Concern: Talbott Springs Elementary School: December 5th, 2019 (CXTSES2019000131)

Location
Room 56
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Various health concerns were noted that are believed to be associated with the building environment.
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 of Assessment(s): December 9, 2019

The classroom contains block walls, floor tile, and a drop-ceiling. Walls that extend about 3/4 of the way to the ceiling separate the classrooms within the pod. These "3/4 walls" are constructed of drywall.

The temperature (70.2 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (54.2%), carbon dioxide (775 parts per million (ppm), and carbon monoxide (0 ppm) readings were acceptable.

No visible mold growth was observed.

No moldy/musty odors were sensed during the assessment.

Cove base was peeled back off an exterior wall within the room. No visible mold growth was observed on the backside of the cove base.

Minor deposits of dust were observed on shelves.

Heavy deposits of dust were observed on the tops of cabinets/casework and on the topsides of the 3/4 walls that separate the classrooms.

There are two wall cavities on either side of the large cabinet (double-doors) at the back of the room. The cavities are created by the 3/4 wall separating the classroom from classroom 57 and a wood cabinet facing. The cavities are observable when looking down (from a ladder). The cavities contain deposits of dust and one cavity contained a discarded milk carton.

No elevated moisture was detected within the drywall or casework.

Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. The metal roof deck was observed to be in good condition. There is some fiberglass insulation above the drop-ceiling (expected).

The Air Handling Unit (AHU) that serves the space was assessed. The filters and coils were in good condition and the outside air dampers were open.

Ponded water was observed outside of the classroom (raining during assessment).

Corrective Actions
December 9th, 2019

Custodial Services cleaned the dust deposits within the room and removed the milk carton.

January 9th, 2020

A work order was created for Grounds Services to assess the cause of the ponded water and address as necessary.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXTSES2019000131