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 of Assessment: February 4, 2026
The Office of the Environment identified rusting portions of the metal ceiling grid in the rooms of concern.
No visible mold was observed on the ceiling tiles or grid but visible dust deposits were observed on the ceiling grid.
The rust was not friable and does not easily scratch off of the grid.
The ceiling tiles were observed to be bowed.
No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion was observed via an infrared camera.
No obvious indications of water intrusion or mold growth was observed within the classrooms or above the ceiling tiles.
The rusting of the ceiling grid and bowed ceiling tiles are believed to have been caused by elevated relative humidity over a summer.
The rust does not represent a health and safety concern at this time.
The Office of the Environment will place a datalogger in the classrooms over the summer to monitor relative humidity to determine if the rust observed is an ongoing issue or historic.
Ceiling to be dusted or cleaned using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove observed dust deposits.