California State University, Dominguez Hills

A state-of-the-art instructional and research center housing physics, biology, and chemistry programs, the CSU Dominguez Hills Science and Innovation Building is a $67.85-million, three-story, 91,000-square foot project in Carson, California. Housing more than 30 classrooms, lab spaces, collaboration areas, study niches, and a third-floor terrace, the property was reportedly constructed as a construction manager at risk project in 2020 though it was initially unoccupied due to COVID until classes resumed in the fall of 2021. The building is clad in exterior composite metal panels and limestone plaster, and the flat roof is provided with thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). Interiors generally consist of painted gypsum board walls, acoustic ceiling tiles, concrete flooring, laminate wood casework with black resin and stainless-steel countertops, laboratory equipment, and metal corrosive and flammable cabinets.

Marx|Okubo was engaged to perform a facility forensics analysis for the campus to evaluate reported issues within the laboratories and support spaces that included: water intrusion, condensation on windows and other interior surfaces, corrosion of lab equipment including stainless steel sinks, counter tops, and exterior stainless-steel handrails, chemical odors, inadequate exhaust of corrosive cabinets, and perceived poor ventilation within the laboratories. Our team and professional building and material science consultants contributed extensive experience related to life science facilities, including fire/life safety, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering expertise to evaluate a unique and complicated facility thoroughly and responsibly. In addition, we were able to develop an understanding of the building’s construction as well as the specific risks associated with the facility. We worked closely with the campus staff to observe, document, analyze, and discover the cause and source of the issues, and determine possible strategies to mitigate these issues.