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: January 10 and 26, 2024
The room is finished with carpet, a drop-ceiling, and drywall. There is also a kitchenette area that is finished with wooden casework and floor tile.
The Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system serving the space is Roof Top Unit-2 (RTU-2). The RTU delivers air to a Variable Air Volume (VAV) box, which modulates air flow to manipulate the space temperature.
A faint carpet odor was sensed upon entering the space (HVAC was not operational, early morning visit). The carpet odor sensed is common in HCPSS facilities and does not represent a health and safety concern.
The HVAC began to operate during the site visit as scheduled. The temperature 71.6 degrees Fahrenheit (F), relative humidity (34.4%), carbon dioxide (484 parts per million (ppm), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable. Relative humidity could be considered low (34.4%). Further discussion of relative humidity can be found below.
The carpet was probed in a grid pattern throughout the space. No elevated carpet moisture was detected.
No elevated moisture was detected in the drywall or casework.
Various surfaces were assessed for visible surficial mold growth. No mold growth or moldy/musty odors were identified.
Housekeeping practices appeared acceptable.
The sink within the kitchenette was turned on. No visible leaks were identified.
A small di minimis stain was present under the sink. No elevated moisture was detected. The stain did not appear to represent a significant concern.
An HCPSS issued High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtered air purifier was observed in the space and was running.
RTU-2 was assessed. No concerns were noted:
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters were in place and in acceptable condition.
- No concerns were identifed with the units coils or drain pan.
Data Logger Review
A data logger was deployed in the media center and the office for comparison purposes. The data loggers measured temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide.
Temperature - The media office's temperature was consistently in the low 70's (F) and is in within range of standard HCPSS temperature guidelines.
Relative Humidity - Relative humidity could be considered low at times (particularly January 27 through February 2) from an indoor environmental quality standpoint, however these measurements are consistent with other HCPSS facilities during the winter months and are considered in similar standard of care. HCPSS does not humidify via the HVAC system as it is not the industry standard for HVAC design for this region and it can introduce additional clinical environmental concerns such as humidifier fever.
Carbon Dioxide - Carbon dioxide can be used as an indicator compound to determine if sufficient outside air is being delivered to a space. Outside air is used for general dilution purposes such as diluting expelled carbon dioxide, body odors, nuisance dust, etc. Elevated carbon dioxide was not detected in the office or the media center.