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: September 28 and 30, 2021
The item in question was discarded, however a picture of the item had suspect mold growth.
The remainder of the room was assessed for moisture concerns.
No relative humidity mold was observed on surfaces.
The room was screened with a thermal infrared camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were observed.
The drywall and casework was probed with a moisture meter in several locations. No elevated moisture was detected.
The carpet was probed with a moisture meter, no elevated moisture was detected.
A slight carpet odor was detected. A moldy/musty odor was not sensed.
It was also indicated that the room feels "stuffy" at times. The volume of air supplied and returned to/from the space was measured and compared to HVAC drawings. The supply air volume was 135-150 cubic feet per minute (cfm) at maximum output and the exhaust fan was approximately 135 cfm. The plans call for 200 cfm (+/- 10%), therefore Building Maintenance should assess to determine if there is a deficiency with the VAV box and exhaust fan.
The Air Handling Unit (on roof) that serves the space was assessed.
The outdoor air dampers were open and the filters were in good condition. No concerns were identified with the coils.
There is fiberglass pipe insulation within the unit that has grime and suspect mold growth on it. There are no odors within the unit and this finding is not thought to be associated with the original odor concern.
A work order was created for Building Maintenance to assess the VAV box and the exhaust fan for the space.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) is to remove and replace the impacted pipe insulation. The Office of the Environment understands due to the anticipated pricing, multiple contractors were required to submit a proposal to follow Purchasing requirements. A contractor has been selected and the scheduling of the work is in progress. The work will be scheduled for off-hours.