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: June, 28, 2019
An odor typical of an indoor athletic/fitness space was detected.
The room is utilized as a wrestling practice space. Additionally, it was reported that outside groups use the space for wrestling.
During the assessment, the room contained numerous portable "roll-up" wresting mats. The mats were rolled-up and stood on end. Several "folded" mats were also observed. When in use, the mats are unrolled/unfolded onto the carpeted floor of the space.
The mats are cleaned using a mop and bucket.
This method of cleaning may not be ideal as it likely uses more water than is needed to clean the mats.
In general, the mats do not seem to allow sweat, blood, etc. to permeate through the mats to the carpet below.
The carpet was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
The carpet was screened with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture were detected.
The Office of the Environment understands that this room was intended to be a teacher planning room and the current weight room was intended to be a wresting room. Due to size, the usage of the rooms was altered. As the room was not designed for wresting, there will likely always be a nuisance odor if wresting is to continue.
The Office of the Environment recommends the mats be cleaned using a spray method such as a pump-sprayer with a mixture of cleaner and water (per the manufactures instructions). This will limit the amount of water used for the cleaning process, thus limiting the potential for excess cleaning solutions/moisture to get to the carpet during cleaning. The Office of the Environment understands Administration and Athletics is in the process of ordering a pump-sprayer for this purpose.
If concern regarding the odor continues, Administration can consider moving the wrestling area into the room originally designed for wrestling (the current weight room).