Concern: Howard High School: November 11th, 2021 (CXHOHS2021000201)

Location
Health Room
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
The school nurse is reporting that there is mold on the ceiling and walls in the health suite bathrooms.
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:  November 12, 2021

Mold growth was observed on the cement block walls, drywall ceilings, and metal exhaust grilles of the health suite restrooms.  In addition, the metal supply air diffusers within the health suite had mold growth.

Areas surrounding the health suite and served by the same ventilation unit were inspected for mold growth.  Room D110 was observed to have mold on the back wall (cement block) and ceiling tile surrounding the return grilles.

The mold growth was related to an earlier condition involving the HVAC unit and summer weather conditions.  The HVAC unit had been resolved prior to the mold growth.

Corrective Actions
November 12th, 2021

The Office of Environment cleaned / disinfected the mold growth at the time of the investigation.

November 12th, 2021

Building Services is to replace damaged ceiling tile and HVAC diffusers and grilles.  In addition, ensure restroom exhausts are not running 24/7.

December 4th, 2021

A restoration contractor will be utilized on December 4 to further clean/disinfect the health suite restrooms and repaint the block walls and drywall ceiling.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXHOHS2021000201