Projects

Service: Indoor Air Quality Investigation
Facility Type: Commercial Building

Description:

ACC was contacted to investigate indoor air quality (IAQ) issues issue at the subject property related to potential atypical indoor air mold concentrations related to occupant concerns. Occupants reported an odor in the area and suspected corresponding symptoms related to the detected odor.

ACC conducted interviews with staff during the investigation. The interviews focused on items related to indoor air quality, building systems operation, recent and historical events that may influence air quality, spatial and timing patterns related to occupant complaints, etc. where appropriate. Occupant interviews, while key to conducting an indoor air quality inspection, are voluntary for participation by building occupants.

ACC conducted a general visual inspection of the Subject Area for conditions that may be related to indoor air quality (IAQ) issues. During the site visit, ACC performed a general visual inspection, conducted basic air quality measurements (temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide), and performed non-viable fungal (mold) air sampling.

The IAQ investigation resulted in the following conclusions:

• Significant housekeeping issues.
• No visible water impacted materials were observed during the site investigation.
• Concentrations of Ascospores, Basidiospores, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, and Myxomycetes mold spores were higher on the air samples collected from the interior of the subject area as compared to the mold spore concentrations on air samples collected from the outside.
• Elevated concentrations of pollen were identified in the air sample particulate characterization analysis.

Based on the results of the IAQ investigation, ACC made the following recommendations:

1. Repair/reseal the HVAC ductwork (or replace units and damaged duct work as feasible based on lease considerations).
2. Perform duct cleaning via a licensed and experienced air-duct cleaning contractor using appropriate engineering controls and HEPA filtered equipment according to NADCA standards;
   a. If duct cleaning is not performed, install temporary filters at supply registers that will capture any debris that may blow through the system for a few days once HVAC ducting is repaired.
3. Ensure the proper filters are installed in the HVAC unit & ensure the filter is seated to minimize leak-through.
4. Perform air balance based on HVAC vendor recommendations
5. Upon completion of HVAC repairs, perform intensive cleaning of entire space (i.e. damp dusting of all horizontal surfaces, filtered vacuuming, etc.
6. Repair necessary weather-stripping at door.
7. Adjust janitorial service and/or procedures to improve cleaning performance of the subject area.