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: July 25, August 13, and September 17, 2024
Approximately 14 square feet of mold growth was observed on the wall that directly adjoins the walk-in freezer.
The cause of the mold growth was not determined, however it was believed to be due to condensation forming due to temperature differentials (warmer interior due to Summer/cold due to walk-in) between the storage closet and the walk-in freezer.
Food and Nutrition Services was to utilize a contractor to determine if there is a deficiency with the walk-in freezer unit.
The following additional items that may have contributed were also identifed during the assessment:
- The room is equipped with a wall-mounted air conditioning unit. The unit was not functioning during the assessment. Building Maintenance (HVAC) repaired the unit, however they indicated it was time for replacement.
The following was noted and believed to be unrelated to the concern:
- Minor peeling paint was noted on the wall opposite the impacted wall (appeared historic). No obvious indications of moisture intrusion were identifed. Building Maintenance (Roofing) performed an additional assessment (WO #37939) and did not identify any moisture sources. Another space adjoins this wall that contains a custodial sink, the peeling paint may have occurred to a historic event associated with the sink such as a leak, overfilling of a mop bucket, etc. No further action appears warranted.
A board approved restoration contractor cleaned/disinfected the impacted areas. The impacted area was then encapsulated.
After the cleaning, a dehumidifier was placed in the space for the remainder of August and into September (when outdoor relative humidity decreased due to seasonal variation). No regrowth was observed after the cleaning.
Since a definitive cause was not identifed, the Office of the Environment will recommend Building Maintenance place a dehumidifier in the storage closet each Summer.