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: July 14, 2025
On July 14, 2025, the Office of the Environment was contacted regarding suspect visible mold growth in the custodial office.
The Office of the Environment visited the site on July 14, 2025, to investigate the concern. Approximately three-square feet of mold growth was observed on the block wall within the custodial office.
Relative humidity was found to be above 70% at the time of investigation. Building maintenance (HVAC) was contacted to further investigate.
The block wall mentioned above adjoins a walk-in freezer associated with the school's kitchen.
Food and Nutrition Services was alerted of the concern and a technician was sent to investigate the walk-in freezer. A portion of insulation was found to be missing from the insulation and was replaced.
The mold growth was likely caused by a deficiency in the walk-in freezer’s insulation and a deficiency in the HVAC equipment (dehumidification).
Below are the corrective actions completed for this concern.
Visible mold was cleaned/disinfected by the Office of the Environment while investigating the cause of the mold growth. A dehumidifier was placed within the office as a preventative measure until the root cause of the mold growth was identified and corrected.
Food and Nutrition Services sent a technician to investigate the walk-in freezer. A portion of insulation was found to be missing and was replaced.
Building maintenance (HVAC) completed their investigation on July 16, 2025 and found that the unit servicing the area was delivering air with a temperature of 83.7 degrees Fahrenheit and 79.4% relative humidity.
The Office of the Environment evaluated the space and found no evidence of visible mold and nor elevated relative humidity. The dehumidifier was removed from the office.