F.A.Q.

It must be sampled by a Certified Asbestos Hazard Evaluation Specialist (CAHES) and analyzed by a laboratory for asbestos content. The EPA and the Ohio Department of Health both agree that any building material with asbestos content above 1% is to be considered asbestos-containing material. However, OSHA defines asbestos as being asbestos in any quantity (even if less than 1%). This can get tricky. So the bottom line is if there is asbestos at any percent you must follow the OSHA standards, but if it is above 1% then you must comply with OSHA and the EPA.

• Roofing materials 
• Shingles 
• Transite panels 
• Rolled roofing 
• Tars 
• Flooring materials 
• Floor tile and mastics 
• Linoleum and sheet flooring and mastics 
• Wall and ceiling materials 
• Drywall 
• Joint compound 
• Hard Plaster 
• Acoustical Plaster 
• Sheetrock 
• Pipe, duct, and tank insulation 
• Fireproofing 
• Window glazing and caulking 
• Vermiculite (wall and attic insulation) 
• Glues (carpet, tile, or construction adhesives) 
• Fake snow (even used as fake snow back in the old Hollywood days).

Basically, air monitoring is performed by sucking a known volume of air through a filter and then analyzing the filter under a microscope to count fibers. Then, we can determine a measure of fibers per cubic centimeter of air (f/cc). OSHA says that you can be exposed to up to 0.1 f/cc for an eight hour period (aka the permissible exposure limit). We are also able to assess the clearance standard which is the level we look for at the end of an abatement project. There are many other forms of air monitoring for abatement, some of which are more stringent and apply to particular types of buildings like schools. The bottom line is that most of the air monitoring (i.e. clearance sampling) is not required by law and does add some cost to the project, but we do recommend it will limit your liability and give some peace of mind.

Environmental consulting helps property owners and managers identify and manage potential environmental hazards like mold, asbestos, and air quality issues. By conducting thorough site assessments, consultants can develop action plans to address these issues and ensure regulatory compliance, promoting a safer environment for occupants.

Site assessments typically include a detailed evaluation of potential contaminants, such as mold, asbestos, and other harmful substances. Specialists use various tests to assess these risks and provide recommendations on how to address them safely and efficiently, often including specific regulatory guidance.

Clearance and post-remediation testing verify that hazardous materials like asbestos or mold have been effectively removed from a site. This testing reassures clients that the remediation efforts were successful, ensuring the area is safe for use and reducing potential liability or health risks.

Moisture and humidity assessments identify areas where high humidity may lead to mold growth, such as basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. By pinpointing these issues, property owners can take preventive actions, such as installing dehumidifiers or improving ventilation, to reduce future mold risks.

Water quality testing typically screens for microbial contamination, heavy metals like lead, and other harmful chemicals. This service is particularly valuable in older buildings or areas with a history of water quality issues, helping ensure that drinking water is safe and meets regulatory standards.

A building health assessment provides a comprehensive review of all potential health risks within a property, including mold, asbestos, poor air quality, and other hazards. Unlike a standard assessment focused on a single issue, this holistic approach helps building owners address multiple health and safety concerns at once.

Specialized documentation, such as court-admissible reports, can be crucial in legal or real estate scenarios. It provides verifiable evidence of a property’s environmental status, which can be necessary for transactions, liability cases, or compliance with local regulations, protecting clients from future disputes.

The frequency of environmental assessments depends on the property’s age, location, and history of environmental issues. For older buildings or those in areas with high moisture or known contaminants, annual assessments can help proactively manage and mitigate risks, ensuring a safer environment for occupants.