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: October 30, November 21, and December 4, 2019
No mold growth or musty odors were observed/sensed in the room.
Temperature (71.7 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (52.4%), carbon dioxide (909 parts per million (ppm), and carbon monoxide (0.0 pm) were acceptable.
The individual mentioned mice have been observed in the room's storage closet.
A refrigerator, table cloth, and a plant with no water barrier were observed in the space.
No mold growth or odors were observed or sensed above the room's drop-ceiling.
Extremely minor water staining (no mold growth) was observed above the drop-ceiling, on pipe insulation.
No elevated moisture was detected in the rooms casework or drywall.
No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were observed in the classroom.
A thermal anomaly was identified in the storage closet (along the back wall, opposite the door). This wall adjoins the computer lab. The thermal anomaly was probed with a moisture meter for confirmation. No elevated moisture was detected. The Office of the Environment returned on November 21, 2019 to observe the wall prior to the operation of the HVAC system. A faint thermal anomaly was still present.
An access hole was cut to observe the back-side of the drywall in the location of the thermal anomaly. No mold growth was observed.
The HVAC unit that services the space was inspected. No concerns were identified with the filters, coils, condensate drain/pan, or outside air dampers.
Fabric materials such as table cloths must be cleaned by the individual that brought them in on a regular basis. The dust from these items can impact individuals with allergies. Administration is to ensure this cleaning is conducted.
Administration is to ensure live plants have a barrier to catch excess water. Alternatively, the plant could be taken home by the individual that brought it in.
A refrigerator was observed in the classroom. Appliances are not recommended (energy savings) for the classroom unless there is an instructional need. Administration is to determine if the refrigerator is needed for instruction. If it is not, it should be removed by the individual who brought it in.
The Office of the Environment did not observe any signs of pest activity in the closet. If pest activity is noted, a work order should be submitted to the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) department.
Building Services is to address the cause of the minor water staining above the drop-ceiling. They will also check the operation of the rooms Variable Air Volume (VAV) Box while onsite.