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: October 12, 2022
Room 155
The temperature (70.6 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (41.7 %), carbon dioxide (418 parts per million (ppm)), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable.
The space consists of block walls, drywall, floor tile, and a drop ceiling. There is also casework (with a sink) and wooden storage cubbies.
The Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system consists of one Air Handling Unit (AHU-2) located on the roof (delivers outside air). The outside air is delivered to fan coil units and then to four supply diffusers. The fan coil unit recirculates classroom air for temperature control. The return for the fan coil units has a filter. The filters were in good condition and were replaced in August of 2022 according to the dates written on the filters.
The diffusers were assessed qualitatively and were delivering air to the space.
The drywall was randomly probed with a moisture meter (drywall setting) in accessible areas. No elevated moisture was detected.
The base of the casework, the backsplash (behind sink), and the backing of the wooden cubbies were probed with a moisture meter (wood setting). No elevated moisture was detected.
The sink was turned on and assessed for obvious leaks. No leaks were identified at the faucet handles/spigot.
There is a "small" hole in one of the ceiling tiles (less than the size of a quarter) in the center of the room.
A plant without secondary containment is located on the teacher's desk.
No mold was observed on surfaces. No moldy/musty odors were identified in the space.
AHU-2 was assessed:
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters appeared in good condition.
- No concerns were identified with the HVAC coils or drain pan.
To further assess the ventilation system, a data logger was placed in the room to measure carbon dioxide (placed October 26 and picked up November 2, 2022). Sustained periods of elevated carbon dioxide (above 1,200 parts per million (ppm)) may indicate insufficient delivery of outside air. Carbon dioxide is used as an indicator of ventilation. Carbon dioxide is not a health concern itself until it reaches much higher levels (5, 000 ppm).
Carbon dioxide did not exceed 1,200 ppm during data logging. Regardless, the Office of the Environment requested that Building Maintenance quantitively measured the amount of outside air being provided to the space. Building Maintenance (HVAC) utilized a balancing contractor to measure the amount of outside air being supplied to the space. The amount measured was within 10% of design specification, which is acceptable.
Information regarding Room 130 can be found under IEQ Concern #CXWFES202200024D.
The ceiling tile with the hole can be monitored. If it gets any larger, Custodial is to replace it.
Live plants are to have a impermeable tray such as plastic to keep water from damaging/wetting building materials. Administration is to ensure a tray is placed under the plant or the plant can be removed.