14 Factors Cited in Mold Causation at Chávez Elementary

For Immediate Release
Thursday, March 14, 2002

Fourteen factors are identified in a preliminary summary report about the causes of mold at Chávez Elementary School. The report, from Michaels Engineering of LaCrosse, WI, was performed at the request of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) and released to the public by the District today.

The report concentrated on identifying sources of moisture as the critical component that must be controlled to avoid microbial growth. The engineering firm received multiple confirming reports that 13 of the 14 factors were specifically noted by MMSD professional, trade and/or custodial staff and other parties while on site during construction of the facility.

The other factor identified is, according to the report, "non-conformance to the construction documents."

While the 5-page report is technical in nature, Michaels Engineering provided the following non-technical summary:

"The Michaels Engineering team of design and consulting professionals reviewed the available information related to the construction process at Chávez Elementary. We have formulated a professional opinion regarding the causes of excessive mold growth based on the written records and personal accounts to which we had access.

"Mold spores can be found nearly everywhere, and it is well recognized that mold growth requires only suitable temperatures, a nutrient source and elevated moisture conditions. Our review focused on the presence of excess moisture as the critical factor.

"In summary, it is our (Michaels Engineering) opinion at this time that elevated moisture conditions occurred as a result of a combination of the following factors:

humidity levels within the building were inadequately controlled during construction, leading to condensation on various surfaces;
an uncontrolled release of a significant quantity of water occurred during construction in the Kindergarten wing;
temporary enclosures over openings in the roof failed, allowing rainwater to enter the building.

"The presence of significant quantities of moisture within the building (both in liquid and vapor form) resulted in mold growth:

at the base of the gypsum wallboard;
on gypsum wallboard above the suspended ceiling on the 2nd floor;
on the wooden bases under the sinks, which were constructed of untreated wood in direct contact with the concrete floor.

"Other details of construction resulted in additional mold growth behind the lockers and where ductwork passes through the interior walls.

"Our (Michaels Engineering) understanding of the factors that led to unacceptable levels of mold in the building is subject to refinement as additional information is made available."

The full preliminary summary report is available on the District web site at http://www.mmsd.org/cso/news/chavez/.

Chávez School has been closed since November 28 when mold was found in multiple locations in the school. The school is closed to all instructional activities for the remainder of the school year.

"After we receive the final air quality test results, we can use this report to finalize our strategies regarding mold remediation, reconstruction and litigation," said Superintendent Art Rainwater. "We still anticipate a safe return to Chávez at the start of the next school year."

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