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: September 21, 2022
The primary concern appears to be related to insects. These concerns are handled by the Integrated Pest Management Department (IPM).
The Office of the Environment assessed the flooring with suspect moisture marks (approximately nine square inches).
It was reported this area was covered with a floor mat.
The wax was "flaky" upon initial assessment. Some of the wax was scraped off to assess the floor tile underneath. The floor tile did not appear to have the moisture marks after the wax was scraped off indicating that the discoloration was located between the layers of wax.
The adhesion of the floor tile was assessed by attempting to remove a tile. Floor tiles not well adhered to the floor can be indicative of a moisture issue under the floor tile. The floor tile was strongly adhered the sub-floor.
A tape lift sample was collected on top of the wax and on the floor (wax scraped off) for a total of two samples. Elevated mold was not detected on either sample. This does not mean mold growth isn't embedded within the wax, it just could not be confirmed through the tape lift sampling process.
Given that the suspect mold growth (mold growth was not confirmed) was embedded within the wax and covered with a floor mat, a significant exposure pathway to building occupants was not present.
Building Maintenance (Flooring Specialist) assessed the floor and believed the wax may be "flaky" due to moisture associated with improper cleaning being trapped via the floor mat.
An assessment was performed under the direction of IPM Department regarding the mosquitos (Work Order #255507).
Custodial Services was requested to strip the existing wax due to the staining embedded within. The floor will be re-waxed after stripping is complete.