Concern: Howard High School: June 9th, 2022 (CXHOHS2022000223)

Location
Guidance
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Suspect mold was observed on a bookshelf on June 9, 2022.
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(s) of Assessment: June 10 and 13, 2022

Building Maintenance had removed the bookshelf and discarded it on June 9, 2022. The Office of the Environment did not observe the bookshelf, however it was indicated that it was visibly wet when removed.

Additional items observed:

  • The fireproofing (above the drop ceiling) in C109 was visibly wet.
  • Elevated moisture was detected in the lower portion of the drywall in C109. 
  • Elevated moisture was detected in the lower portion of the drywall outside C109 (same location as above).
  • Approximately 1-2 linear feet of duct insulation was wet to the touch in the hallway outside of C109. 

Staff reported that this area has leaked in the past. Due to the potential for prolonged wetting, the impacted drywall was removed by a restoration contractor. 

Additionally, fans and dehumidifiers were set to dry the impacted duct insulation and fireproofing. 

As of June 13, the fireproofing and duct insulation was dry as determined by a thermal imaging camera. The materials were also dry to the touch. 

Building Maintenance believes the leak is associated with former outdoor air intakes for unit ventilators that are not sealed properly (located on the floor above C109). Building Maintenance will be utilizing a consultant to investigate the cause of the leak. It is anticipated that the former outdoor air intakes will need to be bricked in to prevent further leaking. The drywall is not to be re-installed until the cause of the leak has been addressed.

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXHOHS2022000223