Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 94-0422-2622, Martin County AdministrationBuilding, Stuart, Florida

摘要

In response to a request, a health hazard evaluation was conducted at the MartinCounty Administration Building (SIC-9532), Stuart, Florida. One worker had been diagnosed with an immune deficiency, believed to be related to the work environment. The building was a four story structure with approximately 65,000 square feet of floor area. Two roof top single packaged 7.5 ton air conditioning units were placed at the time of construction. In 1987, approximately 50 zoned fan coil units were placed above the suspended ceiling. Bulk samples were collected from the various heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, which revealed potential fungal reservoirs in certain areas. The air samples collected for culturable fungi and fungal spores did not demonstrate dissemination from these reservoirs. Volatile organic compounds were not identified which could be associated with any of the symptoms the occupants were having, including headache, tiredness, rhinitis, sinus congestion, and respiratory symptoms. Elevated carbon-dioxide (124389) levels suggested that inadequate levels of outdoor air were being introduced into some of the occupied areas of the building. The authors conclude that reported health complaints and symptoms could not be associated with any causative agent present during the survey. The authors recommend that a comprehensive preventive maintenance program be instituted for the air conditioning systems.