Environmental issues and solutions

It is mandatory in New York to obtain ACP5 Forms when carrying out demolition, renovation or any other construction project. Thus, a certified asbestos investigator is required to test the presence or otherwise of Asbestos in Presumed Asbestos Containing Materials (PACM). Individuals conducting asbestos inspections are certified by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection to carry out this hazard assessment. Hence, they are competent and their results, reliable, when invited to evaluate structures and buildings suspected to contain asbestos materials. Bulk samples taken for asbestos inspection is also permitted for individuals certified by the New York State Department of Labour (NYS DOL) An asbestos investigator may consider some or all the areas at high-risk, in which case bulk samples will be collected and submitted for analysis in any Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) laboratory under the New York State Department of Health. Asbestos Assessment

An asbestos survey is done to check for the presence of asbestos in suspect materials, which include everything but metal, wood, fibreglass and plastics. IS ASBESTOS SURVEY REQUIRED PRIOR RENOVATION, CONSTRUCTION, DEMOLITION?   Due to their detrimental effects on health, homeowners who intend undergoing renovation, demolition or remodelling projects are saddled with ensuring that all asbestos-containing materials are safely removed before commencement of work. A professional asbestos investigator will help to determine the presence of asbestos as well as remedial steps to ensure residents are not endangered during a project. Homeowners are also required to meet requirements for asbestos abatement set by the Department of Buildings before issuance of a DOB permit (source: NYC DOB). IN THE ABSENCE OF ASBESTOS In the absence of asbestos-containing materials following lab results, or if the materials fall below 10 square feet/25 linear feet, an ACP5 form will be issued by a li

Unlike many other types of risks, radon exposure hasn’t particularly gained massive attention, but that doesn’t make it any less harmful. The lack of publicity means individuals are oblivious of exposure to radon, even though radon is surprisingly the second most common cause of lung cancer, only behind smoking. While radon exposure at low levels may not pose significant threats, extended exposure to the agent is often linked to radon-related cancers. Radon is a radioactive gas formed when uranium combines with water, dirt and rock. But unfortunately, it’s difficult to tell if radon is present in your home as the chemically inert agent is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Radon is also earthbound, as such the highest levels of this agent are usually recorded closer to the ground. Thus, people living in three-storeyed buildings or less are significantly at risk, as are those whose apartments are lower than the third floor. As there is no restriction as to where radon can be fo

Homes and structures built decades ago often had components made of asbestos - a mineral that was used due to its characteristic strength and resistance.  Asbestos was also fancied as it didn’t add significant weight to the materials. However, the conspicuous rise in asbestos-related deaths led to restrictions in the use of Asbestos, and in 1989, the Environmental Protection Agency firmly established the Asbestos Ban and Phase Out Rule. This was important as it became obvious that inhaled Asbestos powder and strands can stall lung processes and result in scarring of sensitive tissues. The risk of Asbestos containing material was brought to the fore in 1918, when a report by the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics informed a startling rise in mortality rate of individuals regularly exposed to Asbestos. Since these individuals were often mineworkers, development specialists and shipyard laborers, it soon emerged that Asbestos materials were subtly responsible for this trend. However, sig

From infections to more serious and potentially debilitating conditions, there are more than a handful of dangers lurking when unhealthful water runs down from faucets. Thus, it is vitally important for water facilities to ensure that drinking water is efficiently filtered before distribution is sanctioned to consumers who expect nothing but a safe and potable water. Recently, however, a water treatment facility embarked on a major refurbishment activity, only to find out disturbing concerns when their filtration system was tested. A worrying discovery Having been in use for a long period of time, the sand filtration system employed by the facility was due for replacement, and an identical design was selected during the refurbishment. Top quality filter nozzles suppliers Tecpro were commissioned for the supply and installation of the new filter nozzles. Routine testing however brought one challenge to fore; the new nozzles were dysfunctional due to some underlying problem

With a rich history that dates back to the 1930’s, Gresswell Safety Valves save the day when risky over-pressure events are all but possible. Gresswell has constantly designed and manufactured top quality Safety Valves suitable for a diverse range of pressure systems.  But that’s not all; Gresswell Safety Valves are labelled as such having been subjected to test in the toughest of environments where risks of over-pressure could take fatal dimensions. Gresswell Valves are popularly used in a wide range of applications including enclosed pressurised systems, boiler systems, and pumps. They are also top contenders in the shipping, oil and gas industries. The rugged design comes in bronze, iron, stainless steel and brass. Factory tested for quality assurance and supplied pre-set, Gresswell line of Safety Valves are additionally backed by CE Mark certification and CAT IV PED certification. Gresswell Valves come in different pressures ranging from 0.5Bar (7PSI) to 20.7 Bar (300 PS