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: September 18, 23, and 25, 2019.
An outstanding and/or unusual odor was not detected during the investigation.
Air Handling Unit-1 (AHU-1), within a penthouse serving the POD was reviewed. With the exception of the exterior portion of the condensate pan, the condition and operation (i.e. outdoor air dampers) of the components were found to be acceptable. The exterior portion of the condensate pan drain had a buildup of scale that could block the drain and/or not to allow condensate to flow out from the interior portion (within the unit) of the pan.
Data loggers recording temperature and humidity were reviewed. The Office of the Environment placed one in Room 33 for the investigation and Building Services had one at the thermostat in the middle of the POD. Building Services has data loggers throughout the school for their purposes.
Data loggers indicated occupied temperatures (73-75 degrees) and relative humidity (<60%) were acceptable since placement.
Mold growth was not observed on inspected surfaces within Room 33, nor the rooms within the same POD.
No deficiencies were observed above the drop ceiling. The roof deck consisted of steel.
Housekeeping of the POD was acceptable.
A "sand box" contained fabric pom-poms instead of rice, sand, or Legos which are normally observed within the bins.
Dress-up clothing was observed within the play area.
In viewing the POD and pre-k areas, it appears tents are being used as possible reading areas.
A void with a solid / blank electrical outlet cover was observed on the exterior cement block wall of the room near the teacher's desk and upper left of the window. Gaps exist around the cover that may allow air within the hollows of the block wall to be introduced into the interior space under certain conditions.
Dust accumulation was observed on a return air grille.
The vertical drywall (forms the penthouse housing mechanical equipment) was dry as determined by the use of a moisture meter set to drywall.
The return air vent in Room 33 was cleaned by the Office of the Environment at the time of the investigation.
Building Services will clean scale from condensate pan (AHU-1).
Building Services will evaluate the hole in exterior wall partially covered by an electrical plate cover and seal accordingly.
Consider removing and/or cleaning reading area items, role playing clothes, and/or pom-poms if symptoms appear to start or become exacerbated when items are in use.