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: January 2 and 3, 2024
An odor was identified in the office outside of the custodial office.
New gymnasium mats were sitting on a pallet outside of the office and contained an odor. The odor was not identical to the odor in the hallway. The gym mats were temporarily moved to a different location for the purposes of eliminating them as a potential variable.
After moving the mats, the odor was still present.
The odor seemed strongest above the drop ceiling, at the end of the hall (near the boiler room).
No odors were identified in the boiler room.
An outdoor storage room containing the lawn mower and other outdoor maintenance equipment was assessed. The odor was most intense in this space.
A power washer was found to be leaking fuel (less than a gallon) from the carburetor.
Absorbent was placed on the leaked fuel. Custodial Services collected the equipment for repair. The Grounds Department collected the absorbent. Disposal of the waste material is to be coordinated with the Office of the Environment during their regularly scheduled pick-ups.
The mechanical room doors were left open for a few hours to dilute the odor within the mechanical room.
The Office of the Environment visited the next day. No odors were present in the mechanical room or in the adjoining hallways.