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Cacosmia
The perception of a foul odor or a stench when apparently none exists. In some instances the condition results from psychological factors%u002C as in olfactory hallucinations. As related to cacesthesia%u002C this is any morbid feeling or disordered sensibility%u002C which may be present potentially from a building having altered environments and smells. These types of buildings need to be investigated thoroughly in attempting to separate actual fact from perceived fact. See Artifactual Influences%u002C Heightened Awareness%u002C Perceived Risk%u002C Sensitization%u002C Sensory Perception
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Calcium Chloride test KitCalibration Equpment
A manufactured test kit that scientifically measures and calculates the amount of moisture as water vapour emitting from concrete at any one time. The value expressed by the test kit are a measurement of pounds of water %u0028as moisture vapor%u0029 from 1%u002C000 square foot of concrete slab surface area over a 24 hour period of time. The test is an ASTM approved method. Liability and Litigation Note%u003A Surprisingly most test kits and test results can be challenged in court%u002C because the person applying the test kit has not been properly trained to apply the kit%u002C they wrongfully computed the results%u002C or they were not taking other environmental factors into consideration at the time of testing.
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Calibration Equipment
The use of specially engineered scientific equipment that independently calibrates field use equipment to an acceptable standard before testing or sampling. Education Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C usually the only electronic equipment requiring calibration%u002C are the temperature and humidity monitoring equipment. These pieces of pre-calibrated electronic equipment are sensitive to wet atmospheres%u002C dropping%u002C and being treated with little care or concern for their intended use. Temperature and humidity equipment should be measured against each others readings. If either piece of equipment indicates a variance of more than 3%u0025%u002C then both pieces of equipment should be measured against a third. If there is a problem with any of the temperature and humidity recording equipment readings%u002C they then should be removed from the field and sent to the manufacture.
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Capillarity
The tendency of the surface of a liquid to rise or fall when in contact with a solid material.
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Capillary Action
In water damaged buildings%u002C capillary action is the rate which a building material or content can absorb%u002C hold and retain water. Contractor Note%u003A Capillary action increases as surface tension decreases. The capillary action phenomenon is explained by the movement of water in absorptive materials to levels higher than the surface water or wetness. See Wicking
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Capillary Attraction
The force of a liquid to rise when in contact with a porous substance. The force of adhesion and surface tension allows a substance to soak up a liquid.
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Capillary Break
A method of stopping capillary action at a certain point or action area from continuing. For example%u002C in water damage buildings%u002C a capillary break is a method which concrete slabs are dried in sections. Mitigation and Restorative Drying Note%u003A When rubber backed carpet tiles are dried in situ%u002C the wet carpet tiles need to be pulled up%u002C having no less than 3 %u0028three%u0029 rows removed exposing the wet concrete slab. Once the wet concrete slab and floor tiles have been dried%u002C only two of the three rows of carpet tiles are to be reset back in place. The third row of carpet tiles and exposed concrete slab are to remain open%u002C resulting in a capillary break in the transition layer of the concrete. Then%u002C another two or three rows of wet tiles can be pulled back and the carpet and concrete dried. Properly completed%u002C this method of providing drying to wet concrete and carpet tiles using a capillary break method is only a two phase process completed in an average of three-five drying days. See Transition Layer
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Capillary Fringe
That area between materials having a dry mass and a wet mass%u003B materials having gradients effected by humidity%u002C temperature and moisture%u003B or materials having different permeability. Often drapes and wall paper water mark staining the capillary fringe where capillary action stopped. Education Note%u003A In a water damaged building%u002C a capillary fringe may exist be two different materials%u002C such as wet drywall and a vinyl cove base. The porous drywall retains moisture while the vinyl cove base repulses moisture.
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Capillary Repulsion
The force that causes a liquid to be depressed when in contact with non-porous materials.
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Carbon Dioxide %u0028CO2%u0029
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%u003A Although carbon dioxide is mostly not poisonous%u002C 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%u002C000 ppm. Carbon dioxide levels greater than 5%u002C000 ppm%u002C should bring about an immediate corrective action by department managers and management.
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Carbon Filtration
The use of carbon and activated carbon filters to remove gases%u002C chemical vapours%u002C toxic%u002C and hydrocarbons from air. Carbon filtration is a control method only%u002C since it cannot address the source of the contamination.
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Carbon Monoxide
An odourless%u002C colourless and tasteless poisonous gas%u002C made when carbon or other fuel is burned%u002C as in gasoline engines. It is a poison air contaminate produced by incomplete combustion%u002C and it can be extremely harmful to humans and animals. Carbon monoxide will attach to red blood cells. This prevents the blood from moving oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues.
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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
A carbon monoxide poisoning resulting in illness and death of persons from exposure to carbon monoxide gas. Health and Safety Note%u003A In water damages%u002C floor furnaces are at and below floor level%u002C and appliances with gas ignition are near floor level%u002C they are able to rust in the presence of flood waters and high humidity. Rust will cause gas appliances to have incomplete combustion%u002C they are suspect of being a source of chronic health concerns which are seldom identified.
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Carboxyhemoglobin
The combination of carbon monoxide gas and blood %u0028hemoglobin%u0029 that result in blood poisoning.
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Carcinogen
Any chemical or biological substance that can cause abnormal growth of tissue or tumors in humans and animals.
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Care%u002C Custody or Control Coverage
An insurance policy or rider which provides protection for restoration%u002C repair and replacement of property due to faulty workmanship. This includes the property of others while actually being serviced. %u0028Under the standard general liability insurance policy%u002C damage to the personal property of others in your care%u002C custody or control%u002C is excluded%u0029. This means that if property is damaged while being serviced%u002C there is no protection or insurance coverage under a standard policy. Care%u002C custody or control insurance coverage may be offered only through a special endorsement to the standard policy. See General Liability Insurance Coverage
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Carpet
A fabric material that is generally placed on floors for comfort and appearance%u002C and sometimes on walls for reduction of sound. Carpets as a floorcovering has a limited life expectancy from 7 to 15 years. Usually carpets are replaced before the end of their life expectancy with an average carpet having from 5 to 10 years life-use. Commercial carpets are different than residential carpets both in construction and use. Care and Handling Note%u003A Carpets must be cleaned and sanitized when they are dirty like any fabric. Proper cleaning techniques can extend the life of most carpets. Water Damage Note%u003A Carpet in water damages act like a sponge and absorb and retain large amounts of water and sewage. Carpets if they are stable%u002C can be successfully cleaned and reinstalled after a fresh water flood%u002C but carpets having sewage should be replaced. Totally saturated carpets%u002C if possible%u002C should be removed from a building%u002C since most subfloors and walls will also be saturated. Wet carpet retains sometimes hundreds of gallons of water%u002C increasing its wet weight from its dry weight%u002C up to five times. Restorative Drying Note%u003A Attempting to dry wet carpet in a building where walls and subfloors are also wet%u002C dramatically increases the overall drying time.
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Carpet Cushion
An underlayment material that is placed under a carpet. Education Note%u003A The cushion acts like a pad%u002C in that the cushion softens the carpet while protecting the face fibers and secondary backing of the carpet. A good carpet cushion adds life to a carpet%u002C especially in high traffic areas. Restorative Drying Note%u003A After a major flood%u002C the carpet cushion should be removed to aid in the immediate drying of the building%u002C then%u002C if the carpet is still in place%u002C removal of the cushion will aid in the drying of the carpet. The problem with drying a building with carpet cushion and/or carpet remains in place%u002C are these saturated materials increase the drying time of the building%u002C as well as they increase the ambient humidity as long as they remain wet. Litigation%u002C Health and Safety Note%u003A Drying carpet cushion and carpet in place may result in unwanted mold growth and increase allergens. All sewage saturated carpet cushion must be carefully removed and disposed. Leaving sewage contaminated carpet cushion in place has been known to result in sickness and illness.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028 Grafted Prime Polyurethane%u0029
Flexible polyurethane foam cushion formulated with added reinforcement for increased load-bearing.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Bonded Polyurethane%u0029
Carpet cushion produced by grinding flexible polyurethane foam into small particles and binding them together with a chemical adhesive.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Compressed Force Deflection%u0029
The measurement of polyurethane carpet cushions load-bearing characteristics. The result shows the reaction to loading applied over time such as when a person stands on it.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Compressed Resistance%u0029
The measurement of rubber cushions load-bearing characteristics. This indicates the products response to immediate loading such as that experienced when it is stepped upon.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Flat Rubber%u0029
The natural or synthetic rubber cushion having a flat finished appearance on both sides.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Mechanical Frothed%u0029
Cushion made from polyurethane chemicals and reinforcing filler frothed with air into the reacting mixture.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Reinforced Rubber%u0029
An open-cell rubber cushion reinforced with solid rubber particles%u002C usually made from recycled tires.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Resinated Recycled Textile Fibre%u0029
A needle-punched synthetic fibre that is recycled from the textile processes.
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carpet Cushion %u0028Rippled Rubber%u0029
Natural or synthetic rubber cushion produced to give an appearance of bubbles on the surface and usually containing non-woven or paper scrim on the top side.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Rubberized Hair%u0029
Needle-punched felt of clean%u002C sterilized natural fibre coated with skid-proof resin on top and bottom.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Rubberized Jute%u0029
Needle-punched felt or jute fibre sealed on both sides with filled latex and embossed.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Synthetic Fibres%u0029
Non-woven needle-punched felt made principally of post-industrial scrap synthetic carpet material with no outside adhesives.
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Carpet Cushion %u0028Textured Rubber%u0029
Natural or synthetic rubber cushion produced with a fine textured appearance on the bottom and non-woven or paper backing on the top.
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Carpet Fibre Terms
The description of terms that are commonly used during the purchase%u002C replacement or repair of a carpet. See Stain Resistance
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Carpet Roller
A rolling tool weighing from 35 to 50 pounds and up to 100 pounds%u002C that aids the adhesion of carpet and mastic adhesives to bond with a subfloor. Water Damage Note%u003A Carpet rollers are also used on water damaged carpets%u002C where especially gluedown carpets are squeezed-out of the excess moisture. See Compression Rolling
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Carrier Gas
a%u0029 When air quality and air pathways are an issue in contaminated buildings%u002C industrial hygienists sometimes use a mixture of visible gas that will travel in cross-current pathways of the building%u002C area or zone. b%u0029 The mixture of gases which contains and moves the contaminant material. Components of the carrier gas are not considered to cause or produce air pollution or react with the contaminant material.
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Cartage
The actions necessary to remove or deliver materials from one location to another. Contractor Note%u003A Cartage is a billable charge when labour%u002C material handling equipment%u002C storage%u002C bailee%u0027s insurance%u002C and where relocation of contents or building materials are involved. See Bailee%u0027s Insurance
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CAS Number
An abbreviation for the Chemical Abstract Service number of a chemical that indexes it and compiles abstracts about it in the worldwide chemical literature called Chemical Abstracts. CAS Number can be found on the side of chemical containers or on the MSDS.
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CAT %u0028Catastrohe Adjusting Team%u0029
The term given by the Property Claim Services section of the American Insurance Association%u002C to property loss adjusters who adjust and settle catastrophes. CAT adjusters are called when losses from a single event or catastrophe totals more than 5 million dollars.
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CAT %u0028Containment%u002C Adsorption and Treatment%u0029
An acronym%u002C describing concepts of what steps are necessary in chronology in mitigating water damaged properties properly. The three-step concept is%u003A 1%u0029 containment of migrating flood water%u003B 2%u0029 adsorption/extraction and surface removal%u003B and 3%u0029 treatment%u002C the cleanup including sanitization. Restorative Drying Note%u003A The CAT concept is required in building damage remediation before restorative drying can be implemented appropriately. In major losses%u002C the CAT concept and the restorative drying process often become overlapped at some point.
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CAT Contractors
Disaster management and disaster recovery contractors whose job is to manage and mitigate emergency loss CAT claims.
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Caulking
The process and procedure by which an adhesive material %u0028as a sealer%u0029 is applied to the corners of a surface. The caulking may be applied on all adjoining areas of two or more materials or as a surface bead.
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Cause and Origin
The exact location and mechanism by which a fire or water damage originated. Legal and Liability Note%u003A The remediation contractor %u0027must teach%u0027 every emergency response technicians to look%u002C think and don%u0027t touch or remove%u002C or further damage water or fire damaged areas related to cause and origin%u002C without being instructed to do so and signed-off by a responsible party. The issue of removing or further damaging cause and origin without proper documentation can result in direct liability to the contractor or a company representative. %u0028Smith v. Supreme Court - reference punitive damage of wilfully throwing evidence away and failure to act with reasonable care%u002C meaning%u002C you cannot damage or throw evidence away%u003B and Howe v. Matag destruction of evidence %u0027spoilage%u0027 or the %u0027spoilation of evidence%u0027%u0029. All responsible parties%u002C %u0028claimant and defendant adjusters%u002C manufacturers%u002C forensic experts%u002C to attorneys%u0029%u002C must be allowed to investigate damaged property and determine the cause and origin. Before attempting some types of emergency clean-up%u002C the contractor must have paper work signed-off%u002C saying they are being allowed to remove all damaged areas including cause and origin. Other wise%u002C the contractor must limit their damage assessment and emergency clean-up to the best and most appropriate damage control methods. In fire damage%u002C no contractor is to remove cause and origin without all parties%u002C including fire investigators agreeing that they have fully investigated the claim and they have removed or documented cause and origin to their satisfaction.
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Caustic
Any substance that is strong enough to damage or destroy tissue on human skin%u002C or corrosive enough to damage a material.
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Caution/Pelegro
An English/Spanish sign denoting the need for caution. Education Note%u003A Caution and Caution Do Not Enter signs must be posted at every entry and exit of a building or area requiring the signs. Below the caution word must be sufficient space to write and describe the causation or reasons for Do Not Enter. In addition%u002C your company name and a contact name with phone number must be on the sign. Once posted%u002C caution signs must be dated with a start date and end date of the caution. See Confined Space%u002C Isolation%u002C Permit Required Confined Space Entry
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Ceiling Limit %u0028C%u0029
The concentration of toxic chemicals%u002C vapours and mists in a work environment or closure%u002C that should never be exceeded.
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Ceiling Outlet
A round%u002C square%u002C rectangular%u002C or linear air diffuser located in the ceiling which provides a horizontal distribution pattern of primary and secondary air. The ceiling outlet is usually found over the occupied zone and induces low velocity secondary air motion through the occupied zone.
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Ceiling Plenum
The air space between a ceiling and another floor or roof%u002C which acts as a return air conveyance system of the HVAC. The ceiling plenum is to be kept under negative air pressure%u002C and all return air must be filtered before its return back through the supply ventilation air ducts.
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Centre for Advanced Restorative Drying
A teaching and certification school that teaches adjusters and contractors real-time drying%u002C restorative methods and drying research%u002C in a working classroom and wet building environment. Contact Dri-Eaz at 800/932-3030 or www.dri-eaz.com
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Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are made of clay%u002C fired and baked in a kiln%u002C having a glaze finish. Ceramic tiles are permanently attached to floors and some walls and ceilings%u002C as well as on counter tops. The glaze finish of ceramic tiles are a moisture-resistant surface%u002C which is very durable under most conditions. Ceramic tiles are adhered with a mastic or mortar and filled between the tiles with a cement or synthetic coloured grout. Education Note%u003A Ceramic tiles stand-up very well in water damage situations%u002C but when fresh water or sewage water entrains under the tiles%u002C through an underlayment%u002C or from saturation moisture wicks up from a lower substrate%u002C resulting in the adhesion of some tiles to become loose%u002C causing in the eventual cracking and damage to some tiles. Mitigation Note%u003A Kitchen ceramic tile counters having tile as part of the backsplash%u002C the tiles may be in good condition%u002C but when the lower counter is damaged%u002C requiring detaching%u002C repair or replacement of the counter%u002C or the subfloor%u002C the ceramic tiles are almost always damaged during the counter removal.
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Ceratocystis Ophiostoma
A common fungi found on cut green pine wood%u002C wet wood in lumbar yards%u002C and new wood in buildings. Lumbar yard fungi when viable%u002C produces a bluish color staining and when dormant or dead%u002C is black in color. Ceratocystis ophiostoma grows on the vascular surface of cut wood%u002C but it does not damage or cause deterioration to the lignins of the wood. Ceratosystis ophiostoma fungi likes new sap from freshly cut wood. See Lumber Yard Mold
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CERCLA %u0028Comprehensive Environmental Response%u002C Compensation and Liability Act%u0029
CERCLA is also known as the Superfund Act. CERCLA regulations and mandates do not generally apply in a water damaged building scenario%u002C but CERCLA may apply when waste water%u002C drainage and run-off at a work site are allowed to leave a site and enter into near by storm drains. Contractors who are fire damage restorers must become informed about CERCLA and RCRA%u002C when chemicals are at a burn site or run-off is allowed outside a property or berm. General Liability Note%u003A Contractors improperly cleaning up a damage site%u002C or found illegally disposing of chemicals may be in violation of CERCLA or RCRA. See RCRA
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Certificate of Satisfaction
A to be signed document%u002C presented by the contractor to the customer or insured%u002C which states%u002C the contractor has completed all work as agreed and to the satisfaction of the customer or insured.
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Certified Employee
An employee that has completed all of the requirements for training certification delineated in standards and approved training courses.
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Certified Industrial Hygienist %u0028CIH%u0029
A person who possesses a bachelor of science or advanced degree in industrial hygiene%u002C engineering%u002C physics%u002C biology%u002C medicine or related physical and biological sciences%u002C who also has a minimum if three to five years full-time industrial hygiene experience. To have a CIH designation%u002C the person must be currently registered and recognized by the American Industrial Hygiene Association or other industry recognized industrial hygiene associations. See Industrial Hygienist
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Certified Technician
An employee who has attained sufficient classroom and technical knowledge to pass an industry test about a particular trade. Education Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C like in many other associations%u002C the water damage technician certification is only good for a period of time before it needs to be renewed. Not having re-education %u0028continuing education%u0029 and renewal%u002C voids the water damage technician certification. See IICRC
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Cesspool of Sewage
Referring to sewage contamination%u003A Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Liquid and decomposing waste found under substructures that has been accumulating there for weeks and months. The attached ground has become an underground sink and cistern disposal area%u002C it is undesirable and extremely unhealthy. Health Note%u003A b%u0029 Improperly cleaned up interiors of buildings having coliform bacteria are cesspools of sewage residing in occupant exposures.
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CFM %u0028Cubic Feet per Minute%u0029
The volume of airflow calculated over one minute %u002860 seconds%u0029. Along with lift%u002C the measurement of cfm is one major method of determining vacuum efficiency.
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Chain of Custody
A written document which transfers environmental samples from a field technician to a laboratory%u002C or materials from one party to another.
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Chair Rail
A horizontal molding affixed to a wall equal to the height of the back side of a chair. A chair rail is designed to stop damage or marring to the wall surface by the back of a chair. Wall chair rails average from 36%u0022 to 44%u0022 from the floor height. Chair rails will sometimes have wood paneling or a wall paper lower covering. Chair rails having backing materials must be checked for unwanted moisture content after a water damage.
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Change of State
Changes from a phase%u002C such as solid to a liquid%u002C a liquid to a gas or vapour%u002C or to another.
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Change Order
A written document that results in the modification of an existing contract. A change order either removes%u002C adds or exchanges items in the contract for items or services. A change order spells out all the labour and material changes and revised contract prices.
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Changeover
The process of switching an air conditioning system from heating to cooling%u002C or vice versa.
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Characterisation of a Biohazardous Substance
Any organism%u002C product%u002C material%u002C or biological agent%u002C that present a risk to humans. Health Note%u003A A biological material that threatens humans and their living and work environment. Illness and diseases which are known to be acquired through animal and human secretions or their by-products.
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Characterisation of Hazardous Liquid Waste
Mitigation Note%u003A Under federal%u002C state and local law%u002C some waste and its constituents%u002C once identified%u002C are considered to be hazardous to breathe%u002C or when coming into physical contact with them. Health and Safety Note%u003A Hazardous waste can cause moderate to severe health effects in employees and occupants%u002C resulting in acute and chronic health concerns. ALL hazardous liquid waste must be properly identified%u002C contained and controlled%u002C and only professional trained and certified persons must be allowed to contain and remove hazardous liquid waste.
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Characterizsation of a Hazardous Substance
Any chemical or agent that poses a threat to human health or the environment%u002C if released minor or in significant amounts%u002C depending on the chemical or agent.
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Charged Particles
A particle which possesses at least one unit electrical charge%u002C and which will not disintegrate upon loss of charge. Charged particles are characterized by particle size%u002C number and sign of unit charges and mobility.
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Checking of Paint
A phenomenon manifested by slight breaks in the surface of the paint film. Checking cracks can assume many patterns%u002C and they usually resemble a birds foot or small squares. Checking of paint is not fully understood%u002C but it is known to occur when paint is applied on a moist wood surface and the relative air is more dryer than the painted surface.
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Checking of Wood
Cracking%u002C cubing or fractling of wood due to natural causes%u002C from water damages or a result of wood damage from some type of fungi resulting in a wood rot. See Cob Web Effect
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Chemical Cartridge Respirator
A face-type mask usually of a butyl-rubber-latex configuration%u002C having one or two chemical cartridges. The face-piece respirator and cartridges must be appropriately donned and used for the type of contaminate known or suspected.
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Chemical Release
a%u0029 Any spill or leak%u002C or detection of concentrations of chemical%u0028s%u0029 of concern in the indoor environment or attached environments%u002C including the outside air to the building. b%u0029 Chemical release includes all chemicals%u002C sprays%u002C sealers%u002C disinfectants and deodorants used in a building after a loss.
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Chemical Sensitivity
The acute or chronic sensitivity reaction to a chemical substance. Health and Safety Note%u003A Chemical sensitivity can be a result of adsorption from skin contact%u002C inhalation and ingestion. Chemical sensitivity may show itself as an allergic or asthma reaction%u002C swelling and redness on skin%u002C shortness of breath%u002C laboured breathing%u002C dizziness%u002C stomach ache and vomiting%u002C or a neurological disorder.
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Chemical Sponge
A rubber cleaning sponge that has large cells capable of capturing dry particles from surfaces. As the rubber sponge is being applied on dry surfaces%u002C the surface cleaning action debrides the outer sponge layer%u002C exposing a cleaner surface area for additional cleaning. The chemical sponge picks up soot and captures smoke odor. Mitigation Note%u003A The name chemical sponge%u002C more commonly referred to by industry as a chem-sponge%u002C possesses no special chemicals in the sponge as the name suggests. As a rubber-type sponge%u002C it does not pick up or absorb water or chemicals easily%u002C and it should not be used for wet-side cleaning.
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Chemical%u0028s%u0029 of Concern
The specific compounds and their breakdown byproducts%u002C that are present%u002C suspected or documented. Identification of chemical%u0028s%u0029 can be based on historical documents and material safety data sheets. If there is a potential release of chemicals%u002C identification requires monitoring of detected concentrations in the environment%u002C and a reasonable theory for exposure must be considered%u002C when evaluating for toxicity%u002C and increased and unacceptable risk.
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Chiller
A refrigeration machine that chills water%u003B the evaporator section of such a refrigerant machine.
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Chip Board/Particle Board
Means those building materials that are made from wood chips%u002C glue and resin. Chip board/particle board are ASTM rated as a construction grade materials and are found as subfloors. Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 Once saturated with water or sewage%u002C these materials tend to swell and loose their efficiency as a stable building material. b%u0029 Once damaged%u002C the damaged section usually requires replacement. Large sections of saturation damage may result in the complete subfloor being replaced. Construction Safety Caution%u003A Improper removal of the chip board/particle board from second floors or above%u002C may cause a shift to the building frame%u002C more commonly referred to as racking. 97 UBC Section 2515%u002C Chapter 23%u002C 2-B-1%u002C %u002326.
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Chloride
The by-product of burning PVC and water and hydrochloric acid.
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Cholera
An infectious waterborne disease that is characterized by severe diarrhea and results in dehydration. Outbreaks are not common%u002C in first world countries%u002C but because of recent influence of third world persons living in the United States%u002C may now be residing in unsanitary living environments. Health Note%u003A Public health officials say%u002C exposure of a contaminated environment to water damage remediation employees from fecal matter and unsanitary living environments%u002C is a health concern%u002C even if Cholera is not present.
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Chronic
Long term exposures%u002C which over time will cause adverse health effects to buildings and individuals. Health and Safety Note%u003A Exposures to contaminated building environments over months or longer%u002C are known to result in permanent or long-lasting health impairments. See Acute
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Chronic Effect
An adverse long-term exposure effect brought about from exposures to a chemical%u002C biological or toxic substance that develops slowly over a long period of time%u002C usually several weeks to years.
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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%u003A Citric cleaning is reported to be safe for use on most fabrics%u002C vinyls%u002C woods%u002C carpeting%u002C and metal. Advantages of citric cleaning besides cleaning efficiency%u002C the residue of the citric chemical leaves a pleasant fragrance of oranges%u002C 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%u003A Caution should be given when using citric-based cleaning and deodorizing chemicals%u002C 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 %u0028fragrance%u0029 before use of any citrus-base cleaner is applied. See Limonene
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Cladosporium
A natural outside soilborne and airborne fungi. Cladosporium is also found in indoor air samples. Depending on the amount of Cladosporium in indoor air%u002C the industrial hygienist or microbiologist may consider the levels acceptable or potentially harmful. Wet building materials are known to heighten the Cladosporium fungi to unacceptable levels. See Fungi
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Clean
The term clean means%u002C free from dirt%u002C grime%u002C bacteria%u002C pollutants and other contaminates%u002C which if not removed%u002C may be harmful to humans and animals.
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Clean for Paint
An acceptable level of preparation of surface contaminate removal through cleaning%u002C that allows primers%u002C binders and top coats of paint finish to be applied successfully%u002C with no residue under-layer of pollutants to exist.
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Cleaning and Sanitizing of Contents
Mitigation Note%u003A Means the removal of dirt%u002C debris and other contaminates from the surface of contents%u002C allowing the contents to be returned to a safe and clean condition
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Cleaning by Maid Service
The steps necessary to dust%u002C vacuum surfaces and materials%u002C from general household and office related dusts%u002C dirt and other daily fallout of organic debris. Cleaning may include the removal of minor marks%u002C grit and other extraneous materials from floors and counters with cleaners and polish. See Damp Mopping
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Cleaning for Restoration
The appropriate method of removal of surface and hidden contaminates and pollutants on hard surfaces%u002C semi-porous and porous materials%u002C before the material is allowed to experience reconditioning%u002C refurbishment or restorative processes. Mitigation Note%u003A For example%u002C a sewage contaminated%u002C fire damage%u002C pesticide contaminated%u002C tear-gas to meths clean-up is begun%u002C the material%u0028s%u0029 must be appropriately cleaned and decontaminated before restoration is attempted. See Restorative Cleaning
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Cleaning in Water damage
A method requiring one or more steps necessary to acquire a level of cleaning or cleanliness. Education Note%u003A In the water damage cleanup process%u002C cleaning refers to the removal of surface water%u002C contaminates and biopollutants%u002C and restoring the surface or surfaces back to their pre-loss healthy dry condition.
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Clean-up
The act of surface cleaning and removing contaminates%u002C which sometimes is followed by sanitizing or disinfection. See Mitigation%u002C Sanitizing
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Clean-up Goals
Acceptable method%u0028s%u0029 which cleaning strives to attain.
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Clean-up of Affected Building Materials
Mitigation Note%u003A Means%u003B a%u0029 In fresh water damage%u002C the immediate moisture removal and drying of buildings. b%u0029 In grey water and sewage flooding%u002C it is the immediate removal of water and effluents%u002C and the follow up cleaning and sanitization of all contaminated but salvageable materials. See Employee Protection%u002C Mitigation%u002C Remediation%u002C Water Damage
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Clean-up of Construction Debris
The containment%u002C control and removal of all construction created waste in a building and at the job site. Cleanup of construction debris includes the removal of saw dust and wood chips in wall cavities%u002C off of flooring%u002C and the vacuuming of settled and migrated dusts. See Clean for Paint
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Clean-up of Metal Studs and Sill Plates
means%u003A Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 In fresh water damage%u002C the removal of surface water%u002C followed by air drying of the metal studs and sill plates. Due Diligence Note%u003A b%u0029 In sewage damage%u002C the removal of sewage water and debris%u002C followed by surface scrubbing with detergents and warm water%u002C fresh water rinsing and disinfectant sanitizing. %u0028If sewage is in and under the metal sill plate%u002C low-pressure pressure washing of effluents %u005B60/90 PSI%u005D from under the sill plate%u002C followed with extraction%u0029. c%u0029 The use of air movers for drying should only be used after surface cleaning and sanitizing.
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Clean-up of Porous Concrete Slabs
Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 In fresh water damage%u002C the removal of surface water%u002C followed by air drying of the concrete slab. b%u0029 In sewage damage%u002C the removal of sewage water and debris%u002C followed by scrubbing the slab with an electric floor scrubber and stripping pad%u002C using detergents and warm water%u002C fresh water rinsing and disinfectant sanitizing. c%u0029 The use of air movers for drying should only be used after surface cleaning and sanitizing.
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Clean-up of Sewage
Clean-up of Sewage means%u002C the complete removal of waste water%u002C solids and associated bacteria from buildings and contents%u003A Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 Clean-up of sewage includes the complete removal of standing sewage from all non-porous and salvageable porous building materials. Health and Safety Note%u003A b%u0029 Clean-up of sewage should include the removal of sewage saturated building materials such as drywall and insulation%u002C underlayment%u002C carpet and pad. c%u0029 Cleanup of sewage in children%u0027s bedrooms should include the removal and disposal of effected clothes and toys%u002C and such items that are highly suspect or are questionable as to becoming cleaned and sanitized. d%u0029 Clean-up of sewage in kitchens%u002C pantries and lower kitchen cabinets includes%u002C the removal and disposal of all perishable and open food. The cleaning and sanitizing of all sealed food related items. The cleaning and sanitizing of all shelves and cabinets after the kitchen%u002C pantry and lower cabinets have been cleaned and sanitized on all sides. e%u0029 Clean-up of sewage under vanities%u002C cabinets and counters includes%u002C the detaching of built-on and built-in materials for the purpose of the cleanup of sewage on floors%u002C subfloors and wall cavities. Clean-up of sewage under vanities%u002C cabinets and counters also includes%u002C the cleaning and sanitizing of vanities%u002C cabinets and counters before they are reinstalled.
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Clean-up of Wood Studs and Sill plates
means%u003A Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 In fresh water damage%u002C the removal of surface water%u002C followed by air drying of the wood studs and sill plates%u002C then checking with moisture sensors to determine the wood is dry below 15%u0025 moisture content before the wall cavity is closed. Due Diligence Note%u003A b%u0029 In sewage damage%u002C the removal of sewage water and debris%u002C followed by surface scrubbing with detergents and warm water%u002C fresh water rinsing and disinfectant sanitizing. %u0028If sewage is under the sill plate%u002C low-pressure use pressure washing of effluents from under the sill plate%u0029. c%u0029 The use of air movers for drying should only be used after surface cleaning and sanitizing.
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Clean-up Operations
A clean-up operation in a water or fire damaged building involves the containment%u002C removal and subsequent cleanup of contaminated or non-hazardous substances and materials. Hazardous Materials Management Note%u003A In hazardous materials management%u002C including black-water sewage%u002C mold which has been determined to be toxic or pathogenic%u002C or a chemical spill%u002C cleanup operations is an operation where hazardous substances are removed%u002C contained%u002C incinerated%u002C neutralized%u002C stabilized%u002C cleared-up%u002C or in any other manner processed or handled with the ultimate goal of making the site safer for people or the environment. Clean-up operations often call for continuous monitoring and site clearance testing.
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Clean-up Options
Where possible%u002C an alternative but still acceptable method in achieving clean-up.
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Clean-up Time
The amount of time necessary or predicted to achieve a clean-up goal. See Clean-up Goal
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Clearance Sampling and Monitoring
After removal of a contamination from a building%u002C it is the testing using scientific methods to known acceptable standards of sampling and monitoring. See Verification Sampling
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Clearance Swab Sampling
Clearance swab sampling is used for identification of any remaining coliform and enteropathogen-type bacteria remaining on a surface. Education Note%u003A Clearance surface sampling is only used after the successful cleanup of contaminated surfaces%u002C usually by a process of detergent cleaning and scrubbing%u002C followed by disinfectant sanitizing%u002C fresh water rinsing and drying. %u0028If the material surfaces are porous%u002C quite often the cleaning and sanitizing process requires a second application in the removal of Gram-negative cell structures%u0029. Clearance sampling of previously contaminate surfaces is more exact%u002C and sampling strategy and methods are quantitative. To provide for a quantitative bacteria clearance analysis of a previously contaminate surfaces%u002C a precise amount of swabs and sampling must be administered. To the lay person%u002C the number of sampling will increase several fold if not more%u002C depending on the surface type%u002C porosity%u002C occupancy and environmental factors. See Qualitative Swab Sample Screening%u002C Surface Screening for Coliform Bacteria
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Client%u0027s Right to Know
Legal Note%u003A In certain instances where flooding involves carcinogens%u002C pathogens%u002C aeroallergens%u002C toxins and other harmful agents%u003B electrical and gas hazards%u003B to slip and fall%u003B the water damage contractor%u002C as a person who has knowledge has a legal responsibility to disclose pertinent information to the client and unsuspecting persons who may enter a building or zone of contamination from building impairments may result in public health exposures.
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Climate Controlled Environment
An energy efficient indoor environment in a tight building that controls temperature%u002C humidity%u002C air currents%u002C supply and exhaust air%u002C through electronically set and monitored equipment.
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Closed Drying System
Restorative Drying Note%u003A A%u0029 In water damaged buildings%u002C a closed drying system is a complete drying of the building relying totally on dehumidification through engineering controls and not outside air. A closed drying system requires high amounts of air movement coupled with dehumidification. B%u0029 In restorative drying%u002C a closed drying system requires technical expertise and the appropriate drying equipment necessary to dry a wet building properly%u002C efficiently in a timely manner. See Best Conventional Control Technology
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Closure
a%u0029 The completion and final end of a project. b%u0029 The critical barrier method used to seal-off an area or room.
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Coastal High Hazard Area
That portion of a 100-year coastal floodplain that is subject to storms and storm-wind-driven-velocity waves of three feet or more in height. Coastal High Hazard Areas are designated as Zone-V on Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
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Cob Web Effect
In painting%u002C cob webbing is the thin%u002C stringy paint surfaces having web-like particles which are brought about only from paint spray applications. The cob web effect is produced by premature drying or using incorrect thinner%u002C which results in a spider-like webbing effect.
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Code of Federal Regulations %u0028CFR%u0029
The rules and regulations under U. S. Law%u002C that are published in the Federal Register. The codes which employers and employees are primarily concerned with are found in 29-CFR 1910. See Federal Register
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Code of Federal Regulations %u0028CFR%u0029
The federal rules promulgated under U.S. law as published in the Federal Register%u002C to protect employees %u0028OSHA%u0029 and govern activities of chemicals and hazards %u0028EPA%u0029 in all states and territories.
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Coil
A heating%u002C filtering or cooling element made of pipe or tubing.
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Coinsurance
Two or more insurance carriers %u0028insurers%u0029 that have coverage on the same claim. Losses are allocated in proporation to the amount of coverage provided by each insurer.
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Cold Deck
The cooling section of a multi-zone system%u003B includes cooling coils and duct.
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Coliform Bacteria
Gram-negative bacteria that are short rod-shape that may form many chains. Included in harmful coliform bacteria is the well advertised deadly fecal bacteria called %u0028E. coli%u0029. Health and Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C coliform bacteria are found in sewage and flood water coming into buildings. All coliform bacteria must be removed from a contaminated building. See Gram-Negative Bacteria%u002C Sewage Mitigation
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Collateral Building Damage
Accompanying or associate building damage resulting from a direct or indirect relationship with the causation. See Consequential Building Damage%u002C Secondary Building Damage
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Collectable
Any object having value that is known to be collected by other persons. Contractor Note%u003A Some collectibles have little value%u002C while other collectibles have great value. In your review of a damaged residential structure%u002C it is important to ask the contents owner if they have collectibles%u003F If so%u002C would they mind removing them from the damaged building areas. More than one contractor has paid for damaged collectibles%u002C when in fact%u002C they may have already been damaged. See Antiques
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Colony Count
A quantification counting of bacteria%u002C yeasts and fungi on a nutrient medium.
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Colony Forming Units %u0028CFUs%u0029
The number of colonies on a laboratory agar plate after culturing.
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Colorimetry %u0028Colorimetric%u0029
The term applied to all chemical analysis techniques involving reactions in which a colour is developed when a particular contaminant is present in the sample and reacts with the collection medium. The resultant variance of colour intensity is measured to determine the contaminant concentration.
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Combustion
The act or process of burning.
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Comfort Chart
A chart showing effective temperatures with dry-bulb temperature and humidity measurements%u002C and air movement%u002C by which the effects of various air conditions on human comfort are compared.
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Comfort Ventilation
The desirable range of airflow%u002C temperature%u002C humidity and odor in a building that allows for the comfort of the building occupants. Also called the comfort zone.
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Comfort Zone
The average range of effective temperatures over which the majority %u002850%u0025 or more%u0029 or adults feel comfortable%u003B extreme the range of effective temperatures over which one or more adults feel comfortable.
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Commensal Bacteria
A symbiotic relationship between two or more bacteria organisms%u002C in which one organism lives in or on the other%u002C but not as a parasite%u002C thus leaving the other unaffected.
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Commercial Buildings
Includes but is not limited to buildings such as industrial%u002C hospitals%u002C hotels%u002C factories%u002C offices%u002C churches%u002C wholesale%u002C residential structures having 5-floors or more%u002C and other non-residential buildings.
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Commercial Sewage
Industry created sewage that is locally and state regulated. They are allowed to carry certain chemicals and agents after filtering and neutralization. Mitigation Note%u003A Commercial sewage is connected and is part of the same sewer system as residential sewers. Backup of residential toilets near industry which are down line%u002C can complicate the Category-3 sewage contamination clean-up. Chemicals and other hazards may exist. See Domestic Sewage%u002C Hospital Sewage%u002C Industrial Sewage
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Commercial Size Dehumidifiers
Adjuster/Contractor and Restorative Drying Note%u003A Commercial size dehumidifiers are equipment capable of removing from 15 to 100 gallons of humidified moisture in air per day. See Desiccant Drying%u002C Psychometrics%u002C Refrigerant Drying%u002C Restorative Drying
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Commercial Traffic
In commercial buildings%u002C commercial traffic refers to foot traffic on flooring%u002C the amount of people per hour or per day who travel within or across a given area.
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Compacted Soil
The soil which was previously undisturbed earth and has been compacted by a machine to make the soil firm and dense%u002C sufficient enough to carry the weight of a building. Mitigation Note%u003A Once compacted%u002C 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%u002C now called%u002C attached ground to the bottom and base of a building. See Attached Ground%u002C Soil
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Company Adjuster
An adjuster who is in the direct employment of an insurance company. See Independent Adjuster
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Comparative Moisture Measurements
The comparison between dry building materials to wet or moist building materials. Restorative Drying Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C 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%u002C Drydown Process%u002C Moisture Content
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Competent Person
In referring to employees in potentially hazardous work environments%u002C OSHA defines a competent person as one who knows the hazards existing or likely to exist%u003B the competent person knows how to control or eliminate those hazards%u003B and that person has been given the authority to correct the hazards promptly%u002C and does so. Education Note%u003A In speaking with OSHA consultation%u002C and reading from safety bulletins%u002C such as produced by the American Society for Concrete Construction%u002C called Safety Alert %u002318%u002C competent person%u0028s%u0029 may be the most misunderstood and misused expression in company safety management programs. This assignment as the most competent person is usually given to first-line supervisors in most companies. In my own personal survey of 29 southern California water and fire damage remediation contractors%u002C who know me and trust our company%u002C they named their most competent person as a manager. Yet in almost all instances%u002C that %u0028competent person%u0029 manager%u002C was not responsible for the interaction or teaching to employees the knowledge he or she has attained. OSHA is also concerned that the primary or most competent person is not on the jobs where accidents and injury occurs. The assignment as the companies designated competent person must be given to the front line hands-on manager%u0028s%u0029 who look out for the welfare of the employer and employees.
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Completed Operations Coverage
An insurance policy or rider which provides protection after the contractor has completed a job. An example would be after cleaning or restoring a building and paint discoloration occurred after it dried%u002C because of hidden damage.
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Components in Place
Building materials that are in place to structurally make up a building and a building system. Components in place are the main frame materials which integrate%u002C consolidate and unite a building structurally. See Main Frame
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Compound
A substance composed of two or more elements joined together according to the laws of chemical combination. Each compound has its own characteristic properties different from those of its constituent elements.
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Compression Rolling
The use of a weighted floor roller or drag wand to remove excess water from a carpeted surface during a water damage. See Carpet Roller%u002C Drag Wand
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Compressor
The pump which provides the pressure differential to cause fluids to flow. In the pumping process%u002C the compressor increases pressure of the refrigerant to the high side condition. The compressor is the separation between low side and high side.
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Concentration
a%u0029 An expression of how much %u0028dose%u0029 of a material%u002C in a given amount%u002C can be absorbed by the human body%u002C without effecting the body or causing a reaction. b%u0029 Concentration of contaminates to humans or atmospheres%u002C is the amount of a contaminate in concentration. Education Note%u003A For example%u002C concentration of contaminates in water are expressed as the mass of a contaminant per given volume%u002C %u0028typically one liter%u0029 of water%u002C or as the mass of a contaminant per given mass of water%u003B In the case of aerosols%u002C the concentrations of aerosols %u0028airborne solids and liquids%u0029 in air%u002C are expressed as the mass of a substance in a given volume %u0028typically one cubic meter%u0029 of air%u003B In the case of vapours and gases in a given volume of air equals %u0028volume/volume%u0029%u002C or the mass of a material per given volume of air equals %u0028mass/volume%u0029.
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Condensate
In an air conditioning unit%u002C water which has condensed from a vapour%u002C either on the outside of a cooling or dehumidifying coil%u002C or on the inside of a steam heating coil.
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Condensation
In an air conditioning unit%u002C the process of changing a vapour into liquid by extracting heat. Condensation of steam or water vapour is effected in either steam condensers or dehumidifying coils%u002C and the resulting collected water is called condensate.
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Condensation
The ability of water to change to water vapour when heat is increased%u002C and vise versa%u002C when water vapour changes to water when heat is lost. Restorative Drying Note%u003A In wet wall cavities for example%u002C water vapour can form and condense in the upper part of the wall cavity when outside sun heats the wall cavity as water droplets. This condition can also be found in high humid buildings on ceilings and in attics. See Evaporation
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Condenser
The heat exchanger in which the heat absorbed by the evaporator and some of the heat of compression introduced by the compressor are removed from the system. The gaseous refrigerant changes to a liquid%u002C again taking advantage of the relatively large heat transfer by the change of state in the condensing process.
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Conditional Waiver %u0026 Lien Release
A Conditional Waiver %u0026 Lien Release document is a legal document which in brief says%u002C you as the general contractor of record%u002C are waiving some of your legal rights to a property where you and subcontractors and material suppliers that are under your direction%u002C and who performed labor services and/or delivered materials to the job at the address in question. Legal and Contractor Note%u003A The Conditional Waiver and Lien Release usually means that all of the payments to the project have not been paid%u002C and the debt owed to you and your subcontractors%u002C have not totally been satisfied at this point in time. Yet%u002C one or more parties to your billing or agreement%u002C wants you to sign-off on a Conditional Waiver %u0026 Lien Release form. Often Conditional Waiver %u0026 Release document become required when%u002C co-owners%u002C banks and other financial institutions are making the payment%u0028s%u0029%u002C or are signing-off and releasing insurance drafts%u002C or other third parties who have an interest in the project. If you are a contractor%u002C you may not want to sign-off on Conditional Waiver %u0026 Lien Releases until you have talk to your attorney and they provide you with proper legal advise. See Unconditional Waiver and Lien Release Form
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Confined Space
1%u0029 OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 - Any space large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work. In addition%u002C a confined space has limited or restricted means of entry or exit%u002C and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy. 2%u0029 Building environments and substructures which are known or potentially hazardous%u002C toxic%u002C or combustible. Health and Safety Note%u003A Any area or zone that meet standards of a confine space or permit required confined space employees shall not enter the environment without proper training%u002C safety and if necessary%u002C monitoring equipment. 30 CFR Part 11.90%u0028a%u0029. See Entry Permit%u002C Permit Required Confined Space
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Conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the delicate mucous membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the exposed surface of the eyeball. Health and Safety Note%u003A Exposed water damage remediation workers and building occupants%u002C during the flood drying processes%u002C are susceptible in acquiring conjunctivitis%u002C especially when air movers are installed where dust%u002C spores and debris become aerosolized. See Contact Dermatitis%u002C Pink Eye%u002C Rhinitis
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Consequential Building Damage
The building or property damage which does not arise as a direct result of the initial causation event%u002C but arises as a result of it. Losses which arise as an indirect result of the claim%u002C as distinct from the direct and immediate effects. Restorative Drying Note%u003A In water damage flooding into buildings for example%u002C consequential building damage may cause or be a result of secondary damage or contamination%u002C such as unwanted fungi growth due to the water damage claim. See Collateral Building Damage%u002C Secondary Building Damage
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Constant Air Volume %u0028CAV%u0029
A supply air system that holds the air flow constant%u002C but it varies the supply air temperature to compensate for the thermal load in the conditioned space.
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Construction Grade
A term commonly used to describe compacted soil%u002C building quality lumber and other materials%u002C based on specifications and standards.
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Contact Dermatitis
Gases%u002C liquids and solids which are known to cause skin inflammation%u002C redness and swelling due to skin contact of an irritant substance. Allergists see this condition on their patients from skin contact with irritants and allergens. %u0028Medically%u002C contact dermatitis is referred to as Contact Sensitization%u0029. Health and Safety Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C contact dermatitis sensitization may result to a sensitized individual%u002C all sensitized individuals should not be in a water damaged building%u002C especially during the building drying%u002C contact with chemicals and contaminated building materials. See Conjunctivitis%u002C Contact Hazards%u002C Dermatitis%u002C Occupational Exposures%u002C Rhinitis
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Contact Hazard
The hazards which are due to a physical or direct presence contact with a known or unknown hazard or substance. Health and Safety Note%u003A Contact hazards usually relate to contact hazard exposures to emergency response workers%u002C including water damage technicians%u002C who are jeopardized by contact with contaminated water%u002C vapour%u002C toxins and airborne substances. See Conjunctivitis%u002C Contact Dermatitis%u002C Dermatitis%u002C Occupational Exposures%u002C Rhinitis
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Contact Time
The amount of %u0027dwell time%u0027 necessary for a cleaning agent%u002C a disinfectant or a sanitizer requires to have while maintaining maximum working efficiency%u002C before it is removed.
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Containment Area
A designated area%u002C room or zone which is known to have a contaminate or pollutant%u002C that is purposely separated-off from all other contaminated or non-contaminated areas%u002C rooms or zones.
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Containment Bins and Containment Storage
Portable but secured bins and storage units%u002C that are brought on the site of a job%u002C for the containment and control of building contents%u002C and often the equipment and supplies necessary to complete a particular job or phase. See Drums and Bins
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Containment Containment Area
Any one of several acceptable methods for containing and controlling an environment%u002C atmosphere or a contaminate in.
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Containment Phase
a%u0029 That portion of a job which is considered the set-up of containment equipment before a contaminate is removed and abated. b%u0029 That portion of a job which is referred to as the containment phase and removal of a contaminate or hazardous substance.
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Containment Process
A method or process by which contaminates%u002C agents and pollutants are controlled%u002C managed%u002C regulated%u002C or are made inactive%u002C non-viable or friable.
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Containment Room
A work room or an indoor environment which holds and contains a contaminate for either control or removal purposes.
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Containment Unit%u002C Cleaning and Decontamination
Referring to fungi mitigation and remediation %u0028abatement%u0029%u002C a containment-unit are typically the critical barrier and equipment used during the removal of fungi contamination process. Cleaning and decontamination of the containment-unit refers to the appropriate methods necessary for the collection of all migrant and settled spores and other contaminates on and in the containment-unit. Education Note%u003A A containment-unit may include a second critical barrier containment-unit%u002C other than the primary critical barrier containment-unit%u002C which consists of a temporary built plastic room or plastic sealing off another room%u002C which then becomes plastic-sealed off from the primary contamination area. The secondary containment-unit maintains its own %u0027separate%u0027 air pressure from the main contamination zone or area. The secondary containment-unit is a staging area%u002C where fungal contaminated building materials%u002C already plastic bagged%u002C are stored%u002C and are waiting removal from the building. The secondary containment-unit is the main entry and access between the outside and the main contamination zone or area%u002C as well as the exit and egress to the building. Mitigation Note%u003A Both the primary and secondary containment-units cleaning and decontamination%u002C requires a combination of surface HEPA vacuuming%u002C followed by surface cleaning%u002C using damp wiping %u0028with a minimum of water%u0029%u002C to remove settled and migrant dusts and spores before safely dismantling the containment-unit%u0028s%u0029. The remediation practitioners must carefully consider the necessity and advisability of applying biocides%u002C such as bleach%u002C when cleaning and sanitizing the containment-unit. The goal of the remediation program must be to remove all microbial growth that was part of the project%u002C and this includes the contamination migrant in the containment-unit. Caution Note%u003A The consulting industrial hygienist associated with the remediation project must consider the efficacy of all antimicrobial agents and their contact time and removal. Health and Safety Note%u003A Neither the primary remediation and abatement containment-unit or the secondary support entry and egress containment-unit%u002C can be used for employee rest and removal of PPE. Only exiting from both of the containment-units and after decontamination%u002C can removal of PPE be considered appropriate. See Critical Barrier during Fungal Abatement%u002C Full-scale Fungi Decontamination-Unit
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Contaminated Building
A building that in the past or is currently experiencing physical harm to one or more of its parts%u002C and to its occupants from an exposure. See BRI%u002C SBS
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Contamination
The presence of a foreign substance%u002C which may or will result in and cause damage to the ground%u002C building%u002C contents and/or to the occupants of a building.
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Contents
The personal belongings and property of a company%u002C family or individual%u002C contained within a building%u002C and possibly to contents outside a building%u002C as distinguished from the building itself%u002C for the purpose of insurance.
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Contents Manipulation
It is the handling%u002C moving and repositioning furniture and other items in a business or a home%u002C during the course of providing emergency or restorative services.
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Continuous Contamination
Ongoing contamination that has not been stopped%u002C mitigated or abated. Health Note%u003A Some continuous contamination concerns are from the apparent flood%u002C but continuous fungi contamination may go unnoticed%u002C eating away at the buildings integrity%u002C while compromising the health of its occupants.
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Contract
An agreement between two parties who enter into an arrangement. The parties have a mutual understanding as to the services to be provided%u002C and the payments to be offered on completion of the contract. See Change Order
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Contractor
Any individual or company who agrees to take responsibility or money for the containment and mitigation of another persons property. Liability Note%u003A Not all states or insurers require water damage companies to carry a current contractor%u0027s license. All states recognize that individuals and companies who engage in the practice of water damage mitigation%u002C are accountable%u002C and they are held liable for shoddy workmanship or incomplete work%u002C even if there was no signed contract.
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Control
In air conditioning%u002C a control is a device for regulation of a system or component in normal operation%u002C manual or automatic. If the controls are automatic%u002C the implication is that it is responsive to changes of pressure%u002C temperature%u002C or other property whose magnitude is to be regulated.
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Control Areas
1%u0029 Building areas which were not contaminated or part of a damage%u002C and are not considered to be a health concern. 2%u0029 Control areas may be a good representation of the building%u0027s IAQ. 3%u0029 Controls are considered as background areas for scientific study to determine what are normal-acceptable IAQ backgrounds of building materials or its environment. Education Note%u003A In flooded building environments%u002C a control area is a non-contaminated area%u002C where damaged contents and other materials can be placed and stored.
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Control Diagram%u002C also called a Ladder Diagram
In air conditioning management and monitoring%u002C a control diagram shows the control scheme only. Power wiring are not typically indicated. The control items are shown between two vertical lines%u003B hence%u002C the name-ladder diagram.
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Control Point
In air conditioning%u002C the value of the controlled variable which the controller operates to maintain.
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Controlled Device
In air conditioning%u002C a person or electronic system which receives the converted signal from the transmission system and translates it into the appropriate action in the environmental system. For example%u003A a valve opens or closes to regulate fluid flow in the system.
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Controller
In building HVAC management%u002C a electronic device which senses temperature and adjusts a damper or valve accordingly.
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Convection
a%u0029 The transfer of building heat and cool air%u002C along with air currents%u002C that are moved from one place to another%u002C by circulation from the actual motion of different densities of warm and cool air in a building. b%u0029 The transfer of heat by natural air movement. See Air Movement%u002C Air Pathway%u002C Enthalpy
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Cooling Coil
An arrangement of pipes or tubing%u002C which transfers heat from air to a refrigerant.
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Cooling Effect%u002C Sensible
Difference between the total cooling effect and the dehumidifying effect.
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Cooling Effect%u002C Total
Difference between the total enthalpy of the dry air and water vapor mixture entering the cooler per hour and the total enthalpy of the dry air and water vapour mixture leaving the cooler per hour%u002C expressed in watts %u0028Btuh%u0029.
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Cooling%u002C Evaporative
Involves the adiabatic exchange of heat between air and water spray or wetted surface. The water assumes the wet-bulb temperature of the air%u002C which remains constant during its traverse of the exchanger.
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Core Area
The total plane area of the portion of a grill%u002C face or register bounded by a line tangent to the outer opening through which air can pass. The core area is less than the register size. Example%u002C a 14%u0022X 8%u0022 register may have a core that is 1%u0022 less than the listed size%u002C therefore%u002C the core area is 13%u0022 X 7%u0022%u003D91 sq. in.
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Corian
A counter-top surfacing material manufactured by Dupont. Corian counter tops are a hard plastic polymer that are thermoformed%u002C along with color pigments and resins%u002C into about any shape. The surface is durable and stain-resistant%u002C and is easy to clean. See Silestone
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Corner Window
In the strict definition%u002C a window that literally wraps a corner of the building at right angles. In a more loose definition%u002C a window casement placed close to or next to the corner of the building.
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Corrective Action
An action which usually must be applied or taken within a relatively short period of time%u002C to produce a specific or desired affect. OSHA Note%u003A a%u0029 Some corrective actions are meant to produce a safe work environment before workers are allowed to proceed safely. b%u0029 Health and Safety Note%u003A Other corrective actions%u002C such as a sewage cleanup%u002C must be completed to produce a safe work or living environment. Technical Note%u003A c%u0029 In carpet and fabric cleaning%u002C a corrective action is removal of a stain%u002C such as a rust stain%u002C before it is allowed to set and permanently damage the fabric. Emergency Response Note%u003A Corrective action is the sequence of actions that include site assessment and investigation%u002C risk assessment%u002C response actions%u002C interim remedial action%u002C operation and maintenance of equipment%u002C monitoring of progress%u002C making no further action determinations%u002C and the act of terminating the remedial action.
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Corrective Action Goals
The concentration or other numeric values%u002C physical condition or remedial action performance criteria%u002C that demonstrates that no further action is necessary to protect human health and the building.
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Corrosion
The degradation%u002C deterioration and oxidation of metal%u002C concrete and other materials by chemical or electromagnetic change. Corrosion to a metal can be a result of contact with moisture resulting in its deterioration because of a reaction of a material to its environment. See Rusting
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Cost Accounting
An actuarial method of computing costs of a job%u002C which breaks down labor%u002C material%u002C overhead including administrative costs and insurance%u002C and profit. See Best%u002C Xactimate
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Cost Guide
A condensed version of a detailed building material or content valuation system. See Bluebook%u002C Means
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Counterflow
In heat exchange between two fluids%u002C opposite direction of flow%u002C coldest portion of one meeting coldest portion of the other.
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Coverage-A Dwelling
In insurance terms%u002C dwelling coverage typically include%u003A a%u0029 The construction materials and supplies during the time of construction%u003B b%u0029 Wall-to-wall carpet and other floor covering attached to the dwelling%u002C is part of the dwelling%u003B c%u0029 Structural components and fixtures which are a permanent part of the dwelling.
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Coverage-A Dwelling Exclusions
In insurance terms%u002C dwelling coverage typically exclude the land and the value of the land%u002C including land which the dwelling is located%u002C or the costs to restore%u002C replace%u002C repair or rebuild the land. If a covered loss causes damage to the dwelling and to the land on the residential premises%u002C the policy disallows coverage for any increased cost to repair the dwelling because of damage to the land.
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Coverage-B Separate Structures
In insurance terms%u002C separate structures coverage typically includes other structures on the residential premises separate from the dwelling%u002C or connected to the dwelling by only a fence%u002C utility line%u002C pavement%u002C driveway%u002C patio or similar connection.
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Coverage-B Separate Structures Exclusions
In insurance terms%u002C separate structures exclusion typically includes the land and the value of the land%u002C including land on which the separate structure is located%u002C or the costs to restore%u002C replace%u002C repair or rebuild land. If a covered loss causes damage to a separate structure and to the land on the residential premises%u002C the policy disallows coverage for any increased cost to repair or rebuild the separate structure because of damage to the land. In addition%u002C the policy does not cover separate structures which are intended for use in business or which are actually used in whole or in part for business purposes.
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Coverage-C Personal Property
In insurance terms%u002C the insurance policy typically covers personal property owned or used by an insured while the contents are in the possession of the insured%u002C and personal property located on the insured%u0027s property. In some personal property schedules%u002C the personal property may be protected any where in the world%u002C as long as the personal property can be shown to be owned and in possession of the insured at the time of a claim. Education Note%u003A Coverage for accidental direct physical loss to property contained in a building must usually be caused by one or more of the following events%u003A 1%u0029 Fire or lightening%u003B 2%u0029 Windstorm or hail%u003B Water damage%u002C if sudden or accidental%u003B Explosion%u003B Smoke%u002C if sudden or accidental%u003B Vandalism%u003B Theft. In each of the above named perils%u002C there can be limitations and exclusions.
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Coverage-C Personal Property Exclusions
The exclusions to personal property typically include%u003A a%u0029 the personal property of others%u002C including but not limited to tenants%u002C guests%u002C relatives outside the immediate family%u002C members of the family over the age of 21%u002C or family members under the age of 21 that do not reside on the property or in the dwelling of the insured%u003B b%u0029 The property of a residential employee while in the service of an insured%u003B c%u0029 Motor vehicles or their parts%u003B aircraft and boats%u003B animals%u002C birds and fish%u003B d%u0029 Personal property in an apartment on the residence premises which is regularly rented or held for rent to others by an insured.
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Coverage-D Loss of Use
The limit of insurance for Coverage-D%u002C is the total limit for all of the following coverages%u003A 1%u0029 Additional Living Expense If a covered property loss makes the residential premises unfit to live in%u002C the policy typically covers the necessary increase in living expense incurred by the insured so that the insured can maintain their normal standard of living. The insurance policy typically pays for the shortest time needed to a%u0029 repair or replace the damaged property%u002C or b%u0029 permanently relocate%u002C but in no event for more than 12 months.
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Crawl Space
a%u0029 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%u0022 aeration access from the ground and the floor joists. b%u0029 Any unfinished interior access and limited space between floors%u002C containing ventilation%u002C ducting%u002C pipes%u002C cables%u002C or wiring of the building. C%u0029 A lower elevation of a building that has not been excavated deep enough for a basement.
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Crawling
A paint condition resulting in the shrinkage of a paint film%u002C or the drawing up of the paint film because of high moisture content or surface tension%u002C to form an uneven film. Crawling is sometimes caused by painting over cold%u002C wet%u002C damp%u002C or dirty or oily surfaces.
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Crazing
A condition resulting in the hairline cracking and the formation of a network of hairline cracks as a pattern%u002C on or under%u002C a finished surface%u002C such as plaster%u002C glazed ceramic%u002C paint or transparent finish. Crazing can be caused or become a result of various environmental factors%u002C including building movement%u002C temperature and humidity stress and water damages%u002C as well as improper material installation.
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Critical Barrier During Fungal Abatement
A barrier usually made with two layers of 6-mm plastic polyethylene sheeting placed on ceiling%u002C walls and floor%u002C doors%u002C windows and other openings%u002C that creates an isolation barrier during fungal containment %u0028abatement%u0029%u002C and may be installed in the waste storage and support areas. Mitigation Note%u003A Critical barriers must block all openings%u002C fixtures%u002C HVAC and air pathways of the building%u002C to prevent the spread of dust%u002C dirt and spores beyond the containment-unit. The critical containment barrier%u0028s%u0029 must be constructed in such a manner so as to not disturb contaminated materials.
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Cross-Contamination
The carrying of a microorganism%u002C chemical or toxin from a contaminated area to a non-effected clean area. Health and Safety Note%u003A Typically%u002C cross-contamination is thought of as contaminates carried on objects including clothes and hands%u002C but cross-contamination also occurs in building air pathways and ventilation air streams%u002C where bacteria%u002C fungi%u002C yeasts%u002C and other aero-allergens easily travel through from an airborne route. In hospitals%u002C cross-contamination is referred to as nosocomial infections. See Fomites
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Crown Molding
A non-weight bearing decorative molding installed at the junction of the ceiling and wall.
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Crowning
A condition brought about when previously wet and damp hardwood floors are sanded before they are fully dry.
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Cryptococcoses
An infection caused by inhaling the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans%u002C a soilborne fungus usually associated with pigeon feces. Cryptococcoses is known to cause meningitis. See Histoplasmosis capsulatum
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Cubic Centimetre
A volumetric measurement of one cubic centimeter that is also equal to one millilitre %u0028mL%u0029.
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Cubic Foot
A unit of measure that calculates three equal sides of a 12%u0022 wide%u002C x 12%u0022 long square%u002C times its 12%u0022 height%u002C that equals to 1-cubic foot or 1%u002C728 cubic inches. See Acre Foot%u002C Square Foot
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Cubic Metre of Air
A metric volume of air that equals to 1%u002C000 liters or 35.31 cubic feet.
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Cubic Yard
A U.S. unit of measurement that calculates three equal sides of a yard%u002C consisting of 3%u0027 x 3%u0027 x 3%u0027 or 27 cubic feet for 1 cubic yard. Soil and concrete are ordered in cubic yards.
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Culturable
Meaning living. Culturable fungi and bacteria are those organisms which can be removed from a surface or environment and sent to a laboratory for culturing and identification. See Non-Culturable%u002C Non-Viable%u002C Viable
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Cultured marble
A man-made cast or molded material composed of grounded marble and colorants in a resin binder. Cultured marble are often used for sinks and counter tops.
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Cumulative Risk and Exposure
Cumulative risk and exposure refers to the combined pathogenic%u002C toxic and carcinogenic risks from all exposure pathways for all chemicals%u002C toxics and biological agents. See Direct Exposure Pathways
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Cupping
A moisture condition resulting in the concave deformation of hardwood flooring caused by trapped moisture under the hardwood. Cupping is a condition resulting in warping of hardwood flooring across the grain of the wood. Mitigation Note%u003A Cupping sometimes is a temporary condition brought about from a water damage event%u002C which can be corrected through careful dehumidification from under the hardwood floor%u002C or sometime from above the hardwood floor. Cupping may naturally correct itself within 15-30 days%u002C as the floor reacclimatises to the dehumidified atmosphere. Cupping of hardwood floors directly placed over concrete slabs%u002C seldom are correctable.
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Curtain Wall
An wall which does not carry a load such as an exterior facing window wall.
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Cushion
Another term for carpet and upholstery pad or underlayer.
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Custody
Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 The term used in hazardous materials management%u002C where a person or contractor contracts to contain and remove regulated and non-regulated waste from a building or site. Depending on the waste%u002C the person or contractor must properly dispose of the waste to local%u002C state and federal regulations%u002C not doing so%u002C is a violation of law. b%u0029 A term used for contents where a contractor is removing them for safe keeping%u002C cleaning and sanitization.
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Cycling
In the energy of a building%u002C cycling is the turning on and off of systems%u002C for energy conservation%u002C that is done at predetermined intervals%u002C or when the energy usage is high.
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Cyclone Effect
The air in a room which is forced through dynamic pressure to move in one direction. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C it is the dynamic pressure of ambient air forced across wet walls in a room at about 45 degrees%u002C resulting in the release of moisture on wall materials and flooring. The cyclone effect %u0028winds moving around and towards the same direction%u0029 causes turbidity air currents. See Advection%u002C Eddy Currents%u002C Dynamic Pressure%u002C Static Pressure%u002C Turbidity Air Currents
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Cyclone Separator
A dust-collecting device which has the ability to separate particles by size. Typically used by industrial hygienists to collect indoor air or workplace respirable dust samples.
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