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: September 14 and 18, 2023
Staff members who work in the office were interviewed stated that the smell only occurs in the morning after the door has been shut. The odor of concern was not detected by The Office of the Environment or school staff at the time of assessment.
Environmental condition readings including temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide. None of the environmental conditions were outside of the range of general industry standard.
Moisture readings were collected from the carpet. No elevated moisture was found within the carpet.
Block walls revealed no visible evidence of water intrusion such as peeling paint.
No stained ceiling tiles were observed.
No odors or moisture concerns were identified above the drop-ceiling.
On September 18th, the odor of concern was identified to be either carpet off gassing or "stale" air. Building Maintenance (HVAC) was requested to assist in the assessment of the HVAC system.
Building Maintenance was sent to the site and it was identified that Room 026 did not have an occupancy sensor, which was keeping the Variable Air Volume (VAV) boxes in the room from supplying air.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) temporarily bypassed the occupancy sensor input and the VAV boxes are now supplying air to the room. The HVAC contractor will be adding an occupancy sensor to the room which, when it is installed, will allow the VAV boxes to go to shutoff when there are no occupants in the room