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Palmetto EHS, LLC (Palmetto EHS) is pleased to provide the enclosed report for the referenced
site. The sampling was conducted on October 18, 2018. The report includes an executive
summary, investigative methods, results and conclusions.
This work was performed in general conformance with Palmetto EHS Proposal Number 2018349
dated October 15, 2018. This report is provided for the sole use of Horry County Schools. Use of
this report by any other parties will be at such party's sole risk and Palmetto EHS disclaims liability
for any such use or reliance by third parties. The results presented in this report are indicative of
conditions only during the time of the sampling period and of the specific areas referenced.
We appreciate the opportunity to work with you. If you have any questions concerning this
report, please call us at (803) 462-4404.
Sincerely,
Palmetto EHS, LLC
! !
Gary Eubanks Colleen Eubanks, CIH, CSP, CET
Vice President President
Table of Contents
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Project No. 2018349
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Executive Summary
Palmetto EHS conducted indoor air quality testing in Room C100, Room C101, Drama Classroom,
Drama Storage, and Band Uniform Storage at Conway High School in Conway, SC on October 18,
2018. The testing was conducted indoors and outdoors for comparison.
• We did not detect any odors in any of the rooms noted above on the day of our visit.
• We did not observe any visible mold in any of the rooms noted above except in the Band
Uniform Storage where there was light staining present on numerous band hat cases.
• The results of the environmental parameter testing revealed that carbon dioxide,
temperature, and relative humidity were within normal limits in all of the rooms noted
above at the time of our testing.
• Moisture testing on the concrete walls in each of the rooms noted above did not reveal
any areas of excessive moisture.
• Two stained ceiling tiles were observed in the Drama Classroom on October 18, 2018.
• A door stop was placed in the door leading to the outside in Room C100 at the time of
our visit.
• The Drama Storage area was dusty and cluttered.
• The surface swab collected from the light staining on one of the band hat cases was
“loaded” with Aspergillus mold spores, and had “trace” counts of Penicillium mold spores.
• Aspergillus/Penicllium-like mold spores were amplified in all five areas we tested on
October 18, 2018.
Recommendations are provided in the “Conclusions and Recommendations” section of this report.
Scope of Work
Palmetto EHS conducted indoor air quality testing in Room C100, Room C101, Drama Classroom,
Drama Storage, and Band Uniform Storage at Conway High School in Conway, SC on October 18,
2018. The purpose of the sampling was to determine if airborne mold spores were elevated above
outdoor levels.
Environmental Parameters
Carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature and relative humidity were measured using a TSI IAQ Calc
direct reading instrument to determine the relative comfort parameters of the subject area and to
evaluate conditions that may promote amplification of microorganisms. The American Society
for Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has established
guidelines for selected indoor air quality parameters such as temperature, relative humidity (RH)
and carbon dioxide (CO2). These environmental parameters are important determinants for
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Acceptable temperature ranges differ from winter to summer and are a function of RH levels
that range between 30% and 60%. RH below 30% is unacceptable because of the effect of dry
air on the eyes, skin and mucous membranes, and RH above 60% may support the growth of
pathogenic or allergenic microorganisms indoors. The following temperature ranges are
considered acceptable based on the standard:
Summer: 74ºF to 80ºF (for RH = 30%) and 73ºF to 78ºF (for RH = 60%).
Winter: 69ºF to 76ºF (for RH = 30%) and 68ºF to 74ºF (for RH = 60%)
The indoor concentration of CO2 is a surrogate for occupant-generated pollutants that may be
odorous, and is an indicator of the adequacy of the rate of outside air supply per occupant
(dilution ventilation). The higher the indoor concentrations of CO2, the less effective the
ventilation system is in dilution of typical indoor air contaminants and body effluents. ASHRAE
standard 62.1-2010 recommends an indoor to outdoor differential concentration of CO2 to be no
greater than 700 parts per million (ppm) to meet comfort (odor) criteria.
Mold Samples
Total (viable and non-viable) airborne fungal (mold) spores were measured indoors and
outdoors using Zefon Air-O-Cell spore traps with a calibrated vacuum pump. Air sampling was
performed indoors and outdoors for comparison. The samples were immediately shipped for
overnight delivery and analyzed by light microscopy for viable and non-viable mold spores by
Scientific Analytical Institute, which is accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association
(AIHA).
Surface sampling for mold was conducted by swabbing a surface of interest with a sterile swab.
The samples were immediately shipped for overnight delivery and analyzed by light microscopy
for viable and non-viable mold spores by Scientific Analytical Institute, which is accredited by the
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
Microbial testing as a part of this report included testing and analysis for some biological agents
commonly present in indoor air. It did not include testing and analysis for all known biological
agents. Testing for biological contaminants does not include viruses or bacteria, unless
specifically noted otherwise, and then only those viruses and bacteria specified.
Moisture Testing
A GE Protimeter non-penetrating moisture meter was used to detect moisture in the concrete
block walls in Room C100, Room C101, Drama Classroom, Drama Storage, and Band Uniform
Storage. The moisture meter can penetrate up to 3/4 inch into the test surface.
Visual Assessment
We were asked to collect air samples for mold in Room C100, C101, Drama Classroom, Drama
Storage, and the Band Uniform Storage at Conway High School in Conway, SC on October 18,
2018. Per Ms. Tammy Trulove, Director of Health and Safety Services for Horry County Schools,
there had been some complaints from faculty/staff working in these areas, mostly stating they
were having respiratory issues from possible mold. Ms. Trulove had performed an assessment
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in these a few weeks back noting some items for correction. A thorough surface cleaning of at
least Room C100 and C101 had been performed a few weeks prior to our visit.
On the day of our visit, we did not detect any odors in any of the rooms we visited. We also
didn’t observe any mold in the rooms other than some light staining on the band hat cases in the
Band Uniform Storage. Two ceiling tiles in the Drama Classroom were stained but the stains
appeared to be old. The Drama Storage area was dusty and cluttered.
Environmental Parameters
A summary of the environmental parameters tested (temperature, relative humidity, and carbon
dioxide) are provided in Table I. The results of the environmental parameter testing revealed
that carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity were within normal limits in each of the
rooms we visited.
Outdoors 492 38 67
Mold Samples
We are unaware of regulatory requirements pertaining to mold associated with indoor air quality
at this time. However, there are recognized guidelines for mold remediation from the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and New York City Department of Health Bureau of
Environmental & Occupational Disease Epidemiology. Additionally, indoor air quality guidelines
have been suggested for remedial decision-making by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), and the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienist
(ACGIH). Some of these guidelines focus on indoor to outdoor comparison, and an evaluation
of fungal types. The interpretation of the results normally relies upon the professional
conducting the assessment.
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Air sampling was performed indoors and outdoors for comparison. Total fungal spore (non-
viable and viable fungi) concentrations were monitored. Summary results of the air samples are
provided in Table II and actual laboratory results are provided in the Appendix.
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Ascospores (10,600)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (1100)
M-1 Outdoors 26,600
Basidiospores (7920)
Cladosporium (3370)
Ascospores (7990)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (392)
M-2 Outdoors 19,500
Basidiospores (5490)
Cladosporium (1650)
Ascospores (705)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (7520)
M-3 Room C100 9010
Basidiospores (235)
Cladosporium (235)
Ascospores (470)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (6350)
M-4 Room C101 8390
Basidiospores (862)
Cladosporium (392)
Ascospores (313)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (1490)
M-5 Drama Classroom 2510
Basidiospores (235)
Cladosporium (157)
Ascospores (235)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (3680)
M-6 Drama Storage 4310
Basidiospores (157)
Cladosporium (235)
Ascospores (392)
Aspergillus/Penicillium (4550)
M-7 Band Uniform Storage 5560
Basidiospores (235)
Cladosporium (78)
Abbreviations: c/m3 = total mold spore counts per cubic meter, ND= None Detected
The total mold spore counts in Room C100, Room C101, Drama Classroom, Drama Storage,
and Band Uniform Storage were below outdoor levels, however, Aspergillus/Penicillium-like
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mold spores were detected at higher counts in each of these areas than in the outdoor samples.
Therefore, mold spores were considered amplified in each of those five areas on the day of our
visit.
Sample Relative
Surface Location Predominant Types
Number Quantity
Abbreviations: c/m3 = total mold spore counts per cubic meter, LDL= less than detectable, N/A = not applicable
Relative scale reported by analytical laboratory: Trace 1 to 10 spores; Light 11-100 spores; Abundant 101-300
spores; Loaded>300 spores
Surface mold sampling was performed by wiping a sterile swab across the indicated surface.
The results indicated the sample was “loaded” with Aspergillus/Penicillium mold spores, and had
“trace” counts of Penicillium mold spores.
Moisture Testing
A GE Protimeter non-penetrating moisture meter was used to detect moisture in the concrete
block walls Room C100, Room C101, Drama Classroom, Drama Storage, and Band Uniform
Storage. Moisture meter readings in each of these rooms were all normal and did not reveal any
excessive moisture areas on October 18, 2018.
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The following recommendations are provided for Room C100, C101, and Drama Classroom:
1. In the Drama Classroom, remove and inspect above the two stained ceiling tiles for any possible
current leaks. If any current leaks are found, correct them before replacing the ceiling tiles. If no
current leaks are found then go ahead and replace these stained tiles. Do this prior to below.
2. Vacuum all tile floors using a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered vacuum cleaner.
Thoroughly clean and dry all of the surfaces (walls, floors, desk, etc) in each of these rooms with
a District approved antimicrobial cleaning agent. This should include a cleaning of any HVAC
supply diffusers and return vents. This may be performed by the regular cleaning staff as long as
appropriate antimicrobial cleaning agents are used for the cleaning, otherwise, you may consider
using a mold remediation contractor.
3. Have at least one HEPA filtered scrubbing machine installed and run for 3-5 days in each of
these rooms. This will help lower the mold spore count. If able, have two run in each room for
3-5 days.
4. Rooms C100 and C101 doors to exterior need to be limited to quick opening and closing and
never propped open. Propping these doors open more easily allow for outdoor mold spores to
enter the rooms.
5. Post cleaning air testing can be performed if requested.
The following recommendations are provided for the Drama Storage Area:
1. Remove any costumes or clothes that aren’t used anymore, consider washing/cleaning the
remaining ones. Declutter and organize the room so that a thorough cleaning may be performed.
2. Once the above has been done, vacuum the tile floor using a high efficiency particulate air
(HEPA) filtered vacuum cleaner. Thoroughly clean and dry all of the surfaces (walls, floors,
furniture, etc) in this room with a District approved antimicrobial cleaning agent. This should
include a cleaning of any HVAC supply diffusers and return vents in the room. This may be
performed by the regular cleaning staff as long as appropriate antimicrobial cleaning agents are
used for the cleaning, otherwise, you may consider using a mold remediation contractor.
3. Have at least one HEPA filtered scrubbing machine installed and run for 3-5 days in this room.
4. Post cleaning air testing can be performed if requested.
The following recommendations are provided for the Band Uniform Storage Area:
1. Remove all of the band uniform clothing in the room so that a thorough cleaning may be
performed.
2. Remove all of the band hat cases from the room and thoroughly clean and dry these cases with
a District approved antimicrobial cleaning agent.
3. Vacuum the tile floor using a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered vacuum cleaner.
Thoroughly clean and dry all of the surfaces (walls, floors, furniture, etc) in this room with a
District approved antimicrobial cleaning agent. This should include a cleaning of any HVAC
supply diffusers and return vents in the room. This may be performed by the regular cleaning
staff as long as appropriate antimicrobial cleaning agents are used for the cleaning, otherwise,
you may consider using a mold remediation contractor.
4. Have at least one HEPA filtered scrubbing machine installed and run for 3-5 days in this room.
5. Post cleaning air testing can be performed if requested.
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Appendix I
Analytical Results
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Direct Exam: Spore Trap Analysis
SAI Method B-SOP-003
Client: Palmetto EHS Attn: Colleen Eubanks Lab Order ID: 51826949
100 Old Cherokee Rd
Analysis ID: 51826949_STA
Lexington, SC 29072
Date Received: 10/19/2018
Project: Conway High School -2018349 Date Reported: 10/19/2018
TOTAL 340 26600 100.% 249 19500 100.% 115 9010 100.% 294 23100 100.%
Non-Cellulosic Fibers - - - - - - - - - - - -
Hyphal Fragments 18 1410 - 14 1100 - 4 313 - 16 1250 -
Insect Parts - - - - - - - - - - - -
Pollen 3 235 - 2 157 - - - - 2 196 -
Skin Cell % of Total Debris 0-20% 0-20% 40-60% N/A
Total Debris in Background 60-80% 40-60% 20-40% N/A
Disclaimer: This report relates only to the samples tested and may not be reproduced, except in full, without the written approval of SAI. Unless otherwise noted blank sample correction was not performed on analytical results. Scientific Analytical Institute participates in the
AIHA EMPAT program for fungi. EMPAT Laboratory ID: 173190. Reporting Limit equals Analytical Sensitivity.
Disclaimer: This report relates only to the samples tested and may not be reproduced, except in full, without the written approval of SAI. Unless otherwise noted blank sample correction was not performed on analytical results. Scientific Analytical Institute participates in the
AIHA EMPAT program for fungi. EMPAT Laboratory ID: 173190. Reporting Limit equals Analytical Sensitivity.
Disclaimer: This report relates only to the samples tested and may not be reproduced, except in full, without the written approval of SAI. Unless otherwise noted blank sample correction was not performed on analytical results. Scientific Analytical Institute participates in the
AIHA EMPAT program for fungi. EMPAT Laboratory ID: 173190. Reporting Limit equals Analytical Sensitivity.
Fruiting bodies 1
Hyphal fragments 2
Pollen
Debris 2
COMMENT:
Scientific Analytical Institute, Inc. 4604 Dundas Dr. Greensboro, NC 27407 (336) 292-3888 Microbiology Technical Manager
B-F-015 EXP: 3/1/2020
Unless otherwise noted blank sample correction was not performed on analytical results. Scientific Analytical Institute participates in the AIHA EMPAT program for fungi. EMPAT Laboratory ID: 173190. This
report relates only to the samples tested and may not be reproduced, except in full, without the written approval of SAI. Reporting Limit equals the Analytical Sensitivity.