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: July 26, 2023
The Office of the Environment visited the site and confirmed the presence of mold growth above the drop ceiling.
It was reported that a Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) leak had occurred and was repaired.
During the assessment, moisture readings were collected and drywall with elevated moisture was identified along the bottom few inches of the floor (wall adjoining Room 903).
The cove base was peeled back. Additional mold growth was identified behind the cove base.
Based on these findings, it was assumed that mold growth was located in between the drywall between Rooms 903 and 904 and likely impacted the backside of both walls.
Moisture readings were also collected from room 903. No elevated moisture was detected. Additionally, no mold growth was observed above the drywall, opposite the mold observation in room 904.
A board-approved restoration contractor removed the impacted wall in room 904 (floor to above the drop-ceiling). During the removal, mold growth was observed on the backside of the wall associated with room 903. The impacted wall within Room 903 (adjoining 904) was also removed. Removal work was completed with polyethylene sheeting over doors and ventilation openings with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters in operation.
The Office of the Environment is to be notified by Building Maintenance when a water leak impacts drywall or wood materials. This is done so that the Office of the Environment can oversee proper drying operations to prevent mold growth. Custodial staff are reminded to alert the Office of the Environment should drywall or wood be impacted during a leak. The schools Administration may also notify the Office of the Environment. Building Maintenance managers were reminded of this as well.