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: December 1 and 23, 2025
The media center is finished with carpet, drywall columns, a few sections of drywall walls, with the remaining walls being block.
A thermal imaging screening was performed of the space. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were identifed.
Various surfaces were assessed for visible mold growth that could have resulted from a high humidity event (undersides of tables, bookshelves, etc.). No visible mold growth was observed.
No mold/musty/malodors were identifed in the space.
A moisture meter was used in a grid pattern to assess the carpet in the space. No elevated moisture was detected.
Areas above the drop ceiling were assessed. No malodors or visible mold was observed.
The supply diffusers were dusty.
The returns also had dust accumulation. This represents more of a maintenance concern (obstruction to air flow) than an air quality concern as the returns would be under negative pressure.
Excess dust appeared to be deposited on the ceiling tiles surrounding the supply diffuser closest to the white board. Due to this finding, a Certified Ventilation Inspector (CVI) was requested to assess the interior of the main supply duct in the media center. The CVI concluded that the does not require cleaning at this time.
A mechanical room adjoins the media center. The mechanical room is served by an individual wall-mounted Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit. The unit is dirty with suspect fungal growth on the supply fins. Smoke testing was performed between the two spaces and the mechanical room is positive pressure in comparison to the media center. The suspect fungal growth associated with the unit has the potential to impact air quality in the media center due to this pressure differential.
The Air Handling Unit (AHU) that serves the media center was assessed.
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters were in place (no bypass) and in acceptable condition.
- No concerns with the coils or drain section were identifed.
To further check the operation of the AHU, a data logger was placed in the media center to measure carbon dioxide, which is an indicator if sufficient outside air is being supplied. No elevated carbon dioxide was detected indicating the space is receiving sufficient outside air.
A work order was placed for Building Maintenance (HVAC) to clean and perform general preventative maintenance on the wall-mounted HVAC unit within the electrical room, adjoining the media center.
The supply diffusers are to be dusted regularly as part of Custodial Services routine cleaning.