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: June 26, 2024
The block wall in question, directly adjoins the walk-in freezer for the kitchen. The Office of the Environment was aware of a potential insulation/maintenance issue with the freezer as it was already slated for replacement during the Summer of 2024. The Office of the Environment coordinated with the contractor performing the replacement work to alert the Office when the walk-in had been removed (prior to the new one being installed). Waiting till this time allowed the Office of the Environment to observe the interior of the wall cavity after the walk-in freezer was removed.
The contractor performing the removal informed the Office of the Environment the walk-in had been removed on June 25, 2024.
Approximately, 12 square feet of mold growth was observed on the block wall (opposite the walk-in freezer, which had been removed). The cause of the growth was likely failed insulation directly adjoining the wall, which resulted in condensation (thermal differential between the walk-in and storage closet).
No suspect mold growth was observed on the interior cavity where the walk-in was located, however residual moisture was identifed and a crack in the wall was also identifed.
A board-approved restoration contractor cleaned and encapsulated the impacted areas in the storage closet on June 28, 2024. Residual staining exists on the floor tile.
Dehumidifiers were installed in the space on June 28, 2024 to address the residual moisture in the area, prior to the new walk-in being installed. The contractor was also informed of the small crack in the wall (where the walk-in will be installed). The contractor is to seal the crack, prior to installing the new walk-in.