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: August 22, 2019
The Office of the Environment confirmed the presence of mold growth on two chairs within the Gym Office. One of the chairs had been moved outside to be discarded. A recent rain storm had made the mold growth less visible, but was still present. This chair was reported to be heavily impacted.
Minor mold growth was observed on the arm-rests of the additional chair.
The remainder of the Gym Office was inspected. No mold growth was observed on any other items.
The mechanical drawings for the space were reviewed. The gym office is served by an individual ceiling mounted unit ventilator.
The unit ventilator supplies outside air but is not connected to the HCPSS Building Automation System.
The unit ventilator's fan speed was set on high. The fan speed was adjusted to low while onsite.
Weather conditions and HCPSS' inability to remotely alter the run-time of the unit are the likely cause of the mold growth.
As the Office remains unoccupied during the summer, a re-occurring work order will be created by Building Services (HVAC) to turn the unit off at the end of the school year and turn it back on when staff returns. This will limit the potential for humid outside air to be delivered to the space during unfavorable summer conditions. The ability for this condition to occur is dependent on outdoor temperatures and humidity.
The chair heavily impacted by mold growth was discarded. The chair with minor impacts (only the arm-rests) was cleaned/disinfected by Custodial Services.