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: August 5, 9, 12, 16, and 17, 2022
On August 5, the Office of Environment responded to an odor reported in the theater lobby on August 4 by the Office of Security, Safety, and Risk Management. The theater, stage, and catwalk were inspected for mold growth. No mold growth was observed. The carpet had topical moisture as determined by the use of a moisture probe. The air temperature was approximately 68 degrees Fahrenheit with elevated relative humidity (75-77%). Building Maintenance HVAC Shop was contacted and it was reported that the chiller was down the day before and back in operation around the time of this initial assessment.
On August 9, the Office of Environment conducted the school's general IEQ assessment which included the theater. The conditions (temperature and relative humidity) had not changed from the initial assessment. Building Maintenance HVAC was contacted and they determined the ventilation system serving the theater was not operating in summer mode, but in COVID mode as if school was in session. A data logger was placed in the theater to monitor temperature and relative humidity. Building Services corrected ventilation operation on August 10, 2022.
On August 12, the Office of Environment did a follow up to see if conditions improved. The only change from the initial assessment was the start of mold growth observed on the edges of the wood component on the end of each row of seats. A Board approved restoration was utilized to deploy dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the theater.
On August 15, the restoration contractor cleaned and disinfected the seats.
On August 16, the Office of Environment did a follow up assessment. No elevated moisture was detected in the carpet and the relative humidity was acceptable due to the dehumidifiers/fans. The cleaning of the wood edges with mold was not completely acceptable.
On August 17, the Office of Environment met with the restoration contractor to reclean wood seating components.
On August 19, the drying equipment was removed. Building Services HVAC Shop was then to monitor the operation of the ventilation system serving the theater (ongoing).
Building Services reviewed HVAC unit serving the theater and made changes.