CREJ

Page 20 — Property Management Quarterly — April 2021 www.crej.com Maintenance D ue to safety measures such as mask-wearing/facial protection, social distanc- ing, limited gatherings and reduced travel, the work- place experience is different. Social guidelines and business operations may not be the only changes we encounter though as society returns to the physical work environment. Periods of low building occupancy can present health and safety issues, including mold and bacteria growth, as well as structural degra- dation. In this article we examine biologi- cal considerations to be aware of when reopening buildings, espe- cially factories, commercial office spaces and schools. n Building envelope. Now is a good time to consider if winter or spring storms have impacted the building’s envelope. A visual assessment of the facade, roofing, ceilings, walls and windows of a building is appro- priate to determine whether any storm damage could have allowed for moisture infiltration leading to mold and/or structural degradation. It is important to inspect the exte- rior for damage from fallen trees, heavy wind and hail. Additionally, the interior should be inspected for signs of damage, including water staining, broken glass and delami- nated substrates. n HVAC maintenance. If a build- ing’s airflow and climate control were limited during a shutdown or reduced occupancy period, it would be unsurprising to discover the presence of mold growth. These types – often referred to as “cot- tage syndrome” – are created by dew point con- densation and the absorption of water vapor from the air, which is the result of a lack of air movement. These fast-growing species can grow from lower air humidities’ and/or surfaces’ moisture content, often producing a common and familiar musty odor. These species of mold are commonly found in closets, cor- ners or exterior walls that are cov- ered by furniture. Due to the possibility of mold and bacterial growth, it is important to determine whether HVAC systems require duct cleanings or filter changes prior to reopening and reestablishing normal occupancy. Some telltale indicators of risk may include condensation within ducts or on coils, and especially standing water in condensate pans. Persis- tent condensation often can lead to mold growth, while pooling water can result in bacterial growth. Tak- ing appropriate measures to inspect and clean HVAC systems may great- ly reduce the chance of spreading a hazard through the system and put- ting returning occupants at risk. n Water systems. While vacant, has the building water system been cir- culated or treated? Stagnant water and “dead ends” within water sup- ply lines can result in biofilms and bacterial growth such as Legionella (the cause of Legionnaires’ disease). Assessment of the water system or hyperchlorination would be appro- priate; however, it should be noted that stubborn biofilms often require multiple treatments. Reduced occupancy and/or shut- down of a building or facility can have significant consequences, including building degradation and biological growth, both of which can potentially lead to adverse health effects for returning occupants. As part of your return-to-office plan for COVID-19, or when reopen- ing a building after any prolonged shutdown or reduced use, be sure to first inspect for these potential hazards and, if necessary, follow through with proper inspection, cleaning and other appropriate measures before reopening. s Maintenance tasks to prepare for full capacity Bill Zoeller Project manager, environmental health & safety regional lead, J.S. Held LLC There are several biological considerations indirectly linked to COVID-19, such as mold growth within HVAC systems.