Concern: Talbott Springs Elementary School: October 11th, 2018 (CXTSES2018000079)

Location
Room 28
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
An individual indicated the room had a "damp/musty" odor which is more pronounced when it it raining. A general health symptom was reported.
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: November 2, 2018

Relative humidity mold growth was observed on wood cabinetry below the rooms sink.

A piece of carpet was installed under the sink. Evidence of mouse droppings was observed on the carpet.

The rooms white board was removed to inspect for mold. No mold growth was observed.

Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. No concerns were identified.

Building Services (HVAC) already had a data logger (logging relative humidity) installed in the vicinity. The data was reviewed. No extended periods of extremely elevated humidity were observed during the summer of 2018.

Based on the humidity data, it was believed that the relative humidity mold was from a historic event and was never previously identified.

Corrective Actions
November 2nd, 2018

The mold growth was cleaned/disinfected upon discovery. The remaining wood cabinetry was also cleaned/disinfected as a precaution.

November 7th, 2018

The mouse droppings were vacuumed with a vacuum equipped with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. The carpet was then removed.

December 18th, 2018

A work order was submitted for Building Services to patch the hole in the wall underneath the sink. The Integrated Pest Management Office was made aware of the finding.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXTSES2018000079