during the Summer of 2019. The date provided is an estimated completion date.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXXGMS20190000AA