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: January 20 and February 3, 2022
Room 15 recently had a water intrusion event that impacted carpet and ceiling tiles. Building Maintenance (Roofing) had already assessed the cause of the leak. It was determined that the leak was due to a recently installed roofing penetration associated with a radon pipe (activated Summer of 2021).
The carpet and area above the drop ceiling were determined to be dry. Building Maintenance (Roofing) had already patched/re-flashed the radon penetration. Additionally, this area will be re-roofed the Summer of 2022.
Room 11 has historically been impacted by a roof leak. No visible impact was observed above the drop-ceiling, however the drywall bulkhead outside of the room had flaking/peeling paint.
The flacking peeling paint was probed with a moisture meter and elevated moisture was detected. The non-exposed side of the drywall was observed by accessing the adjoining drop ceiling. Mold growth was observed sporadically/variable over approximately eight linear feet of the backside of the drywall.
Building Maintenance (Roofing) had identified a roofing penetration in this area and had corrected it. They believed the penetration occurred due to the removal of the roofing ballast (rocks), in preparation for the next phase of the school's roofing project.
Because leaks have historically occurred in this area, the drywall bulkhead was monitored by the Office of the Environment (after a rain or snowmelt event) to determine if moisture intrusion is still occurring. The mold growth is not accessible to school staff or students as it is within the ceiling cavity (not exposed).
The Office of the Environment visited after/during a rain event. The area was checked for additional moisture/leaking. None was observed, however during the assessment, it was noted that some fiberglass duct insulation had gotten wet (presumably from the initial leak).
Building Services (Carpentry) removed the drywall impacted by mold growth. While the ceiling cavity was opened, Building Services (HVAC) removed and replaced the wet duct insulation (approximately 6 linear feet) as well as a few feet of fiberglass pipe insulation directly adjoining the duct insulation.