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: November 6, 21, and December 12, 2019
The office area contains floor tile, drywall, and a drop-ceiling. One supply diffuser is located in the space.
A black dust/fiberous material was observed on the desk and shelves (minor). Minor deposits of general dust (grey in color) were also observed on horizontal surfaces.
No visible emissions were observed from the supply diffuser in the space during the assessment.
The air handling unit that services the space was inspected. The sound liner (black) was observed to be delaminating and deteriorating. According to the manufacturer the sound liner lining is made of a fabric material.
Tape was used to remove particulate from a bookshelf within the Nurse's Office and to remove portions of the sound liner for comparison. The fibers observed on the bookshelf were similar in size.
It should be noted that according to a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency dated October 10, 1995, no asbestos-containing materials were used in the construction of the building.
A screening for particulate matter was conducted using a TSI AeroTrak Particle Counter (Model #9306-V2).
Particulate matter “is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that get into the air. The data collected does not distinguish between types of particles in the air which can include pollen, skin cells, soil, human/animal hairs, etc. Particles designated as “respirable” are less than 10 micrometers (µm) in diameter and typically fall into two categories, coarse and fine particles. Coarse particles are those that are less than 10 µm (PM10) and fine particles are those less than 2.5 µm (PM2.5). ANSI/ASHRAE standard 62.1-2016 suggests target indoor concentration for PM2.5 and PM10 of 12 and 50 µg/m3 respectively.
The screening indicated that indoor particle concentrations were below the ANSI/ASHRAE recommendation (PM2.5 = 2 µg/m3 and PM10 = 13 - 16 µg/m3).
"Cheesecloth" was placed on the supply diffuser. The cheesecloth was inspected after being in place for several weeks. No major dust deposits were observed on the cloth, suggesting that the dust/fibers are not originating from the HVAC system.
While assessing the space in December, general dust was observed on horizontal surfaces. Additionally, a red "S" shaped fiber was observed on a bookshelf. This fiber may have been from carpet and clothing and would be considered general dust.
Several "nick-nacks", picture-frames, desk lamps, and a stuffed animal were observed.
A fan and portable heater were also observed. These items were not observed to be plugged in.
The occupant can consider removing the stuffed animal (hamster), desk lighting, and other items from desks/bookshelves. Removal of these items will make the areas easier for custodial staff to clean.
The Office of the Environment does not recommend stuffed animals as they tend trap dust.
Stand-alone lamps are not recommended per the Howard County Fire Marshall.
Administration is to ensure that the space-heater is removed. This item is restricted per the State of Maryland.
Administration and Custodial can consider increasing the frequency of cleaning in the health office.
Building Services (HVAC) is to replace the deteriorating sound-liner.