IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Because of all the above reasons and more, Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) are present in many buildings built before 1990. While it’s important to understand why asbestos was used, it’s equally important to understand how it can impact the health of people living there. Some further reading:

• When Should You Test for Asbestos?

• Asbestos in Your House: A Breakdown Floor by Floor

• Managing Asbestos in the Workplace

• Encapsulate, Remove, or Demolish Asbestos: When to Do Which

If you’re concerned about ACMs being present in your home or business, it’s important to get a consultation from the experts. Fiber Control, Inc. is an asbestos abatement specialist, with years of experience in the field. Reach out to us to get started, and we’ll help you figure out which options are right for you.

In its heyday (which stretched from the 1950s through the 1980s), asbestos was used across thousands of products, the longest lasting being construction materials. There were two major factors contributing to asbestos’s success: as a silicate fiber, it‘s many desired material properties, and as a naturally occurring mineral, it was cheap. Some things to keep in mind:

• Asbestos was a good insulator. Both for buildings and for hot water pipes and boilers.

• Asbestos was known for its heat resistance. It was used for fireproofing buildings and chimneys.

• It was mixed with cement. This created heat resistant siding and pipes that were stronger.

• It was a strengthening agent. Found both in vinyl and drywall (also for heat resistance).

• Asbestos had sound-dampening qualities. This made it common in ceiling tiles and popcorn ceilings.

• Health concerns were systematically covered up. This happened as early as the 1930s

Hindsight is always 20/20. That’s certainly the case with asbestos. Today it’s banned in most first world countries (or in the case of the US, kind of banned). Companies and contractors like ourselves work to safely remove it from homes, businesses, and facilities across the US, following stringent rules and regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and by states and counties. But it wasn’t always this way: the legacy of asbestos removal only happened because of the reasons it was sold to construction companies and contractors in the first place.

Most are well aware of the risks automotive technicians and mechanics regularly face, such as electrical shocks and burns. Yet, many are oblivious to the invisible threat of asbestos. This hazardous material was frequently used in automobiles, which increased the risk of asbestos exposure to those repairing those cars. However, despite its limited use today, there remains a high risk of asbestos in the automotive industry.

IS ASBESTOS STILL IN USE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY?
It’s a common myth that asbestos has been banned in the US, but it’s only illegal to use in certain industries, such as construction. While many in the automotive industry recognize the hazardous material is dangerous, the white asbestos was never fully abandoned when it comes to brake pads. Domestic vehicle manufacturers have ditched the use of asbestos in brakes, but due to the heat resistance, strength, and soundproof nature, imports of automobiles and brake pads still contain asbestos.

HOW ARE WORKERS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY EXPOSED TO ASBESTOS?
The Seattle Post-Intelligencer published an investigation in 2004, revealing that approximately 1 in 10 unprotected mechanics was at risk for asbestos-related cancers. The dust samples tested during this investigation revealed the dust in repair shops and garages were made up of between 2.26% and 63.8% asbestos fibers. Since repair shops and garage are typically poorly ventilated, the inadequate airflow increases the chance of exposure amongst the workers inside.

WHAT AUTOMOTIVE PARTS ARE PRESENTING THE HIGHEST RISK?
Brakes present a high risk of asbestos exposure. As brakes wear down, asbestos fibers become trapped in the brake housing. When the housing is opened for replacement, it releases the fibers into the air where they can be inhaled. Beyond brakes, other parts dangerous to mechanics include:

• Gaskets: Until the mid-1970s, automobile exhaust systems utilized asbestos gaskets.

• Clutches: As a result of wear and tear, clutches can be ground down and collect asbestos dust.

• Hoodliners: Asbestos was used to insulate automobile hoods to protect it from the heat of the engine.

Nearly all automobile parts no longer use asbestos, but that doesn’t rectify the millions of cars in the US still containing asbestos. In particular, classic cars are very dangerous to work on. Despite the regulations being imposed upon the hazardous material, the risk of asbestos in the automotive industry is pervasive. If you feel you’ve been exposed to asbestos, it’s critical you have the property inspected and decontaminated. It’s even more important considering the risks of secondhand exposure. That’s why it’s important to hire an expert asbestos abatement team like Fiber Control, Inc. to handle your hazardous material needs. If you’re interested in an inspection of your property, contact us today.

1. ONLY LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TO ASBESTOS IS HARMFUL

When asbestos fibers become airborne, these crystal fibers can be inhaled, lacerating the lining of the lungs at a microscopic level. This results in an incurable condition known as asbestosis, which is the accumulation of scar tissue that causes respiratory complications and cancer. Since asbestos exposure is cumulative, short-term exposures separated by time can have the same effects as long-term exposure, and depending on the dose of the exposure, short-term exposure can result in disease later in life.

2. SYMPTOMS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE ARE IMMEDIATELY APPARENT

If exposed to asbestos, you may not show signs of illness for years depending on the length and amount of exposure. While airway inflammation and coughing may be early signs of exposure, the early stages of lung cancer or mesothelioma may not surface for 10 to 80 years.

3. ASBESTOS SHOULD BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY

If asbestos is in good condition with no signs of wear and tear or is located in an area that is easily sealed away, encapsulation is an option. Although removal is the most common remediation solution, it may be an unnecessary expense if the asbestos is non-friable and qualifies for encapsulation. An asbestos abatement team should make this determination.

4. THERE’S ONLY ONE KIND OF ASBESTOS

Asbestos comes in various forms and all cause diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. The different types include: Chrysotile: Known as white asbestos, this is the most commonly used form of asbestos. Amosite: This was used in thermal insulation and ceiling tiles. Crocidolite: This was used in spray-on coatings, pipe insulation, plastics, and cement. Anthophyllite: This was used in insulation and construction materials. Tremolite and actinolite: These two are chemically similar and are not used commercially. If you disturb any type of asbestos, there are serious and life-threatening repercussions.

5. ASBESTOS USE IS BANNED IN THE U.S.

While the last U.S. asbestos mine closed its doors in 2002, asbestos is still imported into the country for use in factories. To this day, some industries use asbestos to build valves, turbines, storage tanks, gaskets, and vehicle brakes. However, its use in construction materials is illegal. Myths about asbestos can gain traction and lead to dangerous consequences. Discerning fact from fiction is key to keeping safe from the harmful effects of asbestos. Fiber Control, Inc. has the experience and certification to determine if there is an imminent threat of asbestos on your property. If you suspect your property may contain asbestos or other hazardous materials, contact us today to schedule your inspection.

The Toxic Substances Control Act Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC) peer review meeting regarding persistent asbestos risks scheduled for April 27 to 30 has been postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the meeting was to be virtual, the absence of key members and the importance of the discussion forced the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to put the meeting on indefinite hold. Despite the EPA’s delay of the asbestos review, it serves as a good reminder of the threat of asbestos exposure we still face in this country today.

WHAT IS THE REVIEW GOING TO COVER?

The meeting is a peer review of the recent asbestos risk evaluation draft assembled by the SACC. The draft evaluated the threat from “legacy” asbestos – products manufactured 30 years ago that remain in use in construction. The draft reports workers, consumers, and bystanders were all susceptible to the adverse effects of asbestos under certain conditions of use. Particularly, this review will take aim at the Toxic Substances Control Act and will provide the EPA the option of proposing further asbestos regulations. The draft document for review can be found at the Federal Register’s website.

WHAT ASBESTOS RISKS WILLv THEY REVIEW?

The draft risk evaluation conducted by the SACC in March found 33 conditions of use found to be of an unreasonable risk. Similar to the Significant New Use Rule, the EPA will analyze and determine the risk of asbestos exposure among these conditions of use and propose new regulations accordingly. Particularly, this draft cites the following industrial products:

• Diaphragms in the chloralkali industry

• Brake blocks in the oil industry

• Chemical production sheet gaskets

• Automobile aftermarket brake linings

• Automobile friction products

• Commercial asbestos-containing gaskets

Despite the potential risks to the public, the EPA did not, however, find any risks to the environment or risks from importing asbestos. Nevertheless, this peer review could potentially contribute to the growing list of banned asbestos products.

While it’s concerning there may be a delay on the asbestos review due to its potential postponement of life-saving regulations, it’s a discussion that requires the attention of all leaders in the field. However, it’s a stark reminder of the continuing risks of asbestos in commercial, residential, and municipality buildings. These are the reasons asbestos abatement and inspections are still so important to this day. If you are concerned about the presence of asbestos in your establishment, Fiber Control, Inc. has the remediation experience to help. Contact us for a consultation on your property.

Hindsight is always 20/20. That’s certainly the case with asbestos. Today it’s banned in most first world countries (or in the case of the US, kind of banned). Companies and contractors like ourselves work to safely remove it from homes, businesses, and facilities across the US, following stringent rules and regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and by states and counties. But it wasn’t always this way: the legacy of asbestos removal only happened because of the reasons it was sold to construction companies and contractors in the first place.

ASBESTOS AS THE “MIRACLE MINERAL”

In its heyday (which stretched from the 1950s through the 1980s), asbestos was used across thousands of products, the longest lasting being construction materials. There were two major factors contributing to asbestos’s success: as a silicate fiber, it‘s many desired material properties, and as a naturally occurring mineral, it was cheap. Some things to keep in mind:

• Asbestos was a good insulator. Both for buildings and for hot water pipes and boilers.

• Asbestos was known for its heat resistance. It was used for fireproofing buildings and chimneys.

• It was mixed with cement. This created heat resistant siding and pipes that were stronger.

• It was a strengthening agent. Found both in vinyl and drywall (also for heat resistance).

• Asbestos had sound-dampening qualities. This made it common in ceiling tiles and popcorn ceilings.

• Health concerns were systematically covered up. This happened as early as the 1930s.

DEALING WITH ACMS IN BUILDINGS

Because of all the above reasons and more, Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) are present in many buildings built before 1990. While it’s important to understand why asbestos was used, it’s equally important to understand how it can impact the health of people living there. Some further reading:

• When Should You Test for Asbestos?

• Asbestos in Your House: A Breakdown Floor by Floor

• Managing Asbestos in the Workplace

• Encapsulate, Remove, or Demolish Asbestos: When to Do Which

If you’re concerned about ACMs being present in your home or business, it’s important to get a consultation from the experts. Fiber Control, Inc. is an asbestos abatement specialist, with years of experience in the field. Reach out to us to get started, and we’ll help you figure out which options are right for you.

A look at bioaerosols and how they affect air quality. Focusing on mold both in homes and businesses as a major source of these and their health impact.

Looks at what to do if a home inspection on a home (buying or selling) turns up signs of asbestos-containing materials.

Looking at the importance of air flow and low air humidity levels to abate mold growth, and how winter makes this more difficult.

Looking at the recent baby powder recall, the risk of asbestos contaminated products, and how that segues into asbestos products (vermiculite, ACMs, etc.).

From the concerned to the thorough, regardless of your reasons to test your home or business for asbestos, it always helps to know what to expect. An asbestos inspection is done in two parts: a professional asbestos contractor will inspect your building for asbestos, taking samples from areas of concern and suspect materials. Secondly, those sample materials will be tested for the presence of asbestos.

WHAT TO EXPECT WITH AN ASBESTOS INSPECTION

Most often an inspection is the first step in working with an asbestos remediation company, though other agents such as home inspectors might be the first to find asbestos causes for concern. When working with the remediation specialist, make sure to let them know any areas you’re concerned about and any relevant information on probable asbestos-containing materials (ACM) used in construction materials. Then the specialist will inspect areas and take samples, usually one of two ways:

Air Sampling: Air is drawn into a cartridge that can collect airborne asbestos fibers. Both the amount of air and fibers is measured, which helps determine exposure levels.

Material Sampling: Especially with older homes, contractors will take samples of common materials and areas asbestos may be present, determining the ACM threshold.

ASBESTOS TESTING: COMMON MATERIALS THAT ARE TESTED

The samples are taken to a lab to be tested for the presence of asbestos. If asbestos is present, the asbestos remediation specialists will walk you through your options for asbestos abatement. When getting ready for an inspection, make a list of possible ACMS that might be present in your home to make sure they get inspected. Here are a few common examples:

Textured Ceilings: Asbestos was commonly used as an additive to create textured ceilings, particularly popcorn ceilings.

Asbestos Flooring: Often used as a hardening and fireproofing agent, asbestos can be found in old vinyl tiles and flooring felt (the same felt can be used in roofing).

Drywall and Joint Compound: Drywall, sheetrock, texturing, and joint compound had asbestos added to them to provide stability and fireproofing.

Insulation: Asbestos had strong insulation and fireproofing values that could often be found as block insulation and contaminated vermiculite loose-fill insulation.

Do you have any additional question about asbestos inspections or testing? Contact the experts at Fiber Control, Inc. We’re asbestos abatement contractors, as well as Lead RRP, mold remediation, and selective demolition. Make sure to also visit our blog archives for information like when you should test for asbestos, where to look for asbestos in commercial properties, and why you can’t medically test for asbestos exposures.

It can be a scary feeling knowing that there is asbestos in your home or business. Upon suspicion or finding out, it can be very easy to search the first asbestos contractors you can find and use their services. However, it’s important to do your research and ask your specialist some questions to make sure you both know the expectations involved, and that their work will keep you and your family or employees safe during asbestos remediation. Here are some pointed questions to ask:

WHAT DOES THE ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PROCESS INVOLVE?

First, it’s important to sit down with your potential contractor and talk about what to expect. Talk to them about the problem and talk about your options. If they have an inspection consultant (like we do) get an inspection from them. Learn about the following:

Do they suggest asbestos removal or encapsulation? If they provide options for both sealing or removing asbestos, find out which is right for your situation. Make sure to get a clear answer in risks and costs for both.

What is their process for asbestos abatement? What really separates abatement companies is their process. Not only how well they follow the regulations, but how the process will impact you – both in terms of hassle and health.

What kind of equipment will they be using? It’s important to understand what equipment they will be using and how it keeps them and you safe from protective equipment to containment to machinery used if they need to do selective demolition.

HOW DO THEY HANDLE ASBESTOS DISPOSAL AND CLEANUP?

It’s important that your contractor is also clear to you about how the entire process plays out. Make sure they have the right safety measures in place, from properly sealing off rooms for abatement to properly bagging materials for disposal. Talk to your contractor about how they dispose of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and if they follow EPA regulations. Learn more about that in our blog, How Asbestos is Disposed of Safely.

If you’ve got concerns about asbestos in your house or business, it’s important you do the right thing. If you’re in Massachusetts or New Hampshire and need asbestos inspection and removal, Fiber Control, Inc. can help. We’re asbestos abatement specialists, as well as handling mold and lead paint. Contact us today to learn more.

From commercial complexes to single-family buildings, mold is a problem that often augments other issues of the building, from leaking HVAC systems to flooding caused by storms. Any source of water can potentially be a source of mold, and water damage brings a heightened chance with the “perfect storm” of water drenched materials that are often in hard-to-reach areas. Let’s go over some of the most common types of water damage and how mold can impact them.

WATER DAMAGE THAT OFTEN CAUSES MOLD

Mold thrives in places where it has access to water and can be overlooked by homeowners or businesses while it grows.

Attic and Crawlspace Water Damage: Damage from storms and ice dams can cause roofing insulation or crawl spaces waterlogged. Especially in unfinished or inaccessible ceiling areas.

Basement Flooding: After a basement floods, mold can thrive in both items damaged in the flood as well as the walls and floors. Porous materials, such as cardboard, are especially at risk.

Broken Pipes: When water pipes break, either due to freezes or other damage, they can release water into the walls or floors. These, combined with leaks, give mold a place to grow.

Malfunctioning Appliances: Certain appliances can also prove a home for home and cause water damage. For example, HVAC systems can cause moisture and water issues perfect for mold.

DIAGNOSING AND DEALING WITH MOLD

After water damage occurs, it’s important to monitor the area for signs of mold growth. Mold usually appears starting as discoloration or spots on surfaces and can grow to be velvety or hair-like. Mold can appear as many colors, such as green, blue, gray, black, yellow, or off-white. The smell is musty and unpleasant, similar to mildew. Learn more in our blog, How to Tell If You Have a Mold Problem.

Either as part of dealing with the water damage or after the mold has been detected, it’s important to get the mold removed. Small patches can be removed manually, but to contain the spores or for larger or more dangerous types of mold, you may need to bring in specialists who can contain the area and remove the mold safely.

Here at Fiber Control, Inc., we practice mold remediation and removal with the same attention to detail and rigorous safety we do for Asbestos and Lead RRP. If you need assistance with identifying and removing mold in your home or business in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or beyond, contact us today. Want to learn more about mold? Read more in our blog archives.

When it comes to managing a commercial property, it’s important to understand the responsibility you have for the property and those on it, be it your employees for business owners or your tenants – either businesses or individuals – as a property owner and manager. One of these is to make sure your property is free of hazards to those who live, work, or move through it. When it comes to the presence of asbestos in commercial properties, you must be aware of it and take certain measures to deal with it in various circumstances.

DETECTING AND DEALING WITH ASBESTOS

Whenever asbestos is detected on your property, it’s vital you perform due diligence. It’s important to identify and deal with the presences of asbestos through several steps:

Monitor Your Buildings for Asbestos: It’s important to be proactive as asbestos’s biggest danger is when it’s undiscovered for years. Know where in commercial buildings asbestos is most common, and watch out for health warning signs of those who live there.

Get an Asbestos Inspection: If you think you’ve found signs of asbestos or have concerns for your employers or tenants, get an inspection done.

Decide on Containment or Removal: Once asbestos has been detected, consult with an asbestos remediation company on the best course of action – either removal or encapsulation depending on the situation.

THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF ASBESTOS IN COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

Certain federal acts and regulations come from the EPA come into effect in certain circumstances, especially during projects where asbestos exposure is particularly high.

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

Also known as NESHAP, this set of EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) requirements for the inspection and removal of asbestos by certified contractors before renovation or demolition of buildings. NESHAP applies to most buildings, with only individual residential buildings being exempt.

Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act

Part of the EPA’s Toxic Substance Control Act, AHERA was an additional section added on in 1986, legislation focusing on creating standards for asbestos identifications and abatement. While initially just for school, AHERA has been expanded on to extend to general contractors and asbestos abatement. It’s important that any contractors you work with are accredited under AHERA.

Operations and Maintenance Guidance

The O&M is a guidance program provided by the EPA to assist business owners and managers on how to manage asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in their buildings. This includes how to develop and maintain an operations and maintenance plan (training, cleaning, work practices, and surveillance). Learn more about it on the EPA’s website: Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Guidance Program.

It’s important to keep your commercial and industrial buildings free of asbestos for the health of all concerned, with all the rules and regulations that entails. If you have concerns about asbestos in your workplace, contact Fiber Control, Inc. We’re asbestos remediation specialists serving Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and we’re here to help.

Ready to paint your home, but worried about the presence of lead paint in your house? It’s an understandable concern in older homes, especially those before 1978 when lead paint was banned from use in building paint. Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or looking to get assistance from a contractor, it’s essential to understand the risks and safety measures needed to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from lead paint.

LEAD PAINT AND DUST DURING RENOVATION

The biggest risk during a renovation is releasing lead paint into your home, either by having lead paint chips or dust. Lead paint dust is especially dangerous as it can easily enter the body via the mouth, throat, and lungs. Three things to keep in mind:

Understand the Risks: Start by knowing the risks of lead poisoning. Lead poisoning is especially dangerous for children as it interferes with physical and mental development.

Prepare the Room: Paint removal, in particular, will create a lot of chips and dust. Furniture should be removed, not just covered. Anything that can’t be removed should be wrapped in plastic and securely taped in place.

Keep It Wet: Use wet sanders and use a spray bottle to wet the surface when working with hand tools to avoid the spread of dust.

GOOD WORK PRACTICES AND EQUIPMENT

If you’re going to handle the project yourself, remember to purchase the right equipment you need. This will include having HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) certified gear and following good work practices.

HEPA Respirators and Vacuums: Due to the fine particulates when removing paint, you will need NIOSH-certified respirators as well as HEPA filter-equipped vacuum cleaner. Using a normal vacuum would vent the dust into the air.

Lock Down the Room: Besides removing or covering furniture, make sure windows are closed, vents sealed, and for larger projects an “airlock” is created using two sheets, one taped to the door along all corners and slit down the middle, and the second hanging flush as a flap.

Keep It Clean: Wear full body covers to avoid tracking around dust. Clean and launder them separately and discard after the project. Clean the workspace regularly with vacuum and mops, replacing rages, sponges, and mops often and discarding the old ones.

Learn more about self-run projects on the EPA’s page for Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) personal projects.

WHEN TO CALL IN LEAD ABATEMENT AND RRP CONTRACTORS

For larger and commercial projects, or if you don’t have the time to invest in proper work gear and project time, think about contacting a lead abatement specialist and RRP contractor. They can test for the presence of lead in your paint and perform the proper procedures to keep your home safe during any remodel.

If you’re worried about asbestos or lead in your home, or your contractor has discovered the presence of these hazardous building materials, we can help. Fiber Control, Inc. are experts in asbestos abatement and lead remediation. Contact us today to learn about your options when it comes to removing these materials.

When it comes to our children, their safety is paramount. Keeping the places they live, learn, and play safe has led to many of our first regulations and rulings on hazardous construction materials in America. From asbestos to lead, many of these materials that impact the health and air quality of schools and other childcare facilities are being diagnosed and removed. However, due to its very nature mold is a reoccurring problem in schools and you need to work to prevent it. Learn the basics in this article.

A MOLD PROBLEM IS A MOISTURE PROBLEM

Mold is common in the air around us. What turns mold from a particulate like pollen to an issue that affects the air quality of a building is a straightforward thing: water. Mold can grow when a source of moisture can be found, it only needs time. Areas of schools that are neglected are most vulnerable, as well as those out of site.

Understanding the “Dew Point”

In places like Massachusetts, schools have another source of moisture than the ones listed below. In summer, when maintenance is lessened, there is a larger issue for humidity condensation, known as the dew point. This is when colder parts of the building have dew form on it at certain temperatures and humidity. Check out the full post here: The Link Between Mold Growth and Massachusetts Weather.

PLACES TO CHECK FOR MOLD IN CHILDCARE FACILITIES

As mentioned above, anyplace that can form moisture can form mold. While maintenance and facilities staff should always be on the lookout – especially in areas with water damage – here are three major areas to check.

Floors and Carpets: Pooling water can be especially dangerous for untreated flooring and carpeting. If wet, carpeting should be removed for cleaning or disposal.

HVAC Systems: Through condensation, cooling, and heating issues, HVAC systems can pose mold issues since they are so out-of-sight. Learn more here.

Basements and Boilers: These areas can be out-of-sight, out-of-mind. Check basements and boiler rooms for signs of water and respond promptly to any issues or mold.

It’s important that your school or other childcare facility doesn’t suffer from sick building syndrome and impact the health of your children. If you think you’ve got mold or other hazardous conditions, it’s time to get help. Fiber Control, Inc. is a full-service hazardous material inspection and remediation service, including asbestos, mold, and lead. Contact us today, and make sure to also read our other articles on understanding, identifying, and dealing with mold.

Flooding can be devastating to a home, with widescale or high flooding causing irreparable damage to a home. However, even mild or isolated flooding in a home can have long-reaching consequences, especially when it comes to materials in your home – flooring, walls, ceilings, insulation, etc. – suffering from water damage. Besides visual stains and structural damage, water-soaked materials and standing water can also lead to mold, which – left unchecked – can become a serious health hazard.

AFTER FLOODING MOLD: ACT QUICKLY

The window of mold due to flooding growth is short – as short as one to two days before spores start to take root. As such, it’s important to start the cleanup as soon as possible:

Remove Water: Your first step is to remove water. Depending on the location, a sump pump or wet vac might be your best option, or you may have to remove by hand.

Drying the Area: Dehumidifiers, fans, and heaters will help remove extra moisture and dry what surface cleaning could not.

Wet Materials: Certain materials may be too water damaged or absorbent to leave in place. Carpeting, cardboard, and unsealed wood may need to be removed.

HOME MOLDS TO LOOK OUT FOR

There are many types of molds that can grow in your building. While many are harmless, their spores can still cause allergic reactions and contribute to poor air quality. Here are five molds to look out for:

Penicillium: A common mold found in spoiled food, with over 300 species of the mold some can be dangerous. They need relative low moisture to live and spread indoors through rot.

Aspergillus: Several types of this mold can produce toxic mycotoxin spores, including Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus fumigatus.

Caldosporium: One of the types of “black mold,” this mold family includes 30 species that thrive in high-moisture spaces without enough ventilation. Can cause allergic reactions or worse.

Fusarium: One of the most common toxic molds in North America, Fusarium can be found in pools of still water. Can cause nose bleeds, gastrointestinal illnesses, and urinary tract issues.

Stachybotrys: Also known as “Toxic Black Mold” this is one of the most dangerous types of mold you can encounter. Produces dangerous mycotoxins that can lead to long-term damage or death.

Learn more in our blog, Five Molds to Look Out For in Your Home.

Make sure to identify the presence of mold due to flooding early, and make sure to remediate the area properly to avoid it coming back. Need help dealing with mold? Fiber Control, Inc. is a full-service hazardous material inspection and remediation service, including asbestos, mold, and lead. Contact us today, and we’ll help you deal with your issues in your home or business.

Mold growth is a real threat for buildings of all kinds, and the most common problem areas is where water meets surfaces. From leaking pipes to steam and pooling water, kitchens have it all, and commercial kitchens – which see more volume and activity than any residential kitchen – are even more at risk. While mold in a home is a hazard to the health of all the residents, mold in a kitchen of a restaurant or other facility is a hazard to all the employees and those who eat food produced in it. This is why it’s vital to locate and deal with mold in commercial kitchens.

LIKELY AREAS TO CHECK FOR MOLD GROWTH

Anywhere in your kitchen which can be exposed to and particularly trap moisture can quickly become a haven for mold. There are three major areas to check for mold:

Refrigeration and Freezers

Just like with HVAC systems, the cooling effects of refrigerators and freezers can quickly generate moisture both in the walk-ins themselves as well as the exhaust areas. Check around the vents but also for standing water in fridges, which are often overlooked due to the temperature.

Floors, Mats, and Baseboards

Anywhere water can form and be forgotten or trapped is a potential source of mold. Non-skid rubber mats are great for keeping workers safe but need to be regularly cleaned and tried. Likewise, floors and baseboards near water sources or hidden behind appliances need to be checked for mold growth regularly.

Damaged Floors, Walls, and Ceiling Tiles

If you’ve got chipped tile or linoleum, it’s important to seal it to avoid water getting in and becoming moldy. Likewise, inspect ceiling tiles; if not properly waterproofed, these tiles can absorb water from exhaust fans or leaky pipes (or careless dishwashing) and become a source of mold.

HOW MOLD IS A THREAT TO YOUR KITCHEN

It’s important to understand that as an employer with customers, mold is more than just a nuisance, it’s a liability. Let’s review a few ways mold puts you at risk.

Staff: Is your staff suffering from sick building syndrome due to mold? You’re probably looking at problems with OSHA workers’ rights.

Diners: If your food is contaminated with mold spores, you could be looking at liability (being sued) and a hit to your reputation.

Laws: Protected the above two categories is most likely your local board of health and their inspection standard. Fail these, and you could be looking at a closed kitchen.

It’s important to understand that if you’ve got a commercial mold problem, you need a commercial mold solution. Fiber Control, Inc. is a mold remediation company dedicated to providing the best diagnostic, remediation, and removal services for asbestos, mold, and lead paint in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Contact us today to take a look at your home or business so you can deal with your mold problem before it hurts your business.

Lead, just like many of the heavy metals, is hazardous to the human body. But until other hazardous substances were controlled at the federal and state level, lead’s use – specifically in paint as a coloration and material enhancing aid – was only regulated after 1978. As the years progressed and the harmful effects have been better documented, it’s become more than just critical to protect children from lead poisoning, but also the law to have child-care facilities like daycare centers and school inspected for lead paint. As such, it’s vital to get your building inspected if there are children present.

DANGERS OF LEAD POISONING IN CHILDREN

First, it’s important to understand why children are so at risk from lead poisoning, to get a better insight into the rulings and importance of protecting children in your care. While lead poisoning can affect people of any age, and lead to issues such as anemia and organ damage, there are three areas children are more susceptible:

Bone Growth: Lead can interfere with calcium absorption, leading to weaker and stunted bones.

Developmental Issues: Lead can interfere with brain growth, leading to developmental delays, speech and language issues, and comprehension.

Organ and Systems: The nervous system can undergo damage (such as reaction and fine motor control) as well as hearing and kidney damage.

Learn more about lead poisoning in our two blogs: Lead Poisoning from Lead-Based Paints and Why Lead Poisoning is So Hazardous to Children.

REGULATIONS OF THE LEAD RRP RULE

In 2008 the EPA issued a new rule requiring certification and work practices for contractors performing renovations, repair, and painting projects in buildings where children would be present: namely homes, childcare facilities, and schools. This rule, known as the Lead RRP rule, means that whenever work is done on a facility, it needs to be inspected by contractors with the proper training for the presence of lead paint.

INSPECTING PAINT FOR DAMAGE AND BEFORE WORK

Although the RRP may only be necessary while working on the building – situations where paint would be removed and could expose lead paint or cause it to become airborne – regular inspections are also key. A couple of things to keep in mind:

Check High-Use Areas: Places and objects where children regularly come in contact with paint, such as railings, doors, and window sills, should be inspected regularly for damage.

Inspect Paint for Damage: Even outside of remodeling work, paint should be inspected. As it is often painted over, new layers that contain paint can be revealed and pose a threat.

It’s important that your children are safe from the risks of lead paint. Here at Fiber Control, Inc., we specialize in complete lead paint abatement – the removal of lead paint without risk of lead dust or damage. This is done in conjunction with testing and removal of asbestos and mold from homes and businesses. Contact us today to learn about your options and get started.

When it comes to getting an asbestos inspection or abatement done at your place of business or at home, it’s important to understand core concepts and terms. Below are seven of the most common terms and titles used when talking about asbestos contractors and their work. Take a few minutes to review them to understand better the asbestos removal process and when talking to your asbestos abatement contractors that are handling the project.

ACM: Asbestos Containing Material

Any manufactured materials that contain asbestos. A term used by the EPA, OSHA, and other regulatory bodies, it is defined as a product that contains more than 1% asbestos.

AHERA: Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act

Part of the EPA’s, Toxic Substance Control Act, AHERA was an additional section added on in 1986, legislation focusing on creating standards for asbestos identifications and abatement. While initially just for school, AHERA has been expanded on to extend to general contractors and asbestos abatement.

Asbestos Abatement

More than just removal and disposal of asbestos, asbestos abatement is the containment and control of asbestos fibers, including procedures to removal, encapsulate, or repair ACMs that meet with federal and state laws. Read more in our blog, What is Asbestos Abatement?

Asbestos Colors

You may hear asbestos referred to as one or more colors. The three most common are:

White Asbestos: Chrysotile asbestos. The most common and most flexible.

Brown Asbestos: Amosite asbestos. More toxic and used in construction materials.

Blue Asbestos: Crocidolite asbestos. Dangerous smaller fibers, less used.

Learn more about asbestos types in our blog, Is Asbestos Man-Made or Naturally Occurring?

Bulk Sampling

The method of taking samples of materials to get them analyzed to see if it contains detectable asbestos (i.e., is an ACM). Includes EPA-recommended procedures for safety and containment. Also known as Asbestos Bulk Sampling.

Friable Asbestos

Asbestos that is friable means that it can easily release asbestos fibers when disturbed or decaying. This includes “loose” asbestos like fill insulation, low-density materials, or materials that are brittle. See our blog, The Difference Between Friable Asbestos and Non-Friable Asbestos, for more information.

NESHAP: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

A set of EPA standards, NESHAP set requirements for the inspection and removal of asbestos by certified contractors before renovation or demolition of buildings. NESHAP only applied to certain types of buildings, with individual residential buildings being exempt from this part of the standards.

Learn something new? Have questions about these or additional terms? Fiber Control, Inc. can help. We specialize in abatement and removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials. If you’re in Massachusetts or New Hampshire and need asbestos inspection and abatement, we can help. Contact us today.