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 23 and February 2, 2026
During the initial visit, low levels (around 1 part per million (ppm) of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) were detected in the office space using a Photo-Ionization Detector (PID).
Notes regarding the VOC sampling:
- Levels tended to be higher at the desk level and within drawers of the desk.
- Levels were higher within desk drawers.
- Levels tended to be lower near the carpet.
- Levels were either non-detect or very low outside of the office.
- Levels were non-detect when measured at the supply diffuser.
Staff reported that they typically use disinfectant wipes (containing ethanol) to clean within the office. It was indicated that occasionally they clean with diluted bleach.
The staff member was requested to clean an unnecessary items out of the desk drawer.
The Office of the Environment returned on February 2 (early morning, after a weekend):
- No VOCs were detected in the general space.
- VOCs were able to be detected when very close to the closed packaging of the disinfectant wipes.
The Office of the Environment believes the disinfectant wipes have the potential to be associated with the concern reported. See the corrective action section for recommendations.
Do not store disinfectant wipes in the general office space. The disinfectant wipes appear to off-gas VOCs even when closed and not in-use. Given the small space, this may be enough to cause the general health concern reported.
- It is recommended not to alternate between cleaning methods, especially when bleach is involved. It is reported that diluted bleach is occasionally used to disinfect the office area and the disinfectant wipes are used more regularly. Depending on post cleaning residual, dry times (temperature and humidity dependent), time in-between cleanings, etc. there is a potential for a reaction to create a by-product.
- You can speak with Custodial and request to use the approved cleaner (pre-diluted) as a trial in your office area.