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 11 and 14, 2018
No mold growth was observed.
No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.
A "fishy" odor was noticed within the room.
The supply and return ducts were assessed. The odor did not appear to be emanating from the ducts.
The room was surveyed for the odor. The odor appeared to be emanating from the room's acoustical ceiling tile (fiberglass, "fishy" odors are commonly associated with fiberglass).
The rooms Dedicated Outside Air Unit (DOAU) (on the roof) was not operating at the time of the assessment (allowing the odor to build-up).
Building Services (HVAC)/Construction reported the DOAU unit was "tripping" due to a programming issue.
Building Services (HVAC) disassembled the rooms Variable Air Volume (VAV) box (within the room) and assessed the unit. The air filter within the unit appeared slightly dirty. No other concerns were identified.
The Office of the Environment returned to the room during a routine IEQ Walkthrough. The HVAC was not operational due to building closure. A very strong "fishy" odor was present within the space.
Building Services (HVAC) replaced the dirty filter within the VAV box.
The Dedicated Outside Air Unit that services the space operated over the weekend to dilute the odor. The space was re-evaluated and the odor had dissipated. The controls were adjusted to prevent the unit from tripping.
The Office of the Environment requested that Construction not install this type of tile for future projects.