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: July 26, August 23, and September 16, 2022
July 26, 2022
A screening of the locker room and locker room office was conducted for mold growth on surfaces. No mold growth was observed and humidity was acceptable (44.0 - 50.8%). Additionally, some of the ceiling mounted Fan Coil Units (FCU) (primarily responsible for temperature) were assessed. No mold growth, dampness, or water staining were observed in association with the filters.
The outdoor air ventilation unit (provides outdoor air for general dilution) was assessed. The unit was not operating at the time of the assessment due to energy savings (also reduces the potential for summer mold growth).
A flickering light was observed in the girls locker room.
The gymnasium has an odor that the assessor would attribute to wood. This odor is expected to be diminished once outdoor air is provided through the HVAC system (when staff returns).
Because the individual was only visiting for the summer and the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit was in its summer mode of operation, the Office of the Environment requested the individual reach out after spending time in the building during "normal" occupied conditions (i.e. outdoor air being provided by the HVAC system).
After being in the building for two days, the individual reached out indicating general health symptoms were still being encountered.
August 23, 2022
The temperature (72.2 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (54.3%), carbon dioxide (492 parts per million (ppm)), and carbon monoxide (0.0 ppm) were acceptable.
The gym office (primary area of concern) contains one FCU (temperature control) and one return air vent. The door was reported to typically be left open. Although the space does not have a dedicated supply diffuser providing outdoor air, based on the carbon dioxide reading (an indicator of sufficient outdoor air) the lack of an outdoor air diffuser does not appear to represent a concern. The room was occupied by a staff member and the assessor for several minutes prior to collecting the carbon dioxide measurement.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) reviewed the mechanical prints for the space and outdoor air is supplied through the HVAC system in the adjoining locker room. An exhaust in the office "pulls" air from the locker room, which indirectly supplies dilution ventilation to the office.
The FCU in the gym office was inspected. No visible mold growth, odors, or concerns were identified within the FCU filter or diffuser fins.
No odors were identified.
The space was assessed for mold growth on surfaces again. No visible mold growth was identified.
The following housekeeping items were identified:
- Excessive dust was observed on the top of the intercom speaker.
- Dust and debris was observed on the floor within the storage closet.
- A metal box/housing containing piping is located next to the teacher's desk. Some dust/debris was located in the box. Additionally, some of the paint was peeled away exposing rust.
- The shelves in the storage closet contained dust/debris.
- One of the shelves in the storage closet was stained with a residual liquid present.
The Air Handling Unit (OAU-4) was assessed:
- The filters were in good condition.
- The outside air dampers were open.
- A ladder was stored within the unit (removed upon discovery)
- The drain pan contained some rust, which is not unusual.
Crawlspace
The crawl space hatch is located in the technology education classroom. The hatch was not completely sealed with caulk.
The unsealed hatch was smoke tested to determine the pressure differential between the crawl space and the occupied space. The crawlspace was under negative pressure at the time of the assessment, meaning air from the crawl space does not appear to be going in to occupied portions of the building.
The access-way into the crawl space (located in the boiler room) was also smoke-tested and determined to be under negative pressure.
The crawlspace is equipped with four exhaust fans that operate continuously. The purpose of the fans is to maintain a negative pressure differential in the crawlspace compared to occupied areas of the building. Based on the smoke testing noted above, the crawl space does appear to be under negative pressure.
The crawlspace floor is lined with polyethylene sheeting and a spray-foam project occurred in 2015 to seal any potential exposure pathways from the crawlspace to occupied areas of the school.
With the exception of the uncaulked portion of the crawlspace hatch in tech-ed, there does not appear to be a significant exposure pathway from the crawl space to occupied areas of the school.
Custodial Services was requested to replace the flickering light in the locker room.
Building Maintenance cleaned out the metal housing and repainted. Building Maintenance also caulked the crawl space hatch in tech-ed.
Custodial Services cleaned the dust on the top of the intercom speaker, on the floor within the storage closet, and cleaned the residual liquid stain from the shelving.