Concern: Hollifield Station Elementary School: January 30th, 2020 (CXHSES202000014C)

Location
Computer Lab (Behind Media)
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
An odor was noted during the school's IEQ Walkthrough.
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: March 5, 2020

The room contains block walls and drywall, a drop-ceiling, and carpet.

The temperature (71.7 degrees Fahrenheit (F)), carbon dioxide (521 parts per million (ppm), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable.

Relative humidity (24.5%) would be considered low. However, this is typical for HCPSS schools as the ventilation system does not humidify air before introducing it to occupied spaces. Humidification can introduce clinical health conditions such as humidifier fever. 

No odors were present during the assessment. However, as the temperature and relative humidity fluctuates within the space the carpet may emit an odor. This is common in HCPSS buildings. The odor is considered a nuisance and is not an environmental health and safety concern.

No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.

No elevated moisture was detected in the drywall.

No mold growth was observed.

Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. No environmental concerns were observed.

Bowed ceiling tiles were observed, indicative of elevated humidity levels (perhaps during the summer). No relative humidity mold growth was observed.

The Air Handling Unit (AHU-5) that services the space was assessed. The coils, drain pan, filters, and outsider air dampers were in acceptable condition. 

Corrective Actions
March 9th, 2020

The Office of the Environment will place a data logger within the space during the cooling season to measure humidity levels.

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXHSES202000014C