Concern: Howard High School: February 21st, 2022 (CXHOHS2022000213)

Location
A-Wing and B-Wing Boys Bathroom
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Building Maintenance reported a leak at the school on February 18, 2022. The leak was reportedly caused by individuals vandalizing toilets in the Boys Bathroom (A-Wing and B-Wing). The vandalism caused water supply lines to leak. The 1st Floor Bathrooms in the A and B-Wings Halls were assessed as they are finished with drywall ceilings that may have been impacted from the leaks above. The leaks were stopped on the same day as the incident and both of the impacted bathrooms were closed off to occupants after the incident.
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: February 21, 2022

The A-Wing ceiling was assessed with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of elevated moisture were detected.

The B-Wing ceiling was visibly damaged upon entry with an approximately 1 foot x 1 foot hole presumably caused by water damage.

A fan had been placed within the B-Wing Bathroom to attempt to dry the ceiling out, however the fan was not operational at the time of the assessment. This was because the nearest outlet was in the hallway, which would create tripping hazards for students. The fan had apparently run for the weekend but was unplugged prior to school start Monday morning.

Elevated moisture was detected above the stalls within the drywall ceiling, totaling an area of impact of about 24 square feet. 

No mold growth was visible.

Corrective Actions
February 21st, 2022

The impacted drywall ceiling was removed by Building Maintenance (Carpentry).

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXHOHS2022000213