New requirements regarding natural ventilation, exhaust systems, and the IAQ Procedure are included in the newly published 2010 version of Standard 62.1. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2010, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, sets minimum ventilation rates and other requirements for commercial and institutional buildings.
“Since first being published in 1973, the standard has provided the basis for ventilation system design throughout the industry,” Roger Hedrick, committee chair, said. “The 2010 standard furthers ASHRAE’s work in ensuring acceptable indoor air quality, while also heeding the need for energy efficiency as we strive to find ways to help designers tailor ventilation system designs to each particular application.”
Among the changes to the 2010 standard are modifications to the Natural Ventilation Rate Procedure, which now requires most buildings designed to meet the natural ventilation requirements also include a mechanical ventilation system designed to meet the Ventilation Rate or IAQ procedures. The mechanical system is to be used when windows are closed due to extreme outdoor temperatures, noise, and security concerns.
“Most buildings using natural ventilation in the United States are high-rise residential buildings that often have no form of outdoor air intake other than operable windows,” Hedrick said. “This results in buildings with inadequate ventilation, because occupants often leave the windows closed in order to run the air conditioning, keep out noise, etc. The committee felt it needed to strengthen the existing prescriptive requirements to ensure adequate ventilation and their corresponding IAQ benefits are available to occupants.”
Another change relocates requirements related to exhaust systems to a new section, clarifying that exhaust requirements apply to all buildings regardless of the procedure used to determine outdoor air intake flow rates.
The IAQ procedure, which allows for the calculation of the amount of outdoor air necessary to maintain the levels of indoor air contaminants below recommended levels, has been made more robust by increasing requirements for using the “similar building” design approach and clarifying other requirements.
“The standard now contains, in informative Appendix B, a table of volatile organic compounds that designers might want to consider as possible contaminants of concern,” Hedrick said. “To encourage designers to consider ‘additivity’ when applying the IAQ Procedure, some guidance from the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists has been included.”
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Damp Indoor Spaces and Health
Almost all homes, apartments, and commercial buildings will experience leaks, flooding,
or other forms of excessive indoor dampness at some point.Not only is excessive
dampness a health problem by itself, it also contributesto several other potentially
problematic types of situations. Molds and othermicrobial agents favor damp indoor
environments, and excess moisture mayinitiate the release of chemical emissions from
damaged building materialsand furnishings. This new book from the Institute of Medicine
examines thehealth impact of exposures resulting from damp indoor environments
andoffers recommendations for public health interventions.Damp Indoor Spaces and
Health covers a broad range of topics. The booknot only examines the relationship
between damp or moldy indoor environmentsand adverse health outcomes but also
discusses how and wherebuildings get wet, how dampness influences microbial growth
and chemicalemissions, ways to prevent and remediate dampness, and elements ofa
public health response to the issues. A comprehensive literature reviewfinds sufficient
evidence of an association between damp indoor environmentsand some upper
respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, wheezing,and asthma symptoms in sensitized
persons. This important book will be ofinterest to a wide-ranging audience of science,
health, engineering, andbuilding professionals, government officials, and members of the
public
or other forms of excessive indoor dampness at some point.Not only is excessive
dampness a health problem by itself, it also contributesto several other potentially
problematic types of situations. Molds and othermicrobial agents favor damp indoor
environments, and excess moisture mayinitiate the release of chemical emissions from
damaged building materialsand furnishings. This new book from the Institute of Medicine
examines thehealth impact of exposures resulting from damp indoor environments
andoffers recommendations for public health interventions.Damp Indoor Spaces and
Health covers a broad range of topics. The booknot only examines the relationship
between damp or moldy indoor environmentsand adverse health outcomes but also
discusses how and wherebuildings get wet, how dampness influences microbial growth
and chemicalemissions, ways to prevent and remediate dampness, and elements ofa
public health response to the issues. A comprehensive literature reviewfinds sufficient
evidence of an association between damp indoor environmentsand some upper
respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, wheezing,and asthma symptoms in sensitized
persons. This important book will be ofinterest to a wide-ranging audience of science,
health, engineering, andbuilding professionals, government officials, and members of the
public
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
PCB (polychlorinated biphenyls) in Caulk
Craig A. Calvert, Ph.D., C-CHO
July 24, 2010
Welcome to the first in a series of regular newsletters that will provide updates and review topics relating to safety in industrial settings including indoor air quality, chemical safety, and environmental issues. The goal of these newsletters is to provide you with relevant and timely information.
This first issue covers a topic that has been on the minds of many of us the past months – PCBs and caulk. Unfortunately, this has become a widespread issue that has many facilities managers scratching their heads and understandably worried about how to deal with this issue. In this newsletter, I have included some very basic information on how to proceed. I hope that you find this newsletter useful, and we look forward to supporting you with this difficult issue.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic information on how to manage PCBs in caulk:
Ÿ Found in many buildings built between 1950 and 1978 (less likely outside these dates)
Ÿ No visual differences between PCB and non-PCB caulk
Ÿ PCB containing caulk is handled differently than asbestos containing caulk
Ÿ Contact an expert to clarify the ramifications if planning to test caulk
Ÿ If concerns about PCBs arise, air testing might be first test performed
Ÿ If renovating or demolishing, caulk should be tested
Ÿ Caulk known to contain ≥50 ppm PCBs must be removed
Ÿ Adjacent material, if significantly contaminated, must also be removed
Ÿ Remediation and disposal covered under current regulations (40 CFR part 761)
Ÿ Cost depends on remediation strategy
Ÿ EPA website: www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk/
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Fuss & O'Neill EnviroScience is a multi-disciplined industrial hygiene and environmental engineering firm that is positioned to provide a wide variety of environmental services – including PCB remediation. Our experts will work with your facility to ensure safe, timely, and legal removal of PCB contaminated materials. This process will include initial assessment, plan preparation and submission to government agencies, oversight of removal/remediation process, confirmation sampling, data management, and final report preparation. The goal of our service is to properly remediate the contaminated material and provide a working and living environment that is safe for the present and future.
For more information on seminar dates and times contact:
Craig A. Calvert, Ph.D., C-CHO
ccalvert@fando.com
(860) 646-2469 x5571
For more information: PCB Presentation Download: www.craigcalvert.webs.com/
PCB Contamination Resource: www.pcbcontamination.net/
Addressing your environmental needs with professional, safe innovative, responsive, and economical solution
July 24, 2010
Welcome to the first in a series of regular newsletters that will provide updates and review topics relating to safety in industrial settings including indoor air quality, chemical safety, and environmental issues. The goal of these newsletters is to provide you with relevant and timely information.
This first issue covers a topic that has been on the minds of many of us the past months – PCBs and caulk. Unfortunately, this has become a widespread issue that has many facilities managers scratching their heads and understandably worried about how to deal with this issue. In this newsletter, I have included some very basic information on how to proceed. I hope that you find this newsletter useful, and we look forward to supporting you with this difficult issue.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic information on how to manage PCBs in caulk:
Ÿ Found in many buildings built between 1950 and 1978 (less likely outside these dates)
Ÿ No visual differences between PCB and non-PCB caulk
Ÿ PCB containing caulk is handled differently than asbestos containing caulk
Ÿ Contact an expert to clarify the ramifications if planning to test caulk
Ÿ If concerns about PCBs arise, air testing might be first test performed
Ÿ If renovating or demolishing, caulk should be tested
Ÿ Caulk known to contain ≥50 ppm PCBs must be removed
Ÿ Adjacent material, if significantly contaminated, must also be removed
Ÿ Remediation and disposal covered under current regulations (40 CFR part 761)
Ÿ Cost depends on remediation strategy
Ÿ EPA website: www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fuss & O'Neill EnviroScience is a multi-disciplined industrial hygiene and environmental engineering firm that is positioned to provide a wide variety of environmental services – including PCB remediation. Our experts will work with your facility to ensure safe, timely, and legal removal of PCB contaminated materials. This process will include initial assessment, plan preparation and submission to government agencies, oversight of removal/remediation process, confirmation sampling, data management, and final report preparation. The goal of our service is to properly remediate the contaminated material and provide a working and living environment that is safe for the present and future.
For more information on seminar dates and times contact:
Craig A. Calvert, Ph.D., C-CHO
ccalvert@fando.com
(860) 646-2469 x5571
For more information: PCB Presentation Download: www.craigcalvert.webs.com/
PCB Contamination Resource: www.pcbcontamination.net/
Addressing your environmental needs with professional, safe innovative, responsive, and economical solution
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
PCBs in Caulk in Older Buildings
Overview
In recent years, EPA has learned that caulk containing potentially harmful polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was used in many buildings, including schools, in the 1950s through the 1970s. In general, schools and buildings built after 1978 do not contain PCBs in caulk. On September 25, 2009, EPA announced new guidance for school administrators and building managers with important information about managing PCBs in caulk and tools to help minimize possible exposure. Through EPA's Regional PCB Coordinators, the Agency will also assist communities in identifying potential problems and, if necessary, developing plans for PCB testing and removal. The Agency has prepared a(2 pp, 23K),--> a Fact Sheet (PDF) (2 pp, 26K) and Questions and Answers (PDF) (11 pp, 63K) on this announcement.
The EPA also announced additional research into this issue. There are several unresolved scientific questions that must be better understood to assess the magnitude of the problem and identify the best long-term solutions. For example, the link between the concentrations of PCBs in caulk and PCBs in the air or dust is not well understood. The Agency is doing research to determine the sources and levels of PCBs in schools and to evaluate different strategies to reduce exposures. The results of this research will be used to provide further guidance to schools and building owners as they develop and implement long-term solutions. Read more about Research on PCBs in Caulk. PDF version (2 pp, 21K)
EPA has calculated prudent public health levels that maintain PCB exposures below the “reference dose” – the amount of PCB exposure that EPA does not believe will cause harm. Read Public Health Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Air PDF version (2 pp, 14K).
Top of Page
Background
Caulk is a flexible material used to seal gaps to make windows, door frames, masonry and joints in buildings and other structures watertight or airtight. At one time caulk was manufactured to contain PCBs because PCBs imparted flexibility.
Top of Page
First Step: Take Steps to Minimize Exposure
Although this is a serious issue, the potential presence of PCBs in schools and buildings should not be a cause for alarm. If your school or building was built or renovated between 1950 and 1978, there are several immediate, relatively low cost steps schools can take to reduce potential exposure until it can be determined with certainty if PCBs are present in caulk used in the building and any contaminated caulk can be removed. Those steps include:
Improve ventilation, including opening windows and using or installing fans where possible.
Clean frequently to reduce dust and residue inside buildings.
Use a wet or damp cloth or mop to clean surfaces.
Use vacuums with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
Do not sweep with dry brooms; minimize the use of dusters.
Wash children's hands with soap and water often, particularly before eating.
Wash children's toys often.
Wash hands with soap and water after cleaning, and before eating or drinking.
EPA also has developed an informational brochure to provide the general public with important information on PCBs in building caulk, Preventing Exposure to PCBs in Caulking Material PDF version, EPA Publication EPA-747-F-09-005 (4 pp, 2.7MB).
Top of Page
Testing
Air
If school administrators and building owners are concerned about potential PCBs in the caulk, they should consider testing to determine if PCBs are present in the air. If testing reveals PCB levels above the levels EPA has determined to be safe, schools should attempt to identify any potential sources of PCBs that may be present in the building, including testing samples of caulk and looking for other potential PCB sources (e.g., old transformers, capacitors, or fluorescent light ballasts that might still be present at the school).
If elevated air levels of PCBs are found, schools should also have the ventilation system evaluated to determine if it is contaminated with PCBs. Although the ventilation system is unlikely to be an original source of PCB contamination, it may have been contaminated before other sources of PCBs were removed from the school and may be contributing to elevated air levels. Contaminated ventilation systems should be carefully cleaned. Ideally, such cleaning should be planned in concert with removal of any sources of PCBs that are found to avoid re-contamination of the system.
During the search for potential sources, schools should be especially vigilant in implementing practices to minimize exposures and should retest to determine whether those practices are reducing PCB air levels.
Other Sources, Including Caulk
Should those practices not reduce exposure, caulk and other known sources of PCBs should be removed as soon as practicable. Caulk that is peeling, brittle, cracking or deteriorating visibly will have the highest potential for release of PCBs into air. EPA recommends that deteriorating caulk be tested directly for the presence of PCBs and removed if PCBs are present at significant levels.
Where schools or other buildings were constructed or renovated between 1950 and 1978, EPA recommends that PCB-containing caulk be removed during planned renovations and repairs (when replacing windows, doors, roofs, ventilation, etc.) It is critically important to assure that PCBs are not released to air during replacement or repair of caulk in affected buildings. Assessment of the ventilation system for potential contamination, proper cleaning when required, and isolation of the system to prevent further contamination are also important.
Test Methods
For determining the presence of PCBs in indoor air, EPA has two approved methods:
Compendium of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air - Compendium Method TO-4A (high air volume) (PDF) (53 pp, 665K)
Compendium of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air - Compendium Method TO-10A (low air volume) (PDF) (37 pp, 288K).
EPA recommends that deteriorating caulk be tested directly for the presence of PCBs and removed if PCBs are present at significant levels. The PCB regulations provide appropriate methods for testing. More information on these procedures can be found at:
Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, Physical/Chemical Methods, SW-846
Wipe Sampling (PDF) (31 pp, 86K)
Contact EPA's PCBs in Caulk Hotline at 1-888-835-5372 or the EPA Regional PCB Coordinator for your state for assistance and help in finding a chemical analysis laboratory in your area.
Schools Information Kit
A Schools Information Kit provides information for parents, students and staff about PCBs in caulk, including:
General information on PCBs in older schools and buildings PDF version (1 pg, 162K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 186K)
Schools checklist PDF version (1 pg, 414K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 160K)
What to say to children about PCBs PDF version (1 pp, 432K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 177K)
Top of Page
Information for Contractors Working in Older Buildings
Read Contractors Handling PCBs in Caulk During Renovation PDF version, EPA Publication EPA-747-F-09-004 (4 pp, 1.9MB), EPA's guidance to contractors and maintenance personnel working in older buildings that may contain PCB-contaminated caulk.
Top of Page
Additional Information
Additional EPA brochures and fact sheets on best practices for addressing PCBs in caulk:
Questions and Answers for the Safe Management of PCBs in Caulking PDF version (2 pp, 220K) -->
Fact Sheet: Testing for PCBs in Buildings PDF version (3 pp, 33K)
Fact Sheet: Interim Measures for Reducing Risk and Taking Action to Reduce Exposures PDF version (4 pp, 45K)
Fact Sheet: Removal and Clean-Up of PCBs in Caulk and PCB-Contaminated Soil and Building Materials PDF version (2 pp, 69K)
Fact Sheet: Disposal Options for PCBs in Caulk and PCB-Contaminated Soil and Building Materials PDF version (4 pp, 32K)
In recent years, EPA has learned that caulk containing potentially harmful polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was used in many buildings, including schools, in the 1950s through the 1970s. In general, schools and buildings built after 1978 do not contain PCBs in caulk. On September 25, 2009, EPA announced new guidance for school administrators and building managers with important information about managing PCBs in caulk and tools to help minimize possible exposure. Through EPA's Regional PCB Coordinators, the Agency will also assist communities in identifying potential problems and, if necessary, developing plans for PCB testing and removal. The Agency has prepared a(2 pp, 23K),--> a Fact Sheet (PDF) (2 pp, 26K) and Questions and Answers (PDF) (11 pp, 63K) on this announcement.
The EPA also announced additional research into this issue. There are several unresolved scientific questions that must be better understood to assess the magnitude of the problem and identify the best long-term solutions. For example, the link between the concentrations of PCBs in caulk and PCBs in the air or dust is not well understood. The Agency is doing research to determine the sources and levels of PCBs in schools and to evaluate different strategies to reduce exposures. The results of this research will be used to provide further guidance to schools and building owners as they develop and implement long-term solutions. Read more about Research on PCBs in Caulk. PDF version (2 pp, 21K)
EPA has calculated prudent public health levels that maintain PCB exposures below the “reference dose” – the amount of PCB exposure that EPA does not believe will cause harm. Read Public Health Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Air PDF version (2 pp, 14K).
Top of Page
Background
Caulk is a flexible material used to seal gaps to make windows, door frames, masonry and joints in buildings and other structures watertight or airtight. At one time caulk was manufactured to contain PCBs because PCBs imparted flexibility.
Top of Page
First Step: Take Steps to Minimize Exposure
Although this is a serious issue, the potential presence of PCBs in schools and buildings should not be a cause for alarm. If your school or building was built or renovated between 1950 and 1978, there are several immediate, relatively low cost steps schools can take to reduce potential exposure until it can be determined with certainty if PCBs are present in caulk used in the building and any contaminated caulk can be removed. Those steps include:
Improve ventilation, including opening windows and using or installing fans where possible.
Clean frequently to reduce dust and residue inside buildings.
Use a wet or damp cloth or mop to clean surfaces.
Use vacuums with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
Do not sweep with dry brooms; minimize the use of dusters.
Wash children's hands with soap and water often, particularly before eating.
Wash children's toys often.
Wash hands with soap and water after cleaning, and before eating or drinking.
EPA also has developed an informational brochure to provide the general public with important information on PCBs in building caulk, Preventing Exposure to PCBs in Caulking Material PDF version, EPA Publication EPA-747-F-09-005 (4 pp, 2.7MB).
Top of Page
Testing
Air
If school administrators and building owners are concerned about potential PCBs in the caulk, they should consider testing to determine if PCBs are present in the air. If testing reveals PCB levels above the levels EPA has determined to be safe, schools should attempt to identify any potential sources of PCBs that may be present in the building, including testing samples of caulk and looking for other potential PCB sources (e.g., old transformers, capacitors, or fluorescent light ballasts that might still be present at the school).
If elevated air levels of PCBs are found, schools should also have the ventilation system evaluated to determine if it is contaminated with PCBs. Although the ventilation system is unlikely to be an original source of PCB contamination, it may have been contaminated before other sources of PCBs were removed from the school and may be contributing to elevated air levels. Contaminated ventilation systems should be carefully cleaned. Ideally, such cleaning should be planned in concert with removal of any sources of PCBs that are found to avoid re-contamination of the system.
During the search for potential sources, schools should be especially vigilant in implementing practices to minimize exposures and should retest to determine whether those practices are reducing PCB air levels.
Other Sources, Including Caulk
Should those practices not reduce exposure, caulk and other known sources of PCBs should be removed as soon as practicable. Caulk that is peeling, brittle, cracking or deteriorating visibly will have the highest potential for release of PCBs into air. EPA recommends that deteriorating caulk be tested directly for the presence of PCBs and removed if PCBs are present at significant levels.
Where schools or other buildings were constructed or renovated between 1950 and 1978, EPA recommends that PCB-containing caulk be removed during planned renovations and repairs (when replacing windows, doors, roofs, ventilation, etc.) It is critically important to assure that PCBs are not released to air during replacement or repair of caulk in affected buildings. Assessment of the ventilation system for potential contamination, proper cleaning when required, and isolation of the system to prevent further contamination are also important.
Test Methods
For determining the presence of PCBs in indoor air, EPA has two approved methods:
Compendium of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air - Compendium Method TO-4A (high air volume) (PDF) (53 pp, 665K)
Compendium of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air - Compendium Method TO-10A (low air volume) (PDF) (37 pp, 288K).
EPA recommends that deteriorating caulk be tested directly for the presence of PCBs and removed if PCBs are present at significant levels. The PCB regulations provide appropriate methods for testing. More information on these procedures can be found at:
Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, Physical/Chemical Methods, SW-846
Wipe Sampling (PDF) (31 pp, 86K)
Contact EPA's PCBs in Caulk Hotline at 1-888-835-5372 or the EPA Regional PCB Coordinator for your state for assistance and help in finding a chemical analysis laboratory in your area.
Schools Information Kit
A Schools Information Kit provides information for parents, students and staff about PCBs in caulk, including:
General information on PCBs in older schools and buildings PDF version (1 pg, 162K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 186K)
Schools checklist PDF version (1 pg, 414K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 160K)
What to say to children about PCBs PDF version (1 pp, 432K) en Español (PDF) (1 pg, 177K)
Top of Page
Information for Contractors Working in Older Buildings
Read Contractors Handling PCBs in Caulk During Renovation PDF version, EPA Publication EPA-747-F-09-004 (4 pp, 1.9MB), EPA's guidance to contractors and maintenance personnel working in older buildings that may contain PCB-contaminated caulk.
Top of Page
Additional Information
Additional EPA brochures and fact sheets on best practices for addressing PCBs in caulk:
Questions and Answers for the Safe Management of PCBs in Caulking PDF version (2 pp, 220K) -->
Fact Sheet: Testing for PCBs in Buildings PDF version (3 pp, 33K)
Fact Sheet: Interim Measures for Reducing Risk and Taking Action to Reduce Exposures PDF version (4 pp, 45K)
Fact Sheet: Removal and Clean-Up of PCBs in Caulk and PCB-Contaminated Soil and Building Materials PDF version (2 pp, 69K)
Fact Sheet: Disposal Options for PCBs in Caulk and PCB-Contaminated Soil and Building Materials PDF version (4 pp, 32K)
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Cat Scans for Asthma
Indian-origin scientist suggests use of CT scans for severe asthma2010-06-15 15:10:00
An Indian-origin researcher is investigating the use of CT (Computed Tomography) scanning for patients suffering from severe asthma.
Dr Sumit Gupta, a postgraduate student at the University of Leicester, along with his colleagues at the Institute for Lung Health and Radiology Department at Glenfield Hospital, suggests that CT scans may be the way forward for monitoring progression of severe asthma as well as checking how it is responding to treatment.
Their findings indicate that CT derived measures of structural changes in lungs and airways of patients with severe asthma may potentially be used as a non-invasive 'marker' in asthma to monitor disease progression and response to current and novel treatment.
"Asthma is a major health problem affecting 300 million people worldwide. Approximately half a million people in UK suffer from severe asthma and are, as a consequence, at increased risk of asthma attacks, hospitalization and death and often have severely impaired quality of life. Structural changes that occur in airways of asthmatic individuals remain difficult to quantify and monitor. Computed tomography (CT) scans have now emerged as a non-invasive research tool to assess these airway structural changes," Gupta said.
The team observed a reduction in the airway wall thickness along with reduction in asthma attacks amongst severe asthma patients, whose airway inflammation was suppressed by novel therapy, targeting specific type of inflammation. This research work therefore highlights the importance of CT scanning in severe asthma patients and its potential use as a non-invasive 'marker' for monitoring of the disease.
Preliminary results from the study will be showcased at the University of Leicester's Festival of Postgraduate Research on 24 June. (ANI)
SEARCH
An Indian-origin researcher is investigating the use of CT (Computed Tomography) scanning for patients suffering from severe asthma.
Dr Sumit Gupta, a postgraduate student at the University of Leicester, along with his colleagues at the Institute for Lung Health and Radiology Department at Glenfield Hospital, suggests that CT scans may be the way forward for monitoring progression of severe asthma as well as checking how it is responding to treatment.
Their findings indicate that CT derived measures of structural changes in lungs and airways of patients with severe asthma may potentially be used as a non-invasive 'marker' in asthma to monitor disease progression and response to current and novel treatment.
"Asthma is a major health problem affecting 300 million people worldwide. Approximately half a million people in UK suffer from severe asthma and are, as a consequence, at increased risk of asthma attacks, hospitalization and death and often have severely impaired quality of life. Structural changes that occur in airways of asthmatic individuals remain difficult to quantify and monitor. Computed tomography (CT) scans have now emerged as a non-invasive research tool to assess these airway structural changes," Gupta said.
The team observed a reduction in the airway wall thickness along with reduction in asthma attacks amongst severe asthma patients, whose airway inflammation was suppressed by novel therapy, targeting specific type of inflammation. This research work therefore highlights the importance of CT scanning in severe asthma patients and its potential use as a non-invasive 'marker' for monitoring of the disease.
Preliminary results from the study will be showcased at the University of Leicester's Festival of Postgraduate Research on 24 June. (ANI)
SEARCH
Thursday, June 10, 2010
PCBs found in window caulking during Columbus School renovation
BRIDGEPORT -- Students at Columbus School will get to spend another year in the so-called "swing space" school in the south end thanks to window caulk.
School building officials who have been working for two years to update and renovate the permanent school on George Street recently discovered the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, an organic compound and probable carcinogen, in the caulk that insulates the windows.
Recent changes in the Environmental Protection Agency laws led to the testing of the caulk, the Board of Education was told this week.
"It's a pretty serious problem," said Ray Wiley, the city's school building projects manager of O&G Industries. Wiley said the problem is that unlike asbestos, which can be easily removed, PCBs can seep into porous materials like concrete, making cleanup harder.
"We may have to take a good portion of the concrete out, which could jeopardize the structure of the building," said Wiley.
Wiley said options are being considered, but that it is unlikely the school will be ready to reopen in the 2010-11 school year.
For the past two years, the student body of Columbus have occupied a school at the edge of the University of Bridgeport campus. The school was built to host student bodies while their schools undergo major repairs or replacement. While other school renovation projects are in the works, none will be ready to start this fall, said Wiley.
Housing Columbus outside of its neighborhood has made it hard for some parents to access the school, but staff and students have made no secret of the fact that they prefer their temporary space, which is filled with new technology and equipment, to the aging structure they left.
Wiley told the school board the new testing requirement went into effect in November. The presence of PCB-laced caulk is not uncommon for buildings constructed between 1950 and 1978, he added. Columbus was built in 1965.
Earlier this school year, it was announced that PCBs were found in caulk around windows and doors at three technical high schools in the state, including Eli Whitney Technical High School in Hamden.
The board could not be told how much the removal of the material from Columbus will cost and whether cement infected with the chemical can be safely sealed rather than removed.
Wiley plans to have more information when he meets with the city's School Building Committee at 4 p.m., June 17 in City Hall Annex at 999 Broad Street.
School building officials who have been working for two years to update and renovate the permanent school on George Street recently discovered the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, an organic compound and probable carcinogen, in the caulk that insulates the windows.
Recent changes in the Environmental Protection Agency laws led to the testing of the caulk, the Board of Education was told this week.
"It's a pretty serious problem," said Ray Wiley, the city's school building projects manager of O&G Industries. Wiley said the problem is that unlike asbestos, which can be easily removed, PCBs can seep into porous materials like concrete, making cleanup harder.
"We may have to take a good portion of the concrete out, which could jeopardize the structure of the building," said Wiley.
Wiley said options are being considered, but that it is unlikely the school will be ready to reopen in the 2010-11 school year.
For the past two years, the student body of Columbus have occupied a school at the edge of the University of Bridgeport campus. The school was built to host student bodies while their schools undergo major repairs or replacement. While other school renovation projects are in the works, none will be ready to start this fall, said Wiley.
Housing Columbus outside of its neighborhood has made it hard for some parents to access the school, but staff and students have made no secret of the fact that they prefer their temporary space, which is filled with new technology and equipment, to the aging structure they left.
Wiley told the school board the new testing requirement went into effect in November. The presence of PCB-laced caulk is not uncommon for buildings constructed between 1950 and 1978, he added. Columbus was built in 1965.
Earlier this school year, it was announced that PCBs were found in caulk around windows and doors at three technical high schools in the state, including Eli Whitney Technical High School in Hamden.
The board could not be told how much the removal of the material from Columbus will cost and whether cement infected with the chemical can be safely sealed rather than removed.
Wiley plans to have more information when he meets with the city's School Building Committee at 4 p.m., June 17 in City Hall Annex at 999 Broad Street.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Regulation Compliance Help – Saving Time & Money
Welcome to the June issue of the School Safety Newsletter. As the clock ticks down to the end of the school year we start making a list of things that need done during the summer. This newsletter provides a checklist of important compliance and regulatory requirements. Understanding all of the requirements is difficult and can create confusion. Fortunately, experts can help sort through the confusion. Below is a checklist of some programs that could apply to your facility. We hope that you find this newsletter useful, and as always, we look forward to providing you with the quality service and information that has made Fuss & O'Neill EnviroScience successful.
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Below are general programs that should be in place to maintain a safe and compliant facility:
Art & Tech Education Safety
o Hazard analysis & awareness
o Safety programs & procedures
o Training for faculty & students
Chemical Inventory
o Chemicals organized by class
o MSDS available and current
o Safe storage guidelines
o Shelf organization layout
EHS Management Systems
o External inspections & audits
o Internal inspections & audits
o Management systems in place
Laboratory Safety
o Chemical hygiene plan
o Existing policies review
o Hazard analysis
o MSDS management
o Safety committee
Polychlorinated Biphenyls
o Aware of testing requirements
o Pre-renovation plan
Regulatory Compliance
o APCRA Tier I and Tier II
o Asbestos awareness
o Blood borne pathogens (BBP)
o Compliance assessments
o Confined space
o Fire safety
o Hazard communication
o Lead awareness
o Lockout/Tagout
o Pre-inspection reviews
o Underground storage tanks
o Water and Air permits
Training
o Asbestos Designated Person
o Chemical Hygiene Officer
o Confined space entry
o Lead RRP – NEW Regulation
o Maintenance staff training
o OSHA laboratory standard
o Personal protective equipment
Waste Management
o Accumulation area
o Off-site removal
o Waste storage and removal
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Fuss & O'Neill EnviroScience is a multi-disciplined industrial hygiene and environmental engineering firm that is capable of providing a wide variety of compliance and environmental services. Our experts will work with your facility to ensure safe, timely, and legal compliance with regulations through expert training, onsite visits, and program audits. The goal of our service is to provide an extra set of hands in your busy job trying to provide a working and living environment that is safe for your students, teachers, and administrators.
For more information on these regulations and training schedules contact:
Craig A. Calvert, Ph.D., C-CHO
ccalvert@fando.com
(860) 646-2469 x5571
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Below are general programs that should be in place to maintain a safe and compliant facility:
Art & Tech Education Safety
o Hazard analysis & awareness
o Safety programs & procedures
o Training for faculty & students
Chemical Inventory
o Chemicals organized by class
o MSDS available and current
o Safe storage guidelines
o Shelf organization layout
EHS Management Systems
o External inspections & audits
o Internal inspections & audits
o Management systems in place
Laboratory Safety
o Chemical hygiene plan
o Existing policies review
o Hazard analysis
o MSDS management
o Safety committee
Polychlorinated Biphenyls
o Aware of testing requirements
o Pre-renovation plan
Regulatory Compliance
o APCRA Tier I and Tier II
o Asbestos awareness
o Blood borne pathogens (BBP)
o Compliance assessments
o Confined space
o Fire safety
o Hazard communication
o Lead awareness
o Lockout/Tagout
o Pre-inspection reviews
o Underground storage tanks
o Water and Air permits
Training
o Asbestos Designated Person
o Chemical Hygiene Officer
o Confined space entry
o Lead RRP – NEW Regulation
o Maintenance staff training
o OSHA laboratory standard
o Personal protective equipment
Waste Management
o Accumulation area
o Off-site removal
o Waste storage and removal
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Fuss & O'Neill EnviroScience is a multi-disciplined industrial hygiene and environmental engineering firm that is capable of providing a wide variety of compliance and environmental services. Our experts will work with your facility to ensure safe, timely, and legal compliance with regulations through expert training, onsite visits, and program audits. The goal of our service is to provide an extra set of hands in your busy job trying to provide a working and living environment that is safe for your students, teachers, and administrators.
For more information on these regulations and training schedules contact:
Craig A. Calvert, Ph.D., C-CHO
ccalvert@fando.com
(860) 646-2469 x5571
Friday, June 4, 2010
Bristol Landlord Fined For Failing To Disclose Lead Paint Hazards
A Bristol landlord has been fined $2,140 and has agreed to pay $20,360 for lead abatement after failing to inform tenants about the presence and hazards of lead paint, federal environmental officials said.Landlord Michael Perugini violated the federal lead disclosure rule when he failed to let seven tenants know about the presence of lead paint when they leased units in Perugini's Bristol apartment buildings, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Boston.The EPA said Perugini did not provide records or reports regarding lead hazards, and failed to make sure that the lease included a lead warning statement and a statement disclosing the known or unknown presence of lead-based paint. In addition, Perugini failed to provide a copy of EPA's lead hazard information pamphlet.The properties are at 309, 353 and 372 Park St., 41 Stearns St and 21 Wolcott St.Perugini has agreed to remove some potential lead sources, including windows and doors, which according to the EPA.Perugini couldn't be reached for comment Thursday.The EPA said Thursday that the violations were discovered after a complaint from one of the tenants.The rules involved in the Perugini case are separate from new lead paint rules that recently went into effect requiring contractor to take special precautions when doing renovations in residences that were built before 1978, Lead-based paint was banned in that year.
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