How to identify materials containing
asbestos

You can't necessarily tell just by looking at it, although there are some areas of a home or building where materials containing asbestos were more commonly used.
If you're not sure whether a material contains asbestos, it's safest to treat it as though it does.

The most accurate way to find out whether a material contains asbestos is by engaging a Universal Inspection asbestos assessor to inspect and test it where necessary.

Sampling can be more hazardous than leaving the material alone, so taking the samples yourself is not recommended unless you are appropriately trained.

Homes

The majority of homes built before 1982 have materials containing asbestos. Homes built between 1982 and 1984 may have them. Homes built from 1985 onwards are unlikely to have materials containing asbestos.
In other words, chances are you are working on a home built before 1985 and are likely to contain asbestos.
Materials containing asbestos are mostly found in eaves and wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries, in the form of asbestos cement sheeting (fibro).
The table below identifies where materials containing asbestos are likely to be found, based on the year of construction.

Common locations of materials containing asbestos in homes*
(Percentage (%) of properties sampled where asbestos was detected)

*Results of 2005 Asbestos Survey of over 600 Homes.

*One MCA was found in a 1985 house supporting roof tiles on a gable end.
Some other areas include:

Outside

• Roof materials - flat, patterned or corrugated asbestos cement sheeting
• Imitation brick cladding

Inside

• Interior walls
• Vinyl floor tiles, the backing to cushion vinyl flooring and underlay sheeting for ceramic tiles
• Insulation materials in wood heaters and stoves, asbestos cement sheeting beneath wood heater hearths

Asbestos

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant. EPA and CPSC have banned several asbestos products. Manufacturers have also voluntarily limited uses of asbestos. Today, asbestos is most commonly found in older homes, in pipe and furnace insulation materials, asbestos shingles, millboard, textured paints and other coating materials, and floor tiles.
Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur after asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by cutting, sanding or other remodeling activities. Improper attempts to remove these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air in homes, increasing asbestos levels and endangering people living in those homes.
Asbestos is defined as a group of impure magnesium silicate minerals which occur in fibrous form.

Sources of Asbestos

Deteriorating, damaged, or disturbed insulation, fireproofing, acoustical materials, and floor tiles.

Health Effects

No immediate symptoms, but long-term risk of chest and abdominal cancers and lung diseases. Smokers are at higher risk of developing asbestos-induced lung cancer.
The most dangerous asbestos fibers are too small to be visible. After they are inhaled, they can remain and accumulate in the lungs. Asbestos can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma (a cancer of the chest and abdominal linings), and asbestosis (irreversible lung scarring that can be fatal). Symptoms of these diseases do not show up until many years after exposure began. Most people with asbestos-related diseases were exposed to elevated concentrations on the job; some developed disease from exposure to clothing and equipment brought home from job sites.

How Can Asbestos Affect My Health?

From studies of people who were exposed to asbestos in factories and shipyards, we know that breathing high levels of asbestos fibers can lead to an increased risk of:

• lung cancer
• mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the chest and the abdominal cavity; and
• Asbestosis, in which the lungs become scarred with fibrous tissue.

The risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma increases with the number of fibers inhaled. The risk of lung cancer from inhaling asbestos fibers is also greater if you smoke. People who get asbestosis have usually been exposed to high levels of asbestos for a long time. The symptoms of these diseases do not usually appear until about 20 to 30 years after the first exposure to asbestos.
Most people exposed to small amounts of asbestos, as we all are in our daily lives, do not develop these health problems. However, if disturbed, asbestos material may release asbestos fibers, which can be inhaled into the lungs. The fibers can remain there for a long time, increasing the risk of disease. Asbestos material that would crumble easily if handled, or that has been sawed, scraped, or sanded into a powder, is more likely to create a health hazard.

Levels in Homes

Elevated levels can occur in homes where asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed.

Steps to Reduce Exposure

• It is best to leave undamaged asbestos material alone if it is not likely to be disturbed.
• Use trained and qualified contractors for control measures that may disturb asbestos and for cleanup.
• Follow proper procedures in replacing wood stove door gaskets that may contain asbestos.

If you think your home may have asbestos, don't panic!

Usually it is best to leave asbestos material that is in good condition alone. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fiber. There is no danger unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs.

Do not cut, rip, or sand asbestos-containing materials.

Leave undamaged materials alone and, to the extent possible, prevent them from being damaged, disturbed, or touched. Periodically inspect for damage or deterioration. Discard damaged or worn asbestos gloves, stove-top pads, or ironing board covers. Check with local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials to find out about proper handling and disposal procedures. If asbestos material is more than slightly damaged, or if you are going to make changes in your home that might disturb it, repair or removal by a professional is needed. Before you have your house remodeled, find out whether asbestos materials are present.

When you need to remove or clean up asbestos, use a professionally trained contractor.

Select a contractor only after careful discussion of the problems in your home and the steps the contractor will take to clean up or remove them. Consider the option of sealing off the materials instead of removing them.

Asbestos in your building

If you own a non-residential building built before 2003, it may have materials containing asbestos.

While the majority of building products containing asbestos were phased out in the mid 1980's, other materials continued to be used in plant rooms and other equipment until more recently, such as piping and lagging. Non-residential buildings vary considerably in their structure, and have more widespread types and uses of materials containing asbestos. These materials can be found internally and externally, and in wet and dry areas.

Some examples of materials containing asbestos in commercial buildings are:

• asbestos rope/ fabric in expansion joints (e.g. heater and other exhaust flues);
• flat, patterned or corrugated asbestos cement sheeting (also known as fibro) used for walling and roofing;
• asbestos cement piping (e.g. heater flues);
• behind tiles in wet areas;
• lagging on water pipes;
• bituminous waterproof membrane (on flat roofs);
• fire doors;
• electrical switchboards;
• electrical duct heater units (millboard); and
• Lift motor rooms.

When asbestos is contained in a bonded form, maintained in good condition and left alone, it presents no health risks. Asbestos is only a risk to health if asbestos fibers are released into the air and breathed in. Common work situations in which fibers may be disturbed and released into the air include building and maintenance related activities such as:

• Flooring maintenance and installation
• Air-conditioning maintenance and installation
• Electrical, plumbing and hydraulic systems maintenance and installation
• Building renovation and maintenance work such as replacement or repair of wall and ceiling linings
• Demolition
• Painting and coating/sealing of materials containing asbestos
• Removal and disposal of asbestos

Depending on the activity undertaken and the work methods applied, the level of fiber release and exposure may vary.
Those most at risk are individuals who undertake these types of activities on a relatively

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Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.

Definition

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, practically odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid. It results from incomplete oxidation of carbon in combustion. Burns with a violet flame. Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol and benzene. Specific gravity 0.96716; boiling point -190oC; solidification point -207oC; specific volume 13.8 cu. ft. /lb. (70oF). Auto ignition temperature (liquid) 1128oF. Classed as an inorganic compound.
Source: "The Condensed Chemical Dictionary," 9th ed., revised by Gessner G. Hawley, Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., NY, 1977.

Sources of Carbon Monoxide

Unvented kerosene and gas space heaters; leaking chimneys and furnaces; back-drafting from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces; gas stoves; generators and other gasoline powered equipment; automobile exhaust from attached garages; and tobacco smoke. Incomplete oxidation during combustion in gas ranges and unvented gas or kerosene heaters may cause high concentrations of CO in indoor air. Worn or poorly adjusted and maintained combustion devices (e.g., boilers, furnaces) can be significant sources, or if the flue is improperly sized, blocked, disconnected, or is leaking. Auto, truck, or bus exhaust from attached garages, nearby roads, or parking areas can also be a source.

Health Effects Associated with Carbon Monoxide

At low concentrations, fatigue in healthy people and chest pain in people with heart disease. At higher concentrations, impaired vision and coordination; headaches; dizziness; confusion; nausea. Can cause flu-like symptoms that clear up after leaving home. Fatal at very high concentrations. Acute effects are due to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood, which inhibits oxygen intake. At moderate concentrations, angina, impaired vision, and reduced brain function may result. At higher concentrations, CO exposure can be fatal.

Levels in Homes

Average levels in homes without gas stoves vary from 0.5 to 5 parts per million (ppm). Levels near properly adjusted gas stoves are often 5 to 15 ppm and those near poorly adjusted stoves may be 30 ppm or higher.

Steps to Reduce Exposure to Carbon Monoxide

It is most important to be sure combustion equipment is maintained and properly adjusted. Vehicular use should be carefully managed adjacent to buildings and in vocational programs. Additional ventilation can be used as a temporary measure when high levels of CO are expected for short periods of time.

• Keep gas appliances properly adjusted.
• Consider purchasing a vented space heater when replacing an unvented one.
• Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.
• Install and use an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over gas stoves.
• Open flues when fireplaces are in use.
• Choose properly sized wood stoves that are certified to meet EPA emission standards. Make certain that doors on all wood stoves fit tightly.
• Have a trained professional inspect, clean, and tune-up central heating system (furnaces, flues, and chimneys) annually. Repair any leaks promptly.
• Do not idle the car inside garage.

Measurement Methods

Some relatively high-cost infrared radiation adsorption and electrochemical instruments do exist. Moderately priced real-time measuring devices are also available. A passive monitor is currently under development.

Standards or Guidelines

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What is Mold?

Mold is a naturally occurring substance that evolved on earth long before man. Mold is part of the fungus family; there are over 100,000 known species of mold. Mold releases enzymes that break down organic material. It plays a vital role in decomposing dead plant matter, and has given us valuable medicines against bacteria like penicillin. The trouble arises from the fact that mold can also break down the organic matter like our houses, and cause health consequences in our bodies.

What Cause Mold Growth?

Mold needs three things to grow - food, water and the right temperature. Mold thrives in the same temperature range that humans generally prefer (48°F to 70°F), and mold feasts on components of wallboard, carpets and other common household furnishings and construction materials. Therefore, the only real way to control mold is to eliminate its water source.

How could you tell if it’s Mold

Usually the musty odor, because sometimes you can’t see mold. It comes in a variety of colors other than the commonly known dark green, black or brown. You should use a home testing kit, or call in an expert for a home inspection.
Besides a musty odor, or the staining, crumbling or swelling of plaster and the separation of baseboards, the following are problem signs of mold:

• Mold and/or Mildew – Fungus that grows in damp, dark areas causes discoloration, musty smells and odors.
• Musty Odors – This is the result of the decay process from mold, mildew and dry rot.
• Dry Rot – Dark brown/black fungus. Grows on walls.

Health Effects and Symptoms Associated with Mold Exposure

When moisture problems occur and mold growth results, building occupants may begin to report odors and a variety of health problems, such as headaches, breathing difficulties, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and aggravation of asthma symptoms; all of these symptoms could potentially be associated with mold exposure.
All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, toxins that may cause reactions in humans. The types and severity of symptoms depend, in part, on the types of mold present, the extent of an individual's exposure, the ages of the individuals, and their existing sensitivities or allergies.
Potential Health Effects Associated with Inhalation Exposure to Molds and Mycotoxins
Allergic Reactions (e.g., rhinitis and dermatitis or skin rash); Asthma; Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis; Other Immunologic Effects
Research on mold and health effects is ongoing. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.
The health effects listed above are well documented in humans. Evidence for other health effects in humans is less substantial and is primarily based on case reports or occupational studies.

Specific reactions to mold growth can include the following:

• Allergic Reactions
  
  inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic reactions to mold are common - these reactions can be immediate or delayed. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Mold spores and fragments can produce allergic reactions in sensitive individuals regardless of whether the mold is dead or alive. Repeated or single exposure to mold or mold spores may cause previously non-sensitive individuals to become sensitive. Repeated exposure has the potential to increase sensitivity.

• Asthma
  
  Molds can trigger asthma attacks in persons who are allergic (sensitized) to molds. The irritants produced by molds may also worsen asthma in non-allergic (non-sensitized) people.

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
  
  Hypersensitivity pneumonitis may develop following either short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) exposure to molds. The disease resembles bacterial pneumonia and is uncommon.

• Irritant Effects
  
  Mold exposure can cause irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, and sometimes can create a burning sensation in these areas.

• Opportunistic Infections
  
  People with weakened immune systems (i.e., immune-compromised or immune-suppressed individuals) may be more vulnerable to infections by molds (as well as more vulnerable than healthy persons to mold toxins). Aspergillus fumigatus, for example, has been known to infect the lungs of immune-compromised individuals. These individuals inhale the mold spores which then start growing in their lungs. Trichoderma has also been known to infect immune-compromised children.
  
  Healthy individuals are usually not vulnerable to opportunistic infections from airborne mold exposure. However, molds can cause common skin diseases, such

• Toxic Molds

Some molds, such as Aspergillus versicolor and Stachybotrys atra (chartarum), are known to produce potent toxins under certain circumstances. Although some mycotoxins are well known to affect humans and have been shown to be responsible for human health effects, for many mycotoxins, little information is available, and in some cases research is ongoing. For example, some strains of Stachybotrys atra can produce one or more potent toxins. In addition, preliminary reports from an investigation of an outbreak of pulmonary hemorrhage in infants suggested an association between pulmonary hemorrhage and exposure to Stachybotrys chartarum. Review of the evidence of this association at CDC resulted in a published clarification stating that such an association was not established. Research on the possible causes of pulmonary hemorrhage in infants continues. Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more information on pulmonary hemorrhage in infants. 

Mold Toxins (Mycotoxins)

Molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Some mycotoxins cling to the surface of mold spores; others may be found within spores. More than 200 mycotoxins have been identified from common molds, and many more remain to be identified. Some of the molds that are known to produce mycotoxins are commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings. Exposure pathways for mycotoxins can include inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Although some mycotoxins are well known to affect humans and have been shown to be responsible for human health effects, for many mycotoxins, little information is available.
Aflatoxin B1 is perhaps the most well known and studied mycotoxin. It can be produced by the molds Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and is one of the most potent carcinogens known. Ingestion of aflatoxin B1 can cause liver cancer. There is also some evidence that inhalation of aflatoxin B1 can cause lung cancer. Aflatoxin B1 has been found on contaminated grains, peanuts, and other human and animal foodstuffs. However, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus are not commonly found on building materials or in indoor environments.
Much of the information on the human health effects of inhalation exposure to mycotoxins comes from studies done in the workplace and some case studies or case reports.

Many symptoms and human health effects attributed to inhalation of mycotoxins have been reported including: mucous membrane irritation, skin rash, nausea, immune system suppression, acute or chronic liver damage, acute or chronic central nervous system damage, endocrine effects, and cancer. More studies are needed to get a clear picture of the health effects related to most mycotoxins. However, it is clearly prudent to avoid exposure to molds and mycotoxins.
Some molds can produce several toxins, and some molds produce mycotoxins only under certain environmental conditions. The presence of mold in a building does not necessarily mean that mycotoxins are present or that they are present in large quantities.
Note: Information on ingestion exposure, for both humans and animals, is more abundant -- wide range of health effects has been reported following ingestion of moldy foods including liver damage, nervous system damage, and immunological effects.
Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds (mVOCs)

Some compounds produced by molds are volatile and are released directly into the air. These are known as microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). Because these compounds often have strong and/or unpleasant odors, they can be the source of odors associated with molds. Exposure to mVOCs from molds has been linked to symptoms such as headaches, nasal irritation, dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. Research on MVOCs is still in the early phase.

Glucans or Fungal Cell Wall Components (also known as ß-(1-->3)-D- Glucans)

Glucans are small pieces of the cell walls of molds which may cause inflammatory lung and airway reactions. These glucans can affect the immune system when inhaled. Exposure to very high levels of glucans or dust mixtures including glucans may cause a flu-like illness known as Organic Dust Toxic Syndrome (ODTS). This illness has been primarily noted in agricultural and manufacturing settings.

Spores

Mold spores are microscopic (2-10 um) and are naturally present in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds reproduce by means of spores. Some molds have spores that are easily disturbed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. Spores may remain able to grow for years after they are produced. In addition, whether or not the spores are alive, the allergens in and on them may remain allergenic for years.

Preliminary Mold Evaluation - Service Overview

Our mold expert visits your home or place of business and makes an assessment of the conditions. Based on this assessment, the next step can be determined, which may include more extensive investigation of the mold problem or the development of a proposal (including scope of work) to fix the mold problem.

What we do

 A Preliminary Mold Evalaution is a consulting service offered by Universal Inspection in Southern California. We set up an appointment to visit your house, and based on our experience in fixing mold problems, we usually will recommend one of two courses of action: 1) treatment and / or remediation, or 2) more extensive evaluation. If mold contamination is visibly or suspected to be wide spread, we may recommend more extensive evaluation from an independent environmental specialist with a building science background. Once the extent of the contamination is well defined and the water or moisture solution is clearly remedied, a scope of work and proposal for remediation of the mold can be developed. In any event, the moisture (or condensation, humidity) problem must be addressed first in order to successfully remediate the mold problem.

We highly recommend that the buyer of any mold services be familiar with EPA guidelines for mold assessment and remediation.
How we do it

We take a look at the area(s) in question and make our recommendations in context of the EPA Guidelines for Mold Assessment and Remediation. Our Preliminary Mold Evaluation is based primarily on visual observation. At this step of the process we do not conduct any destructive evaluations, i.e. confirming the presence of hidden mold. Occasionally, we may use a moisture meter to determine the moisture content of a particular surface. We may also conduct some surface screening samples to verify surface discoloration is microbial and not simply soot or staining from other causes.

Is microbial sampling performed?

This depends on several variables. Different types of samples and analysis may be required based on project variables. Timing is another variable. Sampling/analysis is sometimes helpful when there is a need to establish baseline levels prior to a remediation project. Sometimes it is relevant to determine if levels and/or types of species are above background levels (i.e. outdoor levels).

How much does the service cost?

The cost for the Preliminary Mold Evaluation service, as described above is $195 to 300. Please note, this cost does not include air or surface analysis, or a report. The cost for surface, air, or bulk analysis is as follows:
Fungal analysis: $65; Bacteria analysis: $65.
Analysis will be reported by an EMPAT / AIHA participating laboratory. Levels will be reported in terms of colony forming units per cubic inch, or per cubic meter of air, and types of species. Note: There are no established standards or regulations set for threshold levels - there are only guidelines.

In the event you opt to use Universal Inspection for remediation of the mold, we will deduct the $195 consultant fee from the cost of the remediation. Costs for laboratory analysis are NOT deducted.

If needed, who provides the next level of investigation?

In cases where there is extensive
Contamination, we recommend that a third party environmental specialist is hired, independent of Indoor Air Professionals. This consultant usually takes (additional) samples, and conducts a more thorough evaluation to determine the extent of the contamination. The consultant also develops a specification, including protocols for remediation. In addition, this third party specialist usually conducts "clearance testing" at the completion of the remediation project to confirm the space has been properly remediated.

Reducing Your Risk
 
Proper assessment and

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Lead has long been recognized as a harmful environmental pollutant. In late 1991, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services called lead the "number one environmental threat to the health of children in the United States." There are many ways in which humans are exposed to lead: through air, drinking water, food, contaminated soil, deteriorating paint, and dust. Airborne lead enters the body when an individual breathes or swallows lead particles or dust once it has settled. Before it was known how harmful lead could be, it was used in paint, gasoline, water pipes, and many other products.
Old lead-based paint is the most significant source of lead exposure in the U.S. today. Harmful exposures to lead can be created when lead-based paint is improperly removed from surfaces by dry scraping, sanding, or open-flame burning. High concentrations of airborne lead particles in homes can also result from lead dust from outdoor sources, including contaminated soil tracked inside, and use of lead in certain indoor activities such as soldering and stained-glass making.
Definition
[From "The Condensed Chemical Dictionary, 9th ed., Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York, 1977.] Metallic element of atomic number 82, Group IVA of the periodic table. Atomic weight 207.2; valences 2, 4; 4 stable isotopes. The isotopes are the end products of the three series of natural radioactive elements uranium (206), thorium (208), and actinium (207).

Properties - Heavy, ductile, soft gray solid. Sp. gr. 11.35; m.p. 327.4oC; b.p. 1755oC; soluble in dilute nitric acid; insoluble in water but dissolves slowly in water containing a weak acid; resists corrosion; relatively impenetrable to radiation. Poor electrical conductor; good sound and vibration absorber. Non-combustible.

Sources of Lead

Lead-based paint, contaminated soil, dust, and drinking water.

Lead Health Effects

Lead affects practically all systems within the body. Lead at high levels (lead levels at or above 80 micrograms per deciliter of blood) can cause convulsions, coma, and even death. Lower levels of lead can cause adverse health effects on the central nervous system, kidney, and blood cells. Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per deciliter can impair mental and physical development. EPA's Integrated Risk Information System profile on Lead and Lead Compounds - epa.gov/iris/subst/0277.htm
The effects of lead exposure on fetuses and young children can be severe. They include delays in physical and mental development, lower IQ levels, shortened attention spans, and increased behavioral problems. Fetuses, infants, and children are more vulnerable to lead exposure than adults since lead is more easily absorbed into growing bodies, and the tissues of small children are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead. Children may have higher exposures since they are more likely to get lead dust on their hands and then put their fingers or other lead-contaminated objects into their mouths.
Get your child tested for lead exposure. To find out where to do this, call your doctor or local health clinic. For more information on health effects, get a copy of the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC - www.cdc.gov ), "Preventing Lead Poisoning in Young Children."

Steps to Reduce Exposure to Lead

• Keep areas where children play as dust-free and clean as possible.
• Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition; do not sand or burn off paint that may contain lead.
• Do not remove lead paint yourself.
• Do not bring lead dust into the home.
• If your work or hobby involves lead, change clothes and use doormats before entering your home.
• Eat a balanced diet, rich in calcium and iron.

Keep areas where children play as dust-free and clean as possible.

Mop floors and wipe window ledges and chewable surfaces such as cribs with a solution of powdered automatic dishwasher detergent in warm water. (Dishwasher detergents are recommended because of their high content of phosphate.) Most multi-purpose cleaners will not remove lead in ordinary dust. Wash toys and stuffed animals regularly. Make sure that children wash their hands before meals, nap time, and bedtime.

Reduce the risk from lead-based paint.

Most homes built before 1960 contain heavily leaded paint. Some homes built as recently as 1978 may also contain lead paint. This paint could be on window frames, walls, the outside of homes, or other surfaces. Do not burn painted wood since it may contain lead.

Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition, do not sand or burn off paint that may contain lead.

Lead paint in good condition is usually not a problem except in places where painted surfaces rub against each other and create dust (for example, opening a window).

Do not remove lead paint yourself.

Individuals have been poisoned by scraping or sanding lead paint because these activities generate large amounts of lead dust. Consult your state health or housing department for suggestions on which private laboratories or public agencies may be able to help test your home for lead in paint. Home test kits cannot detect small amounts of lead under some conditions. Hire a person with special training for correcting lead paint problems to remove lead-based paint. Occupants, especially children and pregnant women, should leave the building until all work is finished and clean-up is done.
For additional information dealing with lead-based paint abatement contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development for the following two documents: Comprehensive and Workable Plan for the Abatement of Lead-Based Paint in Privately Owned Housing: Report to Congress (December 7, 1990) and Lead-Based Paint: Interim Guidelines for Hazard Identification and Abatement in Public and Indian Housing (September 1990).

Do not bring lead dust into the home.

If you work in construction, demolition, painting, with batteries, in a radiator repair shop or lead factory, or your hobby involves lead, you may unknowingly bring lead into your home on your hands or clothes. You may also be tracking in lead from soil around your home. Soil very close to homes may be contaminated from lead paint on the outside of the building. Soil by roads and highways may be contaminated from years of exhaust fumes from cars and trucks that used leaded gas. Use door mats to wipe your feet before entering the home. If you work with lead in your job or a hobby, change your clothes before you go home and wash these clothes separately. Encourage your children to play in sand and grassy areas instead of dirt which sticks to fingers and toys. Try to keep your children from eating dirt, and make sure they wash their hands when they come inside.

Find out about lead in drinking water.

Most well and city water does not usually contain lead. Water usually picks up lead inside the home from household plumbing that is made with lead materials. The only way to know if there is lead in drinking water is to have it tested. Contact the local health department or the water supplier to find out how to get the water tested. Send for the EPA pamphlet, Lead and Your Drinking Water, for more information about what you can do if you have lead in your drinking water. Call EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791) for more information.

Eat right.

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What is Polybutylene?
Polybutylene is a form of plastic resin that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995. Due to the low cost of the material and ease of installation, polybutylene piping systems were viewed as "the pipe of the future" and were used as a substitute for traditional copper piping. It is most commonly found in the "Sun Belt" where residential construction was heavy through the 1980's and early-to-mid 90's, but it is also very common in the Mid Atlantic and Northwest Pacific states.
The piping systems were used for underground water mains and as interior water distribution piping. Industry experts believe it was installed in at least 6 million homes, and some experts indicate it may have been used in as many as 10 million homes. Most probably, the piping was installed in about one in every four or five homes built during the years in which the pipe was manufactured.
How to Tell If You Have Poly
Exterior - Polybutylene underground water mains are usually blue, but may be gray or black (do not confuse black poly with polyethelene pipe). It is usually 1/2" or 1" in diameter, and it may be found entering your home through the basement wall or floor, concrete slab or coming up through your crawlspace; frequently it enters the home near the water heater. Your main shutoff valve is attached to the end of the water main. Also, you should check at the water meter that is located at the street, near the city water main. It is wise to check at both ends of the pipe because we have found cases where copper pipe enters the home, and poly pipe is at the water meter. Obviously, both pipes were used and connected somewhere underground.
Interior - Polybutylene used inside your home can be found near the water heater, running across the ceiling in unfinished basements, and coming out of the walls to feed sinks and toilets. Warning: In some regions of the country plumbers used copper "stub outs" where the pipe exits a wall to feed a fixture, so seeing copper here does not mean that you do not have poly.
Will the Pipes Fail?
While scientific evidence is scarce, it is believed that oxidants in the public water supplies, such as chlorine, react with the polybutylene piping and acetal fittings causing them to scale and flake and become brittle. Micro-fractures result and the basic structural integrity of the system is reduced. Thus, the system becomes weak and may fail without warning causing damage to the building structure and personal property. It is believed that other factors may also contribute to the failure of polybutylene systems, such as improper installation, but it is virtually impossible to detect installation problems throughout an entire system.

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Termites

Termites are social insects with a caste system that includes reproductives, workers and soldiers. Each caste has a unique role in the colony. The soldiers defend the colony against invaders (typically ants) and the reproductive’s yield new colonies. What makes termites a concern for humans is the worker caste, which bore through wood by digesting cellulose material from structural timbers.

A colony begins when the primary reproductive’s, also called the king and queen, mate and lay eggs. The eggs hatch into nymphs. The queen determines which caste the nymph will belong to based on the needs of the colony. She then secretes chemicals that transform the nymph into a soldier, worker or reproductive. The termite's type/caste is determined by the secreted chemical.
While there are thousands of different termite species, there are three major species that are of economic significance in the United States…

Subterranean termites
Subterranean termites are the most common termite in the United States. A mature colony has from 60K to 300K workers. The average colony can consume a one foot length of 2x4 in 118 days. Subterranean termites can enter a home through a crack or void as small as 1/32" in the slab or wall, any lumber in contact with the soil, an earth filled stoop, expansion joints, behind brick veneer, and through rigid foam insulation in contact with the soil.
Subterranean termites have three primary needs: food, which to the subterranean termite is anything, made of cellulose (i.e. wood, cardboard, books); a constant source of moisture, and shelter which is provided to the soil.
Subterranean termite workers are creamy white in appearance and the most plentiful caste in the colony. They forage for food to feed themselves and the rest of the colony. They create tunnels from mud (commonly called shelter tubes) to move above ground.

Subterranean termite reproductive’s, commonly called swarmers, are the winged members of the colony most commonly seen in the spring when they mate. The entire purpose of the swarmer is to create a new colony. Termite swarmers are often confused with a flying ant. Some common distinctions between the two are: ants have different size wings and few veins whereas a termite swarmer's wings are identical with numerous veins. Ant antennae are elbowed, while termite swarmer antennae are straight. The midsection of the ant is pinched whereas the termite midsection is not.
Subterranean termite soldiers protect the colony against attack. They use their large heads to block holes in the colonies shelter tube and their strong mandibles to crush their enemies.

Formosan termites
Formosan termites are sometimes called "super termites" due to their ability to cause significant damage in short periods of time. In fact, they are the most destructive wood destroying insect due to their large size and aggressive breeding habits. In fact, a Formosan termite colony can consist of 350 thousand to 2 million workers. Formosan termites are most commonly found in humid coastal and subtropical regions (i.e. Hawaii, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Louisiana).

Drywood termites
Drywood termites feed and nest in wood which has relatively low moisture content. Unlike Subterranean termites, they do not require any contact with the soil. These termites are usually found in the humid coastal and subtropical regions (i.e. California, Hawaii, Florida, Arizona, South and North Carolina, New Mexico, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Puerto Rico). They usually infest attic spaces or exterior wood members exposed to them when they swarm in early spring or summer. Typical evidence of drywood termites include damage, wings, pellets (fecal matter), and entrance/exit holes

Subterranean Termite Treatment - Chemical Treatment
A chemical treatment is the most common treatment type available for Subterranean termites.
The goal of a Subterranean termite chemical treatment is to establish a continuous termiticide barrier between the termite colony (usually in the soil) and wood in a building. This is done by placing termiticide in the soil on both sides of all foundation elements to provide a barrier preventing termites from entering the structure. Technicians trench the soil and inject termiticide beneath it at 16-inch intervals. They also drill into hollow masonry block foundations and inject termiticide into the block voids. This creates a protective barrier around the property, which is generally good for five years.

Subterranean Termite Treatment - Baiting Systems
In-Ground Baiting Systems are fast becoming a popular method of treatment for subterranean termites. A subterranean termite baiting system involves placement of cellulose (wood material) bait stations at strategic locations around the perimeter of the home. Worker termites - who constantly forage for wood to feed their colony - locate the cellulose bait stations and leave special scent trails to summon their mates to the food source. The cellulose material in the bait station is than replaced with a chemical inhibitor which retards the molting process in termites, preventing them from growing. The carrier termites then bring the chemical back to the colony and - if everything goes well - spread the inhibitor throughout the remainder of the colony. As a result of the growth inhibitor, the carrier and the rest of the colony will die.

Drywood Termites Treatment - Fumigation
If the inspector suspects that a Drywood termite infestation extends into concealed areas, they may suggest tent fumigation. Fumigation involves placing the entire structure in gas-tight tarpaulin (which resembles a circus tent), releasing the gas inside the seal, and aerating the fumigant. Before fumigation can occur, the homeowner must removal all plants and animals remove or place food items inside special protective bags, and stay out of the house for a three- day period. While the tent fumigation is more expensive and inconvenient for the homeowner, if done properly, it ensures the elimination all detected and undetected termites in the structure.
If the inspector suspects that the Drywood termite infestation is isolated to a local area, they may suggest using borates. This involves drilling small hole in which borates are injected or applied (using spray or foam applications) to the surface at the area of infestation.
Another local treatment involves wood injection. This method involves drilling holes into which termiticide is injected. This chemical will remain active in the wood after treatment to thwart resurging colonies.
If a Drywood termite infestation is isolated to a wood member which can be easily replaced or detached, the inspector may simply suggest wood replaced.
If there is any indication that there are galleries leading to adjacent wood members, treatment or removal of those wood members is required.

Carpenter Bees

The carpenter bee (Xylocopa spp.) hollows out wood to create nests called galleries. The carpenter bee does not live in the nest but stays in the nest to rear their young. The nest opening is a perfect half-inch circle. The nest itself may extend anywhere from four (4) inches (for a new nest with one bee) to 10 feet (for older nests with several bees). Carpenter bees generally nest in weathered or unpainted wood. They lay their eggs in the nest and seal them with a chewed wood pulp plug. The bees then emerge from the hole in the Spring.

Treatment
To properly eliminate a carpenter bee infestation, the proper chemicals or dust must be injected directly into the exit hole. The opening is then sealed by gluing a half-inch dowel into the opening and painting the surface. To prevent an infestation of carpenter bees, it is important to paint or stain any bare wood surfaces. Once the chemical or dust is introduced into the exit hole, the hole must be glued with a 1/2 inch dowel and painted over. To prevent an infestation of Carpenter bees, it is important to paint or stain a home's bare wood surfaces.

Carpenter Ants

The carpenter ant (Camponotus spp.) hollows out wood to create nests called galleries. Though they do not eat the wood, the boring activity can lead to structural damage in wood components. The by-product of the boring is called frass and looks similar to sawdust or pencil shavings. Frass is the most common evidence of carpenter ant infestation.

Carpenter ants are similar in appearance to the common pavement ants, but can be distinguished by certain physical characteristics. The carpenter ant has a single pinched node between the abdomen and the thorax, while most ants have a dual node. In addition, the profile of the section from the abdomen to the head is almost perfectly rounded. Carpenter ants are especially common in the Northwest and the Pacific Northwest.

Treatment
The most thorough and effective way to treat a carpenter ant infestation is to locate the nest (colony) or nests and directly apply an appropriate pesticide. This may involve drilling into wood member and using pressure injection. It may also include drilling into the wall voids and on top of window sills and applying a dust-like pesticide. Another strategy involves laying out poison baits for the worker ants to take back to the nest(s). To prevent infestation, barrier treatments and removal of conducive conditions is recommended.

Powder Post Beetles

This term is used in the broad sense but it encompasses three closely-related families: the Lyctid or true powder post beetle, the Bostricid or false powder post beetle and the Anobiid or Deathwatch beetle.
The beetle cycle begins when an adult lays an egg. The eggs hatch into larva. The larvas eat the wood and digest it. The larva turns into pupa. Finally, the adult emerges to mate and the cycle repeats. Wood destroying beetles are usually transported in building materials, furniture and other wood products. The most common evidence of a powder post beetle infestation is a talcum powder-like substance knows as frass. This frass falls from exit holes made by the beetles. An active infestation will reveal brilliant white frass (a color similar to that of sawdust from a freshly cut Christmas tree). Yellow to brown frass indicates an inactive or dormant infestation.

Treatment - Fumigation
If the inspector suspects that a powder post beetle infestation extends into concealed areas or is at numerous locations, they may suggest tent fumigation.
Fumigation involves placing the entire structure in gas-tight tarpalulin, releasing the gas inside the seal, and aerating the fumigant after. Fumigation for beetles is extremely costly since, unlike Drywood termite fumigations, ten times the amount of the fumigant must be used to ensure the beetle is eliminated. Before fumigation can occur, the homeowner must remove all plants and animals, remove or place food items inside special protective bags, and stay out of the house a three-day period. Again, while tent fumigations are more expensive and inconvenient for the homeowner, if done properly, they ensure the elimination all detected and undetected beetles.

Treatment - Borate
If the inspector suspects that the powder post beetle infestation is confined to a local area, they may suggest using borates. This involves drilling small hole in which borates are injected or applied (using spray or foam applications) to the surface at the area of infestation.

Treatment - Wood Injection
Another local treatment involves wood injection. This method involves drilling holes which a termiticide is injected. This chemical will remain active in the wood after treatment to thwart resurgent colonies.

Treatment - Wood Replacement
If a powder post beetle infestation is isolated to a wood member which can be easily replaced or detached, the inspector may simply suggest wood replacement.
If there is any indication that there are galleries leading to adjacent wood members, treatment or removal of those wood members is required.

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