6/9/2010 PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION COMMITTEE Minutes

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Mashrpee Public Library Mechanical/Odor Issue - -1O The library experienced a mechanical issue with the HVAC system after the system was changed from heating to air conditioning in mid-May. Initially,minor condensation fronn ceiling diffusers was noticed in different areas of the library. A slight, unusual smell was also noticed. On the evening of May 26, the custodians working in the library reported to Brad Tripp, Facilities Supervisor the detection of a significant leak on the 2"floor. Below is a chronological summary of events and the response to date since. . To summarizethe issue,thea was a programming fault with the systema which resulted in an excess amount of humidity in the building. Additionally,the system could not handle the amount of condensation generated because of the programming fault. This fault has been corrected and the humidity levels have returned to normal. The humidity however has caused an obnoxious odor in the building,specifically within the area of the circulation desk and the Vt floor browsing area. All other areas of the building appear to be fine. The source of the odor has not been identified at this time. Bufftree,the General Contractor, is now working to immediatelyeliminate the odor. The next step will be identification of the source to prevent similar occurrences in the future. All ductwork,'furniture, carpeting,and other potential 5 sources will be investigated. Marina Brock from the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment has been at the library on two occasions, most recently on 6-8-10. She has determined that there are no immediate air quality issues or health risks,though persons with certain sensitivities may be bothered by the odor. Over the night of 6-8-10,,special equipment was brought into the building t "remove"the odor. While some improvement was found on 6-9-10,the odor returned in distinct locations within the circulation desk area. Due to continuing staff health complaints,the building will be closed again until the odor source can be-identified and the odor can be completely removed. Bufftree has accepted full responsibility for resolution of this issue. They have been onsite daily working with the Town and will continue to do so until final resolution.