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: March 1 and 5, 2021
When contacting the school, administration indicated this was a concern the individual experienced in March 2020, but did not report since it was around the time the school system was shutting down due to COVID-19.
The individual mentioned to administration that the concern was noted after some work was supposedly done with the ventilation system.
The Office of Environment reviewed work orders and contacted HVAC mechanics who may have done work at that time. No work orders existed and mechanics do not performing any work.
Since the concern was over a year ago, it would be extremely difficult to assess what was occurring at that time or applying present findings to the past incident. As a result, the Office of Environment concentrated on the lethargy matter by presently reviewing the ventilation system components serving the classroom. The Office of Environment reviewed Air Handling Unit (AHU) 7 which serves classroom 315 and several other classrooms. The outdoor air damper was functioning and the housekeeping of the unit (i.e. coils, filters, condensate pan) was acceptable.
Building Services HVAC Shop reviewed the operation of the room's variable air volume box (VAV). The VAV damper and thermostat were noted to be operating.
Should the symptoms occur again, the individual is to immediately submit an online IEQ concern form and may also contact the Office of Environment.