Concern: Glenelg High School: September 12th, 2018 (CXXGHS2018000041)

Location
Room 202
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
The Room smells musty. The odor is noticed more in the morning or at night when Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning is not operating.
IEQ Investigation Process

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)
Findings

Date(s) of Assessment: September 24, 25 and October 12, 2018

A slight musty odor was detected (prior to school starting on a Monday morning).

No mold growth was observed on surfaces within the room.

No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet or case-work.

Temperature and relative humidity were acceptable.

No thermal anomalies were identified via thermal imaging.

The backside of the case-work was inspected by drilling an access hole. No mold or signs of moisture were observed.

A corner of the carpet was pulled up. No evidence of delamination or odors were observed/detected.

The Roof Top Unit (RTU) servicing the space was assessed. No concerns were identified with the unit.

Building Services (HVAC) assessed the rooms Variable Air Volume (VAV) Box. The stat was found to be 2 degrees out of calibration.

Water staining was observed on the roof deck. Elevated moisture was not detected in the roof deck via a moisture meter. The water staining appears historic and does not appear to be causing the odor or to represent a health and safety concern.

Above the drop-ceiling; "daylight" was observed along an exterior wall above the room's window.

A data logger was installed to measure relative humidity within the space (September 25 to November 5). No concerns were identified.

Corrective Actions
September 27th, 2018

Building Services (HVAC) adjusted the rooms stat.

November 14th, 2018

Building Services is to assess and address the gap above the window. Humid air could be entering the space through the gap, especially when the HVAC is not operating (pressure differential). 

If the individual experiences the odor after the window is sealed, the individual should notify the Office of the Environment.

Closed
No
Tracking Number
CXXGHS2018000041