News

Category: Asbestos

When you’re working on a construction project or running a facility with hazardous chemicals, it’s best to prepare for the unexpected – but where do you start? At Tioga, our professionals are here for you when the unexpected occurs. We can prepare you for unforeseen hiccups, guide you through federal paperwork and state requirements, and provide a helping hand when you need it most, particularly in an environmental emergency. When it comes to environmenta... Read More
Posted by Carlee Smith at Jun 1
There are several analytical techniques within the realm of asbestos sampling. The most general way to test for asbestos-containing material is through Polarized Light Microscopy. PLM is used to detect asbestos in a “bulk” sample, such as a piece of floor tile, wall texture, hard plaster, or pipe insulation, etc. PLM is the most accepted method for initial analysis of bulk building materials for asbestos content. But there are methods we can use to get a more precise r... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Nov 2
By Maggie Strom, QEP, CHMM, founder and president Think you don’t need to worry about doing an asbestos survey before your renovation? Think again.  Locally, the Shelby County Health Department’s Air Pollution Control section regulates demolition and renovation activities, and according to their regulations, an asbestos survey must be performed prior to the start of any demolition or renovation activity. These requirements come straight from the federal regulation called ... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Apr 25
by Maggie Strom, QEP, CHMM founder a president Finding out that there is asbestos at a project you are about to renovate or demolish is one thing but dealing with the hassle of getting it properly removed is quite another. Fortunately, that’s one of Tioga’s specialties. Regardless of the size and scope, the only way to ensure a successful abatement project is to have a written specification prepared. A written asbestos abatement design specification establishes the scope of w... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Apr 9
It may be hard to believe, but asbestos is still out there. Because of its strength and heat resistance, asbestos has been used in a variety of building construction materials, such as insulation and fire retardants. It is also found in items such as roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, and drywall joint compound. As long as asbestos fibers are encapsulated, it is safe to be around. However, when these materials are disturbed or deteriorated, the potential for fiber release increases,... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Jun 27
When planning a building demolition or renovation project, there are several stages of design and review that architects, engineers and demolition contractors complete before the first hammer is swung. Plans must be drawn, specifications written and the proper permits pulled.  One important item that must not be overlooked is the Hazardous Materials Survey.  If you think that a Hazardous Materials Survey is not warranted because the site of your project was not a manufacturing fa... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Dec 5
ALL ABOUT ASBESTOS We have all heard that asbestos can be harmful to your health, but do you know when, where, why and how asbestos is dangerous to you and your family? Here are the basics you should know about asbestos: What is asbestos? Asbestos is an inexpensive building material that acts as an extremely effective fire-retardant and was often used in older homes and buildings as an insulator. Asbestos can be hard to find because you can’t tell that materials contain a... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Feb 25
THE HAZARDS OF HOME BUYING Purchasing a home can be a daunting task and is a decision that is not made lightly. It can take a lot of time to find the perfect home to buy, and with so much on the line, it is important that potential buyers know what make-it or break-it qualities to look for. Often, the risks within a home are unseen. Radon, asbestos, mold and lead are all harmful substances that can go unnoticed without proper inspection and testing. Though most home reports should list an... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Jan 21
ASBESTOS FINES FOR ARIZONA SCHOOLS The EPA fined six school districts in Arizona $95,000 for asbestos violations. Apparently, the schools were inspected in 2011 and found deficient in inspections and management plans. Public schools and non-proft private schools are required to adhere to the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). While each state may have more stringent requirements, AHERA requires schools to inspect for asbestos and then re-inspect any asbestos-con... Read More
Posted by Larkin Myers at Feb 21