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: August 12, 2022
Sporadic mold growth totaling approximately three square feet was observed on the bookshelf within the gym office.
The remainder of the office was assessed with no other mold growth identified.
The cause of the mold growth was likely associated from elevated humidity within the space. The unit ventilator within the space supplies outside air. High dew point and humidity outdoors being introduced via the ventilation system over the summer are the likely cause of the mold growth.
Building Maintenance closed the outdoor air dampers to the unit (gym offices unoccupied as staff had not returned from summer break) and changed the fan setting to reduce the amount of outdoor air supplied. The temperature was also adjusted to reduce relative humidity. A precautionary cleaning of the unit was also completed.
The Office of the Environment requested that Building Maintenance (HVAC) create an annual re-occurring work order to adjust the setpoint, outdoor air dampers, and fan setting at the end of the school year as a preventative measure. Another re-occurring work order will be created to return the settings when staff/students return.
A board-approved restoration contractor was utilized to clean/disinfect impacted areas. The contractor was also to perform a general cleaning of surfaces within the office as a precaution.