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)
Dates of Assessment and Remedial Work: June 12, 17, 19, 23, 26, and 29, 2020.
June 12, 2020
Visible mold growth was observed on stored items, a portion of pipe insulation, wood structures, and the cement walls and ceilings.
Condensate was not observed on surfaces. Custodial staff indicated at times surfaces had condensate.
Temperature was 79.5 degrees and relative humidity 66% within the closet.
Water was dripping out of the small water heater's safety relief line into a floor drain. Plumbing Shop later determined the hot water heater was defective and release hot water and/or steam into the confined closet.
The school recently propped open the exterior doors outside of the closet during the day for two weeks while teachers were coming in to close out the school year. The weather conditions during this time period may have enhanced the already deteriorating conditions due the defective water heater.
The exterior brick appeared darkened by moisture staining. However, after remediation and drying the closet, the staining remained.
Voids and gaps (i.e. penetrating pipes) existed in the walls.
Fan coil ventilation units were observed within and outside (entrance foyer) the closet.
An exterior mechanical room was inspected since it shared a wall with the closet.
June 17, 2020
Office of Environment met with custodial staff and an Board approved restoration contractor to discuss the scope of work.
June 19, 2020
The restoration company separated stored items (clean / keep and discard). Walls and ceilings were cleaned and disinfected. Damaged wood structures and portion of pipe insulation were removed. The area was contained and a dehumidifier and air scrubber were deployed. The water heater was turned off by the Plumbing Shop.
June 23, 2020
Office of Environment and restoration company reviewed the area. The walls and ceiling were painted with a mold inhibiting encapsulant. The contractor sealed voids within the walls.
June 26, 2020
Plumbing Shop replaced the water heater.
June 29, 2020
Office of Environment reviewed the completed work and notified the school that they could begin the process of organizing and placing items back into the closet.
Building Services HVAC Shop is to describe the purpose of fan coil units within and outside the closet and ensure they are operating as designed.
Building Services Plumbing Shop evaluated and corrected the water heater located within the closet.