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: May 9,13, 17, and 23, 2022
Historical Information:
Mold growth was identified on drywall, behind cove base outside of room B-65 (approximately three square feet) during the school's routine Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) walkthrough, which occurred on April 13, 2022. The impacted drywall was removed on April 19, 2022. The wall cavity was left opened as the cause of the leak had not yet been determined.
Assessment:
The Office of the Environment worked with school Administration to determine what areas the individual occupied during the time of concern. It was reported that the individual occupied Room B61 and was not in Room B65 on the day the health concern was reported. It was also reported that the individual did not participate in any laboratory activities that would involve chemicals.
Assessment of B61
The temperature was acceptable at the time of the assessment (72.1 degrees Fahrenheit).
The relative humidity was slightly elevated at 72.1%. However, this was due to high outdoor relative humidity/rain during the time of the assessment (early morning). The Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system cannot dehumidify immediately upon startup (needs some time), therefor this measurement does not represent a concern at this time.
No odors were sensed within the room.
No mold growth was observed on inspected surfaces.
No thermal anomalies indicative of a moisture intrusion concern were identified.
No odors or visual signs of moisture intrusion were identified above ceiling.
The flexible ducts were connected to the supply diffusers (above ceiling) and each diffuser was qualitatively assessed and is delivering supply air to the space (temperature control and general dilution).
The room is equipped with a portable High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter which was installed in classrooms system-wide due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The air purifier was operational at the time of the assessment.
The drywall in the space was probed in various locations (near the floor). No elevated moisture was detected.
Minor clutter was observed on the teacher desk with minor dust deposits and pencil shavings.
The adjoining custodial closet was assessed for potential cleaning solution spills and/or water leaks/spills. No spills (water or chemical) or odors were identified.
The HVAC system serving the space was assessed:
- The system was operational at the time of the assessment.
- No concerns were identified with the systems condensate pan/drain.
- Filter bypass was identified.
- The HVAC department determined that the outdoor air dampers are functioning properly.
Assessment of Previously impacted Area (hallway outside of B65)
The entrance to B61 is approximately 30-40 feet a way from the wall cavity previously impacted by mold growth (impacted drywall removed on April 19, 2022).
The drywall was not replaced as the source of the water intrusion had not yet been corrected.
The fiberglass insulation within the wall cavity was exposed along with dust/debris from the drywall removal. The Office of the Environment requested Building Maintenance place a temporary barrier over the wall cavity as the exposed fiberglass can represent a skin irritant should an occupant come in contact with the material.
Building Maintenance removed the fiberglass from the wall cavity on May 9, 2022. Minor dust/drywall debris remained.
As a precaution the wall cavity was sealed with 6-mil polyethylene sheeting until Building Maintenance can correct the cause of the leak. Prior to sealing the area, a restoration contractor HEPA vacuumed and wiped exposed areas to remove dust/debris from the drywall removal that was performed by Building Maintenance.
The wall cavity was further assessed for evidence of moisture/mold/additional concerns with none identified. Additionally, the exterior caulk joints were inspected (from the inside and outside of the building) to determine if the caulk joint may be the cause of the moisture intrusion. No concerns were identified with the caulk joint.
A restoration contractor was utilized to seal the wall cavity with 6-mil polyethylene sheeting as a precaution. Prior to sealing the wall cavity was HEPA vacuumed and disinfected.
Building Maintenance is utilizing a consultant to review the potential cause of the leak and recommend corrective actions. The drywall will not be replaced until a corrective action has been implemented an monitored for effectiveness.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) corrected the filter bypass in the HVAC unit.
Although likely not the cause, it is recommended that the teacher reduce clutter on the desk to make it easier for custodial staff to clean dust/pencil shavings.