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 14, 2024
An extremely faint odor was detected when entering the room. Some reported the odor as very strong while others could not smell an odor at all.
Various appliances were assessed and included a portable fan, the projector, and a printer. The odor did not appear to be emanating from those devices.
No odors were identifed within the adjoining electrical room.
No odors were identifed above the drop ceiling.
The Unit Ventilator was assessed. No odors appeared to be emanating from the unit. Additionally, the unit's cover was removed. No concerns were identifed with the units coils or filters and no odors were identifed within the unit or near the units outdoor intake.
An odor was eventually traced to one of the three blinds in the room. Only one of the blinds had an odor. It was removed from the space. The area will be reassessed to determine if removing the blinds impacted the odor in the space.
Following the removal of the single blind, it was reported that the odor had dissipated but was still present. As a precaution, the remaining two blinds were removed from the space.
The Office of the Environment understands that the odor has not returned.
The odor may have occurred due to the excessive heating of the blinds (plastic) due to the winter sun angle and/or reflection (albedo) from the recent snow.
The area will be measured for replacement blinds.