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: August 19, September 16, 21, 30, and October 9, 2020.
Building Services had been in communication with the Office of the Environment since August 17, 2020, regarding high relative humidity readings collected while investigating condensation issues on metal components due to mechanical issues. As a precaution, the Office of the Environment started conducting periodic inspections of the building to check for any possible mold growth.
September 16, 2020: The Office of Environment identified relative humidity related mold growth on approximately 20 student desks in room 120 and one staff chair and student desk in room 171. Items in room 171 were disinfected by the Office of Environment at the time of finding. The impacted items in Room 120 were to be disinfected by school custodial staff.
September 21, 2020: The Office of Environment placed data loggers in Rooms 120, 153, and 171 to collect temperature and relative humidity trends until weather no longer warranted humidity concerns and/or ventilation systems changed over to heating. The items to be disinfected in Room 120 were inspected by the Office of Environment. The inspection failed and custodial staff were to reclean the student desks.
September 30, 2020: No new mold growth was observed within the school. The Office of Environment inspected the re-cleaning of the student desks in Room 120 and disinfected any missed areas.
October 9, 2020: The Office of Environment inspected various rooms and found no additional mold growth. Data loggers were removed and inspections to cease due to weather becoming cooler and data loggers indicated favorable trends.
Building Services investigated and addressed overcooling of mechanical equipment causing condensation on ventilation units and uninsulated pipes above the drop ceiling. The chilled water temperature was raised and portions of pipes insulated as necessary. Details listed in work order 163909.
Building Services reviewed the three roof top heat recovery units serving the impacted interior zones. Building Services made some repairs to ventilation controls and components. Details listed in work order 166795.
The Office of Environment will work with Building Services' HVAC Shop next summer to ensure ventilation units are efficiently operating and monitor interior conditions (relative humidity and mold growth) as necessary.