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(s): October 12, 2022
The room is finished with floor tile, two drywall walls, two block walls, and a drop ceiling. An exterior door is also located toward the back of the classroom.
The temperature (71.0 degrees Fahrenheit (F)), relative humidity (44.1%), carbon dioxide (427 parts per million (ppm)), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable.
No mold growth was observed on surfaces.
No moldy/musty odors were identified within the space.
The drywall, casework, and backsplash were probed with a moisture meter (drywall/wood setting depending on material tested). No elevated moisture was detected within the materials.
The backsplash is becoming detached from the wall. This does not appear to be a moisture issue but could represent a housekeeping issue as debris/dust is getting behind the backsplash.
The area rug was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
Daylight was observed at the exterior door which can let in humidity and unfiltered air depending on building pressurization. This can also represent an entry point for pests.
A non-HCPSS issued shelf (black) was observed near the teachers desk. Cobwebs/dust were observed on the shelf.
The room is equipped with four supply air diffusers and a return (ceiling mounted).
The supply air diffusers were checked (qualitatively) and are delivering air to the space.
The return air grille has minor dust deposits (above sink).
Air Handling Unit-2 (AHU-2) serves the space. The unit was assessed:
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters were in good condition.
- No concerns were identified with the coils/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). Extended periods of elevated carbon dioxide (typically 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 levels occasionally exceeded 1,200 ppm during data logging, however these exceedances were not sustained for more than an hour.
Due to the occasional exceedances (as a precaution), 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. Given the balancing data, no further action is required in association with carbon dioxide measurements/outside air delivery.
Furniture brought in by staff is not recommended by the Office of the Environment, however if it is utilized Custodial is not responsible for cleaning. Routine cleaning is the responsibility of the staff member who is utilizing the non-HCPSS issued furniture.
A work order was placed for the backsplash to be re-attached.
Custodial Services is to clean/dust the return air grille located above the sink area.
A work order was placed to address the daylight at the exterior door.