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: August 26, 2020
While the Office of Environment was performing an Indoor Environmental Quality Inspection at Veterans Elementary School mold growth was observed in Portable 114 on fabric chairs, metal ventilation supply and return vents, and a few pieces of wood furniture. The cause was due to the thermostat fan mode being set to “on” instead of “auto”. The Office of Environment properly set the thermostat which reduced the relative humidity.
School custodial staff will clean, HEPA vacuum, and disinfect impacted materials. Materials not successfully cleaned (staining remains on fabric) will be discarded. The Office of Environment instructed custodial staff of the process. Building Services will address the metal ventilation vents.
Building Services is to replace or clean / disinfect then paint return and supply air vents.
School administration is to inform personnel using the portable and custodial staff to ensure thermostat fan mode is set to "auto". The HVAC unit allows for the required introduction of outdoor air. The "auto" setting allows the fan to run on only when room temperature does not satisfy the thermostat's set points for heating or cooling. The "on" setting can allow the fan to operate 24/7 even if the room temperature is satisfied, thus introducing unconditioned moist outdoor air.
Building Services to install a tamper cover over the thermostat.