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: May 28 and 29, 2024
The area is served by a roof top air handling unit (RHPU-2). This unit provides outdoor air ventilation, heating, and cooling. Cooling/heating is dependent on the temperature needs of the space, therefore a specific date the air conditioning turned "on" cannot be provided. It should be noted that the ductwork is the same regardless of heating or cooling.
RHPU-2 was assessed and no deficiencies were identifed. The following was noted:
- The outside air dampers were open.
- The filters were in place and in acceptable condition.
- No concerns were observed with the unit's coils, or drain pan.
- No malodors were identified within the unit.
The interior of the space was assessed prior to the HVAC becoming operational for the day. No odors or concerns were noted with the interior of the ductwork.
The temperature (72.1 degrees Fahrenheit), relative humidity (52.0%), and carbon monoxide (0.0 parts per million (ppm)) were acceptable.
Various surfaces were assessed in the main student services area and the registrars office. No visible mold growth was observed on surfaces.
No odors or visible concerns were observed above the drop ceiling in the main student services area.
A water stain was observed on the gypsum deck (above the drop ceiling) in the registrars office. The staining was probed with a moisture meter and no elevated moisture was detected. No mold growth was observed. The water stain appears to be historic and does not represent an environmental concern due to it's size (small), the moisture content (not elevated), and location (above the ceiling).
The carpet was probed in the registrars office in various locations. No elevated moisture was identifed.
The registrars office has a plastic chair mat at one of the desks (closest to the main Student Services area). The chair mat was lifted, and a strong moldy/musty odor was sensed. Although no visible mold growth was observed, it is believed this odor could have an impact on environmental quality.
The area under the chair mat was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
It is believed that there was a spill or custodial cleaning activities (wet methods) occurred in this area and the chair mat was replaced, prior to the carpet fully drying. The chair mat acted as a vapor barrier.
A board-approved restoration contractor arrived onsite on June 3, 2024 to remove and replace the impacted carpet. Onsite school staff requested that the work not be completed at that time and suggested the work be conducted overnight/weekend. Work was rescheduled and completed on June 30, 2024.
It is recommended that the chair mat be removed to reduce the potential of this reoccurring.