BULK ASBESTOS
REGULATIONS
Asbestos is considered a hazardous material, and there are regulations that exist for the handling and safe disposal of asbestos to protect the environment and prevent health complications. In order to comply with these regulations, suspected asbestos containing material must be tested at a laboratory and disposed of appropriately.
HEALTH RISKS
Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
TESTING FOR ASBESTOS (PLM)
Providing asbestos bulk sample analysis using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) in accordance with EPA 600/R-93/116. Gravimetric reduction of non-friable material and 400 & 1000 point count is available upon request.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
REGULATIONS
Many Canadian jurisdictions do not have specific legislation that deals with indoor air quality issues. Several organizations have published recommended guidelines for indoor air quality. Finding the source of symptoms or cause can often be difficult but indoor air quality testing by a qualified professional can help determine airborne fibers that are within the acceptable range.
HEALTH RISKS
Poor indoor air quality can cause breathing problems, sinus congestion, headache, irritation of eyes, nose, throat etc.
TESTING FOR ASBESTOS (PCM)
Providing analysis of asbestos and other fibers by Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) using NIOSH Method 7400 (A & B counting methods).
COMBUSTION BY PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
REGULATIONS
There are currently no regulatory limits established for the presence of surface contaminants associated with fire loss (char or soot residue). Therefore, the results of combustion by-product testing are predominantly used as a “qualitative” measure of assessing areas of potential impact rather than a “quantitative” assessment.
HEALTH RISKS
Breathing in the tiny soot particles can cause respiratory issues, shortness of breath, bronchitis, asthma, stroke, heart attack, cancer etc.
TESTING FOR CBP
Providing screening test for identification of fire combustion by-product such as soot and char.
LEAD
REGULATIONS
Lead is a naturally occurring heavy metal that is commonly used in a variety of industrial and building materials. During remediation efforts of lead-containing materials, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), Ontario Regulation 213/91 under the OHSA as well as any applicable guidelines must be followed.
HEALTH RISKS
Lead exposure occurs through ingestion or inhalation of airborne particulates. Exposure to lead can cause anemia, weakness, kidney and brain damage, and behavioural and developmental delays in young children. It is particularly hazardous to a pregnant individual as lead can also cross the placental barrier causing developmental and neurological damage to the unborn baby.
TESTING FOR LEAD
Providing quick and accurate testing for the presence and absence of lead, quantitative result can be attained using FLAA.
MOULD (COMING SOON)
REGULATIONS
All Canadian Federal and Provincial agencies consider mold growth in buildings to be a risk factor for health problems. Not all mold is obvious, it can grow inside walls or above ceiling tiles and it can be identified by conducting proper testing.
HEALTH RISKS
Exposure to mold can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing and phlegm build up, wheezing and shortness of breath, symptoms of asthma, and allergic reactions.
TESTING FOR MOULD
Evaluating and testing a wide array of environmental microbiological samples including spore trap, bulk, tape lift, swab, etc.
NUISANCE DUSTS
REGULATIONS
Nuisance dust is any airborne particulate that is produced as a result of manufacturing activities such as grinding, sanding, smoking and polishing. These particulates are not harmful to the human body if the levels of concentration in the air as well as the duration of exposure is kept below a specific level. It is the employer's responsibility to provide a safe environment and protect the employee from illness or harm as a result of this contamination by ensuring that nuisance dust levels are controlled and respiratory protection equipment is supplied. The acceptable levels are determined by institutions such as the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
HEALTH RISKS
When determining health risks several factors are taken into consideration, such as particulate size and type, the concentration of the particulate in a given area and the duration of exposure to the particulate. If the levels are not controlled, employees may be at risk of incurring damage to the eyes, lungs, and respiratory tract.
TESTING FOR NUISANCE DUSTS
In compliance with NADCA Prime Analytical Inc. uses the NIOSH 0500 to determines the total dust concentration to which a worker is exposed.