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 of Assessment: March 22 and 23, 2023
A smoke odor caused the building to be evacuated. The odor was caused by a belt burning up within a Variable Air Volume (VAV) box, which is part of the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. A fire was not reported. Building Maintenance was in the process of repairing the VAV box upon arrival.
A faint smoke odor was noted in the space upon arrival.
The VAV box and accessible areas in the duct were visually assessed. No signs of soot or black staining were observed.
Various horizontal surfaces in the occupied area of the classroom were assessed by wiping a white tissue on them. No signs of black dust/soot were identified.
A board-approved restoration contractor delivered three air scrubbers with charcoal filters (two placed in Room 122 and one in the hallway outside of Room122). The air scrubbers ran overnight. The Office of the Environment returned the morning of March 23. No odors were detected. The air scrubbers were removed by the contractor on the 23rd.
Additionally, Building Maintenance changed the HVAC filters in the air handling unit that serves the space. Building Maintenance also utilized a contractor have the ducts in the vicinity of the VAV box cleaned.
As a precaution, the Office of the Environment also recommended a cleaning of horizontal surfaces and the carpet, following the completion of the repair.