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: August 28, 29, 31; September 4; and December 17, 2018
The rooms noted above, as well as several ancillary rooms were assessed.
Early morning visits were conducted before staff arrived and potential dilution of odor via ventilation systems. A strong musty odor was detected within Room 202 and slightly in Room 201.
Wood case work along the exterior walls were wet as determined by the use of a moisture meter (wood setting). A section of casework in Rooms 201 and 202 was removed for further investigation. The backside of the casework had the presence of physical condensate. No mold growth was observed. The entire casework was removed in Room 202. The odor appeared to be emanating from dampness in the cement block wall and wood components of the casework.
The dedicated outdoor air ventilation unit serving the classrooms was off at the time of the initial visit. An access panel associated with the unit was opened.
Light particulate was observed on the heating/cooling coils of the ceiling mounted ventilation units within the rooms. As a precautionary measure, the coils in rooms 201-205, 207 and 209 were cleaned.
Upon the last visit on Monday, December 17, 2018 (significant rain fall over the weekend), an outstanding odor in Room 202 was not present. School administration have not used Room 202 this school year and do not plan to use it until the condition of the wall is repaired.
Building Services returned the dedicated outdoor air ventilation unit back into operation.
Per work order 84319, Building Services cleaned the heating/cooling coils associated with ceiling mounted ventilation units in rooms 201-205, 207, and 209.
Building Services is in the process with a contractor to review and schedule work this spring and/or summer to address wall and window details causing water and/or water vapor migration through the exterior wall and condensing on the backside of the casework along the exterior walls.