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: May 4, 5,and 6, 2021
An odor was reported to be noticed in the Superintendent/Communications Areas as well as the back entrance (near the Mail Room). The odor was reported to have been occurring for the last two weeks (approximately).
The area is finished with carpet, drywall, and drop-ceiling.
No odors were identified during the assessment.
Several areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed. No odors or mold/moisture intrusion issues were observed.
Wooden surfaces were inspected for relative humidity mold. No visible mold was observed.
The carpet was probed with a moisture meter in various locations (grid pattern through Superintendent Area and Communications). No elevated moisture was detected.
The area was scanned with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were identified.
Temperature readings on May 4 indicated that the supply discharge temperatures were approximately 81-82 degrees Fahrenheit (too high). It was later discovered that the chiller was not operational on May 4th. This would mean no dehumidification of outside air while the chiller was inoperable. Since outdoor humidity was high on the 4th this would lead to higher indoor humidity. This can impact furnishings and building materials and present a musty odor. The chiller was reported repaired on May 5, 2021.
The Air Handling Unit (AHU-1) that services the area was assessed. No concerns were identified with the filters, coils, or outside air dampers.
Condensation was not observed to be draining from the AHU indicating a lack of humidity reduction via the HVAC system. This was observed due to the chiller being inoperable as explained above.
The mail room was assessed for mold/moisture intrusion issues and outstanding odors. None were identified.
The recycle bins outside of the mail room were assessed for odors. No significant odors were identified.
The storage room (adjoining where the recycle bins are stored) was also assessed. No outstanding odors were identified.
Although, likely not relevant to the assessment it was found that Exhaust Fan 1 was not functioning. This exhaust fan services the bathrooms toward the back of the Administration Building.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) verified the HVAC system was not scheduled to run at night, as nighttime operation can increase indoor humidity. No concerns were identified.
The exhaust fan in the Board Planning Room bathroom was functional at the time of the assessment.
A data logger to measure temperature and relative humidity was installed on May 5. No concerns were identified with temperature and relative humidity trends.
It was reported that the entry lobby bathrooms had a dry trap recently which caused a sewer gas odor. The traps have been re-charged. The odor was not sensed during the assessment.
As of May 18, the individual that originally noted the odor indicated it has not been present since the chiller has been operable. No further action is warranted at this time.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) corrected the exhaust fan that was not operational.