News You Can Use

Greetings;

The NYSDOH continues to work on analytical methods for the determination of asbestos in vermiculite. The most recent memorandum of July 22, 2014 discusses the imminent availability of two new NYS DOH
ELAP approved methods for the detection and quantification of asbestos content in spray-on fireproofing that contains vermiculite. These new testing requirements allow the inspector to use his/her professional judgment to determine if vermiculite is present in sprayed-on fireproofing and/or back that up with laboratory analysis. The inspector cannot determine that the fireproofing DOES NOT contain asbestos without “stereoscopic examination of the material” by an accredited laboratory. The complete ELAP vermiculite guidance and memorandum can be found in our e-library important documents.

Property owners/managers and LEA designee’s who have existing asbestos surveys should keep abreast of modifications to the State requirements for sampling and analysis. Clarification by ELAP over the past few years on vermiculite, drywall/joint compound and drop ceiling analysis can make an asbestos survey or inspection somewhat obsolete. It’s become standard practice to supplement existing surveys, especially those completed before 2012.

Lead Renovators may want to start looking for a refresher. It seems incredible but it’s been five (5) years since we began offering the RRP initial training. Take note! If a Renovator fails to attend a refresher before the five year anniversary of their initial training, his/her certification is null/void and he/she will have to attend the initial training once again. Refreshers are a half day and great way to get up to speed on changes to the RRP since 2009-10.

Here’s some end of summer training courses to help get you going for fall;

Asbestos Handler Initial, August 26 – 29 in Buffalo
Asbestos Supervisor Refresher, September 9 in Rochester
Asbestos Inspector Refresher, September 10 in Rochester
Lead Renovator Initial, September 11 in Rochester

EEA offers the best training at the LOWEST PRICES in New York State. Check our website for a complete schedule of upcoming asbestos, lead, mold, hazardous materials and safety training!

Be well!