Concern: Running Brook Elementary School: October 2nd, 2019 (CXRBES201900011F)

Location
1st & 2nd Grade Classrooms
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
The odor from the carpet is musty and its concerning considering a couple of the classrooms have had leaks from the ceiling. Also, the carpets in most classrooms in the building and the staff lounge have active silverfish.
IEQ Investigation Process

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)
Findings

Date(s) of Assessment: October 3, 2019

The carpet in rooms 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, and 105 were assessed. In general, the carpet appeared to be in poor condition with staining and fraying in multiple locations. The carpet was not adhered to the flooring substrate in Room 101, causing the carpet to bunch. The fraying and bunching of the carpet represents a tripping hazard.

Mild to moderate carpet odors were detected in the spaces. Carpet odors are considered a nuisance (not a safety concern) and tend to dissipate after the HVAC begins operation (dilutes odor). The HVAC returns were partially blocked by shelves/cubbies in rooms 97, 99, 100, and 105. Although it may be difficult due to lack of space, moving the shelves/cubbies may allow for better air movement to the return, reducing odors.

The Office of the Environment contacted Building Services to assess the carpet. Building Services indicated the carpet has exceeded its useful life as a walking surface.

The Office of the Environment notified Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of the reported pests. The Office of the Environment did not observe any silverfish during the assessment.

The Roof Top Units servicing the pods were assessed. No deficiencies were identified.

Additionally, the following was identified while assessing the spaces that may eventually impact IEQ:

Room 96 - Fabric Materials.

Room 101 and 105 - Ceiling tile stain.

Corrective Actions
November 13th, 2019

The replacement of the carpet will be placed on the deferred maintenance list. The timing of the replacement will be based on priority and available funding.

November 13th, 2019

Custodial Services is to place a work order for the ceiling tile stains. If a work order already exists, a new one does not need to be created.

November 13th, 2019

Administration is to insure that fabric materials are being cleaned on a regular basis by the individual who brought them in.

November 15th, 2019

A work order was placed for Building Services to make a temporary repair on the bunched carpet in Room 101 (tripping hazard).

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXRBES201900011F