Services

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Indoor air quality has become a major concern for the public in recent times. These concerns involve private residences, offices and places in which people may visit, such as shopping malls and other public places. Recently, the focus of indoor air quality has become centered around mold and its potential effects on people. However, mold is but one facet of indoor air quality and rarely is an indoor air quality problem due to just one causal factor such as mold. More often, indoor air quality complaints and problems are due to a combination or synergistic effect of two or more factors. This is the reason why it is important for indoor air quality investigations to consider all possible factors that effect the overall indoor environment. VIEW OUR VIDEO

The indoor environment in any building, room, facility, etc, is a result of a complex interaction between many contributing factors which are typically unique to that setting. These factors include but are not limited too:

• The occupants of the building and their unique characteristics. This can include perfumes, laundry detergents, body odors, carbon dioxide, etc.
• The building: heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, the way the building systems are operated, the general structure and layout of the building, materials from which the building was constructed (carpeting, insulation of HVAC system, ceiling tiles, etc.)
• Interior pollutants: chemicals used in the building operation (pesticides, cleaners, etc.), chemicals emitted by the building structures and furnishings (glue, formaldehyde, etc.), certain biological hazards (bacteria, mold, etc.) as well as dirt, dander, fibers, organic matter and other typical constituents of indoor dust.
• External pollutant sources: motor vehicle exhaust, sewer gases, radon, and other soil contaminants, dust, etc.
• Physical agents: lighting, noise, heat, humidity, etc.

Given the variability of sensitivities of people, exposure to one or several of these contaminants, even in small quantities, can result in occupant reactions. These reactions often result in lost productivity and time away from the job. Therefore, each indoor air quality complaint or problem should be approached from a comprehensive perspective that encompasses all of the indoor environmental facets.

AMRC services include:

• Building Inspection and Routine Monitoring
• Testing (biological particulate and chemical), Bulk, Surface and Air Sampling
• Remediation Design and Management
• HVAC Design and Testing
• Training and Consultation
• Post Remediation Inspections and Testing


ASBESTOS

The term asbestos describes six naturally occurring fibrous minerals found in certain types of rock formations. Of that general group, the minerals chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite have been most commonly used in building products.VIEW OUR VIDEO

When mined and processed, asbestos is typically separated into very thin fibers. When these fibers are present in the air, they are normally invisible to the naked eye. Asbestos is mixed in during the manufacture of many different products. If the fibers are released from the asbestos-containing materials, (ACM), they are so small and light that they may remain in the air for many hours. When fibers are released into the air, they may be inhaled by the occupants of the building. VIEW AN ADDITIONAL VIDEO

If inhaled, the fibers can cause diseases which disrupt the normal functioning of the lungs. Three specific diseases -- asbestosis (a fibrous scarring of the lungs) , lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity) -- have been linked to asbestos exposure. These diseases do not develop immediately after inhalation of asbestos fibers; it may be twenty years or more before symptoms appear. (EPA 2OT-2003).

Examples of ACM include: Wall & Ceiling Systems Joint Compounds Fireproofing (Fire Doors) Sheet Vinyl and Floor Tile Roofing Materials Mastics Insulation

AMRC services include: Building Inspection Hazard Assessment Abatement Design Air Monitoring Abatement Supervision Operations & Maintenance Plan Development Training

Federal, OSHA, EPA and many state statutes require identification and special processing of asbestos containing materials by trained and equipped personnel prior to the materials being disturbed.

LEAD BASED PAINT

Individuals and firms conducting lead-based paint activities in target housing and child-occupied facilities must be trained and certified. AMRC was one of the first companies in Florida to be fully certified by the Unites States Environmental Protection Agency under Section 402 of the Toxic Substances Control Act as a Lead Paint Activities Firm. Lead is regulated in air, soil, paint, blood, water and waste material.

AMRC provides an array of lead services to all sectors including residential, governmental and industrial settings. Dedication to meeting our clients needs has lead AMRC to the purchase of XRF Technology. This instrument provides our clients with immediate results on the job-site without damaging the surface tested. This has brought AMRC to the fore front of lead testing and inspection by eliminating the need for lengthy third-party laboratory analysis.

Lead is a poisonous heavy metal that is found throughout the environment. Lead exposure can occur in various manufacturing processes, construction processes, and from general environmental exposure to lead contaminated soil, water, food and surface dust. Lead has been identified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as the number one environmental pollutant that threatens public health in the United States. Since that designation, the U.S. Congress has enabled lead to be regulated by EPA, OSHA, and HUD.

Examples of lead-containing materials include:

• Lead-Based Paint
• Water Pipes and Joints

AMRC services include:

• Lead-Based Paint Inspections using XRF Technology
• Lead Hazard Risk Assessments
• Remdiation Project Design
• Remediation Project Supervision
• Air and Dust Monitoring
• Variety of Training Courses

INDUSTRIAL HYGEINE

"Industrial Hygiene is the science and art devoted to the recognition, evaluation and control of those environmental factors or stresses, arising in or from the work place, which may cause sickness, impaired health and well-being, or significant discomfort and inefficiency among workers or among the citizens in the community." (AIHA)

Industrial Hygiene practices are employed to develop solutions for work place environmental, health and safety concerns. This work place ranges from large factories to small office settings and the Industrial Hygiene practice encompasses virtually every facet of these settings.

AMRC offers comprehensive Industrial Hygiene services. Our staff of Certified Industrial Hygienists and Certified Safety Professionals are adept at investigating and providing cost effect solutions to clients. Key to the success of a sound health and safety program in the work place is a comprehensive hazard analysis which includes such areas as:

• Identifying Potential Hazards
• Determining Probability of each Potential Hazard
• Worker Exposures and Limitations
• Work Activities Being Performed
• Safety Features Already in Place
• Training Programs in Place
• Personnel Protection Being Utilized

AMRC Provides Comprehensive Industrial Hygiene Services which Include:

• Ergonomic Assessments
• Noise Exposure Assessment and Monitoring
• Chemical Exposure Assessment and Monitoring
• Biological Contaminant Exposure Assessment and Monitoring
• General and Detailed Work Place Safety Inspections
• Confined Space Assessments
• Hazardous Chemicals and Waste Storage, Use and Disposal Inspections
• Worker Physical Exposure Assessments
• Personnel Protective Equipment Fitting, Training and Assessment
• Risk Management and Assessment
• Safety Plan and Program Development
• Safety Training and Training Program Development
• Emergency Plan Development

ASSESSMENTS & AUDITS

During the past two decades, environmental regulations have been developed that impact many aspects of our daily lives and the way we conduct business. The catalyst for these regulations has been the protection of human health and the environment. For the most part, these regulations are developed at the federal level and implemented by federal, state, and local officials, with penalties for violations including fines and criminal punishment.

The body of environmental legislation and associated regulations have resulted in many businesses, financial institutions, building owners, and tenants involved in property transactions being named as potentially responsible parties (PRP's) who may be liable for the entire cost of an environmental clean-up (remediation). Environmental regulations may also target the individual as a PRP. In order to minimize this liability exposure, it has become apparent that a professional review of current and past property uses is necessary. This method of limiting liability was recognized as a "due diligence" process under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA, a.k.a. Superfund, 40 CFR Part 300). Although this process was intended as a Superfund defense, the ESA has become the de facto method of conducting environmental due diligence for commercial property transactions.

To assist in developing the due diligence defense the following standards are typically used:

• Phase I Site Assessment ASTM E1527-05
• 40 CFR Part 312 "All Appropriate Inquiry"

ASTM International has developed E1527-05 Standards for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. This practice is intended to permit a user to satisfy one of the requirements to qualify for the innocent landowner defense to CERCLA liability: that is, the practices that constitute "all appropriate inquiry into the previous ownership and uses of the property consistent with good commercial or customary practice" as defined in 42 USC [section]9601(35)(B).

Phase I ESA
Involves research into the history of a property to determine if hazardous substances or petroleum products have likely been released into soil, groundwater, or structures on site.

The rationale for conducting a Phase I ESA has historically been one or more of the following:

1. To satisfy CERCLA appropriate inquiry requirements for the "innocent landowner" defense, should contamination be found on the property at some time in the future;
2. To evaluate business environmental risk, defined by the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) as "a risk which can have a material environmental or environmentally-driven impact on the business associated with the current or planned use of a parcel of commercial real estate…;"
3. As a common-sense practice to determine the likelihood of soil or groundwater contamination or of contamination within an existing structure on a property. The presence of any such contamination could devalue a property or incur future liability for the property owner.

Phase II ESA
Recognized environmental conditions identified in a Phase I may trigger a Phase II ESA. The Phase II process typically includes sampling and laboratory analysis of different media, as deemed necessary based on the findings of the Phase I ESA or by a regulatory agency, including but not limited to building materials, indoor air, soils, ground water, surface water, and ambient air. The data gathered is compared to existing environmental and human health standards to determine the site's environmental and public health risks and potential remediation strategies. ASTM has created a standard for conducting Phase II ESA's, ASTM E 1903, Standard Guide for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase II Environmental Site Assessment Process. Be aware of regulatory standards, including reporting requirements, which may be applicable to the type of Phase II being conducted.

Additional Environmental Actions
Following the Phase II ESA, further studies may be required to determine the extent of any environmental impact, to explore alternative methods of abatement or remediation, and to develop cost estimates of the various abatement or remediation alternatives. Upon completion of these studies, abatement or remediation activity is often initiated.

FACILITIES OPERATIONS

The need for outside objective review and/or design is essential from time-to-time. AMRC's staff which comprises Certified Safety Professionals, Professional Engineers, Certified Industrial Hygienists, Certified Environmental Professionals and other technical specialists have the knowledge, credentials and experience to assist companies of all sizes with their Health and Safety outsourcing needs.

Through the years AMRC has assisted many corporate clients in the design and implementation of proper safety practices and training programs for employees. AMRC has conducted many safety audits, job safety analysis, and ergonomic studies as well as a host of other studies. These studies have been performed for small office settings as well as large industrial and factory settings. In addition, it is important to remember that as a part of any study in which AMRC prepares appropriate training and review is provided.

AMRC also is a key resource for corporate training needs. Many of our personnel have backgrounds and experience in teaching and training on the professional level. AMRC has developed and provided specialized training for corporations, city and county governments and school systems, just to mention a few. AMRC also has developed training courses that include a self contained media presentation and printed materials which entities can use to train personnel at their convenience. Many of the training courses which AMRC has developed and provided are eligible for continuing education credits through many certifying agencies and include the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

Some of AMRC's services include:

Operations Planning Safety Audits Job Safety Analysis Facilities Training Hazardous Waste Training Refresher Training

Preventive Maintenance Planning/Development Project Design/Review Project Management Facilities Inspection

METHAMPHETAMINE

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive central nervous system stimulant that can be injected, snorted, smoked, or ingested orally. Most amphetamines distributed to the black market are produced in clandestine laboratories. These clandestine laboratories are typically found in residences and can be operating with very little effort or equipment.

Methamphetamine is easily produced using a variety of ingredients that are easily available in stores. The manufacturing of methamphetamine is called "cooking". Cooking a batch of meth can be very dangerous due to the fact that the chemicals used are volatile and the by-products are very toxic. The byproducts and residues that contaminate the premises are absorbed into building materials, such as carpet and wall board, and are distributed in the air. These waste materials can contaminate soil, water, septic systems and other areas where they are disposed. In addition the residues on interior surfaces can result in damage to the skin and lungs. Simply cleaning up the obvious cooking equipment is not sufficient to prevent exposure to the next users of the property.

The Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act of 2007 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, not later than one year after the enactment of this Act, to:

• Establish voluntary guidelines, based on the best currently available scientific knowledge, for the remediation of former methamphetamine laboratories, including guidelines regarding preliminary site assessment and the remediation of residual contaminants;
• Consider relevant federal, state, and local requirements in developing the guidelines, the varying types and locations of former methamphetamine laboratories, and the cost of carrying out such guidelines;

AMRC has worked on multiple projects that involved methamphetamine manufacture and or use, testing for contaminates and providing remediation protocols. Our experience allows us to provide consulting services to government agencies, property owners and insurance companies.

CHINESE DRYWALL

Included in our realm of services is investigation into potential sources of odors and volatile organic compounds (VOC) that may be emanating from building materials. Recently an issue regarding an unpleasant odor, noted primarily in residential structures, has been brought to the fore front. In the past two years, we have performed multiple investigations all of which have been in different locations, but have all had a homogenous odor. In all of the locations the drywall has been determined to be the source of the odor. This drywall has since been coined 'Chinese Drywall' because the majority of it was apparently imported from manufacturers in China. The odor that has been reported is routinely described as a "rotten egg", "sulfur", "burnt matches" or a chemical type smell. This smell may be the result of off-gassing of a sulfur compound within the drywall, however, research is still in the early stages and hard facts are not yet available.

Based on AMRC's experience, the 'Chinese Drywall' is most notably creating an unpleasant odor, however, it may also be impacting metal building materials within structures. In many of the homes experiencing this drywall odor, the cooling coils and other metal parts associated with the air conditioning system, specifically those made from copper, have shown signs of corrosion. This corrosion has caused air conditioning units to malfunction prematurely and repeatedly. Again, not enough data exists to ascertain the exact link between the two issues but it does appear that a chemical compound present in the air is coming in contact with the copper coils resulting in deterioration of the metal and this seems to be happening in homes having 'Chinese Drywall' issues.

Currently, a noticeable number of builders, installers, and material suppliers are being affected by this issue and their individual responses have varied. A considerable amount of testing has been conducted in an attempt to determine exactly what constituent(s) of the drywall compound is/are being released, what the long term affects may be and how to remedy the problem, however, in most cases the results have been inconclusive.

View The CDC's Chinese Drywall Info            View the CDC Guidance PDF

It is apparent that the unpleasant odor repeatedly reported, is emanating from this particular type of drywall but there is not enough information as of yet to determine why this might be occurring at this time in this area. Further research must be conducted before any accurate conclusions or recommendations can be made.

If you have any questions regarding this brief explanation of AMRC's understanding of this subject or wish to discuss further the testing that has been accomplished, please do not hesitate to contact us at (239) 936-8266.