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)
Date(s) of Assessment: February 8, 2019
Mold growth was observed on five gym mats stored within a gym storage area.
One of the walls within the storage area is an exterior wall.
The mats were reported to have been stored along the exterior wall.
The cause of the mold growth was not identified. No other materials were observed to be impacted. The mold growth may have occurred over the summer (humid/wet weather pattern) or it may have occurred during the recent cold temperatures (temperatures in the single digits). Because the gym storage area is heated, a temperature differential may have occurred causing condensation and subsequent mold growth.
Housekeeping was generally poor within the gym storage room.
Administration is to ensure Custodial Services cleans the impacted mats. The mats can be wiped clean using a rag and custodial' s generic cleaner (Q-128 or similar). Additionally, Administration should ensure that housekeeping in the storage area is improved through regular cleaning. Physical education teachers can assist in this process by keeping the area organized.
A work order was created for Building Services (HVAC) to check the operation of the ceiling mounted heater within the space.
To limit this from occurring, the Office of the Environment recommends storing the gym mats against the opposite (interior) wall. This will limit the thermal differential against the mats.