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Building Management, Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management
New Cal/OSHA Heat Regulation Guidelines
The new Cal/OSHA indoor heat regulation for California workplaces is now in effect. Understanding its requirements can help keep your company in compliance and protect the health of your workers.
For many industries, from construction to manufacturing, these rules represent a significant shift in how indoor heat risks are regulated and managed.
This article will guide you through the essentials of the regulation: when it applies, what’s required, and practical steps to implement a compliant heat illness prevention program.
Are You Exempt From the Indoor Heat Regulation?
First, let’s make sure you’re in the right place. Understanding the new California…
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Healthcare, Waterborne Pathogens
How to Meet ANSI/AAMI Water Quality for Medical Device Sterilization Standards
Water quality plays a vital role in the sterilization of medical devices. Failing to ensure the water used meets the correct purity requirements can lead to adverse patient outcomes, medical device malfunction, and increased costs.
The new ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 standard addresses this issue by enhancing the recommendations for water used in reprocessing medical devices. Hospital administrators and affected staff should understand this new standard and why it exists.
Failure to do so can not only impact patient safety but can end up costing your facility time and money. FACS is often asked to help investigate potential sources when the Sterile…
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Waterborne Pathogens
Hidden Exposures in Higher Education
Chemical exposures in laboratories, ear-splitting noise from groundskeeping equipment, and off-gassing from the newly installed building materials in offices – our colleges and universities may contain numerous environmental hazards
FACS knows the difficult task and surmountable effort required to keep buildings and classrooms reasonably free from environmental contaminants and safe for occupants. Our mission is to highlight some of the hidden sources for exposure that may not have been considered. Identifying these risks allows stakeholders to take proactive measures towards a safer learning environment for all.
Laboratory Settings: Known and Hidden Hazards
Laboratories in higher education pose unique risks compared…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, General Industrial Hygiene
California’s New Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Regulation
California’s new indoor heat illness prevention regulation is the first comprehensive law of its kind in the United States, requiring significant protective measures for workers in indoor environments where temperatures meet or exceed 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Effective immediately, this regulation mandates that employers develop an Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Plan (IHIPP) that ensures worker access to water, cool-down areas, and emergency procedures.
Key Requirements of the New Heat Illness Prevention Regulation
Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Plan (IHIPP) Employers must create a written IHIPP that can be integrated into their existing Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP) or as a standalone…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Uncategorized, Waterborne Pathogens
Cooling Towers and Legionnaires’ Disease: What Every Facility Manager Needs to Know
Cooling towers may look like they’re just another piece of equipment—humming away to help keep your facility comfortable. But what if, hidden inside the cooling tower, there’s a threat that could negatively impact your facility and the health of those around it?
Within weeks, up to 221 people were symptomatic, and 34 expired from the illness. Physicians and public health officials first thought they were dealing with a traditional form of pneumonia, but standard treatments didn’t work. CDC microbiologists identified the cause in January, 1977 — a previously unknown bacterium coined Legionella pneumophila. Water samples from the hotel’s cooling tower,…
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Wildfire
Wildfire Facts and Stats Supporting Wildfire Protection Plans in 2025
What are some of the largest wildfires in U.S. history? How might smoke from wildfires impact your health? How can you help your city create a community wildfire protection plan? You will find science-based answers to those questions and more in the following Wildfire FAQs. We’re also providing links to additional resources that can help you prepare for and protect yourself against threats from wildfire and wildfire smoke.
1) What health problems does smoke from wildfires cause?
Smoke from wildfires has been linked to respiratory issues such as asthma attacks, bronchitis, and heart disease. People who are elderly, pregnant, or …
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Building Management, General Industrial Hygiene, Indoor Environmental Quality
Top 10 Basics for Maintenance Departments to Ensure Indoor Environmental Quality
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and comfort of occupants spending time within your building — whether they are employees, customers, or visitors. And if you’re a building owner or a maintenance director, a large part of your job is to make sure your facility provides a clean, safe, and comfortable environment.
FACS IEQ experts are in the field daily working with companies just like yours to help overcome IEQ issues. Our hope is that the following ten IEQ essentials will be a valuable checklist in determining how well you are faring right now…
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Schools & Universities
Lead Hazards in Schools
Lead has historically been used in materials due to its useful properties. It prevents corrosion, kills mold and mildew, blocks radiation, blocks sound, brightens the color of paint, helps paint dry faster, and more. However, while lead is useful, it is now known to be hazardous to health.
Exposure to lead is especially harmful for children. Lead exposure in children can lead to learning disabilities, developmental delays, and many other health problems. And since school is where most children spend much of their time, we must make sure schools are not a source of lead exposure. Unfortunately, the truth is…
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Construction/General Contractor, Corporate Responsibility, Environmental Health & Safety Management, General Industrial Hygiene, Hazardous Building Materials
What Is The OSHA Updated Hazard Communication Standard? Key Changes Explained
Are you familiar with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) updated Hazard Communication Standard? This essential regulation is designed to protect workers from chemical hazards through improved communication and training. The most significant change is the adoption of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for classifying and labeling chemicals, which ensures consistent information for better safety and compliance.
The updated standard mandates that employers provide detailed hazard communication programs, including labeling, safety data sheets, and employee training. These changes help ensure that everyone in the workplace has access to clear and accurate information about the chemicals they may encounter. This…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Healthcare
Infectious Disease and Species: Level Sampling For Mold in Healthcare Settings
Sampling for Mold in Healthcare Settings
Mold in healthcare settings can pose significant health risks and liability issues. Along with an effective mold and moisture management program, consulting with an environmental health consultant to assist in evaluations will help achieve a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
This article outlines key standards and guidelines, the fundamentals of mold biology, examples of health risks of mold, sampling methods, and risk management strategies.
Standards and Guidelines
Effective mold management in healthcare settings begins with understanding and adhering to established standards and guidelines. Key documents include, but are not limited to:
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- APIC
Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Hazardous Building Materials
CAL/OSHA Lead Standards Updates: How We Got Here and Where We’re Going
2,000 years ago lead was used for piping water, minting coins, as an ingredient in cosmetics, to sweeten wines, and for many other things. Lead is malleable, durable, and abundant — all valuable properties for many products still produced today.
Unfortunately, lead is also toxic to humans.
The Roman architect, Vitruvius, warned about the negative health effects of lead in the first century BCE. Mining with lead, working with lead, drinking water from lead pipes — Vitruvius said all are hazardous and that clay is much preferred for potable sources of water. It took hundreds of years before those warnings…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Hazardous Building Materials
New MSHA Silica Rule Overview
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) recently updated its standard on respirable crystalline silica (RCS) that took effect on June 17, 2024. These changes follow extensive review of testimonies and written comments from a broad range of stakeholders.
Companies operating any mine (metal, non-metal or coal), quarries, sand, gravel, and other aggregate activities should know and apply the new requirements to remain in compliance with federal law.
Below is a summary of the major provisions in the final rule.
Key Changes under the New MSHA Silica Rule
Establishes a Uniform Permissible Exposure Limit and Action Level: The rule sets…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Indoor Environmental Quality
Heat-Related Illness in Industrial Environments: Risks and Prevention Strategies
Heat-related illnesses pose a significant threat to worker health and safety. That’s why it is essential for owners and managers to understand the causes of heat stress, recognize the types of heat-related illnesses, and be ready to implement effective prevention strategies.
This article will explore the key factors contributing to heat stress, the various heat-related illnesses, and the importance of a comprehensive heat illness prevention program. By understanding and acting on this information you may be able to prevent your workers from sustaining illness or injuries and your company from litigation due to workers compensation claims.
Factors Contributing to Heat…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
IEQ: The Rise in Concern About Indoor Environmental Quality
It was once a term used primarily by environmental scientists and government regulators, but “IEQ” (the acronym for “Indoor Environmental Quality”) is now frequently used in mainstream conversations. COVID forced us all to think more deeply about how the indoor environment promotes or detracts from the health of occupants.
In this article, we’ll discuss the fundamentals of IEQ: the factors affecting it, how IEQ concerns are triggered, and what you can do about the environmental health of your own public or commercial property.
First, though, let’s consider the term itself.
What Is the Difference Between IAQ and IEQ?
IAQ (Indoor…
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Exposure, General Industrial Hygiene
Heavy Metal Poisoning and You
Dust is everywhere. You’ll find dust in your home, your workplace, and even in your favorite restaurant. Sources of dust are abundant: clothing fibers, paper fibers, skin cells, dust mites, and more. When we walk from one place to another, we create and transport dust.
Microscopic particles that present themselves as dust buildup create the type of dust we are all familiar with. Thankfully, most dust is also fairly easy to remove. Be sure to use a dampened cloth or a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high efficiency filter, though, as dry sweeping and dry dusting are not recommended. Vacuum…
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Building Management, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
How to Pass LEED Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Testing
Healthy building certifications are in strong demand. The COVID-19 pandemic increased concern about indoor air quality, and environmental sustainability has never been more of an issue than it is today. Money spent to boost the environmental credentials of your building is an investment in the health of both your company and your people.
We’ve earlier listed and covered the most popular healthy building certifications, so in this article we will focus on just one topic: the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Assessment Credit. Our aim is to help you understand the credit and point…
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Exposure, General Industrial Hygiene, Hazardous Building Materials
Heavy Metal Poisoning: FAQs
Lead is an excellent additive for extending the durability of paint, but lead is toxic to humans. That’s why the residential use of lead-based paint was banned in the United States decades ago.
But lead is just one of a group of elements known as “heavy metals.” Your body needs some of those metals (iron, for instance) but only in trace amounts. Other metals are toxic to humans altogether. For example, there is no “safe” level of lead for human consumption. Any at all is too much. property.
That’s why the EPA and others who monitor public safety are concerned…
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Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
What Is An Air Quality Test? Essential Steps for Assessing Indoor Pollution Levels
Are you aware of the potential impact on your health from the air inside your office or workspace? Studies from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggest that indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air.
Key Takeaways
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- Air quality tests reveal unseen pollutants that can impact health.
- Professional testing measures a range of contaminants, including allergens, VOCs, and radon.
- Routine testing enables early detection and proactive solutions for cleaner indoor air.
Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure
How To Decide Which Supplied Air Respirator Is Best
Choosing a supplied air respirator (SAR) can be a stressful task. Even if you pay top dollar and shop with a trusted supplier, there’s no guarantee the SAR you choose is best for your situation.
How, then, can you confirm the supplied air respirator you buy is the best fit for your needs? That’s simple: In this article, we’ll explain what a SAR is, why you might need one (or a lot of them), and the factors to consider before making an informed decision.
Key Article Takeaways
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- SARs are critical personal protective equipment (PPE) used in environments with contaminated air
Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management
The #1 OSHA Violation and How to Avoid It
The same OSHA safety violation has topped the list for the last 13 years. In 2023, OSHA citations for that violation (fall protection) more than doubled the number of citations issued for the second-ranked safety concern (hazard communication).
Assessing your workplace or worksite risk profile and taking steps to ensure your workers comply with OSHA regulations can go a long way toward protecting both your company and your workers.
In this article, we’ll look at fall protection since it is by far the first on the OSHA violation list and the steps employers can take to lessen the likelihood of…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, General Industrial Hygiene
Are OSHA Citations Public? A Guide to Workplace Safety Records
Workplace safety impacts everyone, and awareness of potential hazards can make all the difference when choosing an employer or advocating for better working conditions.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) tracks workplace inspections, violations, and enforcement actions across industries. These records allow employees to check whether their employer follows federal safety regulations and provides a safe working environment. Access to this information ensures that businesses are held accountable and that workers have the resources to advocate for necessary safety improvements.
OSHA citations are public records available through the Department of Labor’s online database, offering transparency into a company’s safety…
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Uncategorized
Legionella and Legionnaires’ Disease: Updated FAQs
In July, 1976, a mysterious illness began to spread among guests, staff of the BEllevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia and among attendees of an American Legion Convention that had been held there. During and then following an American Legion convention at the property, severe respiratory symptoms began appearing: high fever, chest pain, and fatigue.
Within weeks, up to 221 people were symptomatic, and 34 expired from the illness. Physicians and public health officials first thought they were dealing with a traditional form of pneumonia, but standard treatments didn’t work. CDC microbiologists identified the cause in January, 1977 — a previously unknown…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Healthcare
Healthcare Construction Guidelines Under ICRA 2.0
Infection control risk assessment (ICRA) guidelines clarify the need for careful assessments of construction project activity at healthcare facilities. The ICRA guidelines are not a set of burdensome rules. They provide a framework that can help you navigate the healthcare construction process.
Healthcare construction and renovation projects tend to be more strategically demanding than other types of construction jobs. Regulations are stringent; infection control is always a concern, and human safety is at the forefront of strategic considerations when a healthcare facility is involved.
In this article, we’ll list several of the latest changes to ICRA 2.0 and suggest ways…
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Building Management, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Healthcare, Indoor Environmental Quality
HVAC Systems Maintenance in Healthcare Settings
Hospitals, clinics, and other specialized healthcare providers present a unique environment where air quality is paramount. Hazards such as surgical smoke, aerosolized medications used in treatments, and airborne infectious agents are commonplace in healthcare and go well beyond the challenges faced in a typical office building or school classroom.
The healthcare environment is further complicated by the diversity of people who work at and visit the facility. Occupants can range from infants to the elderly and from having great health to being severely immunocompromised. People of all genders, races, and levels of education need access to healthcare, and all of…
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Exposure, General Industrial Hygiene
Respirable Crystalline Silica Regulations – Cal/OSHA Adopts Emergency Temporary Standard for General Industry
On December 14, 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) approved Cal/OSHA language for the Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on respirable crystalline silica for General Industry (under California Code of Regulation, Title 8, section 5204). The ETS went into affect on December 29, 2023, which includes and emphasizes revisions to protect workers engaged in “high-exposure trigger tasks” involving work with artificial and natural stone.
Prior to its expiration date (one year), the Standards Board will vote on whether the ETS will be permanent or if they will make updates to the ETS as it currently stands. One should…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management
What Are The Most Common Health and Safety Hazards In Construction?
Physical hazards in construction site accident reports are commonplace. They are just one of the many types of hazards construction workers can face, though. FACS workplace safety consultants are often asked questions like “What are potential hazards to be aware of at work?” and “What are the most common health and safety hazards in construction?”
We’ll group seven common types of hazards on construction sites here and provide examples of each. Print, share, or save the bookmark to this article — then use it to compare against your own construction site safety plan. We hope you don’t … but you…
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Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials
Hazardous Waste Disposal FAQs for Owners and Contractors
There may not be any barrels full of hazardous waste on your construction site, but that doesn’t mean hazardous materials aren’t present. Hazardous waste disposal is of vital concern to building contractors — especially where demolition or remodeling is involved and fines for improper disposal may be severe.
Below is a list of frequently asked questions pertaining to hazardous waste disposal. We’ve included some of the questions FACS experts are often asked, however, you should always determine which rules apply to your situation and locale.
What Is Hazardous Waste?
The EPA defines hazardous waste as “waste with properties that make…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management
Health and Safety Plan Templates Are Not Always a Good Idea
If you own a business that has employees, you are subject to the requirements of OSHA (both state and federal) and other regulatory agencies. Sometimes, the red tape can get so thick that businesses are fined for violating regulations they weren’t even aware of.
Such was the case with a business owner cited for violations of his injury and illness prevention plan (IIPP) — one he downloaded as a template from the governing body that fined him. “How can they ding me for something they wrote?” he asked. “I thought I was covered.”
What the owner didn’t know is that…
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COVID-19, Exposure, Indoor Environmental Quality
Changes in COVID Guidance in Regard to Building Ventilation
Building ventilation requirements came to the forefront of indoor environmental quality concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers worldwide asked, “How do we promote healthier indoor environments through effective and efficient ventilation and filtration?”
The pandemic was undoubtedly an eye-opener on the importance of mechanical ventilation. The threat helped building managers better understand the performance, maintenance, and limitations of their existing ventilation systems.
On the regulation side of the puzzle, we may soon see updates to existing requirements. In this article, we will consider some of those possibilities.
Building Ventilation Research
Initial recommendations from public health agencies and organizations focused on…
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Wildfire
Washington State Wildfire Smoke Rules Will Now Be Permanent
Wildfire smoke inhalation can threaten the health of outdoor workers. The past two summer fire seasons in the state of Washington saw conditions warranting the adoption of temporary special worker safety rules to mitigate the issue. Now, the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is enacting a permanent wildfire smoke rule.
In this article, we’ll consider the ramification of the threat, the new requirements, and how employers operating in the state of Washington can seamlessly adapt to the new rule to prepare for wildfire smoke events.
Why Is Wildfire Smoke a Health Issue for Outdoor Workers?
Wildfire smoke particulates…
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Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials
When Is an Asbestos Survey Required?
You could save yourself hundreds of thousands of dollars by getting this right.
True or False:
The U.S. completely banned the use of asbestos in building materials in 1989. That means any commercial building constructed in 1990 or later poses no asbestos risk. Consequently, you don’t need to worry about getting an asbestos survey prior to renovation or restoration projects on buildings erected in the past 30 years – right? False.
The “asbestos is no longer used” myth potentially exposes commercial property owners to fines of $25,000 per day when they unwittingly disturb materials containing asbestos. Falling for the lie…
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The U.S. completely banned the use of asbestos in building materials in 1989. That means any commercial building constructed in 1990 or later poses no asbestos risk. Consequently, you don’t need to worry about getting an asbestos survey prior to renovation or restoration projects on buildings erected in the past 30 years – right? False.
The “asbestos is no longer used” myth potentially exposes commercial property owners to fines of $25,000 per day when they unwittingly disturb materials containing asbestos. Falling for the lie…
Building Management, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Indoor Environmental Quality
How To Respond When There Is an Environmental Health Problem In Your Building
As public awareness of the impact of the environment on human health heightens, so do the demands of employees to work in a safe, healthy environment free of hazards. Concerns over the health of a building, commonly referred to as Indoor Environmental or Air Quality (IEQ or IAQ), can affect the comfort, health, productivity, and overall satisfaction of building occupants. Common IEQ concerns include but are not limited to:
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- Mold and moisture issues
- Thermal discomfort
- Odors/VOCs
- Ventilation and filtration
- Hazardous building materials (e.g., lead, asbestos)
- Water quality
- Diseases clusters
- Poor housekeeping
Environmental Health & Safety Management, General Industrial Hygiene
The Importance of Health and Safety Training
Who needs health and safety training? Employers often wonder why hazard awareness instruction is important — since many of the safe work practices included seem evident and need no explanation. Workers new to a job, though, may not recognize hazards that seem so apparent to you. On the other end of that scale, more experienced workers may have developed unsafe practices that they’ve relied on so long they fail to see why making a change at all is important.
Our environmental health and safety teams often find employers are willing to set aside the time for health and safety training…
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Building Management, General Industrial Hygiene, Hazardous Building Materials, Incident Response, Multifamily
Emergency Response Essentials
A water pipe bursts inside one of your properties, and your maintenance staff responds quickly to stop the flow. After that, you’ll have to make sure areas incurring water damage are addressed and the salvageable building materials are dry before you can begin the work of returning your property to its former condition. You’re in a race against the onset of mold, rot, and further damage. Given the duties already assigned to your in-house team and the equipment they have on hand, you decide to call for help.
Restoration companies are perfect for that job. They can typically respond to…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management
Workplace Temperature Regulations: Cal/OSHA Takes the Lead
Workplace temperature regulations are difficult to find — but that doesn’t stop workers from dying of heat-related illness, and it doesn’t stop your company from being found negligent in the duty you have to protect your people.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) estimate puts the annual death rate from heat-related conditions in the United States at over 650, but research reported in the journal of the International Society for Environmental Epidemiology studied 297 counties in the United States (about three-fifths of the population) and found an average of more than 5,600 deaths each year from heat-related conditions.…
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Exposure, Schools & Universities
The Formaldehyde Threat: Enhancing Safety in University Laboratories
Often times preservation solutions used to keep the integrity of specimens utilized for educational purposes in upper education anatomy laboratory courses are overlooked as a source of exposure to harmful agents, one of which is formaldehyde. Faculty and staff who work with specimens in an educational setting may be exposed to harmful levels of agents, and FACS wants to spread awareness.
The Short and Long-term Effects of Formaldehyde Exposure
Formaldehyde is a colorless, pungent gas used in the manufacture of resins, textiles, and plastics. It’s also an ingredient in preservation holding solutions used in medical laboratories and in embalming solution…
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COVID-19
COVID-19 – REFLECTION AT YEAR THREE
On May 5th, the World Health Organization announced that the COVID-19 global health emergency was over. In addition, the coronavirus public health emergency in the United States expired on May 11. While an increase in COVID case numbers remains a cause for concern, increased population immunity from vaccination and infection means that a smaller share of infected people end up in the hospital. The hope is that, while people continue to get sick from this virus, it won’t be so disruptive.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult and challenging experience for individuals, communities, and nations worldwide. However, it has…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Indoor Environmental Quality
How to Evaluate an Odor in Your Building
What’s that smell? Is it dangerous? Should I be concerned? Odor evaluations can be one of the most difficult indoor environmental quality (IEQ) investigations to perform. Odors are also an issue that can quickly escalate from murmuring to a major problem for building owners and management.
Approached correctly, though, an odor evaluation can show building occupants you are listening to their concerns and are actively taking measures to protect them. Approached incorrectly, odors can tarnish the confidence occupants place in you, your business, and the environmental health of your building.
So, whether you take the proper steps to curb an…
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Exposure, Indoor Environmental Quality, Schools & Universities, Waterborne Pathogens
Lead in School Drinking Water
Is School Water Safe to Drink?
The reality is that lead in school drinking water continues to be a serious concern, with children in many schools potentially drinking water with dangerous levels of lead. Even when water entering a facility meets all federal and state public health standards for lead concentrations, older plumbing materials found in schools can contribute to elevated lead levels in the drinking water. The health effects of lead exposure are especially dangerous in children, with both the EPA and CDC agreeing that there is no known safe level of lead in children. Additionally, a large portion…
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Uncategorized
What Happens If A Company Violates OSHA: Consequences and Penalties Explained
When a company violates Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, the consequences can be severe and multifaceted. OSHA violations can lead to substantial fines, legal action, and serious harm to employees, underscoring the importance of adherence to safety regulations. In cases where violations result in severe injuries or fatalities, employers may face criminal charges, further escalating the potential repercussions.
Employers are obligated to provide safe working conditions, and OSHA performs regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. These inspections can uncover both minor and major violations, with the latter involving more dire consequences. Depending on the severity of…
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Hazardous Building Materials, Schools & Universities
The Smart Way to Manage Hazardous Building Materials in Schools
Imagine the following situation, then ask yourself one question: “Could this happen in my school?”
The school’s new Athletic Department administration has received a donation to improve the weight room used by the school’s student-athletes, starting with removal of the tile flooring. The Athletic Department hires a flooring contractor to remove the existing tile flooring and polish the concrete floor below.
To help with efficiency and to save on costs, the coaches have the student-athletes help move the weight lifting equipment out of the space before the contractor arrives the following week. As part of this movement, many of the…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management
Tips for Creating an Ergonomic Home Office for Remote Work
As an employee, you’ve likely had the opportunity to work from home in recent years. As an employer, chances are you’ve offered an employee to continue their duty off-site. The idea of a home office has always been around, but the option to work at home has become more prevalent since the quarantine era of 2020. As the popularity of remote work among employers and employees increases, your consideration of remote worker safety should increase, too.
On an average workday at home, you wake up at a reasonable time, get ready for a day at the desk, and sit in…
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Uncategorized
Exploring Potential Future Career Fields in Environmental Science
The world is facing immense environmental challenges. Climate change, environmental degradation, and population growth are just a few of the issues that require sustainable solutions. The increased prevalence of these challenges and the growing desire to help address them has resulted in an increase in opportunities in the environmental science field. So, let’s explore the importance of environmental science and potential future career fields within this growing discipline if you happen to be considering a job to help save the planet!
The Growing Importance of Environmental Science
Environmental science is a multidisciplinary field that studies the natural environment and its…
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Uncategorized
What Do Environmental Scientists Do? Exploring the Roles and Responsibilities of Environmental Scientists
Environmental science is a crucial field that focuses on understanding and addressing various environmental issues. From air and water contaminants to climate change and biodiversity loss, environmental scientists play a vital role in protecting the planet’s natural resources and human health.
In this article, we will explore the diverse roles and responsibilities of environmental scientists and the skills and qualifications required to pursue a career in this field. But first, what is the field of environmental science?
Timeline of the Development of Environmental Science
The roots of environmental science can be traced back to the early conservation and preservation movements…
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General Industrial Hygiene
What is Industrial Hygiene Consulting?
Industrial hygiene consulting is a vital part of workplace safety and health. It involves the identification, assessment, and control of environmental factors that can affect the health and well-being of employees in a variety of industries. In this article, we will examine industrial hygiene consulting and explore its key components, goals, and objectives.
Understanding Industrial Hygiene
Industrial hygiene is an important field that plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of employees in the workplace. Industrial hygiene consultants work to prevent workplace hazards and promote a safe and healthy work environment for everyone.
By identifying and mitigating…
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Construction/General Contractor, Exposure, Hazardous Building Materials
Illinois Asbestos Disclosure Requirements for Property Sales and Renovations
Illinois has had a complex history with asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in various industries due to its resistance to heat and corrosion. However, its fibers pose serious health risks when inhaled, leading to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Due to these risks, the state has established stringent asbestos disclosure laws to protect public health and maintain safety standards. As you proceed through real estate transactions, renovations, or legal matters in Illinois, an understanding of the current asbestos survey requirements and legal disclosures in general are crucial for safeguarding your interests.
Asbestos use in buildings, particularly…
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Uncategorized
How to Find Entry-Level Jobs with an Environmental Science Degree
As a recent graduate with an environmental science degree, finding an entry-level job can be a daunting task. The good news is that the environmental science job market is growing, with many industries seeking qualified candidates.
In this article we’ll explore the job market, the types of entry level jobs, how to build a strong resume, and offer tips and strategies around how to find the right job for you.
Understanding the Environmental Science Job Market
Before diving into specific job opportunities, it’s important to understand the overall job market for environmental science graduates.
The demand for environmental science professionals …
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Uncategorized
What to Expect in an Industrial Hygienist Job
If you are looking for a career in the field of environmental health and safety, a job as an industrial hygienist may be of interest to you. Industrial hygienists are responsible for ensuring that industrial work environments are safe for employees, free from hazardous exposure, and in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at what to expect in an industrial hygienist’s job, what you need in regards to education and skills, and the key responsibilities that you will be in charge of, so you can see if the industrial hygienist’s…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Hazardous Building Materials, Indoor Environmental Quality
Chicago Asbestos Regulations: Navigating Compliance for Property Owners
Asbestos has long been a concern in urban environments due to its prevalence, especially in older buildings, and the significant health risks it poses when fibers become airborne. In response to these risks, Chicago has implemented strict regulations on the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. These regulations are designed to protect public health and ensure that asbestos abatement is conducted safely and effectively. Compliance with these rules is critical for property owners, contractors, and workers to avoid legal penalties and protect the well-being of Chicago’s residents.
Given the potential health hazards associated with asbestos exposure, such as lung…
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Building Management, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure, Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
Air Sensor Technology and Indoor Air Quality
A direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a heightened awareness of indoor environmental quality by both building occupants and property owners in the built environment. Direct-reading air quality instruments have long existed to monitor indoor air quality pollutants in real-time. Still, in recent years, advances in sensor technology have resulted in an expansion of air sensors in the indoor air quality market. Air sensors generally refer to a class of technology that provides relatively quick or instant air pollution measurements for a wide variety of air pollutants. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines air sensors as “a…
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Building Management, Multifamily
What Should Be Included in an Emergency Response Plan Gap Analysis for Multifamily Properties?
Emergency response plans are an essential part of multifamily property management. When troubles present themselves (and they invariably will) the emergency response plan is the guide that can turn chaos into calm and deliberate action. The property management team that knows the plan and has practiced the plan is miles ahead of the team that isn’t sure what to do next. And in an emergency situation, every moment spent trying to decide how to proceed slows the response and potentially multiplies the loss.
FIRM Incident Response clients don’t just have a plan; they use the plan. They don’t refer to…
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Building Management, Multifamily
New Illinois Smoke Detector Law 2023: Understanding the Updated Regulations
As of January 1, 2023, a new smoke detector law went into effect in Illinois, bringing significant changes to how Illinois residents protect their homes from the dangers of fire. The Illinois General Assembly updated the Illinois Smoke Detector Act with additional safety requirements that mandate the installation of smoke detectors with sealed, long-term batteries. This change is aimed at ensuring consistent functionality of smoke alarms, granting residents increased reliability for early fire detection.
The shift in legal requirements was propelled by advancements in smoke alarm technologies, which have resulted in devices that are not only more user-friendly but also…
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General Industrial Hygiene
Turning Liability into Opportunity
We have all seen the headlines: bacterial outbreaks, chemical contamination, mold lurking behind walls. They are attention-getters that play upon our fear of the unknown and how it may harm us. This is the realm of environmental health, the study, and management of human health impacts arising from physical, chemical, and biological agents in our workplaces and communities. It is a field that continues to grow as we develop new technologies, learn more about the causes of diseases, and create greater access to information.
Property owners and managers often find themselves at ground zero of these issues, as it hosts…
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Exposure, General Industrial Hygiene
Influenza and RSV Prevention: Don’t Let Your Guard Down
Don’t let your guard down quite yet. Not only is COVID still a threat to your health, cases of influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are hospitalizing people at abnormally high rates. Those three — COVID, influenza, and RSV — are often collectively termed a “tripledemic.”
We’ve written extensively about COVID in previous articles. Here, we’ll address frequently asked questions about influenza and RSV. Our aim is to provide information you can use to help keep yourself, your family, and your employees or co-workers healthy and productive this winter.
What Is the Difference Between Flu and RSV?
Flu (influenza)…
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Building Management, Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
Green Building Certifications: Do You Need One?
How healthy is the building? Is the air and water quality in this building safe? Is ventilation adequate? Questions like these were gaining popularity prior to the COVID pandemic, but are now top of mind for anyone who works in or visits the space. Employers, employees, residents, management, visitors — all care about the health of the building.
Earlier building certification systems were focused on environmental responsibility and energy efficiency, hence the term “green building certification.” More recently, the focus of newer building certification systems have shifted towards occupant health and well-being.
Many property owners are seeking “green building certification”…
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Building Management, Multifamily
Multifamily Property Owners Can Benefit from the SB 721 Inspection
California multifamily property owners have until January 1, 2025 to complete the first inspection required under SB 721. That bill requires all exterior elevated elements (EEE) be examined for safety. Elements affected are those designed for human use that have a walking surface elevated more than six feet above ground and are constructed of load-bearing components made of wood or wood-based products. Examples are porches, decks, stairways, and balconies. Ongoing inspections will be required every six years.
SB 721 passed the California State Senate in September of 2018 in response to the tragic 2015 incident that took the lives of…
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Indoor Environmental Quality, Schools & Universities, Wildfire
Protecting Schools Against the Risks of Wildfire Smoke Particulate Matter
Wildfires are occurring more frequently than ever before, and the smoke from those fires is threatening the health of not only those who live near the fire but can adversely impact schools and communities hundreds of miles away.
Air quality degradation due to wildfire smoke often puts school administrators in the uncomfortable position of balancing the need to protect their students with the job of educating them. Each day the school is closed forces teachers to revamp their lesson plans and can draw a fresh round of criticism from parents and the public.
Wildfire smoke isn’t just a California or…
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Building Management, Healthy Buildings, Indoor Environmental Quality
Healthy Building Fundamentals: An Overview of the Process
The healthy building movement is not a new idea (it is decades old), but voices in support of a closer look at building health were amplified sharply by the COVID pandemic. Property owners who gave the healthy building concept little thought pre-pandemic are now taking a closer look — and for good reason: Building health is a primary factor in employee or occupant satisfaction and retention. Healthy buildings are in more demand now than ever before.
But what exactly is a “healthy building,” and why should you care? What determines whether or not a building makes the grade? If you’re…
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Building Management, Mold & Moisture, Multifamily
How to Prevent Mold Growth on Rental Properties
Mold Growth Prevention on Rental Properties
Mold growth prevention and mold removal methods are two of the most frequent tenant-related issues faced by rental property owners and managers — both residential and commercial.
While proactive building maintenance and incident response procedures certainly play a critical role in keeping mold and mold-based problems from occurring, getting tenants on board as partners in the effort to prevent and control mold outbreaks is an often overlooked and undervalued tactic in the battle.
This article focuses on the tenant/management aspects of a mold prevention strategy that can not only stop mold from becoming a…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Exposure
Fit Testing Respirators
Not only is fit testing required by OSHA, but — when done well — it provides assurance to workers that the employer is properly protecting their health in a potentially hazardous environment.
For example, the COVID pandemic created an unprecedented need for healthcare staff to wear respirators during patient care. Entering a room where you know a COVID patient is critically ill can cause even the most experienced employee to feel fearful and reluctant. When that same staff member is confident in their protective equipment, including their assigned respirator, the anxiety level drops.
Fit testing confirms that the chosen respirator …
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Indoor Environmental Quality, Mold & Moisture, Schools & Universities
Mold in Classrooms and Other IEQ Problems in Schools
Schools are ground zero for indoor environmental quality (IEQ) concerns. Asbestos, lead, mold, PCBs, and many other issues become especially sensitive when classrooms or other student-occupied spaces are involved.
FACS experts are often asked to do more than develop a plan for the abatement of hazardous materials. The schools we serve depend on our IEQ experts to answer the many questions posed by parents, teachers, school administrators, and others.
My aim here is to briefly describe the process FACS teams follow to help our clients understand the issues at hand. It is crucial that response team leaders know how to…
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Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials
Asbestos in Construction Materials Testing: Critical Information
Here’s something many people who should know … don’t know: Agencies that approve building and demolition permits require property owners to either presume asbestos is present in the construction materials or to conduct construction materials testing for asbestos to prove it is not.
Despite the seriousness of the matter — potential fines, loss of time, and maybe even getting named in a lawsuit or claim — the erroneous belief that asbestos in construction materials is a non-issue catches owners and building contractors in an uncomfortable net every year.
But hasn’t asbestos been banned for decades now?
The truth is that…
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Environmental Health & Safety Management, Wildfire
Oregon Adopts New Heat and Wildfire Smoke Rules
Oregon OSHA recently published two new rules to protect workers from the effects of excessive exposure to heat and wildfire smoke. Both will require certain preparatory actions from employers.
In this article, we’ll summarize the new Oregon OSHA requirements and alert Oregon businesses of the importance of developing a strategy for compliance with the regulations. Noncompliance can expose employees to unnecessary danger and result in fines and/or adverse legal actions.
Components of the new Oregon OSHA rule for heat exposure
The heat rule became effective June 15, 2022. It applies to both indoor and outdoor workplaces and activates when the…
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Waterborne Pathogens
Recent Updates to AIHA Legionella Guidelines
If you’re concerned about water quality monitoring, water management plans, how to sample building water after prolonged closures, or Legionella prevention, here’s some welcome news: the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) released an updated edition of their “Recognition, Evaluation, and Control of Legionella in Building Water Systems” guide.
The AIHA is one of the leading industry best-practice sources used not only by FACS industrial hygienists, but by industrial hygienists across the globe. Whether your primary responsibility is Legionella in hospitals or you’re a small business that wants to protect your employees and customers from Legionella and other waterborne pathogens, this…
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Indoor Environmental Quality, Schools & Universities
Are CO2 Sensors Now Required in All California Classrooms?
In January of 2021, the California Division of the State Architect issued Bulletin IR N-2 stating that “As of January 1, 2021, all existing classrooms must be equipped with a carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring device meeting all of Section 1625.”
The Section 1625 reference is to the California Public Utilities Code (PUC) Article 3, Chapter 6.7, the “School Reopening Ventilation and Energy Efficiency Verification and Repair Program.”
Those two documents understandably stirred up a whirl of controversy: Are all California K-12 classrooms now required to install CO2 monitors?
First glance at the issue would confirm …
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Building Management, Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials, Multifamily
How Recent Changes to RRP Rules Affect Property Management
Renovation, repair, and painting (RRP) rules were created by the EPA to protect building occupants and workers from the hazard of “lead poisoning.” Other federal and local bodies are also concerned about the dangers of lead in construction, making it all more important to be aware of the pertinent regulations before beginning a project in a pre-1978 structure.
Fines and potential legal liability for not adhering to RRP rules can be severe. Staying current with changes to the regulations is especially important to property managers and owners, and recent changes to the law are focused on property management companies (PMCs).…
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COVID-19
Safe Summer Travel and Vaccine Booster Updates – FACS COVID-19 Update – Summer 2022
As we head into another summer with COVID-19, the US is experiencing a swell in case numbers after many have spent more than two years confined and yearning for that white sandy beach vacation. Despite the increase in cases, many people are eager to put their heightened stress levels behind them and make their travel dreams a reality this summer. Though public health restrictions have loosened throughout the country, the risk of COVID-19 spreading throughout communities is still present, as evidenced by the rise in case rates and hospitalizations in May and June (shown in the graph below from John…
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COVID-19, Wildfire
Wildfire Smoke Regulations and the COVID Epidemic
One Cal/OSHA COVID-19 regulation (3205) requires employers to maximize outside air ventilation to prevent the spread of the virus. Another Cal/OSHA mandate (5141.1) requires minimum exposure to outside air. Which rule should a facilities manager follow? How can you protect employees from the potentially harmful effects of smoke from wildfire, continue to combat COVID, and still maintain production?
Businesses already impacted by the COVID epidemic get dealt a double blow when the Air Quality Index (AQI) numbers begin climbing. It’s tough enough to keep a building well-ventilated under normal conditions. Combine the COVID virus with wildfire smoke, and the situation …
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Building Management, Environmental Health & Safety Management
Illinois Fire Code Exit Doors: Compliance Guidelines for Safety
Fire safety is of paramount importance in building design and occupancy, and Illinois is no different in maintaining stringent requirements for egress during emergencies. The state’s fire code, in alignment with broader standards such as the International Fire Code (IFC) and the Life Safety Code, outlines specific mandates for exit doors—components critical to safe and efficient evacuation in case of a fire. These regulations apply to various types of buildings, ensuring that exits are accessible, properly marked, and designed to handle the number of occupants in any given structure.
Understanding Illinois’ fire code exit door requirements is essential not only…
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Waterborne Pathogens
Guide to PPB and “Safe” Lead Levels In Water: Understanding the Standards
Sampling for Mold in Healthcare Settings
Lead contamination in drinking water can cause severe health issues, such as learning disabilities in children and high blood pressure and kidney damage in adults. According to WHO and the EPA, no amount of lead in drinking water is considered safe.
Exposure to lead, even at low levels, can have significant health implications. This is why assessment of water quality and implementation of preventive measures are essential. Public health efforts focus on reducing lead exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
Since there is no safe level of lead that…
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Healthcare, Waterborne Pathogens
Complying with The Joint Commission’s New Water Management Standard
Did you know that on January 1, 2022, The Joint Commission’s new water management standard for healthcare facilities went into effect? This new standard (EC.02.05.02, EPs 1 through 4) supersedes the previous version (EC.02.05.01, EP 14) which “addressed the need for healthcare organizations to minimize pathogenic biological agents in cooling towers, domestic hot- and cold-water systems, and other aerosolizing water systems”. This previous standard did not provide clear guidance on how to achieve this, which has allowed building owners to broadly define and interpret the standard themselves. This and the need for further improvement in quality and safety in …
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Hazardous Building Materials, Schools & Universities, Waterborne Pathogens
Lead Water Testing for Schools: What’s Coming Down the Pipe?
School lead water testing…we did that already, didn’t we? Yes, but there are signs indicating there is more to come. The voluntary program launched by the State Water Resources Control Board in 2017 formally ended in July of 2019. However, recent legislation requires testing lead in water for all licensed Child Care Centers (CCCs) in California that were constructed before January 1, 2010 (see our previous article for a closer look at this legislation). These requirements are quite different and more involved than the prior testing program for schools. While these requirements currently only apply to licensed CCCs (many of …
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Hazardous Building Materials, Schools & Universities, Waterborne Pathogens
Review of Lead in Water Testing Requirements for California Childcare Centers
Lead in drinking water presents very real public health risks, especially for children. In children, lead exposure can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems. No safe level of lead exposure in children has been identified. The latest round in the battle to get the lead out has landed with the California Department of Social Services (DSS) Provider Information Notice (PIN) Summary 21-21-CCP. This notice and associated procedures require all licensed Child Care Centers (CCCs) in California that were constructed before January 1, 2010, to …
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Construction/General Contractor, Environmental Health & Safety Management, Hazardous Building Materials
Construction Site Safety Blind Spots
Projects need to be completed within the budget and on time. That pressure can contribute to overlooking risks and a failure to recognize or correct unsafe conditions. The consequences of succumbing to that pressure are real and can sometimes be catastrophic to the lives of workers and their families. Fatalities in construction occupations rose six percent in 2019 — the highest gain since 2007. Occupational injuries claimed the lives of 5,333 and injured or sickened 2.8 million workers in 2019. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimated the 2019 economic loss of work-related deaths and injuries was approximately $171 billion.
In …
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Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials, Healthcare, Waterborne Pathogens
Managing Waterborne Pathogen Risks During Hospital Construction
All demolition, construction, and renovation activities in healthcare facilities — whether planned or unplanned — require a pre-construction risk assessment (PCRA). Some guidance documents refer to this procedure as an “Infection Control Risk Assessment” (ICRA). The Joint Commission’s Environment of Care Standard establishes the framework.
Certain concerns tend to get the most attention during renovation projects in occupied facilities:
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- Which patients or services will be impacted?
- How much dust will be generated?
- How long will the project take?
- What is the potential impact to utility systems performance (e.g. HVAC, plumbing)?
Environmental Health & Safety Management, Hazardous Building Materials, Schools & Universities
Have Schools Forgotten About AHERA?
Here’s an amazing fact: Many people — even those who occupy decision-making positions in school districts — have no idea what AHERA is, what is required of the school district to comply, the current status of their schools’ reports, or how to comply with AHERA in a cost-effective manner.
Chances are high that you’re either someone who needs to know about AHERA, or you can think of someone in your school district who should know about AHERA.
A report by Senator Ed Markey in December, 2015, warned that two-thirds of states surveyed “reported having schools that contain asbestos, most of …
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Construction/General Contractor, Hazardous Building Materials
Silica in Construction, 3 Years Later: What We’ve Learned
OSHA announced the final rule concerning worker protection from occupational exposures to respirable crystalline silica in March of 2016. Enforcement of the standard began in September of 2017.
That rule provides two options for compliance: Employers can either assess exposure and implement controls on a task-by-task basis to ensure exposure falls below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) or use the engineering and work practice controls listed in Table 1 of the standard.
On August 15, 2019, OSHA released a request for information (RFI) to help the agency assess the effectiveness of the existing standards and seek comments on how it …
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Waterborne Pathogens
Legionella Treatment: Approaches to Disinfection
Prompted by the abundance of news coverage around COVID-19, a public radio station in Illinois recently broadcast a story about another threat to public health — one that’s often overlooked: 569 cases of Legionnaires’ Disease (Legionellosis) were reported in the state of Illinois alone in 2019. 43 of those patients died.
Nationwide, there were almost 10,000 cases of Legionnaires’ disease confirmed by health departments in 2018, but it is suspected that many other incidences of Legionella infection went unreported. In fact, some experts estimate that between 70,000 and 100,000 individuals may be affected by Legionellosis in the United States each …
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Cannabis Production & Manufacturing, Environmental Health & Safety Management
Cannabis Worker Safety: Equipment and Methods
Why be concerned about cannabis worker safety?
There are approximately 428,000 workers legally employed by cannabis operations in the USA, and 2021 sales of cannabis products reached nearly $25 billion according to the most recent Cannabis Jobs Report by Leafly.
A BDS Analytics study says 2027 worldwide sales will reach $57 billion — with the lion’s share of revenue coming from North America.
Even though the federal government still classifies cannabis as a controlled substance, 37 states and the District of Columbia say marijuana is okay for medical use, 21 have declared it legal for recreational use, and 10 have…
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Exposure, Schools & Universities
The Rising Danger of Fentanyl on Campus
What are the biggest threats colleges and universities face today? You might mention rising tuition rates or the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on classroom teaching – but there’s something else creeping onto campuses at an alarming rate.
Much too often, we’re hearing stories like these:
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- The Los Angeles Police Department stepped in during the fall of 2019 to help administrators at USC determine whether opiate overdose might be a common link in the deaths of nine students at the university.
- Early last year, the parents of Madeline Globe announced they were going public with the story of their daughter,
Cannabis Production & Manufacturing, Environmental Health & Safety Management
Protecting the Health of Cannabis Workers
*Updated November 2022 to reflect more recent figures and information.
According to the cannabis jobs report (2022), there are more people now working in legal cannabis operations than there are dental hygienists, insurance salespeople, or textile workers. Jobs within the cannabis industry grew by 33 percent in 2021 over the prior year, pushing the current total cannabis workforce in the U.S. to over 428,000 in 2022. Cannabis now generates about $25 billion in annual revenue.
Cannabis employment is rising sharply. However, are the workers flocking to the industry being provided the training and equipment they need for protection against on-the-job …
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Hazardous Building Materials, Schools & Universities, Waterborne Pathogens
Lead in School Drinking Water: Are Students at Risk?
You’re attending an event at a public school, and you’re thirsty. Your choices are to buy a soft drink from the machine or refill your empty water container at the drinking fountain in the hallway. You’d prefer a cold bottle of spring water, but that selection is sold out.
Question: Would you have any fear at all about the safety of the water in the school fountain? You’ll probably want to run the water a little before you use it, and you surely wouldn’t place your mouth over the outlet — but you’re at a public school. The water is …
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Building Management, Incident Response, Multifamily
Trends in Multi-Family Property Maintenance During the Pandemic
Multi-family apartment communities have always presented unique challenges to the people who own them, work at them, and live in them, but the COVID-19 pandemic created situational difficulties on a scale most of us have never before witnessed.
FACS works with multi-family management teams nationwide, so we’re positioned to not only help staff navigate the normal maintenance issues but advise them on how to respond to special problems brought about by the virus.
Our aim is to share knowledge the FACS team has gathered during these trying times in the hope that the observations we’ve made will give owners and …
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COVID-19
Home (Alone?) for the Holidays – Tips for Safer Family Gatherings this Holiday Season – FACS COVID-19 Update #18
While many of us endured the disappointment of significantly limited gatherings over Thanksgiving, the case rates are climbing. We are heading into the holidays where friends and family get-togethers are even more important and are often for extended periods of time. Thanksgiving dinners are usually limited to a few hours together, while Christmas gatherings could have family members traveling greater distances and staying overnight for extended periods. The best way to eliminate the risk of infections, by having everyone stay in their own homes, is likely to be more than disappointing. So what, if any, are the alternatives? In this…
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COVID-19
When Disasters Collide – FACS COVID-19 Update #17
While in the continued grip of a global pandemic and the need for the public to follow significant preventative measures, the US is faced with the onset of other natural disasters. On the West Coast and along the Continental Divide there are a rash of wildfires that have erupted this month, and on the East and Gulf Coasts hurricanes and severe weather storms have threatened several states. The steps taken to prevent injury or worse during these events may not always be in perfect alignment with the COVID-19 preventative measures. Social distancing becomes a challenge when people are evacuated to…
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Wildfire
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) and Wildfire Smoke Preparation Planning
Wildfire preparation plans are essential for helping staff at schools, hospitals, and other commercial buildings prepare for smoke intrusion and other complications that may arise from wildland fires, but they often fall short on covering something that can be just as critical: power outages.
Last year’s fire season in California provided real-life examples of the tremendous impact an extended power loss can deliver to communities. A major take-away was that power blackouts can occur as a precaution during heavy winds, even when there are no fires nearby and the threat doesn’t seem to exist. Many people and businesses were not…
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COVID-19
Getting a Handle on COVID-19 Case Response – FACS Update #16
As more businesses reopen and the number of cases of COVID-19 climb in the community, organizations are having to navigate the challenges, twists and turns of managing a proper response to a known or suspected case. In this discussion we talk about the fundamentals of case response in non-healthcare settings and some of the lessons learned from the front line which can inform the development of an effective and efficient response protocol.
Case Response Fundamentals
A COVID-19 case response protocol can be broken down into five basic steps:
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- Identification & Reporting. What triggers a case response action? The short
COVID-19
Six Months of COVID-19 – What Have We Learned? – FACS Update #15
While some may wonder where the time has gone, others may feel like they have been stuck in a continual time loop, living the same day repeatedly with no end in sight. What started in late 2019 and moved around the globe rapidly in early 2020 has now entered a new, less than desirable stage as we head into summer.
Our access to information has been extraordinary. Numerous public health-focused websites have become go-to sources for information, we get regular reports containing volumes of data, and public health sites provide many recommendations and guidance. In the US, Federal, State and…
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COVID-19
Why Six Feet and How Close is Too Close? – FACS Update #14
Physical distancing, also commonly referred to as “social distancing,” is defined as “keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home.” To practice physical distancing, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying at least six feet apart from other people. The World Health Organization recommends at least one meter (approximately three feet). But where do these numbers come from? Why six feet? Why three feet? And why the differing opinions among the public health agencies?
The primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through close contact from person-to-person. This occurs when an infected person coughs,…
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COVID-19
Remember What Used to Concern Us? – Health and Safety in the Workplace during COVID-19 and Returning to Work – FACS Update #13
While the country is preparing to return to work, COVID-19 safety is on everyone’s mind. Various national and local public health organizations have developed return to work protocols to assist in allowing workers to return to work and do so safely with regard to COVID-19. However, as we implement these new protocols, we must consider how they impact other health and safety concerns. The following are a list of health and safety issues to consider.
Heat Illness
While we try to maintain physical distancing, it tends to prove quite difficult, particularly in high traffic or public interior spaces. To assist…
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Building Management, COVID-19, Indoor Environmental Quality
To Modify or Not to Modify, that is the Question – Building Ventilation Systems and COVID-19 – FACS Update #12
The main transmission routes for SARS-CoV-2 are direct contact or respiratory droplets (aerosols) during close contact (within six feet for 15 minutes) with an infected person. However, according to an early release CDC report due out this July, whether SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted by aerosols remains controversial.
The following discussion will try to shed some light on what can be a complicated question. Should any special steps be implemented for a building’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system in buildings during various stages of occupancy? This question is asked more frequently as we start to move from community-wide stay…
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COVID-19
Can the Mask and Gloves I am Wearing to Protect Myself and Others Actually Do Harm?: FACS Update #11
While the primary way that COVID-19 is thought to spread is directly from person to person, it may be possible that a person can become infected by touching a surface or an object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes. This person-to-surface-to-person cross-contamination and subsequent spread of COVID-19 is possible but is something we can prevent by following a few simple strategies.
Take steps to ensure everyone adheres to appropriate cough etiquette, routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces. Clean your hands well and often. Post visual alerts (e.g., signs, posters)…
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COVID-19
COVID-19 Testing in the Workplace: What You Should Know (And Do): FACS Update #10
This week’s COVID-19 Response Update is a featured piece written by our medical consulting partner, Cogency. For more information on medical testing in the workplace to ensure a safe return-to-work program, contact the Cogency team today.
Diagnostic and surveillance testing for COVID-19 provide important information for physicians and public health professionals. This includes guiding recommendations that promote safety and health for both individuals and the larger population.
How should we apply this to the workplace? The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) general duty clause states that “employers should furnish a workplace that is free from recognized hazards.” So, the…
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COVID-19
Surface Disinfection in the Age of COVID-19: The Good, the Bad and the U…(Underinformed): FACS Update #9
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is thought to spread mainly through direct transmission from person-to-person. However, we are still learning about how it is spread and there are concerns of indirect transmission (person-to-surface-to-person). Because of the anticipated potential for indirect transmission, cleaning and disinfection to reduce risks related to COVID-19 (the illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus) is a ubiquitous recommendation and a service that has become in high demand. The following is one example recommendation taken from the COVID-19 Industry Guidance prepared by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Cal OSHA. “Perform thorough cleaning on high…
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COVID-19
Understanding Environmental Sampling for the Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2): FACS Update #8
The world of the novel Coronavirus continues to change rapidly. As shelter in place orders are lifted and the important decision to re-occupy is made, the need to provide assurance that indoor environment is safe to re-occupy becomes more necessary. And demand for environmental testing is on the rise. Not only is the demand for environmental testing growing, but the number of companies, laboratories and other organizations offering testing has increased. Email inboxes are being flooded and advertisements providing information about COVID-19 or offers to clean, disinfect and test seem ubiquitous these days. But sampling can be complicated, costly and…
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COVID-19
COVID-19: Leaving the Shelter and Getting Back to Business Safely: FACS Update #7
As we begin looking to lift shelter in place restrictions, organizations are confronted with figuring out how to adjust to the “new normal” of operating safely in the presence of COVID-19. This starts with recognizing the purpose behind the effort:
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- Protect People. Help prevent employees, customers, and other stakeholders from contracting COVID-19, and in doing so protect the greater public health.
- Protect Resources. Help minimize liabilities related to worker’s compensation claims and 3rd party litigation by showing appropriate diligence in controlling COVID-19 risks.
- Protect Reputation. Help support business continuity by instilling confidence within customers, stakeholders, and local public health
COVID-19, Exposure
Understanding the Distinctions Between Respirators, Surgical Masks, and Cloth Face Coverings: FACS Update #6
Public Health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), United States Department of Defense (DoD), and many local or state public health departments, have recently made recommendations or released guidance on the use of cloth face coverings by individuals when in public settings to slow the spread of COVID-19 illness where other social distancing and hygiene measures are difficult to maintain, particularly in areas where significant community-transmission has been documented. These recommendations may have been perceived by many as contradicting the statements previously made by CDC that face masks/coverings were only necessary for people who were…
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Construction/General Contractor, COVID-19, Hazardous Building Materials
Maintaining Asbestos & Lead Certifications during COVID-19 “Shelter-in-Place” Restrictions
Although the shelter-in-place order is still in effect in the state of California, Cal-OSHA & CDPH will not be extending lead and asbestos certification deadlines. Refresher trainings and renewal applications will still need to be completed before your certifications expire in order to maintain your status.
The challenge: how do you complete training with shelter-in-place restrictions?
The good news is that both accrediting agencies are now allowing refresher courses for these certifications to be held online, at least while the State of Emergency restrictions remain in effect. These refreshers can be one of two types; live virtual trainings or pre-programmed…
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COVID-19
COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions: FACS Update #5
What should employers and building owners/managers be doing to protect employees and other stakeholders from COVID-19?
The first thing to do is to be aware of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance. The CDC has specific guidance for businesses and retirement/independent living properties, and other facilities.
Secondly, you want to have a written infection prevention plan in place that goes along with the CDC guidance. There are three major fundamentals of prevention that we look for:
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- Activity/work modification.
- Eliminate in-person contact
- Use barriers or other “engineered” controls to separate people
- Modify behaviors to incorporate physical distancing, increased hand
COVID-19
Validating Cleaning Efficacy for Removal of SARS-CoV-2: FACS Update #4
The number of COVID-19 cases in America continues to rise. So have questions regarding keeping families, co-workers and the general public safe. Public health organizations such as World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide recommendations for cleaning and disinfection related to the virus responsible for COVID-19 infections, SARS-CoV-2. But there is a lack of information regarding how to validate that cleaning and disinfection efforts were effective. Stakeholders want proof the work done made the environment safe. Investigators and restoration contractors alike wrestle with the options and opinions but there is a lack of consensus…
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