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: August 30, 2018, September 5, 11, and 12, 2018
An outstanding and/or musty odor was not detected.
Mold growth was not observed on inspected surfaces.
The areas are served by air handling units 6, 7, and 11. The condition and operation of unit 11 was acceptable. The outdoor air dampers appeared closed in unit 7. All the dampers (outdoor air, return, and positive relief) in unit 6 were closed.
Room temperatures and relative humidity measurements were collected during the 2:00 p.m. hour on August 30, 2018 (hot and humid day). The temperature ranged from 71.6 to 72.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The relative humidity ranged from 54.2 to 65%. Room 320 was at 65% because the window was open.
Each room has their own variable air volume box (HVAC component). The variable air volume box in rooms 320 and 324 were in question based on qualitative means.
Building Services indicated ventilation controls may have been compromised during the roofing and/or fireproofing work taking place over the summer.
Work order 86612: Building Services HVAC Shop repaired a broken linkage in air handling unit 6. The damper controls in units 6 and 7 were adjusted and calibrated. Completed work on September 21, 2018.
Work order 87523: Building Services reviewed variable air volume boxes in rooms 320 and 324. The motors were found to be bad and replaced. The linkages were checked and re-connected as necessary.
Prior to this investigation, Building Services reviewed and addressed ventilation controls disrupted by roofing and fireproofing work which likely hindered thermal comfort.