Mold in Harmony schools

[Tom Long]

I was asked if there was a mold issue in the Harmony schools. Below
is the information received from the District:

Harmony High School

Discovery: Building 06 first floor only (27,760 sq. ft.) – Building
contents and walls were affected by microbial growth. Humidity not
maintained below 60% as recommended by ASHRAE 62.1


Causes:
The MAHU for this space was manually switched into the ‘hand’ (manual)
position causing it to run continuously.
The EMS computer shut the chiller down during unoccupied times and
this caused unconditioned outside air to enter the space.

Corrective Action:
The Energy Specialist found this problem and reported it, preventing
further problems. It was never determined who placed the AHU in the
permanent ’on’ condition.
HVAC unit was returned to the “Auto” position to be properly
controlled by the EMS.
Health & Safety contracted a professional mold remediation contractor
to properly clean the affected building contents.
The impact to the District for this clean-up effort was $23,168.18.

Recommendations:
Proper training for custodial regarding HVAC operation should take
place.
Immediately following HVAC shut down personnel should verify interior
HVAC units are shutting down as needed. This can be accomplished by a
simple walkthrough by staff.
Monitoring humidity within the buildings is paramount.

To my knowledge, we've had no reports of IAQ issues at Harmony K-8.
Harmony High School had a problem this past summer when school was not
in session; the above information documents what was found and what
was done to resolve the problem.