Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-12-20 - AGENDA REPORTS - REMEDIATION OF CITY HALL AIR (2)CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AGENDA REPORT NEW BUSINESS City Manager Approval: (,I& Item to be presented by: Terri Maus DATE: December 20, 2001 SUBJECT: REMEDIATION OF CITY HALL FACILITY DEPARTMENT: Field Services RECOMMENDATION City Council authorize the City Manager to appropriate $375,000 from Account Number 1240-7401, and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts, including those in excess of City Manager's authority of $50,000, in order to complete clean up of City Hall facility, subject to City Attorney approval. BACKGROUND During the period of November 5, 2001 to November 28, 2001, the City conducted an air quality investigation in the City Hall facility. The investigation was initiated as a result of concerns expressed by City employees on the first floor of the building. In addition due to moisture concerns found during that period, microbial tests were conducted to ascertain the quantity and levels of molds and fungus in the facility. On December 4, 2001, City staff received the preliminary report of findings, and immediately began meeting with additional advisors to assist in formulating an action plan for clean up. The final report was received on December 11, 2001. The final report outlined several key facility issues: Mold and fungus detected on carpeted surfaces. Moisture intrusion on the first floor. Mold, fungus, and fiberglass in the HVAC system While mold and fungus exist, it has been determined that they are primarily low to moderate levels, and therefore, the facility is safe to occupy at this juncture. In order to address these issues, it is proposed that the following actions be taken: • Clean and sanitize the HVAC system. • Clean and sanitize the building walls and furniture. • On the first floor only, all carpet will be removed and the concrete slab be sanitized. • Seal the concrete slab to prevent any further moisture intrusion, n� ' ' �� � °'' ` Agenda Item:_ REMEDIATION OF CITY HALL FACILITY December 20, 2001— Page 2 At this time, the City Manager has authorized the initial cleaning of the HVAC system at a cost of $49,500. In order to continue clean up, staff is in the process of selecting other qualified contractors to conduct the remaining work. Based on the best information available at this time, it is anticipated that the total cost of clean up will total $375,000, which includes the following key items: Floor sealing $120,000 HVAC Cleaning 50,000 New Carpet 50,000 Mold Remediation 65,000 Mover, furniture 40,000 Landscaping 10,000 Contingency 40,000 In addition, staff is working with insurance carriers to ascertain level of coverage on this matter. Once funding, contractors, and material is secured, it is anticipated that total clean up will take approximately 12 weeks. FISCAL IMPACT Funds to cover this unanticipated expense are being appropriated from the City Council Contingency Account Number 1240-7401. The remaining balance in this account will be $59,690. As noted above, staff will be seeking reimbursement of costs through the City's insurance carriers. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Other action as determined by the City Council. ATTACHMENT December 2001 final Machado Environmental Corporation Indoor Air Quality Report /admin/ccitems/building.doc THE MACHADO ENVIRONMENTAL CORPORATION Indoor Air Quality Investigation and Improvement Report on Indoor Air Quality Investigation Santa Clarita City Hall 23920 Valencia Blvd. Santa Clarita, Ca. 91355 December 2001 445 W. Garfield Ave., Unit 1, Glendale, CA 91204 ♦ (800) 358-3818 ♦ (818) 247-3620 ♦ Far (818) 247-8990 Members: American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) ♦ International Society of Indoor Air Quality and Climate (ISIAQ) 0 National Air Duct Cleaners Association THE MACHADO ENVIRONMENTAL CORPORATION Indoor Air Quality Investigation and Improvement Dave Christiansen December 4, 2001 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA 23920 Valencia Blvd. Santa Clarita, Ca. 91355 661-286-4185 661-255-4356 Fax Indoor Air Oualih, Investigation Report During the period beginning on November 5`1 and through to November 28, 2001, Machado Environmental Corporation conducted a Phase I Plus, indoor air quality investigation at the City of Santa Clarita City Hall located at the above address. The three-story building was essentially divided into six sectors, roughly according to air handler zones. Inspection and testing were done in each of the six sectors. Special attention was paid to the Parks and Recreation area where health complaints originated. Complaints consisted primarily of stuffy noses and scratchy eyes. By "Phase P' is meant a fact-finding investigation, supported by testing, to identify and quantify specific agents and factors which may lead to occupant illness, discomfort, or dissatisfaction. It is not meant to be a comprehensive study of the constituents of the air, nor a complete characterization of the investigation area in regard to indoor air quality. A Phase I investigation is addressed to the most common and likely sources of IAQ problems in typical environments of the type involved, or as modified by available information on the specific facility involved. This investigation consisted of inspections of the roof top, the investigation areas, ceilings, the immediate environment of the building, and the ventilation systems which serve the investigation areas; evaluation of the adequacy of the fresh air supply (quantity and quality); and testing for temperature, relative humidity, carbon monoxide, microbial contamination, physical dust composition, airborne dust levels and allergens in settled dust. Upon completion of these items, the results were compared to regulatory and industry standards and guidelines. Where necessary, the report includes recommendations that will have a positive effect on the air quality within the building. It should be noted that many of the recommendations are made from a preventive maintenance standpoint and are based on the collective experience of several professionals in the field of indoor air quality. We point out that these recommendations are not usually included in routine maintenance and implementation will have an overall positive effect on ^ indoor air quality. 445 W. Garfield Ave., Unit 1, Glendale, CA 91204 ♦ (800) 358-3828 ♦ (818) 247-3620 ♦ Fax (818) 247-8990 Members: American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIRA) a International Society of Indoor Air Quality and Climate (ISIAQ) ♦ National Air Duct Cleaners Association Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Two Background information: The investigation was prompted by health complaints by a number of employees in various areas, but primarily in the Parks and Recreation area (first floor east). Complaints included those originally stated at the time Machado Environmental was first contacted plus sore throat, asthma and headaches. Other respiratory problems were reported plus fatigue and dizziness. Complaints began approximately 1 %: months prior to the beginning of the investigation, but the reports suggest that it has been a problem for up to a year. Carpeting was recently replaced in the Parks and Recreation offices. Vinyl and other non -fabric chairs also replaced much of the old fabric furniture. The building is approximately 15 years old and the HVAC systems are the originals that were in place when the building was first occupied. The HVAC systems are on timers, running from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except for special use, for meetings, etc. They are generally not operating on the weekends. Coils are reportedly cleaned once a year and filters changed six times per year. The HVAC systems used to start at 4 a.m., but the schedule was cut back in response to the energy crisis. The VAV's (Variable Air Volume) boxes around the perimeter of the building have reheat coils. VAV's control the volume of air distributed to portions of the building. There have been minor rain leaks reported over the years, but none on the first floor where most of the complaints occur. Reportedly the building was damaged in the 1994 earthquake and was flooded. Everyone was moved out at that time and the building was vacant for 4 '/x months. A portion of the third floor is being remodeled. A dental office on the second floor is currently being expanded and remodeled. Some prior remodeling took place on the second floor about two years ago. Janitorial services are done by contract to a private company. Activities include dusting, vacuuming, cleaning rest rooms and windows. Carpets in offices are cleaned as needed, but carpets in the main hallways are reportedly cleaned once a month. No pesticide spraying is done on the interior of the building. There are rat traps located around the exterior of the building. A gas-fired water boiler is located on the roof of the building and there is a water heater on the third floor. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Three Inspection of Building Environment: The building is located in a commercial area on the very busy Valencia Boulevard to the north and parking lots on the east and west sides. The landscape around the building properly slopes away from the building. It is, however, relatively flat right next to the building on the west side. Water tends to pool next to the building and there is algal growth there. Wood chips serve as ground covering in this area from the edge of the building out about seven feet. The south side of the building is about the same as the west side except that there is very little ground covering toward the west end. There is considerably more toward the east end. Near the east end the wood chips cover from the edge of the building out about 20 feet. The east side is similar to the others except there is evidence of slightly more irrigation watering there. The ground is wetter on the north side particularly near,the east end. There are water sprinkler patterns on the north wall outside the Parks and Recreation offices. It is quite wet with algal growth on the ground just outside of the office where health complaints originated. Water sprinkler patterns were also observed toward the west end of the building on the north side. This is outside of the Community Service offices. Inspection of Building Interior: In our inspection of the first floor we observed numerous vinyl carpet protector mats in use in various locations. We found that the carpet was damp or wet under many of the carpet mats. Moldy odors issued from the carpet when the mats were lifted in many locations as well. The carpet mats specifically inspected included Susan, Pat Hagel, Tymeri and Cindi in the Parks and Recreation area. All were wet or damp underneath with moldy odors. In Building & Safety carpet mats inspected includes Cindy Ellsworth's with slime on the back of the mat and wet carpet underneath. Debra's mat was in similar condition with the carpet stained underneath. Sharon's mat was stained pink indicating the possibility of yeast contamination underneath. The carpet in this area is approximately three to four years old. Nina Shipp's mat in Community Services as well as others in that area were in similar condition to the others mentioned above. All nine of the mats in the Community Services area were wet underneath and smelled moldy. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Four The carpet mat in Felicia Scorse's office has a pink stain under suggesting possible yeast growth. The same was the case with the carpet mat in Human Resources reception. There are carpet mats in use in other floors of the building, but they do not appear to result in any of the same type problems as those on the first floor. Carpet mats over carpets placed directly on slabs can result in trapping moisture that comes through the slab resulting in microbial growth. Clumps of fiberglass liner were seen in a number of supply registers in various locations throughout the building. This includes at least one supply register in Community Services, two or three in the meeting room on the first floor adjacent to the Council Chambers and two in Human Resources. Others were seen on the third floor both on the east and west sides. Construction in some areas of the building is resulting in construction dust settling onto surfaces. This includes areas on the third floor in both the east and west sectors. A similar situation exists on the second floor with the expansion of the dental office, which is impacting on the Construction Services area. There was no excessive dust and no visible fiberglass caught in the supply registers in the Building and Safety areas on the first floor. The carpet is very stained in the Construction Services office. This carpet was reportedly in place and already stained when the office became occupied by Construction Services about a year ago. The beige carpet in the central portion of the west sector of the third floor looks old and worn with light to moderate staining. Reportedly the carpet is at least seven years old. The Santa Clarita Valley Resource Center located on the second floor appears to be well kept. There is an area of stained carpet under a planter in this area. Administrative Services on the second floor had no fiberglass fibers caught in supply registers. There were a few minor stains on ceiling tiles. The carpet in the area is reportedly 1'/z years old is low pile and in good shape. Inspection of the HVAC systems: There are six air handlers located on the roof of the building. No evidence was seen of present water pooling on the roof nor evidence of leaves accumulating. There were no vermin signs. There was a bathroom exhaust and a sewer vent located about ten feet northeast of AH -3's outside air (OSA) inlet. There was minor to moderate accumulation of debris on the roof. This mainly consisted of boards. A medium size boiler is located inside the nine -foot high enclosure containing the air handlers. There is a 3%- foot open space at the bottom of the enclosure. The boiler is located 25 to 30 feet from AH -3. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Five Honeywell replaced much of the fiberglass liner with foil -faced bubble pack insulation downstream of the filters in all units except in the supply plenums. . The interior of the ducts in nearly all the sectors were quite dirty with gritty dirt and dust as well as clumps of fiberglass liner in nearly all the locations inspected. Specifically, gritty dirt was heavy in the duct above Room 230 and third floor west. It was moderate above Parks and Recreation. Fiberglass and other debris were observed above Parks and Recreation, Room 230 and third floor west. The section of supply duct inspected above the second floor west was quite clean and appeared to have been cleaned recently. AH -1: This unit serves the western portion of the third floor. The 23 by 112 inch outside air inlet which is covered with metal mesh filters was measured for outside air volume using a TSI VelociCalc Plus. economizer was judged to be open about 10%. cubic feet per minute (CFU). A bacterial odor was detected inside this unit. Measurement was taken by 96 point traverse. The OSA volume was measured at approximately 1,300 The two-inch pleated filters located in the mixing chamber fit adequately. Filters were relatively clean. The squirrel cage type supply blower had a light to moderate accumulation of dust. Torn fiberglass liner was observed on the floor of the filter compartment. Overall there was light to moderate dirt inside the unit. Exposed fiberglass liner is moderately deteriorated and tom. There was no water in the condensate drain pan at the time of the inspection. The drain line is trapped and properly sloped. It terminates in a roof drain. A vent is not required due to a nearby termination point. The face of the coil was moderately to heavily stained. There is heavy streaking on the back of the coil. We were unable to see all of the interior of the unit or the vertical supply ducts. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Six AH -2: This unit serves the westem portion of the second floor. The OSA inlet is the same size and similarly filtered as that of AH -1 and OSA volume was measured in the same manner. The volume was measured at approximately 1,100 CFM. The two-inch pleated filters located in the mixing plenum fit adequately and were relatively clean. The supply blower was in similar condition to that of AH -1 except there was a bit more black debris on the inlet face. As with AH -I there was deteriorated and torn liner on the floor of the filter compartment. Overall the condition was the same as AH -1. There were more extensive water stains on the fiberglass liner in the return plenum below the coils along with possible mold growth. The condensate drain pan and line were similar to that of AH -1 except there was evidence of past overflow of condensate water. The face of the coil was streaked, but no streaks were seen on the back. The coil was slightly cleaner than AH -1. AH -3: This unfit serves the western portion of the first floor. The metal mesh filtered OSA inlet had the economizer open 10 to 15%. The OSA volume was measured in the same manner as that of the other two air handlers. The volume of outside air was approximately 1850 CFM. The two-inch pleated filters located in the mixing plenum fit well and were moderately dirty. The supply blower had a light to moderate accumulation of dust. Tom fiberglass liner was observed on the floor of the filter compartment. The return duct was lightly to moderately dusty. There were water stains below the back of the coil in the return plenum. Overall this air handler was lightly to moderately dirty. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Seven Exposed liner was moderately deteriorated and tom. The condensate drain pan and line were essentially the same as AH -2. The face of the coil was lightly to moderately stained. There were light streaks on the back of the coil. AH -4: This unit serves the eastern portion of the first floor. The economizer was about 10% open. OSA volume was measured at approximately 900 CFM. Torn and deteriorated liner was observed as with the other units on the floor of the filter compartment. Water stains from apparent condensate water overflow were observed in the return plenum. This was just below the condensate pan and ran the entire length of the pan. Light to moderate stains were seen on the face of the coil. There was light streaking on the back. AH -5: This unit serves the eastern portion of the third floor. The economizer was open only about 5% and outside air was measured at approximately 800 CFU The OSA inlet is smaller on this unit than on AH's 1-4. It measures 22 by 90 inches and was measured by 60 point traverse. The two-inch pleated filters located in the mixing plenum fit well and were relatively clean. Overall this unit was slightly dirtier than AH -3. There were apparent water stains on the liner on the floor of the supply plenum. .— The face of the coil was in similar condition to AH -3. There are moderate streaks on the back of the coil. There was some air leakage from the supply plenum due to an unsecured panel. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Eight AH -6: The OSA inlet is the sante size as AH -5 and was about 10% open. Outside air volume was measured at approximately 550 CFU. The overall hygienic condition was about the same as AH -3. The supply fan was a little dirtier than AH -3. As with the others, there was torn and deteriorated fiberglass liner on the floor of the filter compartment and water stains on the liner of the return plenum. Dusty and loose liner was seen in the return vertical duct. The face of the coil was in similar condition as that of AH -3. The back of the coil was lightly streaked. Test Results: Temperature and relative humidity: It should be noted that while temperature and relative humidity are not, strictly speaking, elements of indoor air quality, they do affect individuals' perception of air quality, and can have adverse health effects when values are extreme. Additionally, excessively high humidity can foster fungal growth. The temperature in throughout the building ranged between 73 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature was 73 degrees in Community Services and 78 degrees behind reception in Building and Safety. Other temperature readings throughout the building were 74 and 75 degrees consistently. Per ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air -Conditioning Engineers) standard 55-1992. "Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy", temperatures between 72 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit will typically satisfy 80% of the occupants under the conditions prevalent in this building at the time of inspection in terms of dress, activity level, and air flow rate. Please note that per this standard: "Because of individual differences, it is impossible to specify a thermal environment that will satisfy everyone." The temperature measured was slightly above the optimal temperature range in one location only, but that may be suitable taking into account individual preferences. The relative humidity was measured at between 35 and 46%. ASHRAE standard 62-1989, "Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality", recommends the relative humidity be maintained between 30% and 60% in habitable spaces. Other authorities generally agree with these figures. The humidity measured falls within the acceptable range. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Nine Pressure Relationships, Air Flows, and Mixine: Tests were conducted using smoke tubes to determine pressure relationships within the building and to determine air flow rates in occupied areas. Pressure relationships determine the way that air flows from one area to another and should be controlled to prevent unnecessary exposure to known contaminants. Occupied areas are normally designed to be under positive pressure so that air is being brought in only through air-conditioning system filters. Bathrooms, lunch rooms and other areas which are known sources of odors and contaminants are normally designed to be under negative pressure in relationship to other areas. The pressure relationships of the bathrooms were checked on all floors and found to be properly negative to the hallways. All outside doors were positive to the outside except the front door, which was more than slightly negative. Contaminant Gases: Tests for carbon monoxide were conducted using a Monoxor II monitor. Carbon monoxide is an element of smog as well as a product of combustion. At high levels this gas can have adverse health effects on occupants. Indoor concentrations of carbon monoxide were measured at between I and 3 parts per million (ppm). The outdoor levels were in the same range. This is within acceptable limits. The highest level for continued exposure to carbon monoxide according to ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers) is 9 ppm. This is the same exposure limit that was adopted by the World Health Organization. Microbial contamination: On November 5"', surface samples were taken from under the carpet mats of some of the locations that were suspected of being contaminated. All of these samples was taken using sterile swabs. Sample 91 was taken from under Cindy Ellsworth's mat in Building and Safety. Analysis of this sample revealed no microbial growth in the location sampled. Sample #2 was taken from under Debra Serrechia's mat. Analysis of this sample revealed moderate growth of Scopulariopsis species. Sample #3 was taken from under Sharon's mat in Building and Safety. Analysis detected moderate growth of Acremonium species and light growth of Scopulariopsis. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Ten Sample 94 was taken from under Nina Shipp's mat in Community Services. Analysis revealed moderate to heavy growth of Acremonium. On November 6"', more surface samples were taken using sterile swabs. Sample #1 was taken from under the carpet mat of Felici in the Chamber of Commerce office. Analysis of this sample revealed no microbial growth in the location sampled. Sample #2 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the western portion of the first floor. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample 93 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #2. Analysis of this sample detected no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample 94 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the western portion of the second floor. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample 95 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #4. Analysis of this sample revealed heavy growth of yeasts. Sample 96 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the western portion of the third floor. Analysis of this sample revealed moderate growth ofyeasts. Sample 97 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #6. Analysis of this sample detected moderate to heavy growth of yeasts. Sample 98 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the eastern portion of the first floor. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample #9 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #8. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample #10 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the eastern portion of the third floor. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. Sample #11 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #10. Analysis of this sample revealed heavy growth of yeasts. Sample #12 was taken from the face of the coil of the air handler serving the eastern portion of the second floor. Analysis of this sample detected moderate to heavy growth of yeasts. Sample 411 was taken from the back of the coil of the same unit as Sample #12. Analysis of this sample revealed heavy growth of colorless spores typical of Penicilllum/Aspergillus and moderate growth of yeasts. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Eleven Sample #14 was taken from the first floor west return duct. Analysis of this sample revealed no mold growth in the location sampled. On November 7"' two additional swab samples were taken from under carpet mats. One was taken from tinder the mat at the reception desk of Human Resources. A second sample was taken from under Suzie Hurtman's mat in Parks and Recreation. Analysis of both of these samples revealed no mold growth in the locations sampled. Air sampling was conducted using a Zefon Air -O -Cell volumetric air sampler. By this methodology a specific volume of air is palled through a cassette with a treated microscope slide. The air impacts on the slide and the particulate in the air is captured. The slide is then examined microscopically and a determination is made of the characterization and volume of mold spores. Air samples were taken in various locations throughout the building and four taken outdoors to serve as a baseline for comparison. Indoor samples were taken in the following locations: Parks and Recreation — between Susan's and Cindi's work areas plus one in Shelly's area; Building and Safety - on the west side plus one on the east side; in the Council Chamber; first floor meeting room; third floor west in Tanya's area and another in Curtis' area; third floor east near the xerox machine; second floor Administrative services by Sullivan's cubicle; near the center of the Community Services offices; in the reception area of the Chamber of Commerce offices; in the Technical Services office on the second floor; in the building maintenance office on the second floor; and in the eastern portion of the second floor hallway. Analysis of all of these samples revealed basically only background or normal mold spore levels in the indoor samples as compared to those taken outdoors. It should be noted that Amerospores in some of the samples were in incorrect ratio to Cladosporium. Cladosporium is generally the most plentiful spore type in outdoor samples. In most cases PenicilliuWAspergillus types are somewhere between '/4 and %2 the volume of Cladosporium. Amerospores are a category of Pei? icilliiun/Aspergillus and Tricoderma spores that are indistinguishable. Tricoderma is rare compared to Penicillium and Aspergillus so we conclude that Amerospores are mostly Penicillium and/or Aspergillus types. The incorrect ratio (or rank order) occurs in both samples taken in Parks and Recreation, in the Council Chambers, the east end of the third floor and on the east end of the Building and Safety offices. However, the volume is very low in these areas that it lacks significance. The ratio and volume are considerably more significant in the samples taken in the Community Services area, the Chamber of Commerce reception, in the Technical (Construction) Services office, in the Building Maintenance office, the second floor hallway and the first floor meeting room. These results suggest the possibility of mold growth sites inside, but the consistency points to possible intrusion from the outside possibly bypassing filters of the HVAC systems. .- Dust was vacuumed from the carpet in a variety of areas. The areas were: Sample #1 - third floor west reception; Sample #2 - third floor east; Sample #3 - Council Chambers; Sample #4 - first floor meeting room; Sample #5 - Parks and Recreation by the kitchen; Sample #6 - Construction Services; and Sample 97 - second floor hallway. Culturing of dust taken from the carpet samples yielded a variety of fungal and bacterial levels. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Twelve Analysis of Sample #1 revealed light to moderate fungal and moderate bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample #2 revealed light to moderate fungal and moderate bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample 43 revealed light to moderate fungal and high bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample #4 revealed moderate fungal and high bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample #5 revealed light fungal and moderate bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample #6 revealed light fungal and moderate bacterial levels. Analysis of Sample #7 revealed moderate fungal and high bacterial levels. Of concern are the high bacterial levels in Samples 3, 4 and 7. A low level of Stachybotrys chartarum was also found in Sample 41. Low levels of Fusarium species, another potentially very toxic mold were found in Sample 3, 5, 6 and 7. Dust composition: Samples were taken of settled dust and examined microscopically for composition. Sample #1 was taken from third floor east; Sample #2 from third floor west; #3 from Human Resources reception area; #4 from Parks & Recreation; #5 from second floor Administrative Services; 96 from Facilities reception. Building dust has a typical composition and variations from this may indicate unusual contaminant dust sources. Some dust components are irritating, allergenic, or toxigenic. Composition was pretty typical, with dander (skin flakes), cellulose fibers (paper), and cotton fibers being the main components in all the samples. Dander did appear to be extraordinarily high in nearly all the samples ranging between 44 and 50% in all samples except for #3 from Human Resources. This result is suggestive of a high population in those areas. Calcite grains (construction dust) was higher than normally seen in all the samples except for #3. Calcite grains were quite high in sample #2 at 15%. This is a location where construction is in progress. Fiberglass at 1% is a possible irritating factor in sample 92 as well. Outside Air Volume: Current California state code (Title 24) requires a minimum outside air volume of 15 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per person or .15 CFM per square foot of building space. (Values are for this type of facility.) An insufficient amount of outside air allows normally present contaminants to build-up to a point where they may adversely affect occupants. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Thirteen The outside air volume supplied by all six of the air handlers was measured at a total of approximately 6500 CFM. This is sufficient per the above standards to supply adequate outside air for 43,000 square feet of space and 433 occupants. This volume may be adequate for the number of person's occupying the building, but is not adequate for the number of square feet of space served which is reportedly about 75,000. Some of the air handlers were operating with OSA economizers' dampers nearly closed. Carbon Dioxide: Carbon Dioxide has no recognized adverse health effects at levels ordinarily found in indoor environments, However, because human respiration is usually the only significant factor raising carbon dioxide levels above outdoor levels, it is commonly used to estimate whether sufficient outside air is being provided to dilute the contaminants normally generated by occupants and their activities. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the building were measured at between 412 and 693 parts per million (ppm). Measurements were taken at various times of the day. Locations with the with the highest CO2 levels are Parks and Recreation, Building and Safety, and third floor east. The California Energy Code (Title 24) sets a limit of 800 ppm for demand controlled ventilation. Some indoor air quality authorities have stated elevated complaints about indoor air quality may occur at CO2 levels in excess of 600 ppm. Levels indicate sufficient outside air in most of the areas monitored for the number of people occupying the space. The three areas mentioned above are supplied with outside air that is questionable as to sufficiency for the number of occupants. Airborne Dust Concentrations: The concentrations of dust outdoors and inside the suite were measured. Inhaling dust is unhealthy, and studies have shown adverse health effects proportional to the amount of dust inhaled, measurable even at very low levels. These include increased likelihood of allergy and asthma attacks. Materials in the office were also tested to see if these contained excessive reservoirs of dust. Intermittently high levels of dust in the air will tend to result when the reservoirs are disturbed such as by walking across carpeting or sitting down in chairs. The outdoor dust level was found to be low, below the EPA National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for a yearly average. The indoor level was also low, and below the EPA yearly average standard for "PM 10" particulate.). "PM10" is defined as particles with the majority measuring 10 microns or smaller. Total particulate was below this standard as well. This was the case with one exception. Third floor west, where heavy remodeling activities are occurring is nearly twice the EPA yearly average. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Fourteen Testing of materials for dust levels found carpeting in the tested area about average in dust content. The dust levels in the chairs varied from below average to average to quite high. Some chairs with high dust levels were found in virtually every location. These tests suggest that sitting in the high dust level chairs would routinely produce an invisible cloud of dust much of which would be inhaled by the person occupying the chair. Dust Mite Allergens: Samples of dust were vacuumed from carpeting and chairs in a number of locations on the first floor. These samples were analyzed for the presence of dust mite allergens. Susceptible individuals may stiffer allergic reactions from.dust accumulated on surfaces and in materials, depending on the content of those dusts. Reportedly, more individuals in the U.S. are allergic to dust mite allergens than to any other substance. Locations on the first floor were chosen due to the moisture under carpet mats. High humidity is conducive to proliferation of dust mites. Dust mite allergen levels were found to be below the limits of detection in each of the samples by the sampling method employed. Discussion: 1) Nothing in this report is meant to constitute a definite statement as to the cause of any adverse health effects upon occupants. Such conclusions are in the realm of medical science and would have to be made by a qualified physician. 2) The use of unventilated vinyl carpet mats on the ground floor of buildings with concrete slabs will often exacerbate indoor air quality problems by trapping moisture as it comes up through the slab resulting in microbial growth in the carpet. Such appears to be the case on the ground floor of the Santa Clarita City Hall. 3) Over -irrigation on the north side of the building with water sprinklers impacting on the side of the building could be adding to the suspected moisture problem under the building slab. 4) The negative air pressure at the front door of the building (air flowing in) is probably at least partially due to the brisk wind blowing from the north on the day of the testing. An insufficient volume of outside air from the HVAC system serving the area may contribute to the problem by creating insufficient positive pressure in that portion of the building. 5) Each of the fungal types detected in the microbial sampling, Acremonium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Scopulariopsis and yeasts, are all capable of eliciting allergic responses in certain individuals. Species of Aspergillus and Penicillium can produce toxins that are harmful to humans. Some species of Penicillium and many of Aspergillus can grow at human body temperature so are potentially infectious. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Fifteen 6) The high bacterial levels were found in the carpets in the Council Chamber, the first floor meeting room that is adjacent to the Council Chamber and the second floor hallway. The major portion of the bacterial contamination in these samples is various forms of gram negative bacteria. These include Flavobacterium, Methylobacterium, Rhodococcus, Pseudomonas sp. non acruginosa and Sheuvanella putrefaciens. Gram negative bacteria produce extra -cellular toxins known as endotoxins. Exposure by inhalation to sufficient quantities of endotoxins can result in a myriad of symptoms. These include fever, cough, diffuse aches, nausea, shortness of breath & chest tightness, acute airflow obstruction, airway inflammation and low lung function. Some indoor air quality authorities express concern when gram negative bacterial levels exceed one million colony forming units (CFU) per gram. Gram negative bacterial levels slightly or somewhat exceeded this level of concern in the above three locations. 7) Fiberglass liner was deteriorated and/or had been coming apart in virtually every air handler serving this building. Clumps of fiberglass were caught in the grills of supply registers in various areas inside the building. Fiberglass levels appear to be above the norm in at least one sector of the building, third floor east. The photos of the interior of the supply ducts illustrate this situation. 8) Construction dust appears to be a factor affecting air quality in nearly every sector of the building, particularly the third floor east. Exposure to construction dust can be irritating to eyes and mucous membranes. 9) The air handlers and supply ducts in all sectors of the building are quite dirty and likely affecting the quality of the indoor air. 10) Per National Air Duct Cleaners Association (ACR 2002) "HVAC systems should be operated in a clean condition. If significant accumulations of contaminants or debris are visually observed within the HVAC system, then cleaning is necessary. Likewise, if evidence of microbial growth is visually observed or confirmed by analytical methods, then cleaning is required. "If the HVAC system discharges visible particulate into the occupied space, or a significant contribution of airborne particles from the HVAC system into the indoor ambient air is confirmed, then cleaning is necessary." 1 l) A dirty HVAC system not only negatively impacts indoor air quality it decreases the operational efficiency as well. Recommendations: 1) A building moisture expert should be engaged to determine proper actions to take to eliminate moisture intrusion through the slab. This may include the monitoring of irrigation particularly at the front of the building. It would be best to have a plan of action for dealing with the moisture in place prior to removing the carpet. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Sixteen 2) Carpeting on the ground floor where carpet mats are in use should be removed in accordance with guidelines provided by American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) set forth in the 1999 publication, Bioaerosols. Assessment and Control. Someone experienced and qualified in mold growth abatement should supervise abatement procedures and follows guidelines laid out by ACGIH. a. Prior to this carpet removal, the areas must be isolated with plastic sheeting and placed under negative air pressure using HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filtered air movement devices. Furnishings must be removed or covered. b. Workers performing the removal must be notified of the potential hazard to their health. Persons who are ill, allergic or asthmatic, or who have impaired immune systems, should not work on this project. All work through step `d' of this project should be done wearing HEPA filtered respirators, disposable suits, goggles and gloves. Workers should be advised to wash face and hands after leaving the site and prior to eating or smoking and should change clothes following the end of a shift. Workers should be advised to report to their employer if they become ill following the project. c. The carpeting should be cut into strips approximately 12 inches wide and of manageable length. The strips should be rolled up and placed into minimum 3 mil plastic trash bags and placed in the trash (this is not considered toxic waste). Once the carpet and padding is removed, the floor should be vacuumed thoroughly with HEPA filter vacuums and then damp mopped using a solution of one part chlorine bleach N%ith nine parts water with a small amount of non -ammoniated detergent added to cut surface tension. e. Plastic sheeting can then be carefully taken down, folded or rolled up with the contaminated side inside, bagged and disposed of with the other contaminated materials, vacuum cleaner bags, etc. f Disposal of contaminated materials can be in an ordinary dumpster, i.e. these are not classified as hazardous materials for legal purposes. 3) Unventilated vinyl carpet protector mats should not be used on the first floor of the building. Ventilated floor mats are available and may be more appropriate for use on ground floor concrete slabs with carpeting conditions. Building management should consider some other floor covering such as vinyl tile. 4) Each of the HVAC systems including their ducts should be thoroughly cleaned to National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) standards including sanitizing the coils with an EPA registered product such as Oxine. Any tom fiberglass liner should be repaired and coated with a sealant designed for use in HVAC systems. Any deteriorated or microbially contaminated liner should be removed and replaced with a non -fiberglass liner such as Astro Foil. Santa Clarita December 4, 2001 Page Seventeen 5) Renovations and remodeling activities should be done with the work area isolated using plastic sheeting and placed under negative air pressure to reduce spreading the dust to other locations. Ventilation ducts, particularly returns should be covered with plastic sheeting to eliminate contaminating the HVAC system. 6) Carpets in the Council Chambers, the meeting room adjacent and the second floor hallway should be cleaned using a hot water deep extraction method ensuring they are completely dried within 24 hours. Fans blowing across the carpets should be utilized as needed to ensure timely drying. The carpets in these locations should be re -tested to ensure gram negative bacterial levels are now below levels of concern. Note: Carpets may have to be removed to fix water intrusion problem. If testing shows microbial levels are now acceptable, the carpeting can be reinstalled. 7) The locations where remodeling is taking place should be environmentally deep cleaned once the remodeling is completed. This includes a thorough vacuuming of all surfaces (floors, walls and contents) using HEPA filtered vacuums. This would be followed by a wipe down of hard dust collecting surfaces using damp cloths. 8) Only HEPA filtered vacuums should be used for any vacuum exhausting inside a building. 9) It is strongly suggested that any occupant that perceives or believes that his indoor environment is adversely impacting his health be sent to a qualified medical specialist for diagnosis and treatment indicated. The qualified medical specialist should determine the advisability of the affected person to remain in the suspect environment. 10) If upon completion of the above recommendations complaints related to indoor air quality persist, fiirther investigation is recommended. Please call if you have any questions. Sincerely, Stephe tiff Director, Indoor Air Quality Investigations Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Inc. 1800 Sullivan Ave., Suite 209, Daly City, CA 94015 (650) 991-3436 Fax (650) 991-2243 www.emlab.com Client: The Machado Environmental Corporation Date of Sampling: 11-05-2001 C/O: Mr. Mike Hauge Date of Receipt: 11-07-2001 Re: Santa Clarita Date of Report: 11-26-2001 DIRECT MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION REPORT (Wet Mount) Background Miscellaneous MOLD GROWTH: Molds seen Other General Debris and/or Spores / Pollen* with underlying mycelial and/or Commentstt Impression Description sporulating structures' Swab sample 1: Building/safety, Cindy Ellscurth's mat Scant None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 2: Safety, Debra Serrechia Scant None 2+ Scopulariopsis species None Mold growth Swab sample 3: Building/safety, Sharon's mat Scant Very few 2+Acremonium species None Mold growth I+ Scopulariopsis species Swab sample 4: Nina's SHP mat Light Few 3+Acrentonhon species None Mold growth * Includes basidiospores (mushroom spores), myxomycetes, plant pathogens such as ascospores, rusts and smuts, and a mix of saprophytic genera with no particular spore type predominating. Distribution of spore types seen mirrors that usually seen outdoors, indicative of normal trapping (i.e. seen on surfaces everywhere). t Quantities of molds seen growing are listed in the MOLD GROWTH column and are graded 1+ to 4+, with 4+ denoting the highest numbers. ti Some comments may refer to the following: Most surfaces collect a mix of spores which are normally present in the outdoor environment. At times it is possible to note a skewing of the distribution of spore types, and also to note "marker" genera which may indicate indoor mold growth. Marker genera are those spore types which are present normally in very small numbers, but which multiply indoors when conditions are favorable for growth. EMS ID: 23187, Page 1 of 1 Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Inc. 1800 Sullivan Ave., Suite 209, Daly City, CA 94015 (650) 991-3436 Fax (650) 991-2243 www.enilab.com Client: The Machado Environmental Corporation Date of Sampling: 11-06-2001 C/O: Mr. Stephen Huff Date of Receipt: 11-08-2001 Re: Santa Clarita, City Hall -2 Date of Report: 11-26-2001 DIRECT MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION REPORT (Wet Mount) Background Miscellaneous MOLD GROWTH: Molds seen Other General Debris and/or Spores / Pollen* with underlying mycelial and/or Commentstt Impression Description sporulating structurest Swab sample 1: Chamber felici carpet mat Light None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 2: A/C, 1st west face of coil Moderate None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 3: A/C, 1st west back of coil Moderate None None None No mold spores I i found Swab sample 4: A/C, 2nd west face of coil Heavy None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 5: A/C, 2nd west back of coil Light Very few 4+ yeasts None Yeast growth Swab sample 6: A/C, 3rd west face of coil Light Very few 2+ yeasts None Yeast growth Swab sample 7: A/C, 3rd west back of coil Light None 3+ yeasts None Yeast growth Swab sample 8: A/C, 1st east face of coil Heavy None None None No mold spores found EML. ID: 23184, Page 1 of 2 Background Miscellaneous MOLD GROWTH: Molds seen Other General Debris and/or Spores / Pollen* with underlying mycelial and/or Commentstt Impression Description sporulating structured' Swab sample 9: A/C, 1st east back of coil Moderate None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 10: A/C, 3rd east face of coil Moderate None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 11: A/C, 3rd east back of coil Heavy None 4+ yeasts None Yeast growth Swab sample 12: A/C, 2nd east face of coil Heavy Very few 3+ yeasts None Yeast growth Swab sample 13: A/C, 2nd east back of coil Heavy j Few 4+ colorless spores typical of None Mold and Penicillium/Aspergillus - yeast growth 2+ yeasts Swab sample 14: A/C, 1st west beturucter Heavy Few None None Normal trapping * Includes basidiospores (mushroom spores), myxomycetes, plant pathogens such as ascospores, rusts and smuts, and a mix of saprophytic genera with no particular spore type predominating. Distribution of spore types seen mirrors that usually seen outdoors, indicative of normal trapping (i.e. seen on surfaces everywhere). t Quantities of molds seen growing are listed in the MOLD GROWTH column and are graded 1+ to 4+, with 4+ denoting the highest numbers. tt Some comments may refer to the following: Most surfaces collect a mix of spores which are normally present in the outdoor environment. At times it is possible to note a skewing of the distribution of spore types, and also to note "marker' genera which may indicate indoor mold growth. Marker genera are those spore types which are present normally in very small numbers, but which multiply indoors when conditions are favorable for growth. EML ID: 23184, Page 2 of 2 Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Inc. 1800 Sul&van Ave., Suite 209, Daly City, CA 94015 (650) 991-3436 Fax (650) 991-2243 www.emlab.com Client: The Machado Environmental Corporation Date of Sampling: 11-07-2001 C/O: Mr. Stephen Huff Date of Receipt 11-09-2001 Re: Santa Clarita City Hall Date of Report: 11-24-2001 DIRECT MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION REPORT (Wet Mount) Background Debris and/or Description Miscellaneous Spores / Pollen* MOLD GROWTH: Molds seen with underlying mycelial and/or sporulating structures t Other Comments[[ General Impression Swab sample 1: HR recept., carpet mat Scant None None None No mold spores found Swab sample 2: P&R Suzie Hurtman's, mat Light None None None No mold spores found * Includes basidiospores (mushroom spores), myxomycetes, plant pathogens such as ascospores, rusts and smuts, and a mix of saprophytic genera with no particular spore type predominating. Distribution of spore types seen mirrors that usually seen outdoors, indicative of normal trapping (i.e. seen on surfaces everywhere). t Quantities of molds seen growing are listed in the MOLD GROWTH column and are graded l+ to 4+, with 4+ denoting the highest numbers. tt Some comments may refer to the following: Most surfaces collect a mix of spores which are normally present in the outdoor environment. At times it is possible to note a skewing of the distribution of spore types, and also to note "marker" genera which may indicate indoor mold growth. Marker genera are those spore types which are present normally in very small numbers, but which multiply indoors when conditions are favorable for growth. EML ID: 23196, Page 1 of 1 m m E o @ m z m z a L N 0 ado b b b b 0 �r W m r C) N S O � I r D J � • n K ' EU• w — 2 U ��! a o ee•L.� 4 Cl E '30Vd ZS 'ON NOI.LVOIN!IKKOO 8E:60 (IH3)IOOZ'OE 'AOM 0 N U O W .O m - u d V m o O` C d N 3 CD w m 0 m m N co X w U- N 0 m _ •Q U) to i coO O Y r COOfdj IM 6C:80 TOOZ/OC/TT � n m m M n a F •'+ n s'• @ V s zbl O Z• m m V r � tN r e 6 y OI ((pp N � N n m g LL � e p 0 e '3• � F J V C w n 3 n E � P C m N L Ya O m m m m m V V It Y � E J C m S m C y q v m 0 m a �e � LL O ri C o N ' ♦ M f - U S, E �'• r8 CJ c E N LL m E mm pEE F F a �E m c 9 L e O n � � q C C a U >• C �' . � e � yp pj� = � C ��i+ � X h g � CL � Kai � � m m ~ p 25 �'46QZQ�tA�mCZSU 4 4 Wti.��D4�hvJ { rA C F. �• qyb>on o MaH 0 N U O W .O m - u d V m o O` C d N 3 CD w m 0 m m N co X w U- N 0 m _ •Q U) to i coO O Y r COOfdj IM 6C:80 TOOZ/OC/TT Lai r W =0� P P C � _ 3 aB 4 '_DVd ZS '-N NOIIVOIDIrIKAOD 6e!60 ( Mi) IOOZ '0£ 'AON S o Q 8 m 3 3 m V1 h O h N N coX m LL N O co T 1/Ln [ CD CD O co a B43 SC 80 TOOS/0£/TT pe � � 'o ry n M '• n (i v 'v v o E r v � � V C Y 7 qq O n C O W� O N H V N 9 r F `o 0 LL L ti 3e Z 2 O N Mpz� VE O N O C � Y" p •LN' V N V 0 TV -2 {y N G O � O aL V' P � j N y y O Y 9 . Me a P m s V U uC 4 O V m m my.1. � �� C I• S a U � z m o E e •x m m`L •". e�K $ aI v = 8 & ° Z X as e_° S o Q 8 m 3 3 m V1 h O h N N coX m LL N O co T 1/Ln [ CD CD O co a B43 SC 80 TOOS/0£/TT E '30Vd ES '-N NOI.LVOINnymoO Z4:60 (IHd) IOOZ 'OE 'AON n F a ^p A - 6 M 0 'aa Z z u 0 o C z g m n m W m N T. A !- C i < s Mai E U J Z W": V ao" W ;R 9 LLM LL Oct E '30Vd ES '-N NOI.LVOINnymoO Z4:60 (IHd) IOOZ 'OE 'AON n F a ^p A - c a v (p N U g m n m m N M v M O 9 LL C 0 F 1 ^ pp s E � J C N���® V Y N U •Og S m yy�� op M N M � N a c 1 $ C r F a J rp M M M E O M M M m M M M � n0 � SCS `O N � E V C a •- O qmq V V V 41M `o im G V V rN •• N• m e N V c m m G E e p q y m m P p e 9 pc —mLL �C C E mLL rn p C I � E 'i bOm o F IOU, 0 r i a22 d 9 KC<C<KMM E{ �� 4 mIm>O ' $2 an°.r m Q It U S0 nooln %4d 6C--60 Tooz7oc/TT c c c r c r c c c c i � � _ W_ � Cp 94 wo Co co �.� Ana ,ate o . e,IV0 , m, a a, nen e; a ». t ! ) } )\ -- — — Rtrom reom3aee , ` | I � � � ,!!■ �® ■ � ` k I. |°»7 |;§■-„ ■ E _ ■ ; � k _ ! .2 . ! ` w � . ! $t 2 � !�/ k\ r4 D z3 ■!2 _!2| t ! ) } )\ -- — — Rtrom reom3aee za,usnn;o ». wyaon YVJ r:60T06 e £ §cc ,! ■| ! � "-I § | 7,v it LLM - - |°�| ©- ! . � , �,k■ • ' a E 2 ,{ _ \ 0���~�- Ex ?Im ! ` . ! � .§ ■ lTEkk; l�I�i !kk\Qlkiztolk!#\i$§■kAai27| wyaon YVJ r:60T06 e W H P b '3OVd b5 'ON NOI.LVOIN[lA'YY00 9660 (IH3)TOOL OE'AON RAS �m U m 900/S000 SPd ZS:80 TM,'OC/TT x ZZS v� r K3 I � e E e c o .E'J O yoy C p C v V V�� N o�o u v v v N xzz4 o I c � e z a w A v v N N III � i X e Z 2 s � i Y m m N OX f0 N -t -t c o V 'DJ v v v � a m 8 3 ~v am C a `m H ` 6 E'€sS LL�� gE � 5 m 7 3 O C g C LL 4 5$BPp3E� S. O a 32 N 1 0 ! o C k 6 Z Q NS Vl N ► ? RAS �m U m 900/S000 SPd ZS:80 TM,'OC/TT V � � � W � � LU 4c ; «w s ON »,lvo .r_, 9t,:60 oe n a: « w, » � , ! #_ kk k�k � $\k •� ; «w s ON »,lvo .r_, 9t,:60 oe n a: « w, � � � OF RxE,@ Y ra,era>e -!«§ •� m � a , � � | ! ! E !©��%■; ! � ■ � . \ � ! ! $ | ! ( ����■ d � r 2 � k � � ■ ■ i% § . ! ���k! ■ V �k| ! .■i§�� $ ga � .! �� ��! j �; .■!■� >!�o |a ,CL.!$l��� � � � OF RxE,@ Y ra,era>e p.I P & K Microbiology Services, Inc. 'fel: 856-089-4455 Fax: 856-489-4085 The Environmental Microblology Specialists 7 Allison Drive, Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003 Client: Machado Environmental Corporation, Glendale, CA Project ID: Santa Clarita City Hall Date sampled: November 7, 2001 Date of inoculation: November 12, 2001 Samples submitted By: Stephen Buff Date characterization completed: November 23, 2001 F&K ReportNo.: 110901-54 MIANI_ fi MOM Bulk Dust Samples Samplc ID—Weight Medium_ Dilution Fungal/Bacterial lD Colony Cone.'• Percentage"I used (g) used factor counts (CFU / g) (��) Fungi 'll 0.085 MFA IOOT mariaaltemata 4 4,706 19 cobasidium pullulans 1 1,176 5 Cladosporium 5 5,882 24 Fusoium solani 1 1,176 5 Penicillium I 1,176 5 1 Phoma 7 8,235 33 Pithomyces chartarum 1 1,176 5 Stachybnrrys chartarum 1 1,176 5 Total! 24,706 Bacteria 1 TSA 1640X Bacillus 5 96,471 14 Flnvnhacterium 6 115,765 17 0.189 MBA I IOOX TSA 1640X negative bacteria putrefaciens Inn stichim altemata hum pullulans Bacteria negative bacteria and others coccus luteus lomonas sp. non aeruginosa 3 3 4 14 2 6 16 4 2 5 5 3 6 3 5 2 2 57,882 9 57,882 9 77,176 11 270,118 40 Total: 675294 Toral: Total: I,O58 G 529 3 3,175 17 8,466 44 2,116 Il 1,058 6 2,646 14 43,386 19 26,032 12 52,063 23 26,032 12 43,386 19 17,354 8 17,3.54 8 P & K Microbiology Services, Inc. Bulk Dust Samples _ Sample ID —-W.—i0htMedium used (g)], used } 10.034 MEA � ) I l . i TSA Dilutiun� FungallBacteriall factor _._+— —.— Fangi 40X IAltemaria alternata Aspergillus niger Cladusporium Epicoccum nigrurn (Fusarium oxysporum Mucor plumbeus Phoma Pithungccs chartamm Bacteria 1640X Bacillus Flavobacterium gram negative bacteria and p.2 P&K Report No.: 1109O1-54 Paget p Culony Percentage' counts I 6 7,059 14 2 2,353 5 26 30,588 62 1 1,176 2 1 1,176 2 1 I 1,176 2 1 1,176 2 4 4,706 t0 'total: 49,412 5 241,176 9 7 337,647 l3 others 13 627,059 24 6 289,412 11 luteus 3 144,706 6 s sp. non aeruginosa 3 144,706 6 9 I 434,118 17 8 355,882 15 Total: 2,604,706 2 1 3?00 2 3 I 4,800 4 11 17,6001 13 3 4,80(1 4 48 76,8001 56 2 I 3,200' 2 1 1,600, 1 1 1,600 I 1 1,6001 1 1 1,600' 1 4 I 6,400 5 i 1 1,600 1 1 1,600 1 6 9,600 7 Total: 136,000 1 65,600 3 3 196,800 9 15 984,000 47 4 262,4001 13 3 196,8001 9 I 65,600 3 4 I 262,4 13 1 65,600 3 2,099,20 01 Cone.'• (CFC( ! g) Staphylococcus 0.025 MEA 40X Acremonium strictum Alternaria altemata Aspergillus niger i 1 Aureuhasidium pullulans `Cladosporium Curvularia lunata Epicoccum nigrum Gliocladium vircns I it i TSA 1 1640X tyres chartarum torula glutinis fungi Bacteria i rtavouactenum gram negative bacteria Methylobacterium Micrococcus luteus Rhudu mWb Staphylococcus Total: ,. P & K Microbiology Services, Inc. Bulk Dust Samples _ _ _ Sample ID Weight Medium rUilutlon used (g) uacd factor 0.154 MEA 100X I i I f I � � I I I i I TSA 1640X I 7 Fungal / Bacterial 1D Fungi .ria alternata iria tenuissima ,asidium pullulans porium cum nignmr Im solani hiemalis ryces chartarum torula gluti nis fungi Bacteria negative bacteria and others ylobactutium )coccus luteus lomonas sp. non aeruginosa maltophilia p.3 P&K Report No.: 110901-54 Page 3 Colony Cone. •' counts (('.FU / g) 1 6 3 23 14 } I 1 1 4 1 i 1 5 1 7 i 6 3 6 9 6 7 5 Total: Total: 117, 63, 31, 7 2 10 40 5 2 2 7 2 2 9 2 12 2 14 17 10 5 10 14 10 it 8 p.4 P&K Report No.: 110901-54 Page 4 p & K Microbiology Services, Inc. Bulk Dust Samples _ -- — —T--- Cone.'• TYercentage" j Wei i Medium Dilution Fungal /Bacterial lU Colony r I Sample ID 8h-- countc (CFU / g) (%) ! used (g) used factor Fungi ----- .I 0.141 I MEA I IOOX Altemaria alternata 4 2,8371 8 16 (Aspergillus niger i I I 709 2 709 2 (Aspergillus parasiticus I Aureobasidium pullulans 4 2 8371 8 I 709 2 Chaetornium globosum t (Cladosporium 1G 11'3481 3U i Curvularia Iunata 4 I 2,837 8 j IUrechslerapuac 2 1,418 4 1FiNarlllrn sp. 1 709 2 Penicillium 9 6 783 17 Ulocladium botrytis 2 1,418 4 yeasts S 5,674 15 'total: 37,589 Bacterin 7 81,41 14 'ISA I640X Bacillus 8 Flavobucterium 2 23?62 4 .I _ •gram negative bacteria 4 46,5258 hlethylobacterium 9 104,681 IS Micrococcus luteus 4 46,5251 8 Micrococcus roscuo 1 11,6311 2 Pseudomonas sp. non aeruginosa 2 23,262 4 i Rhodococcus 6 93,050 16 •Shewanella putrefaciens I O 116,312 20 (Staphylococcus i 23,262 4 I otaC 569,929 7 0.063 MEA 1640X !Acremonium striccum 1 26,032 7 j Almmaria altemata 1 26,0321 7 Aureobasidium pullulans 1 26,032 7 Cladosporium 4 104,127 27 i I ;Fusarium oxysporum 1 26,032 7 1 Rhodotorula glutinis I I 26,032 7 yeasts 6 156,190 40 Total: 390,476 i Bacteria TSA 1640X Bacillus 9 234,286 20 gram negative bacteria and others 5 130,159 it 5• tethylobacterium 2 52,063 4 Rhodococcus I 3 78,095 7 i Shewanellaputrefaciens 16 416,508 36 1 (Staphylococcus 10 260,317 22 Total: 1,171,429 �. • Percentage of each group of fungi /bacteria in total population. Concentration is (CFU/Sarrq)le) if sample amount is NA. Media types: Cellulose agar (CA), Cupck cellulose agar (CCA), cornmeal agar (CMA), 2% malt extract agar (MEA), 2% nutit extract agar plus 20% sucrose (MEA+S), inhibitory mold agar (IMA), Pseudomonas isolation agar (PIA), rose bengal agar (RBA), sabountud dextrose agar (SDA), tryptic say agar (TSA), nutrient agar (NTA), Blnnd agar (BA), Stapbylococcus Medium 110 (Stuphy). The detection limit of fungal and bacterial analysis using cut him methods is one colony. 'the quantitation limits vary from analysis to analysis and from processing procedure to processing procedure. Can tact us lu determine your quantitation limits. P&K KeportNo.: 110901-54 Page 5 .,^^. P & K Microbiology Services, Inc. I/1 ppprovedby:------------�-'�' Chin S. Yang, Ph.D., Microbiologist Quality control checked by:_— p.5 Nov -2G-01 11:40A 11emll-h 5imt- Associates 714-220-2001 P.01 ra1t1>t ,� eienee titi[)C'l�lte LABORATORY REPORT Report Number : 120756 STEPHEN HUFF Date ReCelVed : 21-NOV-01 Purchase Order : M1120191 445 WESTGARFIELDNAMlS OE tl Date Completedd MOV-NOV-01 External No. GLENDALE CA 91204 Page 1 of 4 sample Description : ( 6 ) SURFACE SWLES ON FROSTED TAPE Analysis Requested : Microscopical Fiber/Particle Characterization Method of Analysis : Samples were mounted on microscope slides in lactophenol-cotton blue, cargille 1.550 ED refractive index liquid and other refractive index liquids as needed. Observdtions were made using stereoscopic and compound microscopes, the latter equipped for bright field and polarized light applications at 100x - 1000x magnification and dispersion staining at loox magnification. Optical properties when required for characterization were determined by the Parke line or dispersion staining metbod. Results : Fiber/particle types observed are listed for each sample in descending order of relative abundance. Fiber/particle abundance percentages are based on visual estimates, (263360) Sample No. : 2 (263361) sample consisted of particuldles and loose fibers. 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remnants) ..................................... 45$ 2) Cellulose fibers (cotton) ................................................... 161 3) Cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper products .............. 141 4) Organic. detritus (partially decomposed organic material) .................... 51 5) Calcite Grains.............................................................. 51 6) Synthetic fibers ............................................................ 31 7) Resinous flakes/particles ............. ............................I.......31 E) Soot (carbonaceous combustion products) ..................................... 21 9) Fibrous glass wltn resinous binder adhering ...............................•. i1 10) Quartz grains........................................................... 1! 11) Funyal spores............................................................... <1$ 12) Plant starch grain......................................................... <11 13) Pollen grains............................................................... <11 7.4) OncharactPrized particulates .............................................. <1$ 15) clay agglomerates...........................................................<11 161 Glue/adhesive particles..................................................... <11 sample consisted of particulates and loose fibers. 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remnants) 2) Calcite yrains.............................................................. 3) Cellulose fibers (cotton) ................................................... 4) cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper products .............. 5) Organic detritus (partially decomposed organic material) .................... 6) Resinous flakes/particles................................................... 7) Synthetic fibers............................................................ 10771 trtwl St.. Lorz Al:unlrnc. (:A 90730 This report perwins only to the samples investigated and does t (pr thu exclusive use of the client to whom it is eddremed. puTuxes wrthuut wrdttn aunlJn)Onon is pmhihited. 401 151 141 131 51 41 21 Ihmined tuntichy Nov -2G-01 11:4SA IlealtFt Science Associates 714-220-2001 Ctl�t�l cience titil►l'llite Report Number : 120756 LABORATORY REPORT Page 2 of 4 P.02 Results : Fiber/particle types obacrved are listed for each sample in descending order of ralative ahnllftra. Fiber/particle abundanec poreontages are basod on visual estimates. 9anplm No. 2 (Cont) (263361) e) Fibrous glass with resinous binder adhering ................................. It 9) Soot (carbonaceous combustion products) ..................................... 18 lo) tvgal hyphae............................................................... <18 11) Mica rlakes................................................................. <lt 12) Plant starch grain......................................................... (it 13) Quart; clrainS ...................................................... <lt 14) uncharacterized particulates ................................................ <11 15) Thermoplastic resin/xerographic toner particles ............................. <11 :16) Clay agglomerates.......................................................... <11 Sample No. : 3 saeple consisted of particulates and loose fibers. (263362) 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remlants)..................................... 35t 2) Cellulose fibers (cotton) .................................................. tat 3) Cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper products ............ 16% 4) Synthetic fibers........................................................... 51 5) Organic detritus (partially decomposed organic material) .................... 51 6) Thermoplastic resin/xerographic toner particles ........................... 48 7) Resinous flakes/particles.....................................6............. 43 8) Calcite grains.............................................................. 38 It 9) Soot (carbonaceous combustion products) ..................................... 10) Plant starch grains........................................................ it 11) Quartz grains............................................................... It 12) Glue/adhesive particles..................................................... It 13) Mita flakes................................................................ It 14) Fungal spores............................................................ <12 15) Ink pigment particles....................................................... <lt 16) Paint chips................................................................. <lt 17) Pollen grains............................................................... <18 18) Animal hair................................................................. <lt <lt 19) Uncharacterized particulates .............................................. 20) Fibrous glass with resinous binder adhering ................................ <38 21) Paper fragments............................................................. <lt 10771 IJnal tit., Lo: Al❑miMA. CA 90720 714/2211-3i22 Fax 714/220.2081 a -mail hsa(ahcallllDCl2nCa.rnm This report poMins only to the sample% investigated and time mat necessarily apply to other apparently identical or similar materiels. 71is report is wbmitwd fur the exduxive u.c of the diene to whom it is addressed. Any reproduction of this report or use or this Laboratory's name for adveritstng or publicity pr.yro>,. ridmw ..;m,, ..d.... b.u.,.. 1. 1.,., 1`1ov-2G-01 11:49A Ilealtli Ammociate5 714-220-2001 P.03 CAlth eienee 98OcititC LABORATORY REPORT Report Number : 120756 Paye 3 ur 4 Results : Fiber/particle types observed are listed for each sample in descending order of relative abundance. Fiber/particlo abundance percentages are based on visual estimataa. Sample No. : 4 Sample consisted of particulates and loose fibers. (263363) 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remnants) ..................................... 503 2) Cellulose fibers (cotton).......................................I...........1411 3) Cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper products .............. 121 4) organic detritus (partially decomposed organic material) .................... 51 5) Resinous flakes/particlss................................................... 51 6) Calcite grains............................................................ 51 7) Synthetic fibers .............................................. I ... I ..... I... 24 1Z 8) Plant starch grains......................................................... 9) Soot (Carbonaceous combustion products) ..................................... 11 10) Mica flakes................................................................. <lt 11) Quartz grains ..................................................... I ......... .lt 12) uncharacterised particulates................................................<11 13) Thermoplabtle resin/xerographic toner particles ............................. 411 14) Clue/adhesive particles..................................................... x11 aple No. 5 Sample consisted of particulates and lnasa fibers. (263364) 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remnants).........................I...........441 2) Cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper products ..............161 3) Cellulose fibers (cotton)...................................................151 ...... ....... 4) Calcite grains .............................................................. fit 5) Organic detritus (partially decomposed urydtic material) .................... 51 6) Resinous fldkeS/polticles.............................................. I.... 31 7) synthetic fibers............................................................ 21 a) Mica flakes................................................................. 1t 9) soot (carbonaceous combustion prnducts).....................................it 10) Plant starch grains......................................................... 11 11) Quartz grains............................................................... It 121 Fungal spores............................................................... (it <11 13) Pollen grains............................................................... <lt 14) Uncharacterized particulates ................................................ (it 15) Fibrous glass With resinous binder adhering ................................. 16) Plastic shavings/chipb...................................... I ............... Olt (it 17) Clue/adhesive particles..................................................... Io771 KocI St., Los Atarnitus. CA 90720 714220-3922 Pam 714m0-2081 a -mail hsaCd'hrdthxicnce.cum This report pertains only to the sampler investigated and does not necessarily apply to other apparently idemical or similar materials. This report is submitted 6+r the uclusiV< Usc or the dicm w whom It Is addresseJ. Any rcpmdudon nr thir repun m sass ur this r .r.Vulusy's hNuq Wt 9"W 611% ha VUtP1;eity pu � evs wiNeut written ewhernati �>n i+ pmhibaeJ. Nov -2G-01 11:49A Ileaaltlh Seieat�ee ASaoeiates 714-220-20©1 ealth cxence ssoc110 Report Number : 120756 10 0-1-TeNtwily 119) WA Page 4 of 4 P.04 Results : Fiber/particlo types observed aro listed for each sample in descending order of relxtive xhundmco.. Fiber/particlo abundance percentages are haled on visnal estimates. Sample No. 6 Sample consisted of particulates and loose fibers. (263365) 1) Dander (animal epidermal cell remnants) ..................................... 49% 2) Cellulose fibers (I;oltuo)................................................... 171 3) Cellulose fibers and fiber fragments typical of paper producte .............. 151 4) Organic detritus (partially decomposed organic material) .................... 5t 5) Calcite grains.............................................................. 51 6) Resinnus flakes/particles................................................... 41 7) Synthetic fibers............................................................ 21 8) Mica flakes................................................................. 11 9) Soot (carbonaceous combustion products) ..................................... it 10) Plant starch grains......................................................... <1t 11) Quarts grains............................................................... <1% LL) uncharacterlZed particuldles................................................ <11 8emarks : Sample(s) and sampling data as provided by : STEPHEN HUFF i California ELAP No.: 1406 analyzed Am Accreditation No.: 172 PLN supervisor, Donald R. Bissing, PhD NvLAP Accreditation No.: 101384 AIHA ELLAP Accreditation No.: 10985 Technical Apprvval: LACSD Lab No.: 10125 Laboratory Director, Jaime Steedman -Lyda 10771 M1txl tit., j.os Alamitos, CA 90720 7[4/220-3922 Fax 714/220.2081 e-mail hsaCilhtalthccienre.cnm This report pertains only w the aamplae investigated and does not necessarily apply to other apparently identical or stroller =[crisis. 'Ibis report is submItO r the eacluaive use r the alieut 1. rlww it is ddw••ed. A,.y rap.nauc Gnn ar ihla report or use or this L boratary's time hr ad,.Mia:ns or peblWity p.po..a e.iihmn m.iusn nurh n�aru.n A prnhih:MA p.1 P & K Microbiology Services, Inc. Tel: 856-489-0455 Fax: 856,4894085 The Environmental Microbiology Specialists 7 Allison Drive, Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003 Client: Machado Environmental Corporation, Glendale, CA Project ID: Santa Clarita Date sampled: November 14, 2001 Date of inoculation: NA Samples submitted By: Stephen Huff Date characterization completed: November 27, 2001 P&K ReportNo.: 111601-11 Bulk Dust Samples ID Mite Allergen (Der f I) Mite Allergen (Der p 1) Concentration* BDL BDL 2 Mite Allergen (Der f l) BDL Mite Allergen (Der p 1) BDL 3 Mite Allergen (Der f I) - ADI. Mite Allergen (Der p 1) BDL • RDI. = Relow detection limits. Coekronch Allergen (Bla e l) [slit uniU9. Detection limits: Der p t & Der f 1:0.01 ugtg; Feld 1: 0.013 ug/g; Can f1: 0.01 ug/g: Bla g I: 0.01 unit/g. Approved by: _ Chet g W".l7., M crobiologist Quality control checked by: ' Appendix References :.r S M A C N A IAQ PITFALLS In Occupied Buildings Undergoing Construction -� ..Z .. !-� 4..,i w.,.. -.T. t..s.ti :r e. ,'.sd-_ ✓ s:;Ji. (.>-cc},3, i �. i.., t'.�i Trouble lurks when a building's xuac system is used to provide heating during construc- tion or renovation. ome type of climate control is of- ten needed when a building is be- ing built or renovated. Cold weather construction or renovation, in particular, usually requires sonic kind of innovative heating to keep the job moving and enable construction dead- lines to be met. This heating is typically provided by bringing in temporary heating equip- ment, or by using the buildings exist- ing HVAC system. Both solutions have pros and cons. For example, consider indoor air quality (1AQ) issues. Most temporary heating equipment uses fuel such as natural gas, propane, or kerosene, all of which can produce a combination of potentially dangerous gases (e.g., carbon monoxide) and a va- riety of irritants. IAQ problems may result when these gases are 111111R® not completely vented outside TABLE 1 the buildiDEMOLITION DANGERS A building's permanent HVAC equipment, when used to pru- These materials may release air pollutants during vide climate control during ren- demolition: ovation, is often the primary Roofing Drywall pathway for air pollutants. If not Flooring Pabit properly vented or contained, Masonry Ductwork pollutants from the renovation Concrete Insulation site Call elrelllntetothe rest Ofl!ie Plaster Ceiling Panels air supply and may contaminate adjacent zones. SanrCC: SMACNA In addition, using a new building's permanent heating equip- ment during construction may void the manufacturer's warranty, since the equipment will be operating continu- ously without temperature control. This can cause excessive wear and tear and shorten its life span. Identify the Sources Understanding the sources of air pol- lutants in buildings under construction is essential to knowing what steps will mitigate IAQ problems. First, identify the sources of airborne contaminants. They generally originate from construction activities as follows: • The disturbance of building materi- als during repair or demolition. Dust particles from construction activities are typically airborne during initial work, then settle out on nearby sur- faces, only to become airborne again during later activities such as cleaning. Occasionally, repair or demolition work will also expose odorous material or microbial contamination such as mold growth (see Table 1). • Odors or dust originate from prod- ucts used in the construction process. These include coatings, adhesives, building materials which are applied wet, cleaning agents, etc. (see Table 2). • Equipment used in the construction process may emit combustion prod- ucts, volatile organic compounds, and dust (see Table 3). • Pollutants may originate from the disruption of building systems. For ex- ample, accumulated dust may be re- leased when ductwork is disturbed, the system's air volume is increased, or fans are cycled off and on during renovation. • Pollutants can be released from waste construction materials while they're being stored or transported. Dust, mold spores, or volatile materials are often intermixed within waste con- struction materials. How do contaminants move 1111111181111 through buildings? Pollutants primarily move around through the HVAC system in one of three ways: 1. Through return grilles. 2. Through the mechanical room. 3. Through fresh air intakes, if they're located near construction exhaust or outside emission sources. Pollutants tend to migrate crani pressurized areas (more supply than return/exhaust) SEPI FAMCK i'J96/cgNl"RAC(IN0 BUSINESS 5.1 S M A C R A 1 9 9 6 to areas which are under neg- ative pressure (snore re- TABLE2 turn/exhauetthan supply). CAUSES FOR CAUTION Contaminants may remain detectable after the original DURING CONSTRUCTIO source emissions have cleared, These products may release air pollutants during and then accumulate in sites construction: remote from their point of ori- gin. For example, dust can BUILDING MATERIALS collect in the ducts, and odors Concrete and treatments Roofing can stick to surfaces (espe- Drywall Insulatin drally porous materials). Such y sites are considered sinks Epoxy Flooring Cove base (points of accumulation) Wood (including pressed and treated) which can release these pollu- tants back into the air at a later time. Paint and stains Grouting Occasionally, construction Glazingcompound Acid finish emissions may also impact Caulking Adhesives public areas outside the build- Architectural coatings and sealants ing or be drawn into the HVAC systems of adjacent facilities. FURrNISHINGS How do renovation activi- Carpeting Other flooring ties and their resultant air- Wall coverings Partitions borne contaminants impact Furniture (including natural, pressed, and building occupants? Since oc- laminated wood) cupant exposure to air pollu- tants from construction activ- SOLUTIONS ity tends to be brief, the result Solvents Fuels is generally acute rather than Cleaningagents Pesticides chronic health problems. Com- mon symptoms include irrita- Source: SMACNA tion of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, _ and nausea. Renovation activities can also cause temporary reductions in comfort or productivity when construction work disrupts HVAC systems and generates noise that interferes with occupant activities. N Control Measures Several control methods can be used to maintain good [AQ during construc- tion or renovation in an occupied building. Each method should be con- sidered to identify the most effective and most efficient approaches for each particularjob. In general, the choices involve: • Containing the work area • Modifying HVAC operation • Reducing source emissions Intensifying housekeeping Rescheduling work hours • Relocating occupants. As far as the HVAC system it- self, specific protection re- quirements generally apply to either the return side, central filtration, or supply side of the system. All HVAC equipment must be protected from collect- ing dust and odors. The return side of an HVAC system is under negative pressure, and thus is ca- pable of drawing in nearby construc- tion dust and odors. When possible, the entire system should be shut down during heavy construction or demolition. All return system openings in and/or adjacent to construction area should be sealed with plastic. When the system mist remain op- erational during construction, tempo- rary filters should be added where necessary (e.g., on grilles or the re - turn air shaft). All filters must receive frequent peri- odic maintenance and be re- placed at enc{ of project. In addition, make sure that the mechanical room is never used to store construction or waste material. Central filtration efficiency should be upgraded when major dist loading is ex- pected to impact an operating HVAC system. Where other control options for construc- tion -related odors are not deemed effective, considera- tion may be given to filtration with media such as activated charcoal or potassium per- manganate. Supply ducts and dif- fusers should be inspected upon completion of the work for the amount of de- posited particulate present, and cleaned where needed. If significant dust deposits are observed in the system during construction, some particulate discharge can be expected during start-up. When such a discharge is only minor, delaying reoc- cupancy long enough to clean tip the dust may be sufficient. In more severe cases, in- stalling temporary coarse filters on diffusers or cleaning the ducts may be necessary. The condition of the main filters should be checked whenever visible particulates are discharged from the system. Cleaning the ducts and associated equipment should be considered during renovation when either an old system with pre-existing dust build-up must be rehabilitated or a clean system becomes contaminated due to inadequate protection during TABLE 3 BE AWARE OF EQUIPMENT EMISSIONS Construction equipment which produces air pollutants: GASOLINE / DIESEL POWERED LPG A Generators Conveyor Forklift Saw Pressure washer ' : Portable Compressors ' Motor vehides Pitch kelt Welder Scrabbler Forklift Mixer Troweling machine Source: 5MACNA ND OTHER GASES Cutting torch heater Welder le Soldering gun circle So onreaeer service card Sb CONTRACTING OCSINESS;'SEf I1l%!G_, I� \ ly>d JIVIAUNA lyyb IF YOU'D LIKE TO KNOW MORE ... Much of the information provided in this article has been condensed by Mr. La from IAQ Guidetincs for Occu- pied Buildings Under Construction, published by the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' Na- tional Association, Inc. (S%IACNA). The manual provides guidance for dealing with the IAQ-related health impact on building occupants dur- ingbuilding demolition, renovation, or construction. It covers the sources of air pollutants, control measures, how to manage the tAQ process, quality control and documentation, and communication with occupants, and provides example projects, ta- bles, references, resources, and checklists. List price is $66. To order this manual, call SYIACNA at 703/803- 2959, or fax credit card orders to 703/803.3732. the construction process. Building owners will expect assurances that the dust is effectively removed and contained, so highly specialized equipment and professional exper- tise are needed to perform a proper duct cleaning. In the final analysis, there are sev- eral problems that can crop up when a building's heating system is used during construction or renovation ac- tivities. The two problems of greatest concern are tAQ issues and possible voiding of the HVAC equipment's warranty. Nell -informed and conscientious contractors can mitigate most of the [AQ -related problems, but it's still wise to consider using rental heating equipment for temporary heating to preserve the equipment's warranty, and to reduce the amount of HVAC system maintenance you'll need to perform at the end of the project. If this option is chosen, however, be sure to completely vent any fua,cs the temporary heating equipment may generate. 0s Tu V. La is engineering manager of CSrVi Mechanical, Inc., Melrose Park, IL, a full senuice arechonical contractor signatory to both the street metal and pipe fitters uniwrs in Cook, Dupage, and surrounding Coun- ties in Illinois since 1914. He rtiny be reacbed at 647/451-7700. FIBERGLASS Fiberglass is — quite simply — strands of glass. The form of it known as glass wool is made of fine strands and is the insulating material most commonly used in buildings — in walls, ceilings, and ventilation systems. Probably everyone working in the heating and cooling industry is familiar with the itchy properties of fiberglass. But, now a lot of scary things are being said about it. Fiberglass is on the Proposition 65 list of "chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer", and the U.S. government has re-classified it as a possible cancer-causing substance. Medically, fiberglass is recognized as an irritant to skin, eyes, and upper respiratory systems. Rashes, sinus headaches, coughing, conjunctivitis are common effects of exposure to large quantities. The good news is that these effects normally disappear after a while once the exposure has been eliminated. Fiberglass contamination of HVAC systems A major source of fiberglass contamination in buildings is through HVAC systems. Nearly all ventilation systems have fiberglass exposed to the air stream. Over a period of some years, that liner deteriorates and particles flake off into the air stream. The particles are then blown into occupied spaces, are breathed in by the occupants, get on their skin and into their eyes. Often, fiberglass is highly visible in the form of clumps, and sometimes whole sheets, of fiberglass laying in registers, on re -heat coils, etc., where it then also blocks the air flow. If there are epidemics of eye irritation, fiberglass is one of the first suspects. If you can look up at a supply vent and see pieces of fiberglass caught in the vent, there's it problem. Also, if people come into an office in the morning and find fibrous debris on desks below vents, that is usually fiberglass. Even if fiberglass isn't a serious threat to health, it certainly can be unpleasant and annoying and can affect people's productivity. So unquestionably it is worthwhile to pay attention to and to minimize people's exposure. E Mechanical Ventilation (§121(6)2 and (d)) Mechanical outdoor ventilation must be provided for all spaces normally used by humans that are not naturally ventilated. In the discussion that follows, the term ventilation air is interchangeable with 'outdoor ventilation' or 'outdoor air.' Supply air means the total amount of air supplied to a space, and includes both recirculated and outdoor air. Each space requiring mechanical ventilation shall be provided with outdoor air at a design rate that is the greater of either Table 4-2 or of the two methods listed below. Table 4-1a: Minimum Ventilation Rates Type of Use CFM / SF Conditioned Floor Area Auto Repair Workshops 1.50 Barber Shops 0.40 Bars, Cocktail Lounges, and Casinos 1.50 Beauty Shops 0.40 Coin -Operated Cry Cleaning 0.30 Commercial Dry Cleaning 0.45 High Rise Residential Per UBC Section 1205 Hotel Guest Rooms ( < 500 sO 30 CFM per Guest Room Hotel Guest Rooms ( > or = 500 sl) 0.15 Retail Stores 0.20 Smoking Lounges 1.50 All Others 0.15 1. The conditioned floor area of the space, multiplied by the applicable outdoor ventilation rate from Table 4 -la. 2. 15 cfm per person, multiplied by the expected number of occupants. For spaces with fixed seating (such as theaters and auditorium), the expected number of occupants shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 10 of the UBC. For spaces without fixed seating, the expected number of occupants shall be assumed to be no less than one-half the maximum occupant load assumed for exiting purposes in Chapter 10 of the UBC. IMECH11 Table 4-1 b shows typical occupant loads for various maximum density and upon which minimum ventilation calculations should be based. Each space conditioning system must provide outdoor ventilation air as follows: I. For a space conditioning system serving a single space, the required system outdoor air flow is equal to the design outdoor ventilation rate of the space. 2. For a space conditioning system serving multiple spaces, the required outdoor air quantity delivered by the space conditioning system must be not less than the sum of the required outdoor ventilation rate to each space. Note, however, that the Standards do not require that each space actually receive its calculated outdoor air quantity (§ 121(6)2 Exception.) Instead, the actual supply to any given space may be any combination of recirculated air, outdoor air, or air transferred directly from other spaces, provided: a. The total amount of outdoor air delivered by the space conditioning system(s) to all spaces is at least as large as the sum of the space design quantities b. Each space always receives a supply airflow, including recirculated air and/or transfer air, no less than the calculated outdoor ventilation rate c, When using transfer air. none of the spaces from which air is transferred has any unusual sources of contaminants The concept of transfer and/or recirculated air is very important, because it allows a single space conditioning system to serve areas requiring different fractions of outdoor air in their supplies. Rather than establishing the outdoor ventilation rate on the basis of the zone requiring the highest outdoor air fraction, this exception allows the ventilation rate to be based on the average required by all spaces served by the system. Required ventilation rates for a two -space building are illustrated in Example 4-5. When each space is served by a separate constant volume system, the 4-12 March 1, 1996 Nonresidential Manual Table 4-2: Required Minimum Ventilation Rate Per Occupanq' MECHi 4-14 March 1, 1996 Nonresidential Manual E UBC T, bI<So.]LA CA oo,r LSre,,, Req. Vem Numbv of \'eniil cion L'BC 9..,d sao„.p.nt P,.,l,r,r CECSid +.Lf \',nfil.tinn Crav,r icoo,r Crsvd Cr.+tut U.rEuq 500 2 0.15 0.02 0.15 1 Aircraft Hangars 7.0 143 0.15 1.07 7.07 2 Auction Rooms 3) Assembly Areas (Concentrated Use) Auditoriums 7.0 143 0.15 1.07 1.07 Bowling Alleys 7,0 143 0.15 1.07 1.07 Churches & Chapels (Religious Worship) 7.0 143 0.15 -1 07 1.07 Dance Floors 7,0 143 0.15 1.07 1.07 Lobbies 7.0 143 0.15 -7.07 1.07 Lodge Rooms 7.0 143 0.75 1.07 1.07 Reviewing Stands 7.0 143 0.75 1.07 1.07 Stadiums 7.0 143 0.15 1.07 1.07 Theaters - All 7.0 743 0.15 1.07 1.07 Wailin Areas 3.0 333 0.15 2.50 2.50 4) Assembly Areas (Nonconcentrated Use) 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 Conference & Meeting Rooms (1) 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 Dining Rooms/Areas 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 Drinking Establishments (2) 15.0 67 1.50 0.50 1.50 Exhibit/Display Areas 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 Gymnasiums/Sports Arenas 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 Lounges & Casinos 15.0 67 1.50 0.50 1.50 Slag es 15.0 67 1.50 0.50 1.50 5) Auto Reoa it Work shops 100.0 10 1.50 0.08 1.50 6 Barber & beauty Sho s 100.0 10 0.40 0.08 0.40 71 Children's Homes & Homes for A ed 80.0 13 0.15 0.09 0.15 20.0 50 0.15 0.38 0.38 8 Classrooms 40.0 25 0.75 0.79 0.19 9 Courtrooms 50.0 20 0.15 0.15 0.15 10 Dormitories 100.0 10 0.30 0.08 0.30 11 Dr Cteanin Coin -Operated 100.0 10 0.45 0.08 0.45 12) Dr Cleaning Commercial 5 0.15 0.04 0.15 13 Garage Parking - 200.0 80.0N70. 15 0.09 0.15 14 Hos pilals. Sanitariums. Nursin Homes 0.04 0.15 15) Hotels and Apartments 200.015 0.50 0.50 Hotel Function Area (3) 15.015 Hotel Lobby 100.015 0.08 0.15 Hotel Guest Rooms (<500 sf) 200.015 0.04 0.15 Hotel Guest rooms (>=500 sf) 200.015 0.04 0.15 Highrlse Residential - 200.0.15 0.04 0.15 200.0.15 0.04 0.15 16 Kitchen s) 50.0.15 0.15 0.15 17 Librar Locker Rooms/Exercise Room/S as 35.0.15 0.21 0.21 18 200.0.15 0.04 0.15 79Manufacturing 300.0.15 0.03 0.15 20 Mlechanical Equi men, Room 0.21 0.27 21 Nurseries for Children . Da Care 35.0.15 22) Offices 700.0 10 0.15 0.08 0.15 011ice Bank/Financial Institution I 100.0 10 I0.15 _ .0.08 0.75 Medical & Clinical Care 100.0 10 0.75I 0.08 I 0.15 23 Retail Stores See Stores 50.0 20 0.15 0.15 0.15 24 School Shops & vocational Rooms 0.15 25)' Skating Rinks 50.0 20 67 0.15 0.15 V. 0.50 0.50 On Deck 15 .0 26) Stores Retail Sales, Wholesale Showrooms 30.0 33 0.20 0.25 0.25 33 0.20 0.25 0.25 Grocery _ 30.0 33 0.20 0.25 0.25 ).falls, Arcades. & Atria 50.0 20 0.15 0.15 0.15 27) Swimming Pools 15.0 67 0.15 0.50 0.50 On Deck 300.0 3 0.15 .0.03 0.15 28) Warehouses 300.0 3 0.15 0.03 0.15 Stora a/Stockrooms 100.0 10 0.15 0.08 0.15 29) All Others --Including Unknown 100.0 10 0.15 0.06 0.15 Corridors, Restrooms, & Support Areas 0.15 0.06 0.15 Commercial & Industrial Work 100.0 10 oC notes: I) Convention, Conference, Meeting Rooms 2) Bars. Cocktail & Smoking Loungcs, Casinos 3) Sec Conference Rooms or Dining Rooms MECHi 4-14 March 1, 1996 Nonresidential Manual E TITLE 8 GENERAL INDUSTRY SAFETY ORDERS § 5142 5142. Mechanically Driven Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems to Provide Minimum Building Ventilation. (a) Operation: (1) The HVAC system shall be maintained and operated to provide at least the quantity of outdoor air required by the State Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 2, California Administrative Code, in effect at the time the building permit was issued. (2) The HVAC system shall be operated continuously during working hours except: (A) during scheduled maintenance and emergencyrepafne (B) during periods not exceeding a total of 90 hours per calendar year when a serving electric utility by contractual arrangement requests its customers to decrease electrical power demand; or (C) during periods for which the employer can demonstrate that the quan- tity of outdoor air supplied by nonmechanical means meets the outdoor air supply rate required by (a) (1) of this section. The employer must have avail- able a record of calculations and/or measurements substantiating that the re- quired outdoor air supply rate is satisfied by infiltration and/or by a nonmechanically driven outdoor air supply system. (b) Inspection and Maintenance: (1) The HVAC system shall be inspected at least annually, and problems found during these inspections shall be corrected within a reasonable time. (2) Inspections and maintenance of the HVAC system shall be documented in writing. The employer shall record the name of the individuals) inspecting and/or maintaining the system, the date of the inspection and/or maintenance, and the specific findins and actions taken. The employer shall ensure that such records are retained for at least five years. (3) The employer shall make all records required by this section available for examination and copying, within 48 hours of a request, to any authorized re re- sentative of the Division (as defined in Section M), to any employee ofthe employer affected by this section, and to any designated representative of said employee of the employer of acted by this section. NOTE: Authority cited:5ection 1429, Libor Code. Reference Section 142.9, Labor Code. HISTORY: 1. New section filed I --E7: effective thirtieth day &,ermfter (Register df, No. 2). Foe history of former section, see Register 73, No. 29. n n H� i� 3 0 >S C 'd E p RR u nz 0, � v u n T 0 fi n• O, N R % .nn. r Y n 0EEi v �� c c �. p o f• _ ❑ v C Ej H 3 a 3 0 o a �� o Yit � � on3 3 y cin ^a n.. � ;oY £yY3 ^ o y 2 E O C O r n co H "QS.a°a w m C = n G . ^. c » :. O n n a n H. $ rn g• w° n = S. J Y n oz R. °^T ,a n a•°1—°='3 �m—:•. o CL � '� a ;: � � '_, o a =' "a <" �..... � � N n. a •� ,� c °, = ^O d ELQfi ^ O T O n• n' o. 3 0 g. E, f, v n. • 3 3 ^ � � n n H� i� 3 0 3 F 0 tln o n n 3 °.G �0� O d. H 4. C H `y-G o `a •om 3 GLS p_ a n o o c j• h .o O. p l J M /Hi, r. to 0 52 � m°_ O.. n i1 Win-• H S UOOC O n 7 ^ ° Cgj L aU'C1<o_fH 3 cam- O �'_Hcv'' En o n w Cn s tai c S02- _nn ZZ O 01 O aq o � Y 01 O n�P c O o p o T 3 F �? H 0 0 n°0•a F- y 3 H n u •a "l. a. n •c (A 0 0 c o �? H 0 0 n°0•a 0 - w One no _ a � o O x E°o r r o � u v HC', o p 'u �� b E� n '' n n� j'^ G H• a 3 n n n o 'u o n ❑.� j v .� G. " u r n � ^ E N o z n n` v K _ � CA 70 r- PC `t v n S nT O=E< N 'a dnc 'O x ^ n QQ �G � -� 3 E F• y � E I V q (A O Z. w o. � a � � y o y 80 d O �? v O C � �' £ A pT <• 0 _ N a"'n�—oF o.. YRS 7r -a �„2a','—,•o., O O n ^ d E n'c y T n c 7 H C� 7, ❑ v O n r. � O- � �� � 'r. O a � 6. O C.. 7 r O ^. •Q .O > 1 F O � y. 'T n O £ T C •! C❑ n H O •'' C. ^ � ^ x•00 y � ;n � ; ^ -`•� 0 0; �- �, = m � n0. n � . v a n T Z n w 9 -74 = N =0 2 q o 4 0£ ny`�• Gm a Spg b.. o n n a'Q _. � �. •• O -n � O d � v'c 0On S � O � �> s� s A n d C: m F 0. ':� p•aJ C � � O' O• N o_ a 'r — W O c 7 o n ° n a zi a � o a p w O n 0 T o 21 LI: 0 3 d F— n p y n n S p q• 0= p'Y O O no O o C p y �•... s a 3 8 u2.0 r p T O P A Aerotech Laboratories, Inc. MA CH tABORATORIES, INC. Pa.ae 1' of 1 Image is currently Description: Small, round spores that are indistinguishable at 600X unavailable. 45 magnification using light microscopy. They include Trichoderma and unchained spores of Aspergillus and Penicillium. http:/hvww.delis.umn.edu/fungus/myco.html insulation `, Some species can produce mycotoxins. Common cause of extrinsic asthma (immeadiate-type hypersensitivity: type I) --r_i. Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms, chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema M. Click . r .,,, for additional references. Periconia sp. - No information available, more to come. Page 6 of 8 Phoma sp. - A common indoor air allergen ;=i. It is similar to the early stages of growth of Chaetomium sp. The species are isolated from soil and associated plants (particularly potatoes)1171. Produces pink- an purple spots on painted walls (. 1=i. It may have antigens which cross react with those of Alternaria sp. ;__'_. It will grow on butter, paint cement and rubber L-3). It may cause phaeohyphomycosis a systematic or subcutaneous disease (6). Pithomyces sp. - Grow on dead grass in pastures t__. Causes facial eczema in ruminants 11 i. Rhizomucor sp. - The Zygomycetous fungus is reported to be allergenic i _ u. It may cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals. It occupies a biological niche similar to Mucor sp. Lj-.; 1. It is often linked to occupational allergy - May cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals . The sites of infection are the lung, nasal sinus, brain, eye and skin t F i. Infection may have multiple sites Rhizopus sp. - The Zygomycetous fungus is reported to be allergenic i _ . It may cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals. It occupies a biological niche similar to Mucor sp. LLD. ; ). It is often linked to occupational allergy . May cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals it,u. The sites of infection are the lung, nasal sinus, brain, eye and skin. =. Infection may have multiple sites Rhodotorula sp. - A reddish yeast typically found in moist environments such as carpeting, cooling coils and drain pans. In some countries it is the most common yeast genus identified in indoor air This yeast has been reported to be allergenic : Positive skin tests have been reported i ii 7 i. It has colonized terminally ill patients i ii t. Saccharomyces sp. Reported to be allergenic - i. Bakers Yeast. Scopulariopsis sp. - It may produce arsine gas if growing on arsenic substrate. L)). This can occur on wallpapers covered with paris green i., ii. It has been found growing on a wide variety of materials including house dust. It is associated with type III allergy ( 17). .Serpula lata}mans - Common cause of extrinsic asthma (immeadiate-type hypersensitivity: type I) . Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms, chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema Sporobolomyces sp. - Reported to be allergenic _i. Sporothrix sp. - Can cause sporotrichosis. Usually only in populations which are immune compromised. Sporotrichum: sp. - Reported to be allergenic '__ See also Sporothrix sp. there is some taxonomic confusion between these two genera. This genera does not cause sporotrichosis. 0.94, optimum _, - >0.98 _- ). Several strains of this fungus (S. atra, S. chartarunu and S. alternans are synonymous) I i may produce a trichothecene mycotoxin- Satratoxin H - which is a poisonous by inhalation. The toxins are present on the fungal spores. This is a slow growing fungus on media. It does not compete well with other rapidly growing fungi. The dark colored fungi grows on building material with a high cellulose content and a low nitrogen content. Areas with relative humidities above 55% and are subject to temperature fluctuations are ideal for Micromenaces, meaning "little threats", is the news- letter published by P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. Articles are written by P&K staff with occasional guest writers. Fea- tured articles in the newsletter include information on fungi, ,^bacteria and biologi- :al agents that may oe found in the in- door environment. We hope that you enjoy Micromenaces. Topics in this issue: • Endotoxins in the Indoor Environment • Aspergillus sydowir & Asp. versicolor • Wallemiasebi • Botrytis cinerea Next issue: • Common Allergens in the Indoor Envi- ronment What topics would you like us to write r••gbout? Call us at (609)- v-40.14. -71 1 d - P 8o- K MICROBIOLOGY SERVICES, INC. September, 1998 The Environmental h,%Icrobioiocy Speciclists Volume 1,Issue I Micromenaces Endotoxin in the Indoor Environment By Stella Man -Chun Tsai and Chin S. Yang, Ph.D. Introduction Microbiological pollutants are major contributors to indoor au quality complaints in work, school and home environments. Among many microbio- logical contaminants in the indoor environment, Gram-negative bacteria and endotoxin are very of- ten overlooked even though many health effects of exposure are well known. Significant levels of Gram-negative bacteria are commonly detected in the buildin-s potable water system, in the HVAC system, or in any water damage. Endotoxin is the major byproduct of Gram-negative bacteria con- tamination and may be found in some blue-green algae. Endotoxin is one of the major pyrogens (see page 3 for definitions of pyrogens, endotoxins, and LPS) commonly found in the environment. Endotoxin has been known for more than 100 years. Endotoxin, often at low levels, is common in the environment. High endotoxin levels have been found in many work environments. Expo- sure to endotoxin has been demonstrated in asso- ciation with agricultural environments (animal con- finement buildings, grain and hay handling, trans- portation of animal waste, and transportation of agricultural produce), industrial environments (animal feed production, biotechnology e.g. en- zyme and antibody production, cotton processing, flax processing, laboratory animal confinement, metal -working fluids recirculated water-based flu- ids, paper production, pharmaceutical industry and wood processing), waste processing (composting, recycling, rubbish collection, sewage water treat- ment works), schools, offices and other environ- ments where humidifiers and ventilation ducts are present. Health effects of endotoria Endotoxin is fever causing and has many patho- physiological effects associated with Gram- negative bacterial infection and bacteremia. Re- 53.00 sponse to endotoxin exposure varies with dose, site, or route and rapidity of release into the blood system. Sub -lethal dose exposure causes dramatic changes in human body temperature, the hemato- logical, immune, and endocrine systems, and me- tabolism. Lethal doses can result in hypotension, irreversible shock, and death. The importance of endotoxin is such that the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulations regarding endotoxin in parenteral (injectable) pharmaceuti- cal products The inhaled endotoxin has been associated with many pulmonary diseases. Endotoxin has been thought to be responsible for the adverse health effects after inhalation of organic dusts. Some inhalation studies showed that endotoxin can cause fever, cough, diffuse aches, nausea, short- ness of breath & chest tightness, acute air flow obstruction, and airway inflammation. Endotoxin exposure may also result in low lung function. On the positive side, endotoxin can stimulate the immune system (i.e. the adjuvant effects). A re- cent study suggested that the adjuvant effects of endotoxin may have an important role in allergic sensitization. In the indoor environment, chest tightness, mild fever, and flu-like symptoms experienced by building occupants may be associated with endo- toxin exposure. Endotoxin has been implicated in the so-called "Monday Morning Syndrome," which is characterized by occupants experiencing chest tightness, fever, and flu-like symptoms on Monday or other days when occupants return after an absence. Individuals may develop endotoxin fever tolerance after repeated exposures. It is critically important to remember and under- stand that many biological agents (such as fungi, 11. Stenotrophomonasmaltophiliaand Acinetobacter species Both Stenotrophomonas maltophtlia .and Acinetobacter species are gram-negative bacteria. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was formerly classified in the genus Pseudomonas. They are widely distributed in nature, particularly moist and wet conditions. Therefore, they are commonly found in water damaged environments. Both have been associated with nosocomial (hospital acquired) infections. 12. Gram negative bacteria The basic procedure to differentiate bacteria into two large groups is called gram stain. One group of bacteria is stained positive in blue (due to crystal violet dye). The other is stained negative and reddish pink (due to the safranin dye). A large number of environmental bacteria are gram negative. Their speciation is difficult and there are many gram-negative bacteria that have not been properly characterized. Gram negative bacteria are known to produce endotoxins (also known as pyrogens or fever inducers). Endotoxins are cell wall components of the gram-negative bacteria. Many gram-negative bacteria are waterborne, associated with foods, on vegetables, in soil and found in air. Acinetobacter, Aerimonas, Acetobacter, Alcaligenes, Flavobacterium, MethylobacteriurrL Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Serratia are a few gram-negative bacteria that may be isolated from environmental samples. For more information on Flavobacterium, Methylobacterium, and Pseudomonas, please see discussion above. V. Selected References: 1. Al-Doory, Yousef, and Joanne F. Domson. 1984. Mould Allergy. Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia. 2. Barron, George L. 1968. The Genera of Hyphomycetes from Soils. Williams & Wilkins Co., Baltimore. 3. Domsch, K. H., W. Gams, and Traute-Heidi Anderson. 1980. Compendium of Soil Fungi. Vol. 1. Academic Press, New York. 4. Domsch, K. H., W. Gams, and T. -H. Anderson. 1993. Compendium of soil fungi. Vol. 1 & 2. reprinted by IHW-Verlag with supplement by W. Gams. 5. Ellis, M. B. 1971. Dematiaceous Hyphomycetes. Commonwealth Mycological Institute, Kew, Surrey, England. 6. Gammage, R. B., and S. V. Kaye. 1985. Indoor Air and Human Health. Lewis Publishers,lnc., Chelsea, MI. 7. Gregory, P. H. 1973. The Microbiology of the Atmosphere. 2nd edition. John Wiley & Sons, New York. 8. Hawksworth, D. L., B. C. Sutton, and G. C. Ainsworth. 1983. Dictionary of the Fungi. Seventh Edition. Commonwealth Mycological Institute, Kew, England. 9. Holt, J. G., N. R. Krieg, P. H. A. Sneath, J. T. Staley, and S. T. Williams. 1994. Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology. 9th Edition. Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore. 10. Jarvis, B. B., Y. Zhou, J. Jiang, S. Wang, W. G. Sorenson, E. -L. Hintikka, M. Nikulin, P. Parikka, R. A. Etzel, D. G. Dearborn. 1996. Toxigenic molds in water -damaged buildings: Dechlorogriseofulvins from Memnoniella echinata. Journal of Natural Products 59(6): rapid communications. 11. Joklik, W. K., H. P. Willett, D. B. Amos, and C. M. Wilfert. 1992. Zinsser Microbiology. 20th Edition. Appleton & Lange, Norwalk, Connecticut. 12. Klich, M. A. , and J. I. Pitt. 1988. A Laboratory Guide to Common Aspergillus Species and their Teleomorphs. CSIRO Div. of Food Processing, Australia. 13. Koneman, E. W., S. D. Allen, W. M. Janda, P. C. Schreckenberger, and W. C. Winn, Jr. 1992. Color Atlas and Textbook of Diagnostic Microbiology. 4th Edition. J.B. Lippincott Co., Philadelphia. 14. Pitt, J. I.1988. A Laboratory Guide to Common Penicillium Species. CSIRO Div. of Food Processing, Australia. 15. Wang, C. J. K., and R. A. Zabel. 1990. Identification Manual for Fungi from Utility Poles in the Eastern United States. American Type Culture Collection, Rockville, MD. 16. Wilkinson, H.W. 1988. Hospital -Laboratory Diagnosis of Legionella Infections. Second revised printing. Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA. ©1996, P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. -19- The ecology of this group of bacteria is important in their spread. They are water -borne and can be aerosolized. It was found that L. pneumophila may survive as long as 139 days at room temperature in distilled water and for over a year in tap water. They can grow in hot water with temperature less than 140 °F. They grow, not just survive, in tap water in association with amoebae. The organisms can survive in aerosols and have been found as far as 200 m from the aerosol source. Proteinaceous material and extracts of blue-green algae were found to stabilize the organism in aerosols. They have been found to spread through HVAC systems when the bacteria growing in cooling tower are aerosolized and get into the air-intake system. Recent research suggests that the bacteria are in a symbiotic relationship with a variety of protozoa and amoebae. The bacterium grows symbiotically inside amoebae and protozoa. The association makes treatment to rid the bacterium much more difficult. In addition to cooling water, Legionella bacteria have been isolated from potable water supplies, lakes, soils, etc. They is a very good possibility that Legionella bacteria are recovered from environmental samples. The Legionellaire's diseases affects mostly smokers, transplant patients, elderly and immuno- deficient people. Pontiac fever is considered a milder form of the disease caused by Legionella bacteria. As indicated by the name, fever is the main symptom of the Pontiac fever. This disease is not considered lethal. Legionella bacteria are fastidious microbes, and can be isolated with a selective medium which is incubated at 35-37°C. Treatment of samples briefly with acid or with elevated temperature was found to increase recovery of the bacterium. Legionella pneumophila has fourteen serotypes at this time. Serotyping is useful in tracing the source of infection. Monoclone antibody typing, direct immunofluorescence staining, and slide agglutination test(SAT) are the primary methods to speciate and sub -speciate Legionella bacteria. Unfortunately, many of the reagents required to perform these tests are not available commercially. 3. Pseudomonas This is a large group of gram negative bacteria with a very wide distribution in nature. They are common in water or in soil. Pseudomonas species have been found to colonize distilled water supplies, soaps, disinfectants, intravenous infusions and other pharmaceuticals. One species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is the third most common cause of nosocomial infections (10%) in a number of hospitals. P. aeruginosa infections occur in patients with altered immune system, traumatic wounds or burns and those who require catheterization or entubation. It also causes folliculitis and eye infections due to improperly maintained hot tubs and swimming pools. It inhabits water, soil as well as skin of some normal individuals. Its main transmission route is generally considered as by contact. Other species of Pseudomonas, such as P. fluorescens, P. cepacia, P. maltophila, have been isolated from clinical specimens. A Pseudomonas selective medium is available for isolating and selecting. They grow well on MacConkey agar. 4. Methylobacterium & Rhodococcus This group of bacteria have been isolated from soil, dust, fresh water, lake sediments, leaf surfaces and nodules, rice grains, air, and hospital environments. They are considered as gram negative bacteria and have the ability to facultatively utilize methane. Many members of the genus were removed from the genus Pseudomonas. We have frequently seen this group of bacteria in environmental air and bulk water samples. High concentrations of this group of bacteria are commonly isolated from condensate of the HVAC system. They are slow growing, with best growth occurring on Sabouraud agar, BCYE agar, and 2% malt extract agar. Rhodococcus bacteria are also common in indoor environments. They may be found in soils and animal dungs. Our experience with this group of bacteria is similar to Methylobacterium. These two bacteria on agar media are superficially similar. The major difference between Methylobacterium and Rhodococcus is that Methylobacterium species are gram-negative rods while Rhodococcus are mostly gram -positive rods to coccobacilli. ©1996, P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. -17- 5. Flavobacterium This is another group of gram negative bacteria common in the environment. They are widely �, � i� distributed in soil and water, and have been found in raw meats, milk and other foods. They have been V isolated from hospital environment and in human clinical material. The genus Flavobacterium contains many species that are difficult to identify. Many bacteria other genera. Many food bacteriologists conveniently call the identified as Flavobacterium may belong to obacteria." Some Flavobacteriu gram-negative bacilli forming yellow colonies "flavm are proteolytic and pectinolytic. They cause spoilage in fish, fruit and vegetables. 6. Micrococcus or This group of bacteria are characterized by gram positive stain, spherical cells in pairs, tetrads, irregular clusters, but not in chains. They are strictly aerobic, catalase positive, usually grow on simple media, and produce pigmented colonies (red to yellow). They occur primarily on mammalian skin and in soil but commonly are isolated from food products and the air. In our experience, this group of bacteria are probably the most common airborne bacteria in human occupied environments. They are generally considered harmless but are useful indicators of pollution. There are a couple species commonly identified indoors. They are Micrococcus luteus & M. roseus. This group of bacteria used to be classified with Sarcina. Morphologically, these two genera are almost identical. However, Sarcina bacteria are anaerobic, catalase negative in the current classification. 7. Staphylococcus This group of gram positive cocci are mainly associated with the skin and mucous membranes o warm-blooded vertebrates but are often isolated from food products, dust and water. Some species are pathogenic (S. aureus) or opportunistically pathogenic for humans and animals. They may produce extracellular toxins. on in indoor environments. They are considered human Species of Staphylococcus are very comm associated. 8. Streptococcus cies in this genu The most well known spes of gram positive cocci is Streptococcus pneumoniae, the common pneumonia causing bacterium. They may be encapsulated. The encapsulated S. pneumoniae is the virulent strain. They require nutritionally rich media for growth. Blood enriched agar media are commonly used for isolation and identification of this genus of bacteria. They may lyse red blood cells into either greenish discoloration (a-hemolysis) or complete clearing (f3-hemolysis). They are considered as parasites of vertebrates, mainlyii habiting the mouth and upper respiratory tract. Some species are pathogenic (S. pneumoniae and P. o eves for humans and animals. We have occasionally seen Streptococcus in indoor air samples. 9. Bacillus on This group of bacteria is gram positive, spore forming, and rod shaped. They are very comm in the environment. They have been isolated dfroIndoor air, mattwip and bulk species Bacillus anthraces y are normally les present in soil and in decaying animalvegetable Of wn to cause food poisoning. There are other species anthrax in man and animals. Bacillus cereus is knois Bacillus which may cause food spoilage and disease in humans and animals. Bacillus used industrially is used in biological control for agriculturally important pests. Some Bacillus species are used industrially to produce enzymes. Bacillus spores are very resistant to chemical deatand cots. Spool re suspensiogram toons s of BP1Oper acillus subtilis are commonly used in laboratory quality assurance sterilization. 10. Shewanella putrefaciens as Pseudomonas putrefaciens and is commonly foundm This bacterial species is formally known the environment and foodstuffs. It is not a part of human flora. We have frequently isolated this species from environmental water sources. ©1996, P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. -18- • 27. Yerdcillium Nees This genus includes approximately forty species. They are widespread in the environment. Many of them are soil borne and are known plant pathogens. We have observed members of this genus associated with water damaged environment. 28. Exophiala Carmichael Exophiala species are common from plant materials, decaying wood, sewage, sludge and pulp samples. Some species are pathogenic to man (causing chromomycosis) and fish. We have frequently observed this group from insulation materials near coiling coils and drip pans in the HVAC system and from wet materials. 29. Tritirachium Limber Tritirachium species have been reported from soil. We have observed Tritirachium oryzae (syn. T. roseum) from water damaged materials, such as drywall and carpet. Other species of Tritirachium have been recovered from insulation of the HVAC system. 30. yeasts Yeasts other than Rhodotorula andSporobclomyces are not uncommon in aerospora. Some of them are rather easy to identify on the basis of colony morphology and microscopic characters, but most yeasts have to be identified using physiological and biochemical tests. It is often not cost effective to identify air -borne yeasts using laborious biochemical tests. Candida, Sacrharommes, Saccharomycopsis and Hansenula are occasionally isolated from air. The allergenicities of some yeasts are known. There are commercial allergens derived from Candida and Saccharomyces available. Other yeasts are not known to be allergenic, but they may cause problems if a person has had previous exposure and developed hypersensitivities. 31. Mycelia sterilia or sterile fungi This is a group of fungi that produce vegetative growth but yield no spores for identification. They are given a "convenient name" Mycelia sterilia, or sterile fungi. Many ascomycetes and basidiomycetes do not produce any spores in culture, and their colony morphology and microscopic characters are indistinguishable. It is apparent that the colonies are derived from sexual spores, either ascospores or basidiospores. Some mycologists have successfully used various treatments to induce spore formation for identification, but the treatments are usually time consuming and laborious. They are usually and conveniently identified as sterile fungi or Mycelia sterilia in aeromycology. Only a crude identification is given, however, the colony counts may be important if you calculate CFU/L (colony forming unit per liter of air). Their presence will increase CFU/L, and because they are derived from ascospores or basidiospores, the spores of which may be allergenic. Other fungal genera recorded in isolation from air***: Absidia* AcremortieUa, Acrophfalophora, Acrospeira, Arth&dum, Ascotricha, Beauveria, Beltrania, Blspora, Bohyotrfchum, Ceratocystis Chrysosporiurrp Cunninghamella ; Dlctyosponurrp Dipodascus" Doratomyces, Exophiala, Geotrichum, Gliomastb, Graphium, Humicola, Hya/odendron, Leptographiu� Leptosphaena*I Memnoniella, Monilia, Monodictys, Montierella* , Nigrospora, Otdiodendron, peri=ua, Eestalotia, Phialophora, Scolecobasidium, Scopulariopsis, Stephanospon=, Syncephalas&=;Thysanophora, Trichothecluap Torula, Tubercularia, Wocladium, Zygorhynchus; Zygosponum. * Mucor, Rhizopus, Absidia, Montierella,Cunninghamella, Zygorhynchus, and Syncephalastrum were grouped in the old class Phycomycetes which is now used restrictively as a trivial name. However, from the trivial name phycomycetes (phyto = algae) we can assume that this group of fungi are associated with water, moisture and high humidity. ** Chaetomium and Leptosphaeria are in the Ascomycotina. Both genera may produce ascospores and/or conidia in culture. ©1996, P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. z�.: -14- - CI