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)
Dates of Assessment: July 22, 25, & 31, 2025
The Office of the Environment observed visible mold growth on furniture in several classrooms (Rooms 102-111 and Rooms 161-164). The source of mold growth is likely due to elevated relative humidity within the area.
The impacted areas are served by the same Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) zone (HRU-1).
Building Maintenance reported that HRU-1 was not operating on schedule and was running continuously (24/7) for several weeks. During this time, the outdoor weather conditions were conducive for elevated relative indoor humidity introduced by the HVAC system that serves the area (low outdoor temperatures coupled with high outdoor humidity/dew point).
It should be noted that HRU-2 and HRU-3 did not operate continuously. Classrooms served by HRU-2 and HRU-3 were assessed as a precaution. No visible mold growth was identifed.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) changed the operation schedule of HRU-1 to the summer time schedule.
A board-approved restoration contractor clean/disinfected surfaces (regardless of impact) within rooms 102-113 and 161-164. Air scrubbers with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters were placed in each of the rooms during cleaning and disinfecting.
De-humidifiers were also placed within the rooms and left onsite until Building Maintenance (HVAC) advised that they could be removed. The units were removed on August 21, 2025.
The Office of the Environment inspected and confirmed that the restoration contractor had completed the cleaning/disinfection of the areas.
The Office of the Environment will coordinate with Building Maintenance (HVAC) on developing a HVAC Summer Operation Plan to reduce the occurrence of summer time mold incidents.