Air Quality Results - Update on Tests Conducted

Thu, 09/03/2015 - 6:21am

Dear Glenwood Middle School community:

I am pleased to let you know that the latest reports on air quality measurements taken at the school continue to show very favorable results.

Aria Environmental, Inc. sampled for mold spore counts and other air quality indicators in 12 indoor and two outdoor locations on Tuesday, Aug. 27. This was the second in a series of scheduled tests following the upgrade of the school HVAC system.

These results indicate that all indoor spore count measurements continue to be significantly lower than the spore counts found outdoors. Even more encouraging is that the counts were notably lower than those assessed during the initial measurements taken last Tuesday. Specifically, the indoor spore counts on Thursday ranged from 400-747 total spores per cubic meter of air, compared to counts measured in the two outdoor locations, which ranged from 9,433-10,960 spores per cubic meter.

The results of the other air quality assessments were also favorable. Relative humidity and temperature measurements continue to fall within the comfort ranges established by ASHRAE, and measurements for carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter were within the acceptable ranges for good air quality in all areas.

Aria’s full report, dated Sept. 1, 2015, is posted on the school website.

I also want to update you regarding suspected mold found in a classroom last week. As I previously informed you, the visual inspection by our environmental expert indicated no presence of mold. However, the items in question were removed and tested by Aria. The results do not indicate mold growth on the items. Soil and dust were observed on the items. That full report also can be found on the school website.

We also heard concerns about air quality in the relocatable classrooms. These locations will be included in the next round of sampling that begins today. On Wednesday, Sept. 2, the sampling will be conducted in Classrooms 4, 5, 16, 17, 32, 23, 39, 40, and all six relocatable classrooms. There also was a corkboard identified in the women’s Physical Education office that has been removed and is being tested. Results of all new testing will be forthcoming.

I will continue to keep you informed of the results of upcoming air quality assessments. 

Regards,

Robert A. Motley

Principal