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: January 21, 2024
The room is primarily constructed of block walls, with one drywall wall. The room is finished with floor tile and a drop ceiling. Two practice rooms, a storage closet, and a computer room adjoin Room 207.
The temperature (70.0 degrees Fahrenheit) and carbon monoxide (0.0 parts per million (ppm)) were acceptable.
The relative humidity (9.3%) could be considered low, however this is typical for the winter months in this region. HCPSS does not humidify via the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system as it is not the industry standard for HVAC design for this region and it can introduce additional clinical environmental concerns (ex: humidifier fever).
Carbon dioxide is used as an indicator to assist in determining if enough outside air is being delivered to the space. Carbon dioxide was measured using a data logger between January 21 and 24. Sustained measurements of elevated carbon dioxide were not identifed, indicating sufficient outdoor air delivery.
Various surfaces were assessed for mold growth. No visible mold growth was identified.
The practice rooms and the adjoining computer lab have a carpeted floor. The carpet was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
No moldy/musty odors were observed.
Three stained ceiling tiles were observed. Areas above the ceiling were assessed. No mold growth was identifed, however these areas need to be assessed and corrected by Building Maintenance (HVAC and/or Plumbing).
In general cleaning practices appeared acceptable throughout the space. However, moderate to heavy dust deposits were observed within the piano.
Housekeeping could be improved within the practice rooms. Reducing clutter on the floor will reduce tripping hazards and reducing the amount of decorative items in the space, will ensure that the Custodial Department can properly dust surfaces.
The HVAC unit that serves the space (RTU-2) was assessed. No concerns were identifed with the outside air dampers, filters, or coils.
Conclusion
The heavy dust deposits within the piano represent a potential allergen source. A potential exposure pathway exists when the piano is played, disturbing the settled dust and potentially rendering particulate/dust airborne.
Staff from the music department are to coordinate a contractor to clean the interior of the piano (not a custodial cleaning task).
Improve housekeeping within the practice rooms to reduce tripping hazards. Additionally, remove/limit unnecessary decorations to make it easier for custodial staff to clean/dust surfaces. The staff member who brought in the items is also responsible for regularly cleaning/dusting (not custodial).
A work order was created for Building Maintenance to address the root cause of the stained ceiling tiles in the space.