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)
Dates of Assessment: May 20, 21, 2026
May 20, 2026
The Office of the Environment visited the school on May 20th to perform an IEQ assessment. At the time of the assessment, staff reported that students and employees had been relocated from classrooms 132 and 135 due to odors and associated health complaints.
The Office of the Environment nor a staff member who works within the pod detected odors consistent with nail polish or kerosene, which was reported to the Office of the Environment via email. However, both identified a nuisance carpet odor within the pod.
Carbon dioxide readings collected throughout the area ranged from 800–900 ppm, which is below the guideline value of 1,200 ppm.
A Photoionization Detector (PID) was used to assess concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) within the area of concern. All readings were 0.0 parts per billion (ppb).
The rooftop unit (RTU-8) serving the area was also evaluated. The outside air dampeners were observed to be closed. HVAC staff confirmed that the outside air dampers were closed at the time to facilitate cooling. Without outside air being introduced into the space, concentrations of common nuisance odors, such as carpet odors, may become more noticeable.
The Office of the Environment is not aware of any health or safety concerns associated with carpet-related odors.
May 21, 2026
The Office of the Environment revisited the school to reassess conditions after temperatures decreased and the outside air dampers had been reopened.
During the follow-up assessment, carbon dioxide readings ranged from 600–1,000 ppm. PID readings again detected no VOCs within the areas of concern.
During discussions with one staff member, it was reported that the nail polish like odor was no longer present in the previously vacant rooms but had become noticeable in the room to which she had been relocated. Together with the staff member, the odor was traced to the cubby area where student backpacks were stored.
To further isolate the source, the backpacks were relocated to another room. Staff members subsequently reported that the odor was no longer present in the original room once the backpacks were removed. To confirm the source, staff members visited the new backpack storage location and reported the same malodor.
Based on the information gathered to date, three variables have been identified for further action:
- HVAC repairs
- Nuisance carpet odors
- Student backpack odors
Custodial staff to use hot water extraction to clean and sanitize the carpet to reduce nuisance odors.
School administration to communicate with parents regarding potential odor causing items in student backpacks.
Compressor unit was replaced on RTU-8.