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REPORT OF FINDINGS
IAQ ASSESSMENT
AB LIFEGUARD STATION
i AHERN ST
ATLANTIC BEACH, FL 32233
ASSESSMENT DATE: March 14, 2023
2456 Panuco Ave- W -
Jacksonville. F1.322,13
904-686-4422 (n)
SANDY GRENVI LLE, CIRC, CMA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
i.o INTRODUCTION...................................................................................2
PURPOSE.............................................................................................................................. 2
SCOPEOF SERVICES.......................................................................................................... 2
REPORTBASIS.................................................................................................................... 3
2.o INVESTIGATIVE WORK.......................................................................4
CONCLUSIONS.................................................................................................................... 4
GENERALDESCRIPTION................................................................................................... 4
OBSERVATIONS.................................................................................................................. 4
SAMPLINGTECHNIQUE.................................................................................................... 4
3.o RECOMMENDATIONS..........................................................................6
IMMEDIATE RECOMMENDATIONS................................................................................ 6
WORKAREA PREPARATION............................................................................................. 6
GENERALRECOMMENDATIONS..................................................................................... 7
SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS...................................................................................... 9
POST REMEDIATION ASSESSMENT...............................................................................19
HVAC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................... io
PERSONALEFFECTS......................................................................................................... ii
4.o LIMITATIONS.................................................................................. 12
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
APPENDIX B: SAMPLING RESULTS
1.0
INTRODUCTION
LAW Environmental was retained to evaluate the Lifeguard Station located at 1 Ahern St.
in Atlantic Beach, FL. The site was inspected on March 14, 2023.
PURPOSE
The purpose of our assessment was to determine the presence, if any, and extent of
microbial growth and/or unusual moisture conditions in the building and to provide a
microbial remediation plan, if warranted.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
The scope of services included an interview of the building representative; a visual
assessment of the interior of the structure; a moisture survey; development and
implementation of an on-site sampling strategy; measurement of interior and exterior
temperature and relative humidity; and other environmental parameters as required.
A visual assessment on the interior and exterior of the building was performed.
Photographs were taken to document our observations. Selected photographs may be
included in the report to depict specific observations; however, all photographs are
available for review upon request.
Moisture measurements and temperature and relative humidity readings were obtained
using a Protimeter MMS BLD5800 moisture meter. Moisture measurements are obtained
by inserting the pins of the moisture meter into the material being tested, or by placement
of the flat surface of the meter onto the material being tested. For wood, the moisture
percentage is expressed as percent moisture content (%MC); for other materials the
measurement is expressed as percent moisture equivalent (%WME). Generally, %MC or
%WME measurements of less than 17 are considered to be "diy"; measurements between
17 and 20 are considered to be "at risk" for moisture damage; and measurements of 20
percent or greater are considered to be "wet".
Thermal imaging was conducted utilizing an infrared camera known as the Flir
ThermaCam B -Cam. Thermal imaging is a diagnostic aid used by the investigator to view
the surface of a building material and identify temperature differences across that surface.
Temperature variations may identify potential water intrusion and/or air infiltration.
Following the identification of an area of concern, further investigative equipment can be
utilized such as a borescope, moisture meter, and/or smoke tubes to confirm if the
presence of microbial growth, water damage, or air leakage exists due to the unusual
moisture issues and/or air infiltration. The infrared technology, with proper
interpretation, allows the user to identify unusual moisture conditions and/or air leakage
within a structure that may otherwise be undetectable to the naked eye.
Sampling will be discussed in detail in Section 2.
REPORT BASIS
This report is based upon information obtained at the time of the assessment. Should
additional information be presented or discovered, we reserve the right to review and, if
necessary, revise this report and our conclusions in light of the new information.
The report is based on the following:
o Interview conducted with the building representative.
o A visual assessment on the interior and exterior of the building.
o A moisture survey of the building substrates, including areas around plumbing,
windows, doors, or other areas of moisture sources.
o Sampling inside and outside of the building. The samples were shipped to a
laboratory that participates in the American Industrial Hygiene Association
Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (AIHA EMLAP).
The laboratory results were reviewed upon receipt from the laboratory.
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2.0
INVESTIGATIVE WORK
CONCLUSIONS
• It appears that previous leaks from the 3rd floor and other possible water intrusions
into the south wall cavity on the 2nd floor of the building have resulted in microbial
growth in the 2nd floor wall cavity. It is recommended that prior to the start of
remediation efforts, further sampling is conducted in the north wall finish on the
2nd floor.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The building is a 3 -story ocean front structure of concrete block and wood construction
with a wood finish. The interior walls and ceilings are finished with gypsum board. The
flooring is finished predominately with linoleum on the 2nd and 3rd floors and wood decking
on the first floor. The entrance to the subject building faces east.
OBSERVATIONS
• On the ist floor, the water supply and drain pipes under the bathroom sink are not
properly sealed and may be an entry access for rodents.
On the second floor, a very heavy musty odor was detected. There was a small cutout
in the south wall. Light visible microbial growth was observed inside of the interstitial
wall cavity exposed by the cutout. Wet towels were observed below the AC unit
indicating probable condensation/leakage from the unit. A spore trap air sample was
taken from the south interstitial wall cavity during the survey to help determine the
source of the strong musty odor.
On the 3rd floor, no unusual moisture or microbial growth was detected during the
assessment.
• Inspection of the wall A/C units on the 2nd and 3rd floors revealed light dirt and debris
and suspect growth in the louvers/vents.
SAMPLING METHODOLOGY/RESULTS
Microbial air sampling was conducted in the 2nd and 3rd floor "observation rooms".
Two (2) types of sampling technique were used in the assessment:
AeroTrap- this sample is designed to identify type and number of viable and non-viable
organisms suspended in the air. The AeroTrap sample was collected using an Aerobiology
cassette and a vacuum pump. The cassette samples are collected by drawing a known
volume of air through a sampling cassette that contains a glass slide coated with an
adhesive to collect airborne particulate that impacts onto the slide. The samples are
collected at a flow rate of 15 liters per minute for 5 minutes for a total sample volume of
75 liters. Elevated airborne spore concentrations may indicate an indoor microbial
reservoir(s) or additional cleaning is a necessary component of the microbial remediation
performed. At the completion of the sampling period the cassettes are sealed and shipped
to the laboratory for analysis that participates in the American Industrial Hygiene
Association Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (AIHA
EMLAP).
Four (4) spore trap air samples were collected during our site visit. Three samples were
taken inside the building, on the 2nd floor, 3rd floor to acquire inside data and one was taken
outside to acquire relative data. Additionally, one spore trap sample was taken from the
south interstitial wall cavity on the 2nd floor.
According to the laboratory results, no elevated airborne microbial spore concentrations
were recorded on the 3''d floor.
The general guidelines for air samples taken within a commercial are that less than 5,000
spores/m3 is within normal range; 5,000-10,000 spores/m3 is considered possible
contamination; and microbial fungal concentrations more than 1o,000 spores/m3
indicates contamination that is most likely resulting in an exposure concern to the
occupants of the residence. The quantity and types of microbes also is considered when
making this determination.
According to the laboratory results, the spore trap sample taken on the 2nd floor identified
elevated airborne microbial spore concentrations of Aspergillus/Penicillium sp at 18,000
sp/m3. The total airborne microbial spore concentration recorded was 18,000 sp/m3,
above the range indicating contamination that is most likely resulting in an exposure
concern to the occupants of the building.
According to the laboratory results, the spore trap sample taken from the south interstitial
cavity on the 2nd floor identified very elevated airborne microbial spore concentrations of
Aspergillus/Penicillium sp at 320,000 sp/m3. The total airborne microbial spore
concentration recorded was 320,000 sp/m3, above the range indicating contamination
that is most likely resulting in an exposure concern to the occupants of the building.
The second type of sampling conducted was surface sampling in which a cotton swab was
used to swipe across and area of suspect growth.
One surface sample was taken from the exposed interstitial wall cavity of the south wall on
the 2nd level.
According to the laboratory results, the swab sample taken from the interstitial wall cavity
of the south wall on the 2nd level recorded numerous Penicillium/Aspergillus group spores
and Hyphae, and few Chaetomium spores.
3.0
RECOMMENDATIONS
IMMEDIATE RECOMMENDATIONS
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® Containment should be established at the entrance to the affected areas to protect
the other areas of the building and occupants until contaminated materials can be
removed and replaced.
Air Scrubbing should be conducted to reduce elevated airborne microbial spore
concentrations.
Although there was microbial contamination identified within the building, the areas can
be cleaned or removed and precautions can be taken to avoid any further growth.
Suggestions for remediation are included in the Specific Remediation Recommendations.
It is recommended that completion of the remediation process be verified by conducting
a final inspection with a post remediation inspection, including sampling.
WORK AREA PREPARATION
Personal items and furnishings should be removed from the work areas and stored in a
climate -controlled environment for the duration of the work.
Negative pressure should be established through the use of HEPA filtered air filtration
devices (AFDs). A sufficient number of AFDs must be used to provide at least 4 air changes
per hour inside the containment.
The work area will include the 2nd floor observation room.
The contractor should maintain relative humidity in the work area of less than 6o percent
for the duration of the work. Relative humidity measurements should be recorded at least
twice daily, a minimum of 4 hours apart. If two consecutive measurements are recorded
above 6o percent, additional dehumidification equipment should be installed in the work
area to reduce humidity levels below 6o percent. A log of the measurements should be
submitted upon completion of the project.
Portable cooling equipment may be necessary to provide a comfortable work
environment for workers and reduce the risk of heat stress.
GENERAL REMEDIATION/RESTORATION RECOMMENDATIONS
➢ The remediation/restoration should be conducted in accordance with industry
accepted practices and guidelines, including but not limited to the following:
1. Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
S520, Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold
Remediation, First Edition, December 2003.
2. NYC Department of Health, Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation
of Fungi in Indoor Environments.
3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mold Remediation in Schools
and Commercial Buildings.
The contractor's professional judgment should dictate the appropriate course of
action if conflicts exist between industry practices and guidelines and the
recommendations contained herein.
➢ Removal of contaminated materials must be conducted in a controlled manner
whereby microorganisms are not disseminated during the abatement process.
Ventilation should be established within the work area, if required, to reduce the
possibility of an accumulation of harmful volatile organic compounds. Ceiling tiles,
wall and ceiling textures, joint tape and mud, linoleum, vinyl flooring, roof shingles
and felt, if any, and other building materials may contain asbestos. Sampling of
suspect materials is recommended.
➢ Remediation should include the following: cleaning contaminated materials;
removing, cleaning, and reinstalling previously contaminated materials; and/or
replacing contaminated materials.
➢ Non -salvageable or non -structurally sound materials or contents should be
discarded. Salvageable contents within the contaminated area should be
remediated.
➢ The removal of all material should be monitored by a certified remediation
supervisor/project manager in order to ensure all contamination has been
removed.
➢ Removal should continue 18-24" beyond the water -damaged and/or mold
contaminated sections of paneling, sheetrock, or other types of wall and ceiling
finishes. Professional judgment should dictate the need for further removal if
additional microbial growth is identified beyond the specific recommendations
listed below. The insulation should be removed and discarded, if present, within
the areas of removal. If fungal contamination is identified within wall cavities, the
wall finish should be removed from floor to ceiling height and the wall cavity
should be thoroughly cleaned. If contamination exists on cabinetry, it should be
removed for cleaning and evaluation or discarded depending on the extent of
damage and the material. Non -porous fixtures (tubs, shower stalls, marble counter
tops, sinks, refrigerators, etc.) may be cleaned within the work area in preparation
of re -install.
➢ All contaminated materials should be contained by double bagging in 6 -mil poly
bags and HEPA vacuumed prior to removal from the containment area. Dust
suppression methods, such as misting surfaces prior to remediation, are not
recommended. Techniques such as wiping with a damp cloth should be used to
prevent the dissemination of microbial spores into uncontaminated areas.
➢ All contaminated surfaces should be wiped with a cloth or sponge lightly
dampened with an antimicrobial solution and allowed to dry. If microbial growth
is embedded in structural wood (wall studs, floor/ceiling joists, etc.) should be
lightly sanded, wire brushed, and HEPA vacuumed. The wipe down and HEPA
vacuuming process should be repeated and the surface be allowed to dry.
➢ The remaining containment areas should be HEPA vacuumed and wiped down
with an antimicrobial solution. The air -scrubbers should continue for 48 to 72
hours following remediation.
➢ Personnel responsible for remediation must be instructed on the proper
procedures on clean-up methods, personal protection equipment (PPE), potential
health hazards for microbiological organisms, time limits for working inside
containment (typically 1-3 hours depending on internal conditions), and location
of all exits in case of emergency, etc. Respiratory protection should be in
accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFT 1910.134)•
➢ During periods of high heat and humidity, dehumidification equipment and
temporary/portable HVAC systems may be necessary to maintain humidity and
temperature levels inside the containment area(s).
➢ Anti -fungal paint or sealant shall not be applied to any surface until a post
remediation assessment has been conducted and found acceptable.
➢ If an on-site dumpster is utilized, care should be given in evaluating its proximity
to building doors, windows, ventilation, and unprotected personnel such as an
outside break area or walkway. Currently there are no regulations governing the
disposal of mold -ridden materials. However, contaminated materials should be
wrapped or bagged in two layers of 6 -mil poly and disposed of in an outdoor trash
receptacle. Care should be taken to identify hazardous components of the waste
being disposed of such as solvents and other chemicals that may be present with
the waste material. Disposal of the hazardous components may be subject to local,
state, and Federal regulations. These items should be discarded at a landfill
capable of accepting hazardous items.
➢ Generally, water -damaged materials can be removed and/or repaired without
special controls or establishment of containment. Water -damaged materials that
are delaminating, deformed or have otherwise lost their integrity should be
removed and discarded. Where materials are stained but have not lost their
integrity, the materials can generally be repaired by repainting or refinishing.
General dust control measures should be implemented during removal of water -
damaged material that does not contain visible microbial growth. Dust control
measures may include, but not be limited to, removal of personal effects and
furnishings from the work area, covering floors and non-movable items with
polyethylene sheeting, and the use of local exhaust ventilation equipment.
When removing water -damaged materials, care should be taken to initially remove
small amounts of the material while evaluating the back sides of the material or
exposed cavities for the presence of visible microbial growth. If microbial growth
is observed during removal of water -damaged material, work should stop and the
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microbial growth evaluated in terms of degree of growth, quantity and remediation
methods required prior to proceeding. Often, if the amount of microbial growth is
small (i.e. less than io square feet) a HEPA vacuum or damp wiping with a
detergent solution can be used to remove the microbial growth without
establishing containment prior to the removal of the material as water -damaged
material. However, where any amount of microbial growth is removed, it is
recommended that access to the work area be restricted to those performing the
work and that personal effects be removed or protected as necessary during the
work. Previously unidentified areas of microbial growth larger than io square feet
in area should be evaluated prior to removal.
If no microbial growth was observed during the evaluation, yet hidden growth is
encountered during removal of water -damaged or wet materials, a post- remediation
assessment may be necessary prior to restoring the work area.
SPECIFIC REMEDIATION/RESTORATION RECOMMENDATIONS
® The 2nd floor south wall finish should be removed from the floor to a minimum
height of 3 feet and from the seam of the west wall finish, extending east to the AC
window unit.
® Once the drywall finish has been removed, the remaining wall finish AND the
backside of the adjacent exterior wall finish should be inspected for visible
microbial growth or unusual moisture. If unusual moisture or microbial growth is
observed, removal should continue to a minimum of 2 feet beyond contamination.
® The wood framing should be inspected for unusual moisture and visible microbial
growth. If unusual moisture or microbial growth is observed, but the integrity of
the wood framing is intact, the wood should be dehumidified, HEPA vacuumed,
wire brushed if necessary, and treated with an antimicrobial agent such as Mold
Control by Concrobium. Rotten wood framing should be replaced.
® Following the repairs, hard surfaces should be wiped down with an antimicrobial
agent such as Mold Control by Concrobium.
POST REMEDIATION ASSESSMENT
A post remediation assessment including sampling is suggested to ensure that the
removal of affected building materials is completed satisfactorily. The re -inspection is
recommended not to question the capability of the contractors, but because of the critical
nature of the quality required for this process to be successful in reducing any exposure
risk to the homeowners.
HVAC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS AND CLEANING
The A/C system servicing the area of the remediation should be sealed prior to beginning
remediation. Environmental control equipment (portable A/C, dehumidifiers) may be
necessary to maintain the proper environment during remediation.
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It is recommended that the 2 AC units be thoroughly cleaned.
The assessment was conducted following standard practices and guidelines. LAW
Environmental Health and Safety Solutions, Inc. has conducted what it believes is the
applicable standard of care ordinarily exercised by a duly qualified industrial hygienist in
the industry in conducting this assessment. No other warranty, express or implied, is
made regarding the information contained in this report.
Readings taken are only representative of the conditions existing as of the time the
evaluation and sampling are conducted. LAW Environmental Health and Safety
Solutions, Inc. is not responsible for any conditions that existed prior to the time the
investigator performed the work set forth in the Scope of Services or for any conditions
that came into existence after the investigator performed such services. We provide no
guarantee the readings will not change since environmental concerns such as mold,
fungus, radon, allergens, etc. are naturally occurring. The client should understand that
the readings are true and accurate only as of the date and time collected.
Regardless of
environmental
environmental
assessment.
the thoroughness of an assessment, the total
contamination, unusual moisture conditions
concerns may not have been evident or wer
eextent of water damage,
or other indicators of
inaccessible during the
The amount of time between the site assessment and the completion of the assessment
recommendations combined with environmental conditions in and around the structure
are crucial elements in the successful resolution of the issues identified. If no
environmental controls exist and an excessive amount of time elapses between the receipt
of the report and the completion of the recommendations, the entire dynamic of the issues
can and will change.
Should additional information be presented or discovered, we reserve the right to review
and, if necessary, revise this report and our conclusions in light of the new information.
This report has been prepared for the sole and exclusive use of the client subject to
previously agreed-upon terms and conditions. This report may not be suitable for the
needs of others. Therefore, any reliance by other parties on the contents of this report is
not granted and any such reliance shall be at the sole risk of the user.
REFERENCES
1. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists: Bioaerosols: Assessment
and Control. ACGIH Cincinnati, OH. (1999)
2. Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) S5200: Standard
and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration (1999)
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3. Shirley J. Hansen, Ph.D.; H.E. Burroughs, CIAQP: Managing Indoor Air Quality Second
Edition. The Fairmont Press, Inc. Lilburn, GA 30047 (1999).
4. Suzanne Gravesen; Jens C. Frisvad; Robert A. Samson: Microfungi. Special-Trykkeriet
Viborg a-s Denmark (2001).
5. Libero Ajello, PhD; George Barron, PhD; Deborah L. Jaeger, MS; George K. Morris, PhD;
Charlotte M. Patton, MT (ASCP), MS; brian G. Shelton, MPH: Microbes in the Indoor
Environment: A Manual for the Indoor Air Quality Field Investigator First Edition.
PathCon Laboratories, Norcross, Georgia, 30092 (1998)
6. Aerotech Kalmar Laboratories: IAQ Microbiology : Reference Guide. Aerotech
Laboratories, Inc. Phoenix, AZ (2000).
7. ASHRAE: ASHRAE Standard 62-1999 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. Atlanta,
GA (1999)•
8. NADCA: Mechanical Cleaning of Non-Porous Air Conveyance System Components.
National Air Duct Cleaners Association. Washington, DC (1992).
9. AIAQC: Strategies for Conducting Meaningful Microbial Investigations. American Indoor
Air Quality Council. Phoenix, AZ (2001).
1o.IAQA. Certified Indoor Environmentalist-Course Materials. Indoor Air Quality
Association. Annapolis, MD (1999).
11. AIAQC: Certified Microbial Remediation Supervisor-Course Materials. American Indoor
Air Quality Council. Phoenix, AZ (2001).
12. EPA: Mold Remediation in Commercial Buildings and Schools. Environmental Protection
Agency, Office of Air and Radiation — Indoor Environments Division (2001).
13. New York City Department of Health. Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of
Indoor Environments. New York City Department of Health-Bureau of Environmental &
Occupational Disease Epidemiology (2000)
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SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
13
AB Lifeguard ,Station
Ahern
St.
2nd Floor South Wall finish
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Dirt, debris and suspect growth in 3`d door AC unit
15
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