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: August 22 and September 10, 2025
The space is finished with floor tile, drywall, block walls, and a drop ceiling. The Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems consists of a Outdoor Air Handling Unit (OAHU-1) which supplies outside air to the space (located on the roof) and a Fan Coil Unit (FCU) within the space. The FCU recirculates air in the space for temperature control.
The space previously contained floor cleaning equipment from Summer cleaning. The Office of the Environment requested Custodial Services remove the floor cleaning equipment and reclean the floors (floor tile) prior to the August 22 visit.
The Office of the Environment visited after the floors had been cleaned on August 21. An odor was still detectable in the space.
A moisture meter was used on the drywall walls within the space. No elevated moisture was detected in the drywall.
The cove base was peeled back in a location to assess for mold growth. No mold growth was observed.
The space contains an access panel to a chase. The access panel was opened. No odors were identifed within the chase.
Areas above the drop ceiling were assessed. No odors or moisture concerns (active leaks, mold, etc.) were identifed.
The FCU was assessed:
- The filter was in place and in good condition.
- No odors were identifed within the unit.
- No concerns were identifed with the coils/drain pain/condensate drain.
- The unit was turned off during assessment. The odor appeared to dissipate in the space with the unit being off.
OAHU-1 was also assessed:
- The unit was not operational during the assessment (i.e. no outside air was being delivered for general dilution). Building Maintenance (HVAC) was already aware and was awaiting repair.
Building Maintenance cleaned the fan coil unit (drain pan, coils, etc.) as a precaution. It was also reported that OAHU-1 is now operational. The Office of the Environment visited the school on September 10th and no odors were identifed.