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 of Assessment: October 7, 2021
The school called the Office of Environment to report an odor generated from work being conducted in the gymnasium. The call was received approximately 11:45 am. The Office of Environment arrived on site approximately 12:30 pm.
At the time of arrival, work had been completed and contractor off site. Closed containers of a product, Bona Super Sport DTS, were observed in the gym storage room. It was later confirmed the contractor had sealed the wood gym floor with Bona Super Sport DTS which is Greenguard Gold Certified for Indoor Air Quality (low emissions) and approved by the Maple Flooring Manufacturer's Association. The product's safety data sheet (SDS) was reviewed. The product is not considered hazardous by OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200), thus no hazardous ingredients listed on the SDS.
Personnel indicted odor was sensed in the administration area and the front lobby. Upon arrival, an outstanding odor was not detected in the hallways, lobby, or administration area. Staff indicated the odor had subsided. A slight dull soapy odor was detected within the gymnasium. The gym doors to lobby were closed with dry mop heads at the bottom of the doors.
Based on previous experience, the gym is under strong positive pressure (air blows out from gym into hallway).
Based on product information, any odor should be considered nuisance (not health concern). The odor/vapors also should have been reduced by school's ventilation system and volume of area covered.
Building Maintenance was informed of the incident. The gym ventilation was to be turned off. Timing (school hours versus after school) and adjusting ventilation controls are to be considered if additional odorous work is to take place with the new gym floor installation project.