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: November 13, 2024
The temperature (71.8 degrees Fahrenheit (F)), carbon dioxide (565 parts per million (ppm)), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable.
The relative humidity (28.9%) could be considered slightly low, however HCPSS does not humidify via the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system as it is not the industry standard for HVAC design for this region and it can introduce additional clinical environmental concerns (ex: humidifier fever). The humidity is lower in the classroom due to lower outside humidity (brought in by HVAC system), which we would expect during the Fall/Winter.
Various surfaces were assessed for visible mold growth. One ceiling tile was found to be impacted with visible mold growth (one-two square inches). The cause appeared to be moisture intrusion from a roof leak. The leak did not appear active at the time of the assessment. No mold growth was observed above the ceiling tile. The drywall located above the ceiling was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected. No other surfaces were observed to be impacted by visible mold growth.
No odors were identifed, however the room is carpeted. It is possible a nuisance carpet odor is present at times, particularly in the morning, prior to the the ventilation system becoming operational.
Non-issued aerosol disinfectants were observed within a storage cabinet.
Areas underneath the sink were assessed for potential moisture issues. No evidence of moisture intrusion (active leaks, water staining, odors), were observed.
The carpet, wood kick-plates associated with built-in cabinetry, and the drywall were probed in various locations with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
Custodial cleaning practices were acceptable, with the exception of two wooden bookshelves which had moderate dust coverage on the the top shelves of each.
A data logger was placed in the space to monitor temperature and carbon dioxide (an indicator of sufficient outside air delivery). The data logger was placed on November 13, 2024 and picked up on November 19, 2024.
- Temperatures during occupied hours ranged from approximately 69 degrees F to 75 degrees F. These temperatures are not below HCPSS established temperature parameters for the heating season.
- Carbon dioxide was not elevated, indicating sufficient outside air delivery.
The Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit that serves the space was assessed:
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters were in good condition and in place with no bypass.
- The concerns were identifed with the condensate pan or coils.
Custodial was requested to remove/replace the mold impacted ceiling tile and place a work order to Building Maintenance to assess/address the cause of the moisture intrusion.
The Office of the Environment recommended the non-issued disinfectants be removed from the classroom.
The Office of the Environment recommended Custodial Services dust the tops of the two wooden bookshelves.