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: September 25, 2019
It was reported that a ceiling tile had mold on it. The ceiling tile had been removed, discarded, and replaced prior to the Office of the Environment's assessment.
Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. Piping above the area of concern was missing pipe insulation.
Some existing pipe insulation above the area of concern was water stained. These areas were dry to the touch. No mold growth was observed.
The roof deck appeared to be in good condition.
No mold growth was observed within the cubicle (floors, walls, furniture, etc.).
No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.
The area was scanned with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were observed.
The temperature (74.5 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (54.1%), carbon dioxide (691 parts per million (ppm)), and carbon monoxide (0.0) readings were acceptable.
The supply diffuser near the area of concern was rusty.
A stained ceiling tile was observed above the cubicle, near the supply diffuser.
The Roof Top Unit (RTU-1) that services the area was inspected.
The outside air dampers were closed.
The filters were outdated and damaged.
The sound liner within the unit is deteriorating.
The custodian referenced several other areas where there are stained ceiling tiles. Stained tiles (brown) are not typically a health and safety concern but do represent areas of chronic moisture intrusion which can lead to Indoor Environmental Quality concerns. It was reported that some of the stains are re-occurring.
A work order was created for building services to address the missing and water stained pipe insulation above the drop-ceiling.
Custodial Services is to submit a work order for the stained ceiling tile above the cubicle. Custodial Services is responsible for submitting work orders for any other stained ceiling tiles within the building. If the stained ceiling tiles are not being resolved you may contact the appropriate Building Services shop (HVAC, Roofing, Plumbing, etc.) for additional resolution. If suspect mold (black, pink, white, etc.) is observed on a ceiling tile prior to resolution, it should be discarded and replaced.
A work order was created for Building Services (HVAC) to address the rusty supply diffuser.
A work order was created to address the various items associated with RTU-1 (outdated/damaged filters, outdoor air dampers closed, deteriorating sound liner).