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: November 1, 2019
Temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide readings were acceptable within the 3rd Grade Pod.
No odors were identified within the pod.
Medium to heavy deposits of dust were observed on horizontal surfaces such as shelving and bookcases.
A faint brown staining was observed on the interior of select cabinet doors in Room 54 and Room 60. A tape-lift sample was taken from each room to determine if the staining was associated with mold growth. Mold growth was confirmed on the interior of a cabinet door in Room 60.
The remainder of the school was then inspected. A few cabinets in the first grade pod were also observed to contain similar staining.
The mold growth appeared to be residual relative humidity mold growth from a past event. Relative humidity mold growth typically occurs in the summer, during extended periods of high outdoor humidity. Talbott Springs Elementary has experienced relative humidity mold growth events in the past. HCPSS upgraded the HVAC system recently in order to minimize the impact of relative humidity mold growth at the school. The proper operation of this new system was confirmed by Building Services (HVAC).
The Office of the Environment and Building Services (HVAC) reviewed relative humidity data trends for the school (collected last summer). No apparent concerns were identified with the humidity levels last summer; therefore the Office of the Environment believes the growth observed was residual growth from a historic event.
It should be noted that the mold growth observed was extremely minimal and only observed on select cabinet doors. Due to the limited amount and because the growth was confined to the interiors of cabinets (with doors), potential exposure was likely minimal.
The Air Handling Unit (AHU) that services the 3rd Grade Pod was inspected. No deficiencies were identified.
The Office of the Environment will monitor the school for relative humidity mold growth during the summer of 2020.
Custodial Services dusted horizontal surfaces within the 3rd Grade Pod. Administration is to insure routine dusting is occurring on a regular basis.
A board-approved restoration contractor cleaned the inside of the cabinets in the First and Third Grade Pods. The remaining pods were also cleaned as a precaution. Work was conducted on November 8 and 9. A post-remediation inspection was performed by the Office of the Environment. Two spaces needed to be re-cleaned. The spaces were re-cleaned on November 13, 2019. The Office of the Environment then re-inspected those spaces. No mold growth was observed during the re-inspection.