April 25, Mr. Simon List SITECH Consulting, P.C Breeland Way Raleigh, North Carolina 27613

Transcription

1 6304 Woodside Court Suite 112 Columbia, MD Tel: Fax: April 25, 2016 Mr. Simon List SITECH Consulting, P.C Breeland Way Raleigh, North Carolina Re: Limited Mold Evaluation and Remediation Protocol 905 Washington Avenue Chestertown, Maryland EFI Global Job No.: Dear Mr. List: Pursuant to your request, EFI Global Inc. (EFI) completed a limited mold investigation on March 15, 2016 at the above referenced address. This investigation was in response to concerns of mold growth throughout the unoccupied retail establishment. The objective of this investigation was to determine if mold contaminants were present on the date of the inspection, to document areas of mold contamination and any associated water damage in the unoccupied retail space, and to prepare a mold remediation protocol for the mold growth observed. Surface microbial sampling was conducted within the structure during this evaluation. Site Inspection Summary The structure is a one-story structure which is built on a concrete slab. Interior building material finishes consist predominantly of gypsum board walls, lay-in acoustical ceiling tiles, carpet, and vinyl floor tiles. Ceiling tiles and the height of the drywall appeared to be about 15 high from the floor. The inspection conducted by EFI on March 15, 2016 identified water damage and visible mold within the entire interior portion of the structure. Drywall and ceiling tiles were covered in fungal growth. Vinyl floor tiles were noted to be delaminating from the floor which is indicative of water damage. Slight water staining was observed in areas underlying metal-framed windows and can be indicative of water intrusion from these points. Moisture content (MC) readings were taken utilizing a GE Protimeter moisture meter. The Protimeter is both an intrusive and non-intrusive moisture meter which can be used on wallboard, plaster, wood, concrete, and other various finishes. Readings are

2 typically taken at regular intervals in accessible portions of the survey areas, both horizontally and vertically. Normal moisture content for wood is considered 0-19%MC while drywall is 0-12%MC. Moisture readings for drywall are relative. The building materials tested included drywall walls. No mechanical drying or remediation activities had been performed in the structure prior to EFI s evaluation. Elevated moisture levels were detected in many of the lower portions of drywall walls underlying the windows. Cabinetry and other areas of drywall in the structure were all determined to be dry, per moisture meter data. Sample Results Summary Three surface samples were collected from areas within the structure; side wall at the front, rear wall of pharmacy, and the rear wall of the sales floor. Direct microscopic examination of the surface swab samples identified elevated levels of fungal contaminants on the drywall walls. Surface swab sampling identified elevated levels of Aspergillus/Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and Hyphal Fragments. Hyphal fragments are parts or pieces of the filamentous hyphae that form the body of mold called the mycelium. These portions of the mycelium do not have any features that could be used to identify the genus of the organism. The presence of hyphal-like fragments indicates that active growth is occurring. (See the Laboratory Report attached). Conclusion The water damage and visible mold growth identified in the structure at 905 Washington Avenue, Chestertown, MD is a result of the following factors: Based on our observations, water damage to drywall walls, acoustical ceiling tiles, floor tiles, carpet, doors/casings, and built-up/raised flooring at the pharmacy are a result of water leaks emanating from some of the windows as well as an elongated period of elevated humidity during the time the structure has been vacant. Based on the findings of our evaluation, and well over 100 square feet of mold growth, remediation of the interior portions of the retail space is necessary and warranted at this time. (see Mold Remediation Recommendations) This report has been prepared to assist SITECH Consulting, P.C. in evaluating the microbiological conditions within the retail establishment located at 905 Washington Avenue, Chestertown, Maryland. The conclusions presented in this report are professional opinions based solely upon visual observations of the site, at the time of our investigation, and the results of laboratory analysis. The opinions presented herein apply to site conditions existing at the time of our investigation and those reasonably foreseeable. EFI Global cannot act as insurers, and no expressed or implied representation or warrant is included or intended in our report except that our work was Chestertown, MD Page 2 EFI Job No

3 performed, within the limits prescribed by our client, with the customary thoroughness and competence of our profession at the time and place the services were rendered. Other unidentified microbiological impact may be located within walls, ceiling cavities, below flooring or grade, and other non-accessible areas. Precaution should be used during remediation. The condition of the microbiological impact may change gradually or suddenly, depending upon time and conditions. EFI appreciates this opportunity to provide mold evaluation services for SITECH. If you require additional information or have questions regarding the contents of this report, please contact EFI at (410) Sincerely, EFI Global, Inc. Jason A. Blumenberg Senior Project Manager Attachments: Photographs Laboratory Report Chestertown, MD Page 3 EFI Job No

4 Surface Sampling Swab: Sampling Methods Employed The primary purpose of a swab sample is to identify mold by microscopic screening that are growing in the surface of a material. A sterile swab is gently rubbed onto the suspect area to be evaluated, which is then removed and placed back into the transport medium. Moisture Content Survey: Moisture content readings were taken utilizing a GE Protimeter Mini moisture meter. The Protimeter is a non-intrusive moisture meter which can be used on wallboard, plaster, wood, concrete, and other various finishes. Readings are typically taken at regular intervals in accessible portions of the survey areas, both horizontally and vertically. Normal moisture content (MC) for wood is considered 0-19%MC while drywall is 0-12%MC. Sample Results All results are provided as attachments to this report. EFI submitted all samples to EMSL Analytical, Inc., in Beltsville, MD for analysis. EMSL s laboratory participates successfully in the Environmental Microbiology Proficiency Analytical Testing (EMPAT) Program administered by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). In addition, the laboratory maintains a rigorous, internal quality assurance/quality control program. Chestertown, MD Page 4 EFI Job No

5 Mold Remediation Recommendations All suggestions are established from the limited evaluation of the property and existing conditions at the time of inspection. As remediation of the property proceeds, additional areas of remediation may be encountered and thus extend the scope of work. The goal of remediation is to remove or clean contaminated materials in a way that prevents the emission of fungi and dust contaminated with fungi from leaving a work area and entering an occupied or non-abatement area. EFI Global offers remediation guidelines that are based on applicable provisions from current indoor air quality publications. Causation: The underlying cause(s) of water intrusion/accumulation must be rectified or fungal growth will recur. As discussed above, the visible mold growth and water damage identified within the residence is consistent with repeated leaking/water loss emanating from the hall bathroom tub area. All sources of moisture infiltration must be identified and repaired prior to or in conjunction with remediation, and before post remediation sampling and reconstruction. An effort to ascertain whether any of the leakage is due to plumbing deficiencies shall also be undertaken. Remediation Personnel: Use of personnel trained in the handling of hazardous materials and equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) is advised. Full or half-face respirators with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cartridges, disposable protective clothing covering head and shoes, eye protection, and gloves are recommended for remediation personnel. EFI Global strongly recommends selecting a remediation contractor who has documented and accomplished experience in the remediation of fungal contamination. Reference Standards: Contractors should acknowledge awareness of and familiarity with the contents and requirements of the following regulations, codes, and standards. Contractors should assume responsibility for the performance of remediation activities in compliance with these documents and for every instance of failure to comply-with therewith. The current issue of each document shall govern. Where conflict among requirements or specifications exists, the more stringent requirements shall apply: o American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Threshold Limit Values o American national Standards Institute (ANSI), Practice for Respiratory Protection (ANSI Z88.2) Chestertown, MD Page 5 EFI Job No

6 o ASHRAE standards o National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), Mechanical Cleaning of Non-Porous Air Conveyance System Components (NADCA Standard ) o National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems (NFPA 90A) o United States Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), OSHA Industry and Construction Standards and Code of Federal Regulations Title 29 Parts 1910 and 1926 o United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards o State of Maryland guidelines requiring the use of a Maryland Home Improvement License (MHIC) contractors licenses for performing mold remediation techniques for this project o All state, county, and city codes and ordinances as applicable Project Submittals: Contractors should provide the following to our client prior to starting work on the project: o Declarations Sheet (DecSheet) documenting insurance coverage such as general liability, errors and omissions, and mold / pollution coverage o Documentation of mold-related certifications (such as documentation from the American Indoor Air Quality Council for the Council-certified Microbial Remediator or CMR designation) o MHIC Contractor s License o Notice of impending commencement of mold remediation work in the structure to the owner and occupants o Any required documentation to comply with applicable state or local regulations o Insurance certificates for contractors listing all coverage as required by owner o Personnel submittals Listing of supervisory personnel (including foreman) and workers to be utilized on the project. The listing shall be in alphabetical order and include each worker s Social Security number Awareness training documentation illustrating that each and every employee to be utilized on the project has been instructed on the potential hazards of mold exposure, protective dress, use of showers, entry to and exit form work areas, and on all aspects of work procedures and protective measures regarding mold remediation Documentation that each and every worker to be utilized in remediation activities is actively involved in an employee medical surveillance program for respiratory training. This includes copies of physicans written opinions for each person to be utilized in the remediation activities Chestertown, MD Page 6 EFI Job No

7 Tools and Equipment: Contractors should provide suitable tools and equipment for executing the remediation activities. The may include the following: o Air purifying equipment (HEPA-filtered air-filtration devices or AFDs) verify that no internal air movement system or purification equipment exhaust contaminated air from inside the work area into uncontaminated areas o Disposable clothing utilize disposable clothing constructed of suitable materials such as DuPont Tyvek or equivalent o Disposable HEPA filter cartridges utilize, at a minimum, HEPA filter cartridges color-coded in accordance with ANSI Z88.2 bearing the appropriate approval number from both the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for dusts, fumes, mists, and radionuclides (if applicable) o Fogging equipment suitable for biocide application o Full-face respirator equipment utilize, at a minimum, full-face air purifying respirators approved by NIOSH or MSHA for the contaminants likely to be encountered o HEPA-filtered vacuums vacuum equipment equipped with a HEPA filtration system o PPE utilize suitable PPE including disposable clothing, headgear, eye protection, work gloves, and footwear sized to properly fit individual workers and authorized visitors o Scrapers and brushes as required to clean air-handling units, ductwork, etc. o Water sprayers utilize airless or other low-pressure sprayers for water mist application o Media blasting dry ice particles (frozen carbon dioxide / frozen CO2) or other approved media propelled by compressed air to supersonic speed, impacting and cleaning a surface Containment: If any, all water leaks must be repaired prior to or in conjunction with any remediation. Remediation work areas and containments should not be occupied. Vacating people from spaces near the work area is recommended for infants, persons having undergone recent surgery, immune suppressed people, or people with chronic inflammatory lung disease. The work areas should be contained from all other work areas and should be decontaminated. Cautionary measures to prevent the spread of contamination should be taken during remediation. Critical barriers should be constructed of two layers of polyethylene plastic sheeting secured with duct tape or other means. Chestertown, MD Page 7 EFI Job No

8 Critical barriers must block all openings, and fixtures to prevent the spread of dust and spores beyond the containment areas. Complete isolation of each work area from non-work areas using plastic sheeting sealed with duct tape or other means (including ventilation ducts/grill, fixtures, and any other openings into the interior living space) is recommended. The work areas should be contained from all other areas of the building. The use of an exhaust fan with a HEPA filter to generate negative pressurization is highly recommended. Air should be exhausted outside if possible. Fresh air or HEPA-filtered air should be supplied into the work area at a volume of at least 3 to 5 air exchanges per hour. A pressure differential of greater than 5Pa or 0.02 in. water gauge should be maintained during remediation. A manometer should be used to measure and monitor the negative pressure differential during remediation. Decontamination chambers should be constructed at entry/exit points to the work areas, especially interior entry/exit points. The unit may be single chambered or multi-chambered depending on the size and layout of the work area. Tacky mats should be used in the decontamination chamber(s) and any entry/exit point to the work areas to prevent dirt, dust and spores from entering the work area. Dehumidifiers should be used as needed in each work area to maintain humidity below 60% until remediation is complete and passing post remediation results are obtained. Prior to containment removal, passing post-remediation results should be obtained. Removal of Porous Materials and Waste Disposal: Identification of asbestos-containing materials and lead based paint (LBP) was not within the scope of this investigation. If building materials or contents encountered during remediation are suspected to contain asbestos or be finished with LBP, sampling conducted by a certified inspector is recommended so that remediation recommendations can be amended accordingly. Contaminated porous materials should be removed from the building in sealed double 6 mil. plastic bags. Porous material includes drywall, wall paper, acoustical ceiling tiles, insulation, carpet, carpet padding, tack strips, stored items, and most engineered wood products such as wood paneling and cabinetry. The outside of the bags should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a detergent solution in the decontamination chamber prior to their transport. General Cleaning: Non-porous and semi-porous materials (wood, metal, bricks, concrete, etc.) that are structurally sound and are visibly moldy can be cleaned and reused. Clean using a damp cloth with a mild detergent or a mild bleach solution if desired. (Never mix ammonia and bleach) All Non-Porous Materials: Chestertown, MD Page 8 EFI Job No

9 Wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust and debris. HEPA vacuum Damp wipe with detergent and water solution HEPA vacuum again Some materials with heavy growth/contamination, especially those that are semiporous such as wood, may need to be sanded or media-blasted to remove contamination. The work area should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth and/or mopped with a detergent solution. Air scrubbing with HEPA-filtered AFDs for a minimum of 72 hours should be performed in each work area when remediation is complete. All air scrubbers should be shut off hours prior to post remediation testing. Remediation Action Items/ Work Areas: Interior of Store Set up containment of the area. Negative air filtration devices should be used during the remediation process. Air should be exhausted outdoors. Remove and discard any water damaged porous debris; carpet, drywall, ceiling tiles, etc... Remove and discard all drywall and wooden framing (as needed) from walls. Removal should start in the water damaged areas and extend at least 1.5 feet beyond any water staining or microbial growth. All drywall is expected to be removed from the structure. Remove built-up flooring system used for the former location of the pharmacy to ascertain underlying conditions. Remove and discard any fiberglass insulation in the removal areas. Remove any remaining vinyl floor tiles, carpeting, pad and tack strips. Remove cabinetry at the pharmacy location to facilitate drywall removal. Wood members that are not structurally sound should be removed and replaced. Remove hardwood flooring/subfloor that is buckled, cupped or otherwise damaged. Microbial contaminated hardwood flooring that is not structurally damaged should be HEPA-vacuumed, cleaned and disinfected. Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth/mop and detergent solution including but not limited to ceilings, floors and walls of containment area. Let dry. HEPA vacuum all surfaces. Air scrub with an AFD for a minimum of 72 hours. All AFDs should be shut down hours prior to post remediation testing. Chestertown, MD Page 9 EFI Job No

10 Post Remediation Assessment Post remediation testing is recommended before containment is removed and new building materials brought to the site. EFI recommends conducting sampling in work area(s) and at least one non-work area (or outside) to ensure that no crosscontamination has taken place during remediation. Chestertown, MD Page 10 EFI Job No

11 Photo 1 View from the entrance looking into store; note condition of floor tiles. Photo 2 View from the pharmacy looking towards front; note fungal growth on walls and ceiling tiles. Chestertown, MD Page 11 EFI Job No

12 Photo 3 A close-up view of the ceiling tiles. Photo 4 A close-up view of the delaminating floor tiles. Chestertown, MD Page 12 EFI Job No

13 Photo 5 A view in the pharmacy; note condition of walls and cabinets. Photo 6 A view standing in pharmacy looking to far side of entrance. Chestertown, MD Page 13 EFI Job No

14 Attn: Proj: EMSL Analytical, Inc Baltimore Avenue Beltsville, MD Phone/Fax: (301) / (301) / beltsvillelab@emsl.com Jason Blumenberg EFI Global 6304 Woodside Court Suite 112 Columbia, MD WASHINGTON ST, CHESTERTOWN Order ID: Customer ID: Customer PO: Project ID: Phone: (410) Fax: (410) Collected: 03/15/2016 Received: 03/15/2016 Analyzed: 03/15/ EFIM25 Test Report: Microscopic Examination of Fungal Spores, Fungal Structures, Hyphae, and Other Particulates from Swab Samples (EMSL Method: M041) Lab Sample Number: Client Sample ID: 01 Sample Location: SIDE WALL - FL REAR WALL - PHARMACY REAR WALL - FL Dummy Dummy Dummy Dummy Spore Types Category Category Category - - Agrocybe/Coprinus Alternaria Ascospores Aspergillus/Penicillium Low Medium *High* - - Basidiospores Bipolaris Chaetomium Cladosporium Curvularia Epicoccum Fusarium Ganoderma Myxomycetes++ - Rare Paecilomyces Rust Scopulariopsis Stachybotrys *High* Torula Ulocladium Unidentifiable Spores High High Zygomycetes Ascotricha - - *High* - - Dicyma - - High - - Fibrous Particulate Hyphal Fragment High Medium High - - Insect Fragment Low Rare Pollen Category: Count/per area analyzed Rare: 1 to 10 Low: 11 to 100 Medium: 101 to 1000 High: >1000 Bipolaris++ = Bipolaris/Dreschlera/Exserohilum Myxomycetes++ = Myxomycetes/Periconia/Smut * = Sample contains fruiting structures and/or hyphae associated with the spores. No discernable field blank was submitted with this group of samples. Stefanie Schneider, Microbiology Lab Manager or Other Approved Signatory EMSL maintains liability limited to cost of analysis. This report relates only to the samples reported above and may not be reproduced, except in full, without written approval by EMSL. EMSL bears no responsibility for sample collection activities or analytical method limitations. Interpretation of the data contained in this report is the responsibility of the client. *-* denotes not detected. Samples received in good condition unless otherwise noted. Samples analyzed by EMSL Analytical, Inc. Beltsville, MD AIHA-LAP, LLC--EMLAP Accredited # Initial report from: 03/16/ :01:11 For Information on the fungi listed in this report please visit the Resources section at Test Report DEVER Printed: 3/16/ :01:11PM Page 1 of 1