Concern: Veterans Elementary School: August 26th, 2019 (CXXVES2019000104)

Location
Classroom B-08
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
When I returned to work last Wednesday, my room smelled musty and it wasn't pleasant. I don't know if it is coming from the carpet or other areas around the room.
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: August 29, 2019

A strong air freshener odor was noted. An air freshener was located on top of the file cabinet as you enter the room.

No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.

Temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide were acceptable.

No odors or concerns were identified above the drop ceiling.

The sink trap contained water.

The sanitary vent was connected. 

The Fan Coil Unit (FCU) that services the room was inspected. The unit's instruction manual was located below the condensate coils. The manual was wet and had a strong musty odor.

The Dedicated Outside Air Unit (DOAU) unit that services the room was not operational. One of the purposes of a DOAU unit is to dilute nuisance odors.

Corrective Actions
August 29th, 2019

The FCU's instruction manual was discarded upon discovery. 

August 29th, 2019

The Office of the Environment contacted Building Services (HVAC). Building Services was able to turn the DOAU back on using the Building Automation System.

September 27th, 2019

Air fresheners are restricted under the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) program. Administration is to have the individual that brought in the air fresher remove it.

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXXVES2019000104