Concern: Howard High School: June 18th, 2020 (CXHOHS202000016B)

Location
Portable Villa - Custodial Closet
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
A backflow preventer within the custodial closet of the portable failed. Water impacted drywall and sub-flooring was identified on June 16, 2020.
IEQ Investigation Process

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)
Findings

Date of Assessment: June 16, 2020

The Office of the Environment arrived onsite and met with a plumber from Building Maintenance. The backflow preventer had already been replaced.

Water was reported to have been relatively contained within the custodial closet. 

Elevated moisture was detected in the left and back drywall (approximately one-foot up). 

A floor tile was peeled up. The subfloor also contained elevated moisture and a musty odor was present.

Based on the extent of impact and odor present under the flooring, the Office of the Environment concluded that the leak bad been occurring slowly for sometime (not a one time event).

Corrective Actions
June 17th, 2020

A board-approved restoration contractor removed impacted drywall from the custodial closet. After removal, mold growth (2-3 linear feet) observed on the backside of the drywall associated with the adjoining hallway and adjoining bathroom. This drywall was also removed. The floor tile within the custodial closet was also removed and discarded. Wood framing and the plywood subfloor were cleaned, dried, and then encapsulated before replacing building materials. Work was conducted under a negative pressure containment.

 

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXHOHS202000016B