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: December 21, 2021 and January 11, 2022.
Previous concerns similar to this and in the surrounding area were reviewed (October 28, 2019 and January 3, 2020). In addition, the most recent IEQ HVAC (December 16, 2021) and general (September 14, 2021) assessments were reviewed. These can be reviewed on HCPSS IEQ Web Page at ieq.hcpss.org.
The Office of Environment contacted Building Services to follow up on the peppermint test conducted as per the IEQ concern dated January 3, 2020. The peppermint test was performed on June 17, 2020. The peppermint odor was detected along the wall (shared with hallway) in room 156. This indicates a potential void / connection in a sanitary vent allowing a nuisance odor to emanate under certain conditions.
The January 11, 2020 investigation was performed in the morning hour between 7 - 8 a.m. No unusual or outstanding odors detected in girls restroom, 150, 153, closet in commons area of 151, and room 156. A slight vinyl / plastic odor aroma was sensed in room 150. Thought to be related to materials within the room. No odors were detected above the drop ceiling.
The storm drain chase in the corner of the room behind the door was reviewed and no deficiencies found.
The room's air return and supply diffuser were functioning.
The gypsum roof deck above the areas inspected was in good condition. An thermal imager was used to scan the roof deck and some interior walls. No thermal anomalies were revealed to indicate a moisture concern.
The wall shared between room 150 and girls restroom has some voids above the drop ceiling created by mechanical equipment (conduit, HVAC duct, etc.).
Some snack foods were out on the casework and not stored in sealed containers to prevent rodents from readily accessing.
Nearby visible storm water drains and sanitary vents above the drop ceiling were tracked to ensure connection. No deficiencies found.
Plumbing blueprints from the last renovation were again reviewed to determine past and current use of area(s) and what plumbing lines may have removed and added. No issues were identified.
Building Services is to seal voids above drop ceiling in the shared wall between room 150 and girls restroom.
Building Services has been requested to continue the investigation as to the source and pathway of the peppermint test. This may involve destructive and/or invasive work.
Snack foods were left out on casework and accessible to potential rodents. Place food items in a sealed dense plastic container.