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: March 22, 28, and 31 2022
March 22
The Office of the Environment reviewed site conditions to determine if the fans could be removed from the space.
The wooden laboratory benches were probed with a moisture meter (wood setting). Several locations were identified to still contain elevated moisture (35-36%).
The cove base was still adhered to the cabinetry. The cove base was difficult to remove due to either the mastic used or the multiple layers of floor wax. Building Maintenance (Carpentry) drilled through the cove base to facilitate drying.
March 28
Two localized areas were determined to have slightly elevated moisture content (16-20%). Additional holes were drilled to facilitate drying in those locations.
March 31
The areas were determined to be dry with the use of a moisture meter (less than 15%).
The Office of the Environment believes dry times were prolonged due to the the cove base (and possibly years of wax building-up) on the cabinetry which hindered moisture transfer out of surfaces. In the future, if this condition is present, the cove base will be removed via mechanical means so that dry times can be accelerated.
The response actions noted above are intended to prevent microbial growth.