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Home My WebLink AboutNorthern Industrial HygieneBillings, Montana, Helena, Montana * Searle Washington April 13, 2004 Mr. Ken Olson, Mayor City of Laurel P. O. Box 10 Laurel, Montana 59044 100 N. 27th Street Suite 550 Billings, Montana 59101 Phone: 406/245-7766 FAX: 406/254-1428 Email: nihinc@aol.com ' ~ ~:~' 2004 CiTY OF L,,.UREL RE: Dear Mr. Otson: Letter Report Indoor Air Quality Investigation Laurel City Court Building Northern Industrial Hy.qiene Proiect No. 999-236 At your request, Not, hem Industrial Hygiene (Northern) visited the above described building on January 26, 2004. The purpose of the visit was to perform a visual inspection of the building for the presence of mold. In addition, Northern was requested to take indoor and outdoor air samples to document existing airborne concentrations of mold spores in those locations. Northem had previously visited this site on October 31, 2003 and performed a similar investigation. Vadous mold samples were also taken during the eadier visit. Background During the past several months, there have been numerous complaints by city court employees regarding suspected health related issues that may be related to mold spore concentrations within the Laurel City Court building. Previous investigations by both Northern and employees of the State of Montana Occupational Safety and Health Bureau identified several building defects, some of which had the possibility of allowing or fostering mold growth. Laboratory analysis of samples that were taken to identify and/or quantify mold spores identified certain locations within the building that have potentially harmful concentrations of mold spores. As a result of previous inspections and letter reports of these inspections outlining recommended remediation work, significant progress has been made in reducing the Asbestos e Lead-based Paint e Indoor Air Quality, Industrial Hygiene Mayor Ken Olson Indoor Air Quality Survey Laurel City Court Building 4/13/2004 Page 2 potential of employee contact with the elevated concentrations of mold spores. Examples of this work include repairing wall and ceiling cracks, sanding, cleaning and disinfecting/encapsulating of wood surfaces in the mechanical room, carpet cleaning, sealing ceiling penetrations and installing several air scrubbers in occupied spaces. Visual Inspection The facility is a single level building with a partial basement. The building is wood frame construction with extedor plaster wall finish. The roof is a gravel-ballasted built up roof. Footings, foundations and floor slab are concrete. Heat is supplied by a gas-fired boiler located in the basement mechanical room. Heat distribution is via a system of radiators throughout the occupied spaces. This space serves as the City Court and related offices and is located in a central building reportedly constructed in the late 1800s with additions later added on to the north, west and east sides of the central building. Adjoining this complex to the east is another building (not a part of this investigation) that serves as offices for the City of Laurel. On the January 26, 2004 visit, it was noted that five HEPA equipped air scrubbers were operating in vadous port'ions of the city court complex. It was also noted that all wall and ceiling cracks noted on Northern's previous inspection had been sealed. There were no new cracks visible. The basement mechanical room had been cleaned and the wood framing and ceiling surfaces had been sanded, cleaned and encapsulated. Air Sampling for Mold Analysis Six air samples were taken for analysis. Samples were given sample numbers Laurel #8- Laurel #13 and are summarized in the table following this paragraph. Table 1 (attached) provides a more complete analysis of the laboratory findings of the air samples collected. An exterior air sample was taken. The results of this sample are included as a comparison of extedor air mold concentration versus the specific indoor concentrations at the time of Northern's visit. Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. Mayor Ken Olson Indoor Air Quality Survey Laurel City Court Building 4/13/2004 Page 3 Airborne samples for nonviable analysis were collected using Air-O-Cell cassettes at a sampling rate of approximately 15 liters per minute. Sample times varied depending on sample location and suspected airborne concentrations of mold spores present. Airborne particles were impacted on a hexsilicone-coated microscopic slide. Mold concentrations are reported by the laboratory as the number of fungal particulate per cubic.meter of air sampled. Spores were identified at least to the genus level. LAUREL CITY COURT BIOAEROSOL SAMPLE RESULTS - JANUARY 26, 2004 Result Elevated Sample No. Sample Type Sample Location (Count/M3) (Yes/No) Laurel #8 Air Extedor 13 N/A Laurel #9 Air Judge's Chamber 267 No Laurel #10 Air Jury Room 150 No Laurel #11 Air Clerk's Office 100 No Northwest corner Laurel #12 Air Basement 100 No Mechanical room Laurel #13 Air Attorney's Office 33 No N/A = Non-applicable The extedor sample, Laurel #8, had a total count of 13 spores/m3. All of the mold spores identified by the laboratory in this sample were of the Cladosporium genus. Intedor samples were labeled Laurel #9 through Laurel #13 and were taken in the judge's chamber, jury room, clerk's office, boiler room and attorney's office. Total spore counts of these samples were 267, 150, 100, 100, and 33 spores/m3 respectively. A small quantity (one spore) of the sample taken in the clerk's office (17%) was of the StachybOtrys genus. A majodty of the spores in the sample taken in the judge's chamber were of the Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. Mayor Ken Olso~ Indoor Air Quality Survey Laurel City Court Building 4/13/2004 Page 4 Asperg#lus/Penicillium-Like genus. However, the total count of this sample was well within what is considered an acceptable range. Other than the two exceptions noted in the above paragraph, all other factors of the results of the laboratory analysis of these samples is considered well within acceptable ranges (total spore count and spore genus identification). The laboratory report is attached. Tape Lift Sample Analysis One tape lift sample was taken. This sampling is accomplished by pressing a specially prepared adhesive tape to a relatively smooth and fiat surface. The tape is then withdrawn and mounted on a microscope slide. The slide is read by the laboratory and reported as total mold spores per square centimeter of surface tested. Mold spores are identified at least to the genus level. Sample number TL-2 was taken from a painted wall surface adjacent to the lower part of the wall-mounted radiator housing in the customer lobby. Mold spores identified on this sample consisted of spores of the Altemaria, Amerospores, Ascospores, Cladospo#um, Nigrospora, and Smuts/Myxomycetes/Periconia genera. Total spore count of this sample was 153 spores/cra2. This count is considered extremely Iow. A summary of this test is presented on Table 1. The laboratory report is also attached. Discussion Mold Overview Molds, a subset of the fungi, are found in every ecological niche and are necessary for the recycling of organic building blocks that allow plants and animals to live. Included in the group "fungi" are yeasts, molds and mildews, as well as large mushrooms, puffballs and bracket fungi. Fungi are primarily saprophytic, using nonliving organic material as a nutrient source for growth and reproduction. Molds grow on cloth, carpets, leather, wood, gypsum wallboard and insulation when moist conditions exist. When molds grow in moist indoor environments, it is possible for people to become exposed to molds and their products, either by direct contact on surfaces or Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. Mayor Ken Olson Indoor Air Quality Survey Laurel City Court Building 4/13/2004 Page 5 though the air, if mold spores, fragments or mold products are aerosolized. Molds reproduce by producing spores that, if they land on a moist food source, can germinate and begin producing a branching network of ceils called hyphae. Most types of molds that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to healthy individuals. However the impact on human health depends on the nature of the species involved, the metabolic products being produced by these species, the amount and duration of an individual's exposure to mold parts or products, and the specific susceptibility to those exposed. Health effects generally fall into four categories, which include allergy, infection, irritation (mucous membrane and sensory) and toxicity. Studies have shown a correlation between the prevalence of fungi and sick building syndrome. Fungi can colonize on organic water-damaged building materials. During the digestion process fungi secrete enzymes into the nutrient source to break down complex compounds into simpler compounds, which are taken up by the fungi and digested. The digested nutrients are classified into two categories, primary and secondary metabolites. The primary metabolites consist of cellulose and other compounds that are used for energy to grow and reproduce. The secondary metabolites, called mycotoxins, are produced to give fungi a competitive edge against other micreorganisms, including other fungi. There are over 200 recognized mycotoxins, however, the study of mycotoxins and their health effects on humans is in its infancy and more is waiting to be discovered. Many mycotoxins are harmful to humans and animals when inhaled, ingested or brought into contact with human skin. Mycotoxins can cause a variety of short term as well as long-term health effects, ranging from immediate toxic response to potential long-term carcinogenic and teratogenic effects. Symptoms due to exposure to mycotoxins include dermatitis, cold and flu symptoms, sore throat, headache, fatigue, diarrhea and opportunistic infection. Research has implicated many toxin-producing fungi, such as Stachybotrys, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Chaetomium and Fusarium species, to indoor air quality problems and building related illnesses. Conclusions and Recommendations Conclusions Visible mold growth was not observed on the date of this visit. No musty or moldy odors were detected. Air scrubbers were operating in the space at the time of Northern's visit. Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. Mayor Ken Olson Indoor Air Quality Survey Laurel City Court Building 4/13/2004 Page 6 Except for the presence of one spore of the Stachybotrys genus identified on one of the air samples, all laboratory results were well within acceptable limits according to guidelines from the AIHA (American Industrial Hygenist Association) Journal. A copy of the AIHA summary is attached. Recommendations Upon receipt of the laboratory results, the City Judge was informed of the results of the sampling. She stated that on the day of the testing the air was clean; but on other days especially when snow is melting off the roof, the interior conditions are much worse. Northern agreed to return to the site and retest when personnel from the city court office notified Northern of a 'bad' day upon their arrival at the office. To date, such a call has not been received by Northern, and subsequently, no return visit has occurred. Based on the laboratory data collected on the visit of 1~26-04, Northern concludes that the air sampled on that day was well within acceptable parameters. Northern's recommendations include continued good housekeeping procedures, prompt repair and/or maintenance of ceiling or wall cracks as they occur, and continued operation of the HEPA equipped air scrubbers. We trust this summary report meets your requirements at this time. If you have any questions or if we can be of further assistance, please contact us. Respectfully Submitted, NORTHERN INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE, INC. Kevin B. Oliver, P.E. Attachment: Table 1 Mold Laboratory Report IAHA - Proposed Guidelines for Fungal Spores - Summary page Invoice Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. d G-AEROTECH LABORATORIES, INC. Tuesday, January27,2004 Lynden Sears Northern Industrial Hygiene, Inc. 100 North 27th Street, Suite 550 Billings, MT 59101 Re: Aerotech Project Number A-401-3041 Dear Lynden Sears: ACCREDITED AIHlk Environmental Microbiology ACCREDITED .LAB O RATO Aerotech is pleased to provide the enclosed report of analyses for samples submitted Tuesday, January 27, 2004. This cover letter and accompanying pages are an integral part of this report. All analyses are performed in our AIHA EMI_AP accredited laboratory under the FDA Good Laboratory Practice Guidelines and the parameters outlined in the most current version of the Amedcan Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Bioaerosol Guidelines. The data generated in this report are based on the samples and accompanying information provided and represent concentrations at a point in time under the conditions sampled. Results can vary with site conditions. Aerotech employees did not collect samples for this project, and may provide limited interpratation of this data as it relates to the overall investigation. Quality Assurance Aerotech Laboratories is staffed with over 300 professionals, including PhD's, chemists, and registered microbiologists with over 40 yearn of experience. The reliability of test results depends on many factors such as the personnel performing the tests, environmental conditions, selection and validation of test methods, equipment functioning, measurement traceability, as well as the sampling, storage and handling or test items, all of which are a reflection of the laboratories overall quality system. Aerotech Laboratories, Inc. has modeled its quality system after ISO 17025 guidelines, one of the most stringent sets of standards in the industry, to ensure that its customers receive the high standard of accuracy, reliability, and impartiality that they have come to expect from a leader in the environmental industry. Aerotech Laboratories' adherence to the standards set forth in the ISO 17025 guidelines has been validated and formally recognized through accreditations granted by two independent outside agencies, the American industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), and the Amedcan Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). As an additional measure to demonstrate its competency to perform the analyses it offers to its clients, Aerotech Laboratories also participates in a variety of different proficiency testing programs, including the Environmental Microbiology Proficiency Analytical Testing Program (EMPAT) sponsored by the American Industrial Hygiene Association. As part of its continuous commitment to excellence, Aerotech Laboratories is also inspected, licensed and/or accredited by a number of governmental agencies and independent associations in addition to those already mentioned above. The scope document, accreditation certificates, and proficiency results can all be accessed at www.aerotechlabs.com. Below you will find additional information regarding the specific analyses requested for this project. 1501 West Knudsen Drive · Phoenix, Arizona 85027 · 623.780.4800 · 600.651.4802 · Fax 623.780.7695 · www. aerotechlabs.com Spore Trap Device Spore traps are a unique sampling device designed for the rapid collection and analysis of a wide range of airborne particles, including fungal spores. Samples are analyzed via light microscopy at 600X magnification, the entire slide (100% of the sample) being analyzed. The results are reported as total~ meaning they include both viable and non-viable fungal spores. This technique does not allow for the differentiation between Aspergil/us and Penici/lium spores. Small (~1-3p,) spherical fungal spores that cannot be identified and may include Aspergi//us, Penicillium, and Trichoderma and others are grouped together as Amerospores. Specific genera of greater than 500 spores per slide are difficult to count accurately due to ovemrowding and are therefore estimations. Similarly, excessive non-microbial particulates can mask the presence of fungal spores, thereby reducing counting accuracies. All slides are graded with the following debris scale for data qualification. Debris Rating Scale Non-Microbial Particulate Description Interpretation Debris Rating No particles detected No particuJates on slide. The absence of particulates 0 could indicate improper sampling, as most air samples typically contain some particulates Minimal non-microbial debris 1 present. Reported vaJues are not affected by debris. Up to 25% of the slide Non-microbial particulates can mask the presence of 2 occluded with non-microbial fungal spores. As a result, actual values could be up to particulates. 1.3 times hi~her than reported. 26% to 75% of the slide Non-microbial particulates can mask the presence of 3 occluded with non-micrebial fungal spores. As a result, actual values could be up to particulates. 1.4 to 4 times higher than reported ! 76% to 90% of the slide Non-microbial particulates can mask the presence of 4 occluded with non-microbial fungal spores. As a result, actual values could be up to particulates. 4 to 10 times higher than reported. Greater than 90% of the slide *Air-O-Cell or LARO Cassettes - Sample could not be 5 occluded with non-microbial read due to excessive debris. Reported concentrations particulates, are estimations calculated from the number of spores observed on the perimeter of debris. The sample should be collected at shorter time interval, or other measures taken to reduce the collection of non- microbial debris. *Other Cassettes - Sample could not be read due to excessive debds. The sample should be collected at shorter time interval, or other measures taken to reduce the collection of non-microbial debris. Microscopic Screen A microscopic screen is a rapid analytical technique for confirming the presence and identity of fungi in or on the surface of a sample. Bulk, swab, and dust samples undergo an aqueous extraction and subsequent microscopic analysis and the counts are therefore subject to a dilution factor. Tape samples are analyzed directly and spores are counted. All samples are analyzed via light microscopy at 600X magnification. The results are reported as total, meaning they include both viable and non-viable fungal spores. This technique does not allow for the differentiation between Aspergillus and Penicillium spores. Small {~ 1-3p.) spherical fungal spores that cannot be identified and may include Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Trichoderma are grouped together as Amerospores. Data Qualifiers The Data Qualifiers identity issues or events that ara relevant to your analytical results. A data qualifier includes information about the validity, the source of the data whether calculated, entered or estimated, and the value of an observation. If applicable, a key is attached to each report type. In each case the data qualifiers provide information vital to the interpretation of the laboratory data. This communication is intended only for the individual or entity to which it is diracted. It may contain information that is privileged, confidential, or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication by anyone other than the intended recipient, or a duly designated employee or agent of such racipient, is prohibited. If you have raceived this communication in error, please notify us immediately by telephone at 800.651.4802, and delete this message and all attachments thereto. For additional information, or if you have any questions regarding this report, please do not hesitate to call. Sinceraly, David Kok Project Manager Aerotech Laboratories, Inc. 800-651-4802 Analytical References 1. Medically Important Funai: A Guide to Identification, 3rd ed., ASM, 1995. 2. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th ed., APHA, 1995. 3. SamBlina and Identifvina Alleraenic Pollens and Mold,~ Blewstone, 1990. 4. Identih/ing Filamentous Funai: A Clinical Laboratorv Handbook, Star, 1996. 5. Manual of Clinical Microbiology, 7th ed,, ASM, 1999. A Laboratory Guide to Common As~)eroillus SI3ecies and their Teleomorph,~, CSIRO, 1994. 7. Bioaerosois: Assessment and Contra[, ACGIH, 1999, AEROTECH ~ustamer LA BO RATO RI ES, I N C :[50:L W. Knudsen Drive, Phoenix, Arizona 85027 623-780-4800 · Fax 623-;7807695.1-800-651-4802 www.aerotechlabs.com Page -- of __ Northern Industrial H_ygiene, Inc, 100 North 27th Street, Sluts 550 city, state, z,u Billings, MT 59101 Contact Phons 406-245-7766 =roject Name ~, ~ U~,- e/- FAX 406-254-1428 =mis= Number --~ ~ P.O. Number =~ R~UI~ N E-mall N A - Air B - Bulk T - Tape Analyses Lab Number D - Dust WC - WaJlChek W - Water S - Surface Swab Other ~/olume ooL. l. oO L. Instructions/Special Requirements: Analysis pedormed is subject to the Terms & Conditions on the reverse side. Poat-Remediation Guidelines Page 5 of S Godish · >I000 cfu/m3, >10,000 spores/m~--indicates contamination 2001 Indoor Environmental Qualit? ALHA Journal * Collected from a variety of sources, gives numbers for normal 2001 background, possible contamination, and probable contamination for a variety of sample collection methods. See table below. Proposed Guidelines for Fungal Spores Type Normal Possible Contamination ' ' Probable Background* Source Contamination Source Air samples f~um <5,000 spores/m~ 5,000-10,000 spores/mJ >10,000 spores/mJ residential buildings <500 cfu/m3 500-1,000 cfu/m3 >1,000 cfu/m~ Air samples from <2,500 spores/m~ 2,500-10,000 spores/m~ >10,000 spores/m~ commercial buildings <250 cfu/ma 250-1,000 cfu/m~ >1,000 ofu/m3 <100,000 spores/g 100,000-1,000,000 sporesdg >1,000,000 spoms/g Dust samples < 10,000 cfu/g 10,000-100,000 cfu/g > 100,000 cfu/g <50,000 mycelial 50,000-I00,000 mycalial >I00,000 mycolial fragments/g frasments/~ frag~nen_t~/g <100,000 spores/g 100,000-I,000,000 spores/g >1,000,000 spores/g Bulk samples -<10,000 cfu/g 10,000-100,000 cfu/g >100~000 cfu/g <50,000 mycelial 50,000-[ 00~000 mycelial >100,000 mycalial fragments/g .. --~'fragments/~ fraErn~g/g Swab samples < 10,000 ¢ fu/in~ > 10,000 cfu/in~ < 1,500 cfu/cm2 > 17500 cfu/em2 Tape samples NSFM or NSMB** 1-5% 5-25% 25-100% *TYPes and relative proportions of fungal spores should be similar to outdoors. **NSI~M= 11o significant fungal material; NSFB= no significant fungal biomass O-.a~Oy~ght 2001, Wonaar Mai(ers Environmental. t~c., P,O. 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