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: September 19 and 24 2019
Room B56
A slight odor was detected in the early morning prior to the HVAC system becoming operational. The odor was not indicative of an environmental concern such as mold, sewer gas, etc.
The room has various items typically seen in an elementary classroom (plastic bins, rubber balls, area rug, large fabric pillows, etc.). The room also contains a few shelves and a desk lamp that do not appear to be provided by HCPSS.
The room is carpeted. No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.
One stained ceiling tile was observed in the space. No mold growth was observed.
The supply diffusers were dirty.
The sink trap was checked and contains water.
Areas above the drop ceiling were assessed. No odors or concerns were identified.
The room's Fan Coil Unit (FCU) was assessed. No concerns were identified with the FCU's filter or coils.
The room's Dedicated Outside Air Unit was assessed. No concerns were identified with the FCU's filters, coils, or drain/drain pan. No odors were detected within the unit. The outside air dampers were open.
The odor sensed is likely a combination of the rooms carpet and the miscellaneous items stored within the room. The odor sensed by the Office of the Environment on September 19 was typical of an elementary school classroom and is considered a nuisance (not a safety concern). These types of odors tend to dissipate after the HVAC begins operation (dilutes odor via outside air).
Room B62
A slight odor was detected in the early morning prior to the HVAC system becoming operational (first visit). The odor was not indicative of an environmental concern such as mold, sewer gas, etc. The odor smelled "clean." The occupant indicated disinfecting wipes were used the evening before the visit.
No odor was detected during the second visit to the classroom.
The room is carpeted. No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet.
The supply diffusers were dirty.
The sink trap was checked and contains water.
Areas above the drop ceiling were assessed. No odors or concerns were identified.
The room's Fan Coil Unit (FCU) was assessed. No concerns were identified with the FCU's filter or coils.
The room's Dedicated Outside Air Unit was assessed. No concerns were identified with the FCU's filters, coils, or drain/drain pan. No odors were detected within the unit. The outside air dampers were open.
The occupant of the room indicated a "marker" odor was detected on September 18 for a few moments (late morning). As of September 24, the odor has not been sensed again.
Room B62 - If a "marker" odor is sensed, Administration is to notify the Office of the Environment. If available, someone from the office will visit the site while the odor is being exhibited.
B56 - Various shelves that do not appear to be HCPSS issued are present within the space. These items are not recommended by the Office of the Environment, however it is up to the school's Administration to determine if these items are necessary for instruction, etc.
If the Office of the Environment is requested to visit the site again for a similar odor, Administration is to ensure the non-issued HCPSS shelving is removed from the room.
Custodial Services is to clean the supply diffusers in both spaces.
Custodial Services is to place a work order to have the cause of the stained ceiling tile in Room B56 addressed.