 |
|
Disaster Advice Glossary
|
|
|
Disaster recovery and restoration can be veiled in mystery to the many who have not undertaken specific training. This glossary explains technical terms to assist both report writing and the understanding of those technical terms so often misunderstood.
Definition
| Acid(s): |
A class of chemical substances having a PH below 7, on the PH scale. Education Note: Acids have the ability to react with bases and certain metals to form salts. Acids in a water solution yield hydroxide ions. Acids can be very dangerous to breathe and have skin contact with. All chemicals, especially acids, must be handled as per manufacturer instructions. Improper use of acids can result in severe burns, causing permanent injury. |
| Action Plan: |
After a disaster, and a review of the assessment and inspection phase (also called the loss and evaluation phase), an action plan includes all elements of the preliminary findings incorporated into a plan called the action plan. The action plan is the operation and performance which all work is to be completed and in the order they are addressed. An action plan is usually an oral plan that is implemented at a tail-gate meeting. An action plan is based on the best available control technology by a supervisor using his best professional judgement. |
| Activated Carbon : |
Carbon charcoal that has an increased absorptive capacity of retaining chemicals, vapours, hydrocarbons, and sometoxins from a contaminated environment. Education Note: Scrubbing contaminated indoor air with an air scrubber having an activated carbon (charcoal-based) filter, are capable of trapping and reducing organic vapours in a building. Activated charcoal is commonly used as a gas vapour absorbent in air-prifying respirators and as a solid sorbent in air-sampling. See Adsorbent, Air Scrubbers, Air Sparging |
| Adaptation: |
The ability of a substance or environment to change or modify, based on temporary or a permanent change. Education Note: Adaptation can temporarily occur in wet buildings where the interior environment becomes humidified for a short period of time. If the building is allowed to remain wet, environmental changes may alter the building, resulting in the building to adapt to its new environment. Persons occupying the wet building may feel the health effects of the environmental influences from fungi and other biological influences. Some persons may not experience the health effects, while other persons may may not adapt to the previously flooded environment. |
| Adiabatic Processes in Atmosphere: |
When a parcel of air is moved from one atmosphere to another in a building, with respect to the ambient air, in such a manner that energy does not flow across boundaries, thermal changes taking place are said to be adiabatic changes. Education Notes: Any process in the buildings atmosphere occurring adiabatically is known as an adiabatic process. In water damaged buildings, for example, temperature and humidity are important. The adiabatic process during which the air involved in non-effected areas (the parcels of air remaining unsaturated during the drying process) are relatively simple and they do not effect the humidified air parcel directly. the adiabatic processes involving condensation or evaporation through dehumidification are considerably complicated by heat of condensation. Monor temperature and humidity changes within static air may not be important, but the same changes in moving air may be significant. This method of measurement of heat or the absence of heat in a water damaged atmosphere of a building, for example, is based on the first law of thermodynamics. Author's Note: The author placed this brief discussion about adiabatic processes purposely to bring attention to the reader, the seriousness about understanding building and restorative drying processes and methods and the dynamics required to dry a wet building properly. It is also reasonable to help technicians recognise that the use of a moisture probe or a moisture stick is only the tip of the iceberg, when attempting to understand physics and natural laws of thermodynamics. The author is not attempting to have the subject fully discussed, but is bringing the subject up for the reader to investigate further. See Adiabatic, Entropy |
| Adjusted Base Costs: |
The total estimate or estimated cost of a project or repair after adding or deducting changes. |
| Aeolian Contamination: |
Matter in the form of a contaminate which is transported and broadcast through dynamic air movement. Mitigation Note: In water damage mitigation, one of the concerns comes from clean up contractors who use portable equipment to extract and clean up indoor floods. The exhaust of the equipment indoors aerosolize micropollutants which are inhaled. Another concern is the use of air drying equipment in a dusty or biologically contaminated building, or a building which has friable lead-based paint or asbestos. Caution Note: No sewage or other pathogenic waste should be extracted into portable machines when the machines are left and allowed to wxhaust indoors! See Aeolian, Airborne Contaminates, Airborne Microorganisms, Bioaerosols, Dusts |
| Aerodynamic particles: |
The particles in air that stay suspended based on their diameter and dimension or their shape, size and weight. |
| Aquifer: |
Typically a layer of earth below permeable rock that is of or containing water. Water Mitigation Education Note: In water damages an aquifer may be described as being a trapped void under subflooring such as a metal-pan under concrete in a high-rise building that is retaining water, or metal stud walls that have the base plate full of water. |
| As Needed or As Required: |
a) An indefinite term used when quantities or services cannot be fully agreed or determined, based on the conditions present at this time. b) As Required or As Necessary, is an indefinite term used throughout the job to state, that when necessary, certain actions will be preformed; or certain actions will be required to complete a specific task, once the task has been identified, then it will be completed. See Open Item. |
| Atmospheric Conditions: |
Based on ASTM standards, atmospheric testing conditions are those atmospheres having a moisture equilibrium of 65 % Rh (+/- 2%) and temperature of 70 degrees F (+/- 2%) or 21 degrees C (+/- 1%). |
| Attached Ground: |
1) That portion of ground which is physically attached to the base and bottom of a building. Mitigation Note: 2) Engineered ground which is stable through compaction, excavation or shoring. 3) Ground which was designed to meet a specific density and load-bearing capacities. See Compacted Soil, Contaminated Ground, Soil |
| Background and Post Clearance Sampling |
A means by which through observation and scientific methods, industrial hygienists are able to attaining historical and current base-line data information for the eventual post clearance testing. Education Note: In catastrophic disasters, such as from fires and floods, much of the historical and base-line data has been destroyed since the building's microflora will have been changed, and new baseline data must be established for the building and its occupants after restoration. See Baseline Data. |
| Background Concentration: |
The level and concentration of air, organisms, and chemicals that are part of the natural processes alone. Education Note: a) Usually, background concentrations are gathered outside and upstream of the area or building in question. b) Background concentrations are usually a starting point for determining a safe or acceptable levels of outside gases, particles and microorganism from that of inside gases, particles and microorganisms. See Background Measurements, Baseline Data. |
| Background Measurements: |
a) The measurements usually required of non-effected atmospheres and materials, which are used as comparative measurements, measuring against questionable atmospheres and materials. b) Background measurements are measures of a control atmosphere or material. Education Note: For example, the temperature, humidity and moisture contents readings of outside atmospheres and dry materials, verses known or suspect wet atmospheres inside a building. See Baseline Data, Comparative Measurements, Moisture Content. |
| Balanced Drying: |
The drying method most likely to produce an even drying process throughout a wet building and its parts. ? Restorative Drying Note: Related to water damage remediation: a) The temperature and humidity controls necessary to dry a wet building and its contents, using air movement and dehumidification. b) The fastest and safest drying method, without over or under drying the building and its contents back to their pre-loss condition. Balanced drying requires trained technicians who understand psychometry, monitoring and state-of-the-art restorative drying methods. See Dehumidification, Baseline Data. |
| BASE: |
(BASE) An acronym meaning the EPA recommended process in providing a Building Assessment Survey and Evaluation Study. See TIME |
| Base Flood Evaluation (BFE): |
A description by FEMA describing the elevation of ground for which there is a one-percent chance in any given year that flood levels will equal or exceed it. The BFE is determined by technical analysis for a floodplain area and it is designated on that areas Flood Insurance Rate Map. It is known as the 100-year flood. |
| Base Molding: |
Usually vinyl and wood molding located at the base perimeter of a wall. Mitigation Note: 1) When walls are wet from flooding, the base molding must be detached to allow seepage and weeping of saturated moisture. 2) It is the water remediation industry standard of practice, when appropriate, to immediately install mechanical air drying equipment into wet wall cavities, starting the interior wet wall drying process, while removing high humidity and condensation, resulting in the reduction of mold growth. |
| Baseline Emissions: |
As required for a particular pollutant, the levels of the pollutant which monitoring of emissions are counted or calculated. |
| Basement: |
A substructure purposely cut or dug out below grade, it typically contains a concrete slab floor and concrete pour or concrete block foundation walls. The basement walls in many mid-west and back-east buildings are the concrete foundation bearing walls supporting the above grade building. |
| Best Available Control Technology (BACT): |
The best available control technology (BACT) in water damage remediation includes; training, equipment and industry standards, implemented for the purpose of mitigating flood waters in wet buildings. Education Note: If the appropriate remediation and drying equipment are not available or are not capable of functioning properly, based on limitations such as electrical supply, the BACT requires the lowest achievable control rate and method which can manage and mitigate the damage. Often the lowest achievable control rate in water removal and building drying can result in secondary damage and an increase of mold growth in wet building materials. This lowest achievable rate must be carefully monitored, in its success or failure, and the results reported to the building owner and insurance adjuster. |
| Best Professional Judgement (BPJ): |
An educational and experiential judgement tool used by environmental engineers, industrial hygienists and water damage remediation contractors. BPJ chooses the best technology and drying equipment necessary to properly dry a wet building properly, based on their training and experience. With the use of historical information and hypothesis modeling, best professional judgement results in fact-finding, problem identification and problem solving. See Extrapolation, Hypothesis Theory. |
| Biofuel: |
Water, moisture vapour and carbon base substances such as wood, that become the energy of microorganisms allowing for the reproduction of spores. Biofuel is also the bacteria generated from sewage, as a result of mainline sewer backflows into buildings. |
| Bioremediation: |
The careful and safe removal of harmful microbiological agents. Education and Mitigation Note: a) In sewage damage backflows effecting buildings, bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all sewage and bacteria under controlled conditions which are associated with sewage effluents. This includes all coliform bacteria, and porous building materials and contents saturated with sewage. If the building materials and contents cannot be cleaned and disinfected to an acceptable level of cleanliness, then the building materials and contents require replacement with new materials. b) In fungi contamination, bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all contaminated building materials and contents under controlled conditions which are associated with the fungi contamination. c) In ventilation system cleaning and sanitizing, bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all dusts and debris in the HVAC supply air ducts followed by sanitizing, removal of all contaminated insulation, cleaning and sanitizing of the previously insulated surfaces, cleaning and sanitizing of coils, condensers, drain pans, plenum, mixing boxes and all return air ducts. d) In areas containing water or sewage saturated ground of a soil floor basement or crawl space substructure, bioremediation is the containment and control of all standing water or sewage, providing negative air out of the substructure where contaminated air does not effect the building's interior air space, and appropriate remediation measures in removing potentially harmful pathogens from the air and controlling pathogens in soil. Bioremediation of contaminated ground under a substructure is a complicated issue where each problem must be based on the conditions presented in each case. |
| Bleeding of Paint: |
A condition resulting in newly painted surface flotation of colour, showing a bleed through of the subsurface. If the subsurface is wood, the condition of bleeding usually is a result of tannin bleeding. Typically, the subsurface was not prepped properly or primed with a base coat to eliminate a bleed through. See Tannin Bleeding. |
| Bottom Plate: |
The base plate usually made of wood or metal, that represents the base of a wall or building frame, where building studs are placed onto. Bottom plate may be described regionally as being a sole plate, sill plate or mud sill plate. |
| Brownian Movement: |
The random movement of particles suspended in motion with air or water. The Brownian movement phenomenon was observed in 1827 by Robert Brown, with the suspension of particles in liquid as observed under a microscope. While Brown theorized his observations had to do with living organisms, it wasn't until the turn of the 20th century kinetic theory was developed helping us to understand, thermal agitation of smaller suspended particles in motion as their mass, compared to true particles of larger surrounding bodies, are effected by kinetic energy. In 1905, Einstein considered the problem which led to an equation connecting the observed motions with the Boltzmann constant. The development being based on the law of equal partition of energy. Education Note: A smoke soot particle for example, is battered about in air on all sides by the high speed movement of air molecules. The soot particle is absorbing kinetic energy from every direction. In this example, the soot particle floating close to cooler surfaces such as a wall, glass window, stud nails to metal, tend to magnetically migrate towards and eventually cling to cooler surfaces. If the whole wall was cooler than the heated indoor air, such as from a fire, the whole wall would be uniformly covered by smoke particles. Quite often on a wall, stud nails or screws are even cooler than the wall surface and smoke particles deposit in a noticeable pattern. In the 1970's, U.S. Steel Corporation conducted a series of experiments to investigate how 'ghost marks' can occur in a building due to dust build up. U. S. Steel determined that a distinguishable particle deposition pattern began to occur on a surface when there was >3.3 degrees F. of difference in surface temperature relative to other parts of the surface. If this temperature varied > 8 degreed F., then surface discoloration by dust through a given time occurred. See Kinetic Energy. |
| Built-In Components: |
Permanent built-in finished cabinetry, including but not limited to: counters, shelves, desks, drawers, pantries, storage closets, hutches and bay-window seats. Mitigation Note: Built-in finished components are usually not effected by most water damages, since inspection and dehumidification drying, if necessary, can be conducted through the removal of the toe-kick, core drilling into the toe-kick, or drilling behind the base molding. If the built-in component is attached to an interior wall, drying the underside of the built-in can be completed by drilling air and dehumidification holes from the opposite wall, behind the frame work of built-in component. See Wall Drying Systems. |
| Capillary Fringe: |
That area between materials having a dry mass and a wet mass; materials having gradients effected by humidity, temperature and moisture; or materials having different permeability. Often drapes and wall paper water mark staining the capillary fringe where capillary action stopped. Education Note: In a water damaged building, a capillary fringe may exist be two different materials, such as wet drywall and a vinyl cove base. The porous drywall retains moisture while the vinyl cove base repulses moisture. |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2): |
Normal exhaled gaseous constituents which are the product of aerobic respiration and decomposition that are odourless and colourless. High carbon dioxide levels are a byproduct of human activity in a building having poor air circulation and ventilation. Health and Safety Note: Although carbon dioxide is mostly not poisonous, carbon dioxide can cause suffocation. The acid-base balance of the body is affected by the level of carbon dioxide in the blood and other tissues. Ideal carbon dioxide levels in tight building are less than 1,000 ppm. Carbon dioxide levels greater than 5,000 ppm, should bring about an immediate corrective action by department managers and management. |
| Chemical(s) of Concern: |
The specific compounds and their breakdown byproducts, that are present, suspected or documented. Identification of chemical(s) can be based on historical documents and material safety data sheets. If there is a potential release of chemicals, identification requires monitoring of detected concentrations in the environment, and a reasonable theory for exposure must be considered, when evaluating for toxicity, and increased and unacceptable risk. |
| Citrus Cleaning: |
A solvent derived from the oils of citrus fruits. It is effective in cleaning virtually any oil-base soil or staining agent from a wide variety of surfaces. Education Note: Citric cleaning is reported to be safe for use on most fabrics, vinyls, woods, carpeting, and metal. Advantages of citric cleaning besides cleaning efficiency, the residue of the citric chemical leaves a pleasant fragrance of oranges, lemons and limes. The cleaning process using citrus-base chemicals appears to be ideal in most cleanup situations involving fire and smoke residue. Liability Note: Caution should be given when using citric-based cleaning and deodorizing chemicals, since some persons may have a olfactory reaction to the residual fragrance of the citrus. It may be important to get the permission of the occupants as to the residual odor (fragrance) before use of any citrus-base cleaner is applied. See Limonene |
| Compacted Soil: |
The soil which was previously undisturbed earth and has been compacted by a machine to make the soil firm and dense, sufficient enough to carry the weight of a building. Mitigation Note: Once compacted, the pad or ground must continue to maintain its purpose and design for the life of the building. Compacted soil becomes an integral part of the substructure, now called, attached ground to the bottom and base of a building. See Attached Ground, Soil. |
| Comparative Moisture Measurements: |
The comparison between dry building materials to wet or moist building materials. Restorative Drying Note: In water damage remediation, it is the measurement of moisture content of dry building materials verses building materials that are known or suspect of having unacceptable levels of moisture content during the drydown process. See Baseline Data, Drydown Process, Moisture Content. |
| Construction Grade: |
A term commonly used to describe compacted soil, building quality lumber and other materials, based on specifications and standards. |
| Cove Base: |
See Base Molding |
| Crawl Space: |
a) The lower space of a raised foundation - between the ground and the first floor of a building. In a crawl space building code requires a minimum 18" aeration access from the ground and the floor joists. b) Any unfinished interior access and limited space between floors, containing ventilation, ducting, pipes, cables, or wiring of the building. C) A lower elevation of a building that has not been excavated deep enough for a basement. |
| Daseline Data: |
a) Building and environmental information which are gathered to determine the accumulations of biological, chemical, toxins and other physical properties. b) The baseline data of acceptable indoor air quality, including thermal, physical and respirable measurements. c) The baseline data of acceptable indoor air quality verses outside air quality. d) The efficiency ratio of a ventilation system to operate and separate contaminates from indoor air. e) The energy efficiency of a building over time. See Background Measurements. |
| Defoamer: |
A chemical agent that is added to a liquid to reduce foaming problems. In carpet cleaning foaming becomes a problem when too much detergent or soap-base products are present. |
| Degree Day: |
A fuel/temperature measurement, based upon temperature difference and time. Education Note: A degree day is used in estimating fuel consumption and specifying nominal heating loads of a building in winter. For any one day, when the mean temperature is less than 65oF, there exist as many degree days as there are Fahrenheit degrees difference in temperature between the mean temperature for the day and 65oF, which is the base temperature in the U.S.. |
|
Degree of Compaction: |
The measurement of soil as related to its density, (its compaction) based on a standard formula. |
| Dextrin (Anylin, Starch Gum): |
A starch-based compound used for wall sizing and wallpaper adhesive. As a paste, the starch is mould-loving when wet, or the walls are damp for periods of time. |
| Dispute Resolution: |
When a dispute arises between the insured and insurance company, a contractor or another third party, dispute resolution is necessary to settle the differences between all the parties involved. The parties may decide to support their claims by retaining their own independent appraiser. Each party's appraiser is an able and impartial appraiser, and the plaintiff party must notify the defendant party of the appraiser's name and qualifications within 20 days after a demand is received. The appraisers will then set the amount of loss based on their own assessment and calculations. If the appraisers cannot agree as to the amount of the loss and the work product necessary to complete the loss, it may be agreed by the parties, the appraisers themselves may choose an impartial umpire. If the parties cannot reach a settlement agreement through an umpire, the parties will often agree to go forward with binding arbitration. See Binding Arbitration, Mediation, Mediation v. Arbitration |
| Drop: |
In HVAC terminology, a drop in air pressure or temperature is the vertical distance between the base of the outlet and the bottom of the air stream at the end of the horizontal throw. |
| Due Diligence: |
A legal term, describing a contractor or responsibly parties actions, and their responsibility to address and reduce reasonably anticipated problems based on their agreement. |
| Effective Area: |
In HVAC, the effective area is the calculated area of an outlet, based on the averaged measured velocity, between the fins. In water damaged buildings, the area which flooding water came in contact with. |
| EHS (Extremely Hazardous Substances): |
One of about 400 chemicals listed by the USEPA under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986. Chemicals are based on there acute toxicity. Microbiological agents, even though they can be as extremely hazardous, are not regulated under this act. |
| Electronic Stud Finder: |
An electronic instrument that detects the presence and location of wood or metal studs in walls and ceilings. Most electronic stud finders are based on detecting changes in capacity, the same principle used in elevator call systems. The electronic devises incorporate a capacitance plate, basically a piece of metal with an electrical charge on it that creates an electrical field. The electrical field is modified by nearby objects, and a built-in circuit detects those changes. When the electronic devise is placed against a hollow wall, it will have a certain capacitance; but when it is moved to a location where there is a stud behind the wall, the capacitance will change and it will emit a signal. Some newer stud finders have small, built-in radar systems to find studs. |
| Enterotoxins: |
Enteropathogenic Gram negative bacteria which secrete harmful pathogenic toxins in the intestines. Staphylococcal bacteria results in food poisoning, and based on symptoms, food poisoning is often the main suspect. See Endotoxins, Neurotoxins. |
| Environmental Audit: |
(1) An internal audit of building compliance that are based on a set of standards or science. (2) Study of land and buildings prior to real estate sale or transfer. The audit, in part, determines whether persons, animals or the environment itself has been impacted because of a discharge or exposure of some type. |
| Environmental Impact: |
a) The impact of a contaminate on an building or a material. b) The impact of a contaminate on the environment and building occupancy. The environmental impact may be short lived or long lasting. In either case, the environmental impact must be measured and monitored. Mitigation Note: In water damage mitigation, it is the impact of the water damage event effecting directly the building and its occupants. 1) Saturated asbestos and lead-base paint is a direct environmental impact on the building. 2) Not addressing all the issues of water, water vapor, drying the building immediately, and resulting increase of fungi, may have a direct environmental and health impact on the building and its occupants. |
| Estimate Based On SY, SF, LF, CY, CF: |
The anticipated estimate for a job is predicated on a known cost factor, such as total square yards, square feet, linear feet, cubic yards, cubic feet, that are used to cost out a job. For example, if a floor area is 200 square feet in size, the estimated costs are 200 times (X). X includes all labor, material, overhead and profit costs of the job per square foot, which sometimes requires a plus % factor, for cuts and overage of a rough or finished material. (200 times X times % = estimate). |
| Extrapolation: |
The prediction outcome in a particular circumstance. This is based on known circumstances, experience and experimental observations, but are founded on existing empirical data. Contractor Note: For example, a contractor having years of knowledge in water damage remediation, where extrapolation allows a professional judgement, to extrapolate the outcome of issues effecting a particular flooded building. See Best Professional Judgement, Hypothesis Theory |
| Feature Strip: |
A molding or base material that is used to separate two other materials. a) In parquet floors, a wood feature strip is used to separate parquet blocks or patterns from the perimeter of walls, as well as to end the parquet floor pattern. b) Feature strips as wood or metal molding or boarder wallpaper, are sometimes used to cover up a damage after repair, such as removal and replacement of the lower portion of a wall, where the rest of the wall is to be kept intact. The feature strip then becomes an accent, and compliments the wall finish and decor. |
| Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): |
The federal agency responsible for administrating disaster management and relief across the United States and its territories. The Agency was created in 1978 to provide a single-point of accountability for all federal activities related to disaster mitigation and emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. FEMA administers and manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). To contact or research FEMA/NFIP database their e-mail address is www.fema.gov/nfip/. The general information phone number is 800/427-4661, and to ask a question, fax is 301/918-1471. To download fax information from FEMA database call 202/646-FEMA. |
| Fire Toxics: |
A burning building has wood, plastics, other synthetics, asbestos to lead-base paint, not including stored chemicals under a sink or in a garage, which together, produce a soup of toxic materials. No employee should be allowed to inhale soot and toxins that contain carcinogens. A HEPA-rated respirator, during the tear out and cleanup phase, must be worn by all employees. Right after combustion in a fire damaged building, more than 1,000 identified substances can be present in air at any one time. Weeks later, disturbing fire debris, will cause some of the toxins as carcinogens, to become airborne. |
| Fire Toxics: |
A foundation base-part of a building, usually underground, in which other building materials such as foundation walls and floors are placed upon and are supported. The enlarged base of a building's foundation wall, pier, or column, designed to spread the load of the structure so that it does not exceed the soil-bearing capacity. |
| FRP (Fibreglass Wall Covering): |
Fiberglass wall coverings which are water and moisture proof, and are industry referred to by the acronym - FRP. FRP is identified as a wall covering in office, hotel and commercial bathrooms. FRP is found in commercial kitchens and in laboratories, and FRP can be a wall finish anywhere where water can splash or where dirt can become a maintenance issue, such as in pre-schools and hospitals. Education Note: In water damage claims FRP is a problem, because it is glued to drywall and other wall materials which become wet. Quite often after a flood, mold will be found on the drywall paper and behind the FRP. In most situations where water migrates behind the FRP and drywall, an air hole can be cut through the FRP and drywall, at the base, allowing for appropriate wall drying. If the FRP is impeding the wall drying process, or it is known or suspect of supporting mold growth, the FRP most often will be removed and replaced, after the restorative drying or mould remediation problem is mitigated. |
| Fuel Sources: |
a) In water damaged buildings, the ability of organisms to have protein as a fuel source to survive by. b) In a fire damage, it is the oxygen enriched atmosphere and carbon based materials that are used to supply heat to a fire. |
| Gas-Phase Ozone Generators: |
Manufactured ozone machines which are made for deodorization and neutralization of carbon-base odors. a) Gas-phase ozone generators are used successfully in fire deodorization in building materials and contents. b) Some manufacturers are reportedly marketing their machines as equipment which is able to remove allergies and other micro-pollutants from indoor air. Education Note: Currently, the scientific community is in dispute with equipment manufacturers on their IAQ claims. There are several law suits against some manufacturers. Contractor Note: c) It is highly recommended to water damage remediation contractors, they should not use and market their ozone machines for the elimination of bacteria and fungi in water damage claims. See Thermal-Foggers, Wet-Foggers. |
| Generator(s): |
1) A company or person who inherits regulated and non-regulated chemical or biological waste through the act of owning, renting or managing a building, such as asbestos and lead-base paint. 2) A home or business where regulated and non-regulated waste is stored. 3) A contractor who contains hazardous waste, and now has custody, care and control of the waste. 4) A gas powered generator that produces AC/DC electricity. It powers lights and equipment for mitigation and remediation of building related problems. See Custody, Care and Control |
| Guideline Model: |
An area or building which is separate from a contaminated area, zone or building. If the contaminated area does not have its own baseline, a guideline or control model of another (non-effected) building or area can be used or referred too for its baseline information and data. |
| Gully: |
a) The space between the perimeter of a wall and/or a baseboard, and the tackless carpet strips. b) The bottom inside section of a rain gutter. c) A valley trim channel of a roof, usually made of metal for water diversion. d) The route which running water has created in soil. |
| Health Hazard: |
Any chemical, mixture of chemicals, or microbiological pathogens, for which there is a statistically significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles that acute and chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees; Health and Safety Note: The term health hazard includes chemicals which are carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizes, hepatoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act on the hematopoietic system, and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes; and it includes stress due to temperature extremes. |
| HEPA Sanders (High Efficiency Particulate Air Sanders): |
Special industrial-type sanders that are made to capture the sanded air particulates, while the vibrating or circular sanders are on. All dust and debris from the sander is extracted through the sanding tool and back to a connected HEPA vacuum through a hose. Mitigation Note: While these sanders are used for lead-base paint removal, they are also used for mold mitigation. |
| HEPA Vacuum (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filtering Vacuum): |
Vacuuming equipment specially manufactured and designed to remove settled and loose contaminates from a surface, and the vacuum filter not release the debris and micro-fine dusts back in air through the exhaust. Education Note: The HEPA vacuum retains all micro-fine debris and it will not release or redistribute captured particles larger than 0.03 microns in size in air. For industrial size vacuums, the HEPA vacuum filter is rather expensive, and usually one or two prefilters precede and protect the HEPA filter. a) HEPA stand up vacuums can be purchased for residential use, but in commercial applications, including the containment of asbestos and lead-base paints, only industrial rated HEPA vacuums can be used. In some states, if asbestos and lead is being contained and controlled in the HEPA vacuum, each vacuum must have a state registration number on it. The registration number is issued and renewed yearly by the state, as long as the vacuum can meet the performance and leakage test. b) Industrial HEPA vacuums are used in mold and fungi mitigation and abatement. Dangerous fungi, mycelial fragments, mold toxins, and cell parts are captured and retained in the HEPA vacuum. See HEPA Air Scrubber, HEPA Filters. |
| Hot Water Washing: |
A preferred water-base cleaning method for clothes and building fabrics, including carpets and some upholstery, for the removal of oils, soils, and organic debris. Hot water washing includes the use of detergents, followed by agitation, rinsing and thorough drying. |
| Incremental Increase: |
The allowable increase of ambient air concentrations of certain pollutants over their baseline levels established for a building. See Baseline |
| Inevitable Occurrence: |
Based on the situation, inevitable occurrence is the unavoidable and predictable development of an action, circumstance or disaster, that will have and result in a known conclusion. Contractor Note: A water damaged building having high humidity, will result in mold growth, if the building is allowed to stay wet and humid. |
| Initial Site Assessment: |
The initial assessment is an site-inspection plan devised solely for the purpose of gaining factual information, both historical and current information about a previous or on-going event, based on the initial understanding of the site. Education Note: The initial site assessment may include other elements, such as identifying potential exposure issues of the pathways and exposure evaluation. Information collected during the initial site assessment may identify incomplete exposure pathways that may eliminate the need for any further evaluation of one or more exposure pathways at the site. |
| Inland Marine Insurance Policy: |
Also known as an equipment floater. An insurance policy which contractors have that provides equipment content coverage while you are away and in transit from your office or primary base of operation. There are generally two types of valuation methods for claims settlement with an inland marine policy. Replacement cost (RC) and actual cash value (ACV). Replacement cost is the cost to replace 'old' tools with 'new' tools at their current replacement price, without deducting for depreciation. Actual cash value is arrived at by taking the replacement cost and deducting the depreciation brought about by any physical wear and obsolescence when applicable. Replacement cost coverage is generally more expensive than actual cash value. |
| Insulation: |
1) Building insulation is typically fiberglass, cellulosic materials, and sometimes rigid or blown-in urethane foam, having an average thermal rating of R-11, R-13, R-19 or R-30. Construction Note: Building insulation is found in exterior walls and attics, and sometimes under the floor joists of sub-floors. Wall insulation is found in the UBC Codes and meets different ASTM Standards. 2) Building insulation is any other property that provides moisture and thermal protection for a building. Safety and Construction Note: Wind driven rains to fog, will not enter the building, based on its design and engineering. This design and engineering of protecting the building atmosphere cannot take into account indoor water damages. Indoor water damages are considered sealed in a tight buildings insulated envelope, having no reasonable method of escape, either for the water, vapor, humidity and condensation. Once building insulation become wet, they must be investigated immediately and determined the best method for drying and dehumidification before mold and secondary building damage occur. Refer to the Moisture Control Handbook by Joseph Lstiburek; and Restorative Drying by Claude Blackburn, See Condensation, Dehumidification, Drywall, Wall Cavities, Water Damage. |
| Introduction Letter: |
The introduction letter is an opening statement by the emergency contractor, mitigation contractor, investigator or adjuster, that gives the history, potential cause and result of a claim, as the facts are known, based on current information, at the time the introduction letter was written. Contractor Administrative Note: The introduction letter is an opening statement about the claim and your participation with the claim, that is attached to the beginning of your estimate or billing. |
|
Latex: |
Related to carpets, latex is described as the rubbery-like liquid that is found between the primary and secondary backing of a carpet. Education Note: With water damage carpets, watery-base latex may breakdown, resulting in the repair or replacement of some carpets. |
| Latex Paint: |
A description of a water or oil-base paint, that is used on walls and ceilings materials to protect them from exposure. Education Note: Most exposure are associated with humidity in bathrooms and showers, where the excess humidity is on the painted surface side, and kitchens where oils and grease are on the painted side. Restorative Drying Note: In water damage mitigation, latex paint inhibits wall and ceiling drying, trapping in the humidity and high vapor pressure, inside wall and ceiling cavities. All cove and corner base must be removed from latex-base painted walls, and dehumidification and drying methods must be implemented to assist in drying behind the latex paint, before the walls start growing fungi and mould. |
| Lead-Base Paint: |
A painted material surface that contains lead-base paint. Homes and business buildings pre-1978 are all suspect of having and containing lead-base paint. Mitigation and Safety Note: Under new EPA regulations (TSCA 406B), no home or business can be sold or rented without disclosure of lead-base paint. No renovations in dwellings and businesses older than 1978 can be completed without testing the painted surfaces for lead. If lead-base paint is detected, the paint and paint dust can be a health concern. If you or your client has questions call 800/424-LEAD |
| Lien: |
A registered document filed with the county or state, that says in brief, ...the contractor has a legal claim to the property they are providing services at..., based on contract provisions and state regulations. See Lien Release |
| Manifest System: |
The regulations applicable to transporters of hazardous waste. Included in hazardous waste which must have a manifest are asbestos and lead-base paint. A company may decide to have their own non-regulated manifest system, to track and control the use of chemicals. |
| MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): |
A pre-cast or molded finishing material made of composite fiberboard, glues and adhesives. Adjuster Note: Most MDF are painted cove and cornice materials. MDF materials take the place of more expensive solid wood coving and cornices. If the base and cornice materials are to be painted, MDF may be a substitute for solid wood. Restorative Drying Note: In water damage restoration, once MDF materials become saturated, they tend to swell anddelaminate easy, and in general, when MDF has had continuous contact with water, where water or moisture remains behind the MDF, the MDF backside readily supports mould growth. |
| Mediation vs Arbitration: |
The arbitration process is a less formal legal process than litigation, and mediation is even less formal than arbitration. Unlike an arbitrator, a mediator does not have the power to render a binding decision. A mediator does not hold evidentiary hearings as in arbitration, but the mediator conducts informal joint and separate meetings with the parties to understand the issues, facts, positions and differences of the parties. The separate meetings are known as caucuses. In contrast, arbitrators hear testimony and receive evidence in a joint hearing, based on which they render a final and binding decision, known as an award. |
| Methods of Investigation: |
Related to indoor air quality inspections, methods of investigation include a review of the history of the building; an on-site physical review of all parts of the building; and scientific monitoring of various parts of the building. Methods of investigation are similar to discovery of medical patient wellness by medical professionals. EPA recommends a Building Assessment Survey and Evaluation (BASE) Study and Temporal Indoor Monitoring and Evaluation (TIME) Study as either methods for determining base-lines or in dealing with problem solving. |
| Mould Exposures: |
All moulds in certain quantities are allergenic while other moulds in small quantities can be toxic. Mould exposures are based on an individuals health and there are no exact threshold levels. Mould exposures are mainly a result of inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. |
| M-VOCs: |
The gas-like effect in air produced by some fungi as they sporulate and decay when digesting organic carbon-based materials. mVOCs (microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) can result in a occupant health condition while indoors where fresh outside air is not constantly present and flowing. Static are spaces or indoor spaces having little air movement, while in the presence of ideal fungi growth conditions, will produce M-VOCs and mycotoxins. Most building areas having musty-like smells, including mushroom like smells and smells consisting of earthy, damp soil, weedy, nutty, or having a sweet ester/metallic smell should be avoided. Health and Mitigation Note: After donning proper respiratory equipment, further investigation as to the cause of the smells should be conducted. Be aware, that not all M-VOC conditions produce smells when fungi is present. Extreme health and respiratory caution must be taken when around a mouldy building environment. |
| Occupational Related Respiratory Diseases: |
Education and Health Note: Diseases associated with the water damage and mitigation industry that are occupational exposures, resulting in the inhalation of airborne contaminates causing illness and disease. Respirable Compounds Include: hardwood floor sanding, silica dust, chemical vapours, soil dust, asbestos, pollens, dander, lead-base paints, aluminum shavings, mold spores, fungal toxins, cotton dust, paper dust, fibreglass, carbon monoxide, cellulose particulates, cement dust, clay dust, fly ash, bird and rodent feces. See Allergies, Allergens, Biological Particles, Bronchitis, Byssinosis, Conjunctivitis, Labored Breathing, Non-Biological Particles, Pneumoconiosis, Rhinitis. |
| Oli or Latex Base Paint?: |
The two most common paint finishes on interior and exterior surfaces. Contractor Remediation and Restoration Note: In determining whether the surface is oil or latex-based paint, consider using a small amount of denatured alcohol on a cotton ball or swab, gently applying the denatured alcohol on a test area (usually in a corner of a closet, or area behind furniture or appliance). Latex paint is disolved by denatured alcohol where the oil-base paint is not. With Latex paint, the paint softens, becomes tacky to the touch, and it will come off on the surface of a cloth. If there is no change, most likely the paint finish is oil base. Most professional painters can visually tell oil painted surfaces from Latex. Oil paints for example, tend to have a smooth and hard feel to them, while Latex (or water-based) paints feel more rubbery to the touch. The difference is subtle and by no means foolproof. Remember, oil and water don't mix. Meaning, oil-base and water-base paints will not adhere or bond with each other. |
| Organic Waste: |
Carbon-based materials that are discarded into the environment. The term is often used to define the presence of domestic sewage. |
| Ozonation: |
In air, it is the use of ozone as a gas, (O3) as a disinfectant or oxidizer. Ozonation has been very successful in reducing carbon-base fire odors in buildings, but current science suggests gas-phase ozone generators are not capable of producing sufficient amounts of ozone to kill fungi infestation and sewage bacteria in buildings. If that amount of ozone gas is available, the indoor environment would be toxic and harmful. |
| Paint Grade Materials: |
Drywall, plywood, pine, and other finish materials such as softwood and fiberboard baseboards, that are not meant to be stain grade. |
| Pergo Flooring: |
A manufactured floating floor system that has the appearance of hardwood flooring. Pergo is a product trade name owned by Perstop Flooring, Inc. Pergo flooring consists of a wood-base core, and it is made of wood chips, sawdust and adhesive binders, compressed under high heat and pressure. The wood material is then applied with a photo-generated picture and it has a wear layer consisting of a melamine plastic finish. Restorative Drying Note: The Pergo flooring system has either a five year or seven year product warrantee. Any water damage to the floor may void manufacturer warrantee. If water gets under a Pergo floor system product, dehumidification drying may be of little use or benefit, but in general, the wood chip, saw dust, binder and floor adhesive on the product, including the underlayment, are known to weaken and break down, often resulting in permanent damage to the effected floor area. For manufacturer information call: 800/337-3746. Installation Note: All Pergo floor products must have a 6-mil or greater plastic vapor barrier when Pergo products are installed over concrete having less than 5 pounds of vapor pressure per thousand square foot; or less than 10% moisture content of wood subfloors, installed with a Pergo SoundblockTM or WhisperwalkTM underlayment. |
| Petroleum Products: |
Includes petroleum crude or any fraction thereof that is liquid at standard conditions of temperature and pressure (60 degrees Fahrenheit and 14.7 pounds per square inch absolute). The term petroleum product includes petroleum-based substances comprised of a complex blend of hydrocarbons derived from crude oil. |
| Pollution Liability Insurance Coverage: |
A coverage that usually protects the contractor from liability and damages resulting from a pollution occurrence. Most general liability policies exclude pollution coverage. However, depending on the policy language, limited pollution coverage may apply. Pollution insurance may be necessary when contractors come in contact with lead-base paint, asbestos, contaminated soil, liquids and solvents, mold, sewage, biohazards, toxins, or when contractors use or apply chemicals, such as cleaners, disinfectants and deodorizers. See General Liability Insurance Policy. |
| Qirra: |
A computer software estimating program of Prism. The program includes a damage and restoration database and pricing that allows photos to be added into the estimate. There are many other features the manufacturer offers. Contact Prism at 800/525-7671 or www.prism-net.com. |
| Qualitative Risk Analysis: |
A non-numeric evaluation of the potential risks at a site as determined by the potential exposure pathways based on known or reasonably expected and available information. |
| Quantitative Variables: |
An environmental characteristic which must take into account of the continued changes (variables) in materials and atmosphere. This is based on levels of contamination, temperature, humidity, air movement, and pressure, which must be measured against time, mass, growth and decay. See Sample Variables. |
| Response Action Evaluation: |
a) A qualitative analysis based on known or readily available information to identify the need for an urgency of response actions and the need for further information gathering. b) A response action evaluation for a water damage or fire damaged building, requires an expert opinion about visual observations and methods used for containment and clean-up operation. c) A response action evaluation of a fire damage, earthquake, or storm damaged building, requires an expert opinion from a general contractor and structural engineer, before building access is allowed. |
|
Risk Reduction: |
Non-site-specific human health risk-based values for chemicals and other pollutants of concern, that are protective of human health for specific exposure pathways. |
| Risk-Based Assessments: |
One or more site assessments and surveys that must be conducted before for the industrial hygienist, site assessor or risk manager is able to establish a working knowledge of the known or potential hazards of a property. |
| Risk-Based Corrective Action (RBCA): |
Corrective actions that include parts or all of the Tier-1-3 Evaluations. In addition, RBCA is the integration of the site assessment, hypothesis modeling, remedial action selection, and monitoring with appropriate risk and exposure assessment practices. RBCA methods creates a process by which corrective action decisions are made and are consistent in such a manner as to protect human health, mitigation employee health, and the environment. |
| Risk-Based Corrective Action (RBCA) Procedures: |
The sequence of principal tasks and decisions associated with the RBCA process. Each action and decision must be discussed and agreed before methods and procedures are implemented. Before action(s) and decision(s) can be made, all fact finding and historical information is gathered along with the initial site assessment information which are input information to develop the site conceptual model and exposure pathways evaluation. |
| Risk-Based Corrective Action (RBCA) Tiered Approach: |
RBCA Tiered Approach are the corrective actions and integration of the site assessment, remedial action selection and monitoring with appropriate risk and exposure assessment practices along with notifications. Before RBCA are implemented, the Tiered Approach includes notifying all stakeholders, and it involves providing all relevant information pertaining to the site and approximates associated with the site that may become part of the site. For example, a building where the source and exposure is located to one floor or area, and pathways for exposure extend to other tenant occupied and unoccupied areas or facilities. |
| Risk-Based Screening Levels: |
Assessing exposures of contaminates to buildings and occupants. Risk factors may be linked to an increase risk of an adverse health effect from an adverse building condition. |
| River Flooding, Damage Guidelines: |
In water damage remediation, it is the flood water from rivers, streams and lakes which enter into buildings. River flooding brings with it silt, mud and organic matter that become adsorbed into porous building materials. Education Note: Methods of Assessment and Mitigation: 1) Once the flood waters recede, all wet buildings must be checked for safety before entry. Health and Safety Note: Do not use electricity and gas sources until they have been inspected. Keep all power generators outside the building!. 2) Wear a HEPA rated respirator, gloves and protective clothing. 3) After an assessment of the building damage, 4) remove all salvageable contents to a safe place. 5) Wash and rinse, bleach sanitize and rinse salvageable contents, then wipe them down, use wood oils and creams to restore finish and hardware. 6) In the building, remove all standing flood water, silt and mud. 7) Remove effected carpet and pad, drywall and insulation. 8) Pressure wash all subfloors and exposed sill plates and stud bays. 9) For basements, pump out the flood water. 10) For raised foundations, pump out flood water and open skirts and access to the building. 11) Force in fresh air and exhaust out wet air. 12) No building should have new drywall or insulation installed for a minimum of 2 weeks, and only after passing a moisture test survey. 13) Have the building independently inspected by building inspectors before restoration, and by utilities before using gas and electricity. |
| Scope Estimating with Costs: |
One of several methods used to prepare a scope of work and an estimate as to the approximate rough-costs for services. Education Note: a) Rough scope estimating, can be calculated based on the total square foot of a damage area room or size of the building, such as found in a water damaged building. The price for a particular service, such as water extraction, is calculated at a certain price times the measurements of the damage area, (ie. 25 cpsf x 2,000 sf equals $500.00). b) More refined scope estimating with costs are calculated on a preprinted form, where the services and preprinted prices are highlighted, and the square feet, square yards, or cubic feet are calculated to come up with the approximate costs. c) For precise scope estimating with costs, these are scope estimates with costs that are computed, using software programs that not only calculate square feet and materials, producing a cost estimate, but the software produces a scope of work for employees and subcontractors to follow. See Best, Bluebook, Cost Accounting, Xactimate. |
| Sediment as Fines: |
In a flooded building, either from a catastrophic flood or a sewer system backflow, sediment is the fines of soil, sand and clay, that could not be removed, and are now an intrinsic part of the building after a thorough cleanup and sanitization. Most sediment can be removed from buildings, but due to the building porosity, design and engineering, some sediment as fines cannot be removed from subfloors, sill plates, and other building materials without dismantling the structure. Sediment may also be found under the building, in crawl spaces and in basements. See Clean-up, Fines. |
| Sensory Perception: |
A persons internal natural ability, through the use their senses, to determine or perceive if an environment or building is OK or healthy or not. Many sick building complaints are reported to building owners, managers and engineers based on an occupants sensory perception of how the building smells or feels to them. See Heightened Awareness. |
| Sheer Wall or Sheer Panel: |
A secondary support wall material attached to building framing, usually made of 4' x 8' sheets of plywood that complies with local building codes. Construction Note: Shear wall materials are designed and engineered to reduce the shear-stress on a building due in part to load factors, usually from the second and third floor weight loads effecting a wood frame building. In California, shear walls are being added in new construction for increased stress due to earthquakes. Mitigation Note: In water damage mitigation, sheer walls increase the need for additional problem investigation and problem solving when shear walls are present. Shear walls trap in the standing water and moisture vapor, not allowing the excess increased vapor pressure to escape within a reasonable period of time before fungi starts to grow. Wet shear walls cavities will not easily divulge that the interior wall cavities are wet and damp, since the face of the drywall may actually indicate is dry. Wet shear wall, wall cavities will not dry out on their own before mold starts to grow. After removal of the base coving, drill weep holes and aeration holes in drywall and through the shear wall, into the wall cavity. Force in dehumidified air into the wall cavity and monitor the wall cavity drydown. |
| Shellac: |
A solvent-based finish coating usually found on furniture and some hardwood floors. Education Note: Shellac finishes are affected by moisture, the moisture causes shellac to release from the surface of wood, resulting in peeling. In theory, the trapped moisture as vapor pressure and temperature, is pushing up and out from inside wet wood causing the shellac finish to release from the wood surface. When shellac finish peels off because of a water damage, it can come off as large squares, or even sheets. This is different than shellac that fractals. Fracteling occurs when moisture was present some time ago, usually years ago, and the resin coatings released from its wood surface, but it may not have been apparent at that time. As the wood drys and the resins shrink, the resins of shellac break apart into irregular shapes. Depending on how many coats of shellac that were applied, the fractling may be present under the top finish. |
| Site-Specific Target Levels (SSTL): |
Risk-based values for chemical, toxins and biological agents of concern that are protective of human health for specific exposures and exposure pathways which are developed for a particular site. |
| Skirting: |
a) The lower perimeter material of an upholstered couch or that which covers the legs and base materials of furniture. b) In modular or temporary buildings, skirting is the lower part that closes off and protects the underside. Skirting is designed in such a manner as to blend in to the exterior wall appearance, which can easily be removed for either access or repair of the substructure or when moving the modular building. c) Skirting in the UK is any base material such as vinyl or wood that is used around the perimeter of a room. |
| Substructural Drying: |
In water damage remediation, substructure drying is the use of mechanical and engineering controls necessary to dry a wet substructure properly. Mitigation Note: a) Unlike wet above-grade structures, wet below-grade substructures are influenced by an increase amount of moisture vapor coming from inside the substructure foundation walls and soil. a1) To dry a wet substructure properly, all contents and wet building materials must be removed from a basement or below-grade structure, including old carpet, cardboard and plastic sheeting. a3) All standing water or sewage must be extracted and appropriately removed. a4) Allow as much fresh air access to the substructure as possible during water/sewage removal. In fact, use an exhaust fan forcing contaminated air outside the substructure, but not in the building. a5) Depending on the soil matrix and amount of saturation, and if there is sewage present, detergent washing the soil may be appropriate before attempting surface drying or tilling the soil. b) If the below grade substructure is large, other engineering controls will be necessary to monitor and dry the environment properly. Dehumidification with air movement is most important in drying a wet substructure properly. c) Unlike above-grade wet buildings, below-grade buildings may take two to three times as long to dry. See High-Rise Drying, Structural Drying. |
| Surface Screening for Coliform Bacteria: |
Screening for coliform bacteria on surfaces first requires an investigation of the problem based on information supplied to our industrial hygienist or microbiologist by the customer, adjuster or contractor, then, a visual assessment and survey of the problem area(s) is completed. Only after the visual investigation, should bacteria screening be conducted. Swab sampling in this instance is a screening devise only. To be cost effective, sampling strategy is very limited in the number of swab samples collected. Representations as to what type of bacteria and activity are or are not present on a given surface, is through laboratory microscopic analysis. Since we cannot see bacteria with our eyes, the industrial hygienist or microbiologist must use their best judgement. |
| Technical Policy Decisions: |
The choices specific to the user, claimant or insurance company, agency or entity, that are necessary to implement the Risk-Based Corrective Action framework described in the Standards Guide to meet the needs for a particular circumstance. Education Note: General policy decisions: are a building management issues, while technical policy issues are building engineering and outside specialist issues. Technical policy decisions require decisions about regulatory compliance and regulatory policies, and value judgements by contractors and engineers, and outside specialists who have professional judgement to evaluate all available information. Engineering and environmental compliance and industrial hygiene specialists for example, are able to support their claims with scientific notations to Standards and Guidelines, along with sampling and analysis. |
| Thermal-Foggers: |
A portable gas engine machine dispersing solvents and water-base chemicals in air from 0.05 to 10.0 microns in size. Education Note: Thermal foggers have been used successfully millions of times for the control and neutralization of various smoke and carbon-based odors from fires; Some persons have tried to use thermal foggers and chemicals for water damage remediation, more specifically, mold, fungi and bacteria abatement. So far, there are no scientific studies which indicate thermal fogging machines, techniques or associated chemicals, can reduced or eliminated toxic fungi or pathogenic bacteria. Note: Gas-engine thermal foggers are not to be confused with electric thermal foggers. Electric thermal foggers (hand-held pot-type) do not disperse solvent particles smaller than 10 microns in size. |
| Thermalgraphic Chart Recorders/Sensors: |
In a water damaged building, the use of thermal (temperature and humidity) graphic (chart recorders and sensors), to scientific document and measure the amount of humidity, temperature and dew point of an environments atmosphere, at any one time, during the building dry-down process. Restorative Drying Note: a) Thermalgraphic recorders are remote pen-chart recorders having temperature and humidity recording pens. b) Thermalgraphic recording devises include electronic temperature and humidity data logging sensors. Education Note: For example: to scientifically document the dry-down process of a wet building, and the influences placed on the drying of the building from outside and environmental influences, with a degree of accuracy, no less than 4 thermalgraphic recorders or data logging sensors, are necessary for an average 1,600 square feet of wet building. (1 outside as a control; 1 in a dry area farthest from the flood; and 2 in the flooded area). Author Note: Our company mitigating a flooded having 1,600 square feet of wet floor space and walls, EME would use an average of 6 to 8 thermalgraphic measuring devises. One for each wet room and several plugged into wet wall cavities, especially those having sheer walls, firewalls, double drywall, enamel-base paint, wall paper or paneling. See Performance Humidity Curve |
| Thin set: |
A type of cementitious material used in the installation of ceramic tile, marble and slate. Restorative Drying Note: Thin set is usually very stable when confronted by a water damage. The issues for thin set and other cementitious materials, is not the thin set itself, it is the substrate base material they are placed on. Education Note: In water damaged buildings where the subfloor is wood, and it is not a concrete slab, wood subfloors and underlayments tend to swell, since they cannot easily dry out on their own. Thin set and the tile floor combined, becomes a vapor barrier, that does not allow the subfloor or underlayment to breathe and dry. Hopefully there is a basement or crawlspace, where special techniques for drying and dehumidifying the subfloor and underlayments can be accomplished. If not, quite often the trapped moisture can cause delamination of the plies of plywood or the release of the bond between the thin set and the tile. |
| Tier-1 Evaluation: |
A-risk-based analysis utilizing non-site-specific corrective action goals for complete and potentially complete direct and indirect human exposure pathways and qualitative screening evaluation. The non-site-specific corrective action goals developed for human exposure pathways are based on conservative assumptions (e.g., exposure factors) and methodologies (e.g., standards of care and assumptions) to estimate the non-site-specific values based on available information. The exposure sources and pathways assume that the risk and exposure and the source, are all located in the same location. The non-site-specific correction action goals for complete and potentially complete exposure pathways and source control, are based on similar models and instances having like-kind situations, potentially requiring like-kind problem solving administrative and engineering controls. See Phase I. |
| Tier-2 Evaluation: |
A risk-based analysis that involves an incremental refinement of the Tier-1 methodology to develop site-specific corrective action goals. The Tier-2 evaluation for human exposure pathways may include developing statistically representative concentrations of chemicals(s), toxins and biological agents of concern for comparison to the Tier-1 corrective action goals. By applying the direct exposure pathway corrective action goals established under Tier-1 evaluation at site-specific determination point(s) of exposure, it may be possible to develop corrective actions for direct and indirect exposures. Besides the model of Tier-1, Tier-2 evaluations may involve qualitative and quantitative analysis. The corrective action goals for complete and potentially complete exposure pathways are compared to the site conditions to determine if further correction is warranted. See Phase II. |
| Tier-3 Evaluation: |
A risk-based analysis (risk-based assessment) that involves a significant incremental effort over the Tier-2 evaluation to develop site-specific corrective action goals. The Tier-3 evaluation for human exposures pathways typically use advanced exposure assessment, toxicity and risk assessment screening techniques, for example, probable and most likely exposure assessment methods, use of bio-availability data, use of advanced fate and transportation models, allowing maximum flexibility of the site-specific target levels (SSTL) for potential direct and indirect exposure pathways at the point(s) of exposure based on site-specific conditions. Tier-3 requires statistical models before, during and after corrective action of the source and exposure pathways, along with clearance methods and analysis. See Phase III, IV and V. |
| TIME (Temporal Indoor Monitoring and Evaluation: |
An EPA recommended process for gathering information using a Temporal Indoor Monitoring and Evaluation Study for determining building performance or IAQ base-lines, or when indoor air problem solving is necessary. See BASE |
| Time Indicator: |
Also called Time-Location Multiplier, which is a time translation, used to indicate base building costs, calculated back to a particular point in time. |
| Total Loss: |
Damage to an object or material, sufficient enough, to consider it beyond repair, based on its value or function, compared to its salvage value, replacement cost value or cost of repair. |
| Undermining: |
A process whereby the vertical component of erosion exceeds the base of a building foundation or the level below which the bearing strength of the foundation is compromised. |
| User: |
An individual or group involved in the Risk-Based Corrective Action (RBCA) process, including insureds and property owners, insurance companies and mortgage holders, managers and operators, regulators, attorneys, contractors and consultants, and other stakeholders. |
| Valuation: |
The act of estimating or appraising. A process of valuing, estimating or determining a value of a material or object. Valuation may take into account depreciation, based on age or wear and tear. |
| Vapour Transfer: |
The ability of a vapor, such as water vapor, to transfer from one surface or atmosphere to another. Education Note: Water vapour is a gas, and it can diffuse and pass through porous building materials easily. Water vapour can also pass through a solid building material, depending upon the difference in vapour pressure between the two sides of the solid material and the permeability of the material. Water vapour moves through solid materials at a rate proportionate to the difference in vapour pressure on either side of the material. The greater the vapour pressure on one side of a material, the faster the other side will be affected. Mitigation Note: In water damage mitigation, especially when it comes to wet wall drying, reducing the vapour pressure between wet walls or a wall cavity, greatly influences the vapour pressure and its permeability factor. For example, after drilling weep holes and aeration holes (usually 3/8" to 2") in size, drilled below the base board but above the mud sill or sill plate, allowing for forced dehumidified air to enter and pressurize the wall cavity. The increased dry air vapour pressure will increase the vapour transfer rate which the wet wall material will become dry faster. See Permeability Factor, Shear Walls. |
| Vent: |
An opening which air is allowed to pass through freely. Vents are part of a buildings natural air intake and exhaust system. Vents are common to basements, crawlspaces, plumbing, attic and roof. |
| Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): |
A category of organic compounds with a relatively high vapour pressure, which a majority are air contaminates. VOCs are carbon-hydrogen bonded compounds (hydrocarbons), but they also may be aldehydes, chlorinated hydrocarbons, ketones, and other hydrocarbon-based compounds. VOCs are in paint, carpet, adhesives, binders, household cleaners, film, and materials that make up most of today's manufactured furniture. Excessive VOC exposure to some sensitized individuals produces an immediate health response and reaction to the VOC, resulting in skin irritation, nausea, depression, reactions to the central nervous system, and/or an increased risk of cancer. |
| Wainscot: |
A decorative paneling placed on the lower 36, 32 or 30 inches of a wall. Wainscot usually has a wood base or frame at the top, sides and bottom, while having wood paneling (panel inserts) in the middle.? Restorative Drying Note: Wainscot and the drywall or plaster wall behind the wainscot, when saturated, should be dried from the opposite wall, with a wall drying system, if the wall is an interior wall. If the wet wainscot walls are facing the outside exterior wall, you may need to get authorization to drill holes above the wainscot in the drywall or plaster, to install a wall drying system. In outside facing walls, wainscot drying is further complicated because of insulation, both wet and dry, and sheer panels. |
| Weep Holes: |
Small round openings in drywall, plaster and sheer paneling, to allow drainage of water and the escape of moisture and vapour pressure. Restorative Drying Note: Weep holes are placed behind the removed cove base, and just above the mud sill or sill plate. Depending on the method of drying, one or two weep holes will be placed in each wet wall cavity or every 16 inches. In commercial structures, every 20 inches. |
| Withdrawal of Water: |
The removal of standing water from substructure soil or a basement, either from evaporization, extraction or sump-pump. |
The Disaster Advice Glossary and its contents are the protected copyright of Disaster Advice
The Disaster Advice Glossary operates on TechMerit Technoloy.
|
|
 |
|