Concern: Central Office: August 16th, 2024 (CXXXCO2024000311)

Facility
Location
SI Office - Kitchenette
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Burning odor associated with microwave.
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

It was reported that the microwave malfunctioned a few days prior to the Office of the Environment's visit, causing food items to burn in the microwave. 

A very mild burnt/smoke odor was detected in the kitchenette. 

A dry sponge was used to determine if soot had impacted areas other than then the microwave (microwave had already been removed). The dry sponge did not indicate the surrounding area was impacted. 

Corrective Actions
August 19th, 2024

An air purifier with a charcoal filter and a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter was placed in the space. A restoration contractor cleaned the area in the immediate vicinity of where the microwave was located as well as the cabinets located above the microwave with a cleaner/deodorizer. No odors were detected following the cleaning and air purifier operation. 

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXXXCO2024000311