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Safe Area As required in contamination mitigation%u002C a safe area is a clean and contaminate- free room or outside area%u002C for employees to rest%u002C eat%u002C drink%u002C or go to the bathroom. Mitigation Note%u003A The safe area cannot be used as a decontamination area for men and equipment.   Safe Use of Sanitising Disinfectants In sewage contaminated buildings%u002C the safe use of disinfectants means%u002C the appropriate disinfectant that is used on materials that are not physically affected by the disinfectant%u002C and disinfectants that do not cause toxic reactions or harm to building occupants.   Safety and Health Program All employers who mitigate sewage%u002C other pathogens%u002C carcinogens and toxins%u002C must be in compliance with OSHA requirements. CFR 1910.120   Safety Hazards Any one of a number of workplace hazards which an employee can be exposed. Safety hazards include physical hazards from slip%u002C trip and fall%u002C abrasions and puncture%u002C burns%u002C machinery hazards%u002C inhalation%u002C adsorption%u002C including but not limited to life threatening exposures. See IDLH   Safety%u002C Health and an Environmental Indoor Air Quality Plan A written plan that addresses the on-going needs of a building and its occupants. Often this plan incorporates a Voluntary Protection Program %u0028VPP%u0029 and a Total Quality Management Program %u0028TQMP%u0029.   Sagging A paint condition caused by the downward running or curtaining of a paint film when wet. Education Note%u003A The sagging condition is not caused by the paint itself%u002C sagging or curtaining is a result of painting over too moist of a surface. Such surfaces can be found in a water damaged building where building materials have not yet properly dried or dehumidified.   Salvage Any acceptable method for recovery of materials from a damaging event. Salvaging materials reduces the amount of loss. Education Note%u003A If damaged materials cannot be salvaged and restored within a reasonable cost%u002C they may be accepted by the insurance company and sold for their salvage value.   Salvage of Contaminated Building Materials and Contents Salvage of Contaminated Building Materials and Contents means the preferred restorative method by which materials and contents are to be cleaned and sanitized back to their pre-loss and healthy condition.   Sample Archive Material and environmental samples that are archival and retrievable for future testing.   Sample Size An amount of water%u002C building material or lab sample drawn to represent a large or whole area of contamination.   Sample Variables Differences among replicated samples. Samples will often vary depending on the amount of contaminates in a given area. See Quantitative Variables   Sand-blasting The use of special grain sand and compressed air to strip away finishes and coatings from hard surfaces. See Dry-ice Blasting%u002C Water-blasting   Sanitary/Unsanitary Building Survey A sanitary survey is an assessment of the sanitary or unsanitary building conditions and causes. On-site inspections are completed by health agency officers%u002C microbiologists or trained industrial hygienists. Education and Health Note%u003A A sanitary or unsanitary building survey is not just a visual survey%u002C but includes a microbiological sampling and analysis.   Sanitation Hazards at a Temporary Workplace The First Basic Steps in Reducing Occupational Exposures%u003A OSHA and Safety and Health Note%u003A 1%u0029 The general contractor/employer shall insure the health and safety of all employees%u002C subcontractors and the public. 2%u0029 Depending on the size of the loss and sanitation concerns%u002C potable drinking water and portable toilets shall be provided and kept contained to the %u0028clean area%u0029. 3%u0029 All drinking water and food handling must be kept at a %u0028clean area%u0029%u002C that is separate from the %u0028contaminated area%u0029 and %u0028hot zone%u0029. 4%u0029 A sanitary decontamination %u0028wash down station%u0029 must be installed with fresh water%u002C and the containment must have the ability to catch all contaminated water run-off. See Sewage Remediation Category- 3   Sanitization Health and Safety Note%u003A a%u0029 The process of completely cleaning all harmful pathogenic bacteria and harmful microscopic elements from the surface of building material%u002C while leaving the building material with a safe level of resident growth. b%u0029 Sanitization is not an antiseptic and is not disinfection or sterilization. By cleaning porous building materials you may have reduced the bacteria%u002C fungi and yeasts in the building%u002C but technically%u002C you have not disinfected the building of all organism presence. Sanitization is the best possible cleaning method%u002C next to removing the contaminated building material. c%u0029 Sanitization includes applying a sanitizer or a disinfectant solution on a surface only after the surface has been cleaned and rinsed. See Mechanical Agitation%u002C Surface Cleaning   Sanitizer A cleaning or disinfecting treatment meant to reduce a contaminate or pollutant to an acceptable level.   Sanitizing A cleaning or disinfecting treatment meant to reduce a contaminate or pollutant to an acceptable level.   Saprophyte A bacterial or fungal organism which derives its nutrients from dead organic material.   Saprophytic Fungi A group of fungi that derives its nourishment primarily from decaying organic matter. Education Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C saprophytic fungi decompose wood and cellulosic materials including drywall paper.   Saturation a%u0029 A level at which a material or air can no longer absorb or hold liquids or a vapour. b%u0029 The condition of an atmosphere when the amount of water vapour present is the maximum amount possible at the existing vapour.   Saturation Point The point at which a porous material are no longer able to hold and retain moisture or a liquid. Technical Note%u003A In wood or lumber%u002C saturation point is approximately 25/35%u0025 moisture content. See Bound Water%u002C Free Water%u002C Moisture Content   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%u003A a%u0029 Rough scope estimating%u002C can be calculated based on the total square foot of a damage area room or size of the building%u002C such as found in a water damaged building. The price for a particular service%u002C such as water extraction%u002C is calculated at a certain price times the measurements of the damage area%u002C %u0028ie. 25 cpsf x 2%u002C000 sf equals %u0024500.00%u0029. b%u0029 More refined scope estimating with costs are calculated on a preprinted form%u002C where the services and preprinted prices are highlighted%u002C and the square feet%u002C square yards%u002C or cubic feet are calculated to come up with the approximate costs. c%u0029 For precise scope estimating with costs%u002C these are scope estimates with costs that are computed%u002C using software programs that not only calculate square feet and materials%u002C producing a cost estimate%u002C but the software produces a scope of work for employees and subcontractors to follow. See Best%u002C Bluebook%u002C Cost Accounting%u002C Xactimate   Scope of Work a%u0029 For a repair contractor or subcontractor%u002C a scope of work is a written list of items on a tick sheet that must be completed. b%u0029 For an adjuster or building owner%u002C a scope of work is detailed listing of the services that will be provided%u002C which are necessary to remove or repair a building or property damage.   Scope writing The written script on how a hazard or damage must be abated%u002C or how reconstruction must be completed. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 In building disasters%u002C scope writing is the written emergency scope of work that must be completed by trained personnel to eliminate hazards to the building and to the public. b%u0029 In water damage remediation of flooded buildings%u002C scope writing may include a two-phase scope%u003A b1%u0029 the written scope of work for the containment and removal of flood water and damaged building materials%u003B b2%u0029 The written scope of work necessary for restoration. The written scope of work usually becomes an intrinsic part of the contract which labor and material are to be estimated. See Best%u002C Cost Accounting%u002C Xactimate   Scouring The removal or purging of unconsolidated matter by hard rubbing%u002C cleaning%u002C or abrasive action.   Scrubbing The washing of a floor or material through wetting%u002C detergent solution and a moderately abrasive pad or brush. The method must take into consideration the appropriate detergent and brushes for the surface involved. Scrubbing requires vigorous agitation of the wetted surface.   Sealer A permanent or removable coating material that bonds with the substrate to which it is applied. In painting%u002C a sealer or undercoat is applied to permanently protect the substrate while giving the top coats bonding strength to the sealer. Sealers are sometimes used in painting to limit the bleed-through from stains and discolorations imbedded in the substrate. In water damaged building environments%u002C sealers are used to hide water marks and stains before finish coats of paints are applied.   Secondary Building Damage/Contamination Secondary damage which occurs after an initial occurrence. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Flood waters are responsible for primary building material damage. If they are not properly abated%u002C secondary damage occurs from saturated and swollen building materials and contents. b%u0029 Health and Safety Note%u003A Sewage contamination that is not properly mitigated%u002C leaving the effected building materials compromised%u002C resulting in impaired health of occupants and further damage to the building. c%u0029 Building water damages that were not identified or abated early enough to stop fungi growth in wet building materials. See Collateral Building Damage%u002C Consequential Building Damage   Secondary Pollutant A general term applied to more than one pollutant in a building. The secondary pollutant is important to mitigate%u002C but it is less of a health concern than the primary pollutant. See Primary Pollutant   Secondary Sampling Strategy Once the primary sampling strategy has been conducted and completed%u002C and if additional investigation is necessary%u002C a secondary sampling strategy is authorized%u002C sometimes on the same day as the primary sampling strategy. Education Note%u003A Depending on the results of the primary sampling strategy%u002C testing will be conducted. Laboratory sampling and real-time monitoring of the environment%u002C both to the inside and outside areas of the building are completed. See Environmental Audit%u002C Environmental Assessment%u002C Phase-II%u002C Primary Sampling Strategy   Sediment as Fines In a flooded building%u002C either from a catastrophic flood or a sewer system backflow%u002C sediment is the fines of soil%u002C sand and clay%u002C that could not be removed%u002C and are now an intrinsic part of the building after a thorough clean-up and sanitization. Most sediment can be removed from buildings%u002C but due to the building porosity%u002C design and engineering%u002C some sediment as fines cannot be removed from subfloors%u002C sill plates%u002C and other building materials without dismantling the structure. Sediment may also be found under the building%u002C in crawl spaces and in basements. See Clean-up%u002C Fines   Self-Levelling Compounds A cementitious dry powder compound that is mixed with water. It is poured directly over a floor to level out the floor once the material drys and cures. Education Note%u003A Self-leveling compounds are used as a self-leveling underlayment%u002C and they are not meant to be the primary floor. Self-leveling compounds are sometimes used as fillers and corrective measures to floors that already have problems. There may be times where the patch repair or float of the self-leveling compound has to be removed to properly repair a wood subfloor.   Sensitisation A process by which the immune system response is stimulated on its first being exposed to an antigen. Health Note%u003A The consequence is the body%u0027s immune system is preparing itself for a stronger response upon re-exposure to the same antigen%u002C as in a hypersensitivity reaction. See Allergens%u002C Allergies%u002C Hypersensitivity pneumonitis   Sensory Perception A persons internal natural ability%u002C through the use their senses%u002C to determine or perceive if an environment or building is OK or healthy or not. Many sick building complaints are reported to building owners%u002C managers and engineers based on an occupants sensory perception of how the building smells or feels to them. See Heightened Awareness   Sentimental Value A value of an item having family or historical significance%u002C but it may not have intrinsic%u002C monetary or replacement cost value. Education Note%u003A Sentimental items may be damaged%u002C but the owner may still want it repaired%u002C even though the costs far exceed its worth value.   Sepsis A wound or cut which through contamination%u002C such as sewage bacteria%u002C a consequence causing infection. Health and Safety Note%u003A Infection results in redness and pus%u002C which%u002C in part%u002C are dead skin cells. Sepsis is caused by bacterial toxins that are multiplying in the blood system in large numbers. Septicemia is a condition commonly referred to as blood poisoning. See Septic Shock   Septic Shock Health and Safety Note%u003A a%u0029 A bacterially infected wound such as streptococci or staphylococci%u002C resulting in or indicating sepsis or septicemia%u002C which septic shock may result due to a extreme exposures to airborne and blood toxins%u002C because of the high multiplication of cell and tissue damage. Mitigation Note%u003A b%u0029 Sewage remediation technicians must carefully evaluate themselves for cuts and wounds before%u002C during and after cleanup. c%u0029 Septic shock can result in damage to cells%u002C the kidneys%u002C heart and lungs%u002C and death. Septic shock may have been responsible for one sewage related death from inhalation in San Diego%u002C as reported in the press.   Serious Violation A violation issued by OSHA to a contractor%u002C building owner or a responsible party who knowingly or willfully compromises the health of the employees of the contractor or employees of the building. OSHA Note%u003A a%u0029 Serious violation includes unhealthy work environments that place the employee health at serious risk%u002C especially when a contractor or building owner has been previously notified of the known or potentially hazardous condition. b%u0029 Depending on the violation and degree of the violation%u002C serious violations can start from %u00245%u002C000 to 25%u002C000 per day%u002C per violation. c%u0029 Serious violations may result in the immediate closure of a work site or building.   Settlement Conditions In insurance terminology%u002C settlement conditions are those written conditions as covered under the policy or excluded under the policy.   Settlement Conditions having an Insurable Interest and Limit of Insurance Insurable interest includes one or more person%u0028s%u0029 so named under a policy and other person%u0028s%u0029 who may have an insurable interest in the covered property%u002C to which the insurer pays the smallest amount and an amount equal to the insureds interest or the applicable limit of insurance.   Sewage In a sewer system%u002C human waste and organic matter that is in the process of being sent to a treatment facility%u002C tank or leaching field. Health and Safety Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C sewage in and under buildings is typically from main-line backflows. Main-line sewer backflows in buildings must be professionally mitigated%u002C cleaned up and sanitized. Most often remediation includes the careful removal and disposal of all porous drywall%u002C carpet and insulation%u002C followed by cleaning and sanitizing of interior wall cavities. See Bacteria%u002C IICRC%u002C Leachate%u002C Raw Sewage%u002C Sewage Mitigation Health and Safety   Sewage Fungus A thick growth of fungi that develops on stagnant water contaminated with sewage effluents. The filamentous fungus host material is composed predominately of the bacterium Sphaerotilus natans.   Sewage Remediation Category 1 Clean Water Consisting of clean water from a toilet tank overflow%u002C or a fresh water supply line that breaks. Treat as a fresh water cleanup. Remember that bacteria most likely exists around the toilet area. All bathrooms must be sanitized after clean-up and thorough rinsing. Clean water contamination can go to a grey water Category 2 contamination%u002C if allowed to stand.   Sewage Remediation Category 2 Grey Water Consisting of grey water or unsanitary water. Category 2 is water from a toilet bowl%u002C dishwasher%u002C aquariums%u002C waterbeds. Gray water contamination may go to a Category 3 contamination%u002C if allowed to stand.   Sewage Remediation Category 3 Black water Consisting of urine%u002C faeces%u002C pathogens and other organic matter. Category 3 black-water contamination always contains pathogens. Category 3 contaminations are grossly unsanitary. Mitigation Note%u003A Black-water sewage saturated porous building materials must be removed and replaced. Bag and dispose of carpet and pad. Clean and sanitize wall cavities and sill plates. Completely dry the structure before reinstallation of new materials. %u0028Do not use air movers during the cleanup process%u0029. Swab test for residual pathogens before installing new building materials. Health and Safety Note%u003A Consult an industrial hygienist or microbiologist if you have cleanup questions%u0021 Suggest to the building occupants%u002C they must consult with their medical specialist if they have health problems or questions%u0021   Sewage Remediation Health and Safety All emergency response employees must not become exposed to sewage pathogens. Employees must be managed by a qualified and trained supervisor. Supervisors are responsible for employee exposure to biohazardous substances%u002C health and safety hazards. See Occupational Exposures%u002C Site Health and Safety Supervisor%u002C Sanitation Hazards at a Temporary Workplace   Sewage Remediation Standards Sewage mitigation %u0028remediation%u0029 standards%u002C are those standards set forth by industry to provide for the safe removal of pathogenic disease and effluents that are associated with sewage. Contractor Note%u003A The water damage industry has incorporated information from CDC%u002C USEPA and scientists%u002C to make written standards for the safe handling%u002C containment and disposal of sewage and contaminated building materials. See IICRC%u002C Sewage Remediation Training%u002C Suggested Guidelines for Remediation of Damage from Sewage Backflow into Buildings   Sewage Remediation Training An acceptable level of training by industry to technicians%u002C in teaching them how industry says a standard sewage gray water or black water claim should be mitigated.   Sewage Remediation Training Course A training course taught to technicians over a one or two day period. Teaching Note%u003A Currently%u002C IICRC has incorporated training in sewage in their regular water damage courses. EME and the author of this dictionary%u002C teach a one and two day sewage remediation course specifically on gray water and black water sewage%u002C and river flooding which brings with it disease causing bacteria.   Sewage Saturated Drywall and Insulation Sewage Saturated Drywall and Insulation means%u002C porous building materials which are least likely to be returned back to pre-loss condition. Surface cleaning and drying alone of highly porous materials such as drywall will not mitigate the bacteria and resulting fungi from inside the wall cavity.   Sewage Terms Removal of Contaminated Building Materials means%u002C the careful detachment%u002C proper handling and disposal of porous sewage saturated building materials%u002C such as drywall%u002C insulation and carpet.   Sewage waste Waste Sewage waste can be a regulated waste%u002C but sewage is not classified as a %u0028chemical hazardous waste%u0029 as defined by CERCLA. Sewage waste includes any solid and liquid human and animal waste%u002C that contains pathogens and other disease causing microorganisms%u002C including hepatitis-A. In and under contaminated buildings from sewer discharge resulting in a backflow%u002C sewage waste disposal requires the mitigator to comply with regulatory requirements%u002C including but not limited to - sewage related waste that potentially can enter a street or storm drain. A violation of this regulation can result in a %u002425%u002C000.00 fine plus cleanup costs%u002C as well as other legal action%u002C which can be brought against the mitigator as a company or individual. Heath and Safety Note%u003A Porous building materials and contents which cannot be properly cleaned and sanitized after a sewage backflow%u002C are considered to be unregulated waste%u002C even though they are a hazardous substance by definition. Materials which are sewage contaminated and cannot be sanitized%u002C are to be properly disposed in a landfill. Leaving sewage pathogens behind in a building which can result in building occupants to become ill%u002C is a violation of health and safety codes and building codes.   Sheer Wall or Sheer Panel A secondary support wall material attached to building framing%u002C usually made of 4%u0027 x 8%u0027 sheets of plywood that complies with local building codes. Construction Note%u003A Shear wall materials are designed and engineered to reduce the shear-stress on a building due in part to load factors%u002C usually from the second and third floor weight loads effecting a wood frame building. In California%u002C shear walls are being added in new construction for increased stress due to earthquakes. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C 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%u002C 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%u002C since the face of the drywall may actually indicate is dry. Wet shear wall%u002C wall cavities will not dry out on their own before mold starts to grow. After removal of the base coving%u002C drill weep holes and aeration holes in drywall and through the shear wall%u002C into the wall cavity. Force in dehumidified air into the wall cavity and monitor the wall cavity drydown.   Sheetrock A Registered proprietary name for drywall. See Drywall%u002C Gypsum board   Shellac A solvent-based finish coating usually found on furniture and some hardwood floors. Education Note%u003A Shellac finishes are affected by moisture%u002C the moisture causes shellac to release from the surface of wood%u002C resulting in peeling. In theory%u002C the trapped moisture as vapor pressure and temperature%u002C 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%u002C it can come off as large squares%u002C or even sheets. This is different than shellac that fractals. Fracteling occurs when moisture was present some time ago%u002C usually years ago%u002C and the resin coatings released from its wood surface%u002C but it may not have been apparent at that time. As the wood drys and the resins shrink%u002C the resins of shellac break apart into irregular shapes. Depending on how many coats of shellac that were applied%u002C the fractling may be present under the top finish.   Shigella This is the genus name of a bacterium associated with dysentery. Health Note%u003A Shigella bacteria can be transmitted from sewage contaminated food%u002C water%u002C beverage and hand to mouth contact. See Coliforms%u002C Gram-Negative Bacteria%u002C Personal Hygiene%u002C Sepsis   Shim%u0028s%u0029 A tapered thin piece of wood that is specifically designed to assist in the leveling or alignment of one surface to another. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C shims under cabinets and door frames%u002C are known to swell and break. Shims need to be checked and if damaged%u002C they need to be replaced and the counter or door is to be releveled or realigned.   Shrink Wrap The generic name plastic wrap process used by Global Wrap.   Shrinkage The loss of size and shape due to decreased moisture. Education Note%u003A Shrinkage commonly occurs with natural materials%u002C including wood%u002C wool rugs%u002C drapes%u002C skirts on upholstery%u002C and jute backed-carpets or upholstery. Shrinkage in water damages or from over-wetting from cleaning%u002C occurs when materials are allowed to absorb water%u002C and as they dried%u002C the material shrank in size%u002C resulting in the decreased dimensions of the material. Restoration Note%u003A In the case of draperies that are wet at the bottom from a flood%u002C consider calling your local drapery company%u002C they may advise you to lightly spray water on all of the drape panel%u002C front and back%u002C reducing the chance of permanent water marks. Carefully fold the top of the drape first%u002C and fold the drape into itself. Do not remove drapery pins%u002C before you marked the location and position of the pins with a permanent ink marker. If you have never done this before%u002C call the drapery company to immediately send out a service truck to mark and pick up the drapes.   Shrink-wrap In insurance terms%u002C the process of plastic wrap sealing off a building or a content. Shrink wrap can protect a building which has lost its roof%u003B an environment that must be separated from a contaminated environment%u002C or protecting a material from exposure.   Sick Building Syndrome %u0028SBS%u0029 A description of situations in which building occupants experience acute or chronic health concerns from building related contaminates%u002C besides other concerns such as discomfort from thermal comfort effects. Health and Mitigation Note%u003A The acute and chronic health complaints may be localized to a particular room or zone%u002C or the complaints may have spread throughout the whole building. Most occupant illness and irritation from sick buildings are associated with the ventilation system. See Building Related Illness%u002C Building Sickness from Flooding   Silestone A trademarked name by Cosentino Company. A finished counter top product mixed with 93%u0025 quartz%u002C color pigments and resins that are compressed simultaneously under vacuum. Silestone counter tops are called an engineered stone%u002C that has scratch%u002C stain%u002C heat%u002C mold%u002C and burn resistance. For more information contact 800/291-1311 or www. silestoneusa.com. See Corian   Sill The horizontal ledge-like portion of a window casing.   Site A building or a property defined by its physical condition and characteristics. A site could be an entire property or facility%u002C or it may represent only apart or portion of the building or facility%u002C as defined by the contaminates or pollutants associated with the site.   Site Assessment a%u0029 A characterization of a site through an evaluation of its physical components%u002C associated risks and exposures. b%u0029 A site assessment is a determination if a release occurred%u002C the levels of detectable hazardous contaminates%u002C and the likely physical distribution of the hazardous or potentially hazardous agents%u002C irritants or pollutants.   Site Conceptual Model The integrated representation of the physical and environmental context%u002C the complete%u002C and the potentially complete exposure pathways%u002C and the potential fate and transport of chemical%u002C toxins and biological components. Mitigation Note%u003A The site conceptual model should include both the current understanding of the site and the understanding of the potential future conditions and uses for the site. The site conceptual model provides a method to conduct the exposure pathway evaluation and to inventory the exposure pathways.   Site Conditions A general condition and description of the sites chemical%u002C physical and biological components and characteristics%u002C that relate to potential exposures to human receptors or building receptors.   Site Health and Safety Supervisor %u0028SSS%u0029 An employer or supervisor who authorizes and allows employees to enter and work in a confined space%u002C unsafe work area%u002C or a contaminated environment. Employees must be properly trained%u002C supervised and have the appropriate PPE protection. See Occupational Exposures%u002C Sanitation Hazards at a Temporary Workplace   Site Safety and Health Supervisor %u0028SSS%u0029 or Official %u0028SSO%u0029 a%u0029 The individual assigned%u002C designated or most responsible for the safety and health of employees at a work site. b%u0029 The individual located on a hazardous site who is responsible to the employer and has the authority and knowledge necessary to implement the site-specific safety and health plan %u0028SSSHP%u0029 and verify compliance with applicable safety and health requirements.   Site-Specific Activities Any and all information that can be gained or retrieved from fact finding of the history of the site%u002C and any other information and data that may pertain or is unique to the site.   Site-Specific Health and Safety Training The unique training and knowledge about a safety or hazardous work site%u002C which is to be presented by the SSS or SSO%u002C before allowing worker entry into the site.   Site-Specific Safety and Health Plan %u0028SSSHP%u0029 The remediation plan that is unique to the work site and to no other site. The SSSHP is a living document acquired from a master company plan. The SSSHP is filled in at the work site by the supervisor %u0028SSS%u0029 prior to entering a safety or hazardous work site.   Site-Specific Target Levels %u0028SSTL%u0029 Risk-based values for chemical%u002C 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.   Sketch a%u0029 a hand completed ink or pencil line drawing of a building or space. b%u0029 A Trademark name by Xactware for their Xactimate estimating program. The manufacturer reports%u002C Sketch is a powerful and accurate CAD drawing and dimension program for completing insurance damage estimates. See Xactimate   Skirting a%u0029 The lower perimeter material of an upholstered couch or that which covers the legs and base materials of furniture. b%u0029 In modular or temporary buildings%u002C 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%u002C which can easily be removed for either access or repair of the substructure or when moving the modular building. c%u0029 Skirting in the UK is any base material such as vinyl or wood that is used around the perimeter of a room.   Slab-on Grade A structure where the first floor design lies directly on a poured concrete slab that bears directly on the flat surface of ground.   Slip Sheet An underlayment placed between a subfloor and a finished floor. An underlayment usually consisting of plastic sheeting or asphalt paper%u002C that serves and acts as a moisture barrier or spacer between a subfloor and a finished floor such as hardwood or ceramic tile. Slip sheets protect against excessive moisture from entering into the finished floor goods such as hardwood or laminate flooring causing them damage%u002C and act as a underlayment for ceramic tile to marble flooring%u002C reducing the chance of floor cracking as the building settles or moves. For natural stone floors including marble%u002C limestone and granite%u002C the slip sheet also acts as a moisture barrier%u002C reducing discolouration of the surface of the flooring due to excess moisture transpiration.   Slip%u002C Trip and Fall Protection The appropriate engineering controls and clean-up necessary to remove slip%u002C trip and fall hazards. 29 CFR 1910.23%u0028a4%u0029   Slope At Grade Typically%u002C a hillside slope that results in the rear part of the building to be below grade%u002C and the rest of the building to be at grade.   Smear Tab Sampling Smear tabs are low-ash%u002C acid-hardened paper designed for collecting samples on surfaces where dust and chemicals have settled from the atmosphere. See Adsorbent Sampling%u002C Bulk Material Sampling%u002C Surface Sampling%u002C Tape Lift Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling   Soft Film A paint condition%u002C where the paint film has not dried or cured. A soft film condition can occur from high humidity in a building or outside atmosphere.   Soft Materials Soft materials are a reference to contents and furniture made of fabric%u002C synthetic fibres%u002C fur and leather.   Soil The surface layer of the earth. Soil has many uses%u002C including the placement of buildings on soil. Building soil must be compacted earth that will support the foundation of a building. Not all soil is acceptable for foundation use. Some soil has to be removed and replaced with construction grade soil%u002C engineered and compacted. Once the soil has been compacted%u002C arranged and engineered in such a fashion to support a structure%u002C the prepared soil now becomes the attached ground of the foundation building. See Attached Ground   Soil Aeration Soil Air means the below-ground air that is trapped or available in the spaces between soil particles. Engineering Note%u003A Decomposition of organic matter in the soil can cause high concentrations of carbon dioxide in soil air. Carbon dioxide combines with water vapor to form carbonic acid%u002C thereby increasing the acidity of the ground. Soil air is often a result of anaerobic and aerobic conditions in the soil%u002C and can vary depending on weather%u002C atmospheric conditions%u002C ground pressure%u002C soil type%u002C water/moisture and other influences. See Soil-Gas   Soil Air In a water damaged substructure of a building%u002C the turning of wet/damp ground of the substructure by shoveling or raking%u002C allowing air to enter wet cell cavities of the soil.   Soil Flushing/Scrubbing In a water damaged substructure of a building%u002C flushing or debriding of wastes from the top of contaminated layer can often be completed through low pressure %u002860 to 150 psi%u0029 pressure washing%u002C while using fresh water and detergents. Mitigation Note%u003A Water scrubbing of contaminated ground takes place through stripping the top of the ground of contaminates through water pressure. The pressure of the fresh water should only be sufficient to wash down or out effluents and other organic waste. In a substructure%u002C the water pressure should not produce a spray where debris can collect in the subflooring or floor joists%u002C or is allowed to create a mist. See Leachate   Soil Mitigation The process by which contaminated soil is either removed or treated. In a black water sewage flood damaged substructure of a building where the sewage has come in contact with the soil or ground%u002C soil remediation is the removal of sewage solids%u002C effluents and waste water from the contaminated soil under buildings%u002C then either treating the soil through aeration and detergents followed by capillary drying and/or the removal of the top layer of sewage saturated soil.   Soil Peculation The ability of soil to adsorb water. One-inch of water over a given area typically produces one-foot of wet soil. Two-inches of water over a given area produces two-feet of wet soil%u002C etc.   Soil Profile A core sample of soil inspected to evaluate its consistency and when necessary%u002C the depth of contamination. Soil profile considers soil type%u002C composition%u002C moisture content and compaction.   Soil sampling The removal and containment of specific loose or compacted soil for laboratory analysis. Soil sampling analysis can determine the total or specific hydrocarbons%u002C total bacteria and fungi%u002C total coliforms%u002C moisture content%u002C aerobic and aerobic growth%u002C or composition of the soil matrix. See Air Sampling%u002C Adsorbent Sampling%u002C Bulk Material Sampling%u002C Surface Sampling%u002C Swab Sampling%u002C Tape Lift Sampling%u002C Water Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling%u002C Vacuum Sampling   Soil Stability As it relates to a substructure of a building%u002C soil stability is the engineered and compacted ground under%u002C adjacent and around a foundation or structural support. Depending on soil type%u002C composition and moisture content%u002C contaminated ground may cause structural damage to foundation and support pads.   Soil-Gas Methan %u0028CH4%u0029 and Hydrogen Sulfied %u0028H2S%u0029 Two gases that are the most common soil-type gases. H2S is also a common sewer-like gas commonly identified in confined spaces%u002C including under buildings which have experienced sewage contamination and organic waste. See Soil Air   Source Area The source area is defined as the location having the highest source of contamination and concentration%u002C or the location area releasing the highest levels of a contaminate and concentration.   Source Containment a%u0029 In water damage mitigation%u002C source containment are the appropriate steps necessary%u002C using industry a standards of care%u002C to contain%u002C control%u002C and remove a contaminate. %u0028Refer to IICRC S 500-94 and S500-99%u0029. b%u0029 In mold mitigation%u002C source containment is one of several steps necessary to appropriately contain%u002C control and remove mold without causing harm to workers while avoiding broadcast of the mold spores and toxins from a mold contaminated material into air. See Bioaerosols - Assessment and Control   Source Contamination In water damage and/or mold in a building%u002C source contamination is that contamination such as fresh%u002C grey and black water and/or mold in building materials which present itself as a contamination.   Source Location The visual inspection or forensic detection necessary to determine the exact location of the source of a contaminate.   Source Reduction A lowering of the amount of contaminates%u002C pollutants and hazards%u002C by containing%u002C removing or lessening the source. Once source reduction has been completed%u002C a reduction in the amount of environmental protection and personal employee protection previously required%u002C may be possible. Health and Safety Note%u003A Reducing the level of protection at the site or source%u002C must not be taken lightly or automatically%u002C since monitoring of the site or further investigation may indicate a secondary pollutant source is present. See Mycotoxin Abatement%u002C Primary Pollutant%u002C Secondary Pollutant%u002C Stachybotrys Mitigation   Source Release%u002C Assessment and Monitoring Contaminates and agents that are potentially toxic%u002C explosive%u002C flammable%u002C pathogenic or carcinogenic%u002C which must be assessed by monitoring back to their source. Mitigation Note%u003A A source release assessment and monitoring program must include the types and amount of contamination%u002C what are acceptable engineering controls%u002C what needs to be done next%u002C and how to best complete the containment%u002C control and removal%u002C along with methods for proper disposal. See Risk Assessment   Spalling A condition of concrete and paint%u002C where the surface material has chipped%u002C and has resulted in fragmentation or separation of a surface or coating.   Special Flood Hazard Area %u0028SFHA%u0029 Portion of the floodplain subject to the 100-year flood%u002C known as the A-Zone. In costal regions%u002C this area is subject to velocity wave action of less than of less than three feet.   Speciation The distinction between two or more species of organisms having the same genus. Some genus%u002C such as Legionella and Escherichia bacteria%u002C and Aspergillus fungi to name a few%u002C once identified%u002C must be speciated to determine what members of species are present%u002C since different species may pose increased health exposure or health threat concerns.   Specific Humidity A more absolute measurement than relative humidity. Specific humidity is a direct ration of the weight of water vapor to the total weight of the air in a given area or sample. The pound weight of water that a pound of air can absorb. Restorative Drying Note%u003A Along with psychometric charting and moisture monitoring%u002C the GPP of moisture is another important tool to know to dry out and dehumidify a wet building properly. But do not loose focus on the relative humidity measurements%u002C since the relative humidity indicates how close the ambient air is close to being saturated. It is a better measurement to help the restoration technician. Knowing the specific humidity alone%u002C will not provide the degree or percentage of saturation. See Grains of Moisture%u002C Relative Humidity   Spore Case a%u0029 A spore receptacle or pod containing tens of thousands and sometimes millions of new spores. b%u0029 Sporulation from the spore case occurs each time the reproductive body is fully developed and mature. c%u0029 With fungi%u002C reproductive sporulation of the spore case typically occurs every 5 to 10 days%u002C depending on various environmental and growth factors. d%u0029 The spore case or sporangium is typically the size of a pin head.   Spore Settlement The settlement of mold spores from air to surfaces.   Spores A reproductive usually single-cell body%u002C which becomes free and are capable of growing into new organisms. To see spores by the naked eye%u002C from several feet away%u002C we need to see a group of about a million spores together.   Sporulation means to convert into a spore%u003B form%u002C grow and release from mature spores%u003B the reproduction and dividing by growth of mature spores into new organisms.   Square Foot A unit of measure that calculates two equal sides of a 12%u0022 x 12%u0022 square. See Cubic Foot   Square Yard A unit of measure that calculates two equal sides of a 3%u0027 x 3%u0027 square.   Stachybotrys Mould a%u0029 One genus of slime molds that are responsible for mycotoxin and satratoxin production resulting in impaired%u002C compromised and acute health effects of persons who come in contact with or breathe in fungi-toxins. b%u0029 The species having building wetness and human contact concern is Stachybotrys chartarum%u002C previously known as Stachybotrys arta. See Mycotoxins   Stachybotrys Mould Mitigation Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Stachybotrys is almost never found in recently wet or damp buildings %u00281 to 14 days%u0029%u002C but buildings or ventilation systems%u002C which are allowed to stay wet or damp for longer periods. Health and Safety Note%u003A a%u0029 Employees who pull out damp and saturated building materials that have black mold on them must do so with training%u002C and proper PPE. OSHA Note%u003A c%u0029 Employers who do not provide employees with proper training and PPE are in violation of OSHA. Contractors who do not provide for proper containment are in violation of OSHA health and safety codes. d%u0029 Release of toxic spores into a building can be a violation of local health and safety and building codes. See Mold Mitigation%u002C Mycotoxin Abatement%u002C Personal Protective Equipment%u002C Serious Violation   Stain Resistance The measurement of a fabrics ability to resist stains%u002C soil and wear. Some fabrics resist stains better than others. Stain protectors may have been added to the yarn or finished goods at the time of manufacturing allowing for better protection. Education Note%u003A The more common carpet and upholstery stain protectors are Scotchgard %u00283M%u0029 and StainMaster %u0028Dupont%u0029.   Stakeholders The individual%u0028s%u0029%u002C association%u0028s%u0029%u002C corporation%u0028s%u0029%u002C or other entities that directly affect or are directly affected by a corrective action or the need for a corrective action. Litigation Note%u003A Stakeholders include%u002C but are not limited to%u002C building and land owners%u002C buyers and renters%u002C Lessor and lessee%u002C developers and lenders%u002C insurers and insureds%u002C contractors and subcontractors%u002C material suppliers%u002C engineers and architects%u002C association groups and their membership.   Standard As used in ASTM%u002C a document that has been developed and established within the consensus principles of the Society%u002C and that meets the approval requirements of ASTM procedures and regulations.   Standard Air Air measured at a standard temperature and pressure. The most common values are 70%u00B0F %u002821.1%u00B0C%u0029 and 29.92 in. Hg %u0028101.3 Pa%u0029. Also%u002C air with density of 0.075 lb/ft3 %u00281.2 kg/m3%u0029 is substantially equivalent to dry air at 70%u00B0F and 29.92 in. Hg.   Standard Air Density The measurement of the density of air or 0.075 lb/ft3 %u00281.2kg/m3%u0029%u002C at standard conditions.   Standard Gravity A standard accepted value for the force of gravity. Standard gravity is equal to the force that produces an acceleration of 32.17 ft/s %u00289.8 m/s%u0029.   Standard Ventilation Conditions In industrial and general building ventilation conditions%u002C standard ventilation conditions are 70%u00B0F %u002821.2%u00B0C%u0029%u002C 50%u0025 relative humidity%u002C and 29.92 in. Hg %u0028101.3 kPa%u0029 atmospheric pressure.   Statement of Condition A written statement about a particular condition or event. Health and Safety and Contractor Note%u003A A statement of condition may be%u003A a%u0029 There are hazards on the job which require control and removal before our company can enter or take control of the job site%u003B b%u0029 The condition was unsafe and we had to shore up the structure after the fire%u003B c%u0029 Due to the presence of a hazardous chemical%u002C monitoring was necessary as per OSHA standards%u003B d%u0029 The sewage under the building was sufficient enough to call in a vacuum truck for its removal%u003B e%u0029 The building is dehumidified and is dry%u002C back to its pre-loss condition%u003B f%u0029 The cleanup of the sewage and bacteria after sanitizing%u002C have been completed successfully%u002C and there are no longer sewage bacteria concerns on exposed building surfaces and on the previously effected contents.   Static Pressure In water damage mitigation%u002C it is the absence of dynamic dry air pressure. Restorative Drying Note%u003A a%u0029 Static pressure results in the continuance of wet building materials receiving additional damage%u002C which under some circumstances%u002C could have been eliminated. b%u0029 Wet wall cavities with insulation for example%u002C are static and often will not dry on their own without some form of dynamic pressured air movement. Health and Safety Note%u003A c%u0029 Leaving wet walls and wall cavities static%u002C with high humidity present%u002C causes the growth of fungi%u002C resulting in secondary building damage and compromised occupant health. See Eddy Current%u002C Cyclone Effect%u002C Dynamic Pressure%u002C Sick Buildings%u002C Turbidity Air Currents   Statistically Valid Data Laboratory data%u002C having an amount of certainty%u002C which the data can be replicated through statistical models and repeat testing.   Stochastic Describing an event or process that involves random chance or probability. Education Note%u003A In water damage flooding%u002C the chance or probability of a building experiencing mold growth%u002C if it is not properly deflooded%u002C dried-out and dehumidified in the first 72 hours%u002C is stochastically higher.   Stock Solution The standard prepared chemical solutions used by a contractor for most every job.   STOP Principle An acronym for Sit%u002C Think%u002C Observe and Plan. The STOP principle is very important in all kinds of work%u002C especially during emergency fire/water damage services%u002C where potential life-threatening disasters can and do occur.   Storage Facility A building or structure containing chemicals and materials for short or long-term storage. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C a storage facility is used to contain and house wet carpets and building contents until the building is cleaned%u002C sanitized and restored. Wet materials such as carpets and upholstery are cleaned%u002C sanitized%u002C dried and stored%u002C while other contents such as those made with particle board are cleaned%u002C sanitized%u002C dried%u002C repaired and restored back to their previous condition%u002C then stored.   Storm Drain A network of water gathering troughs and inlets leading to pipes and conduits which are buried underground%u002C that drain rain water runoff from city streets%u002C to lakes%u002C rivers%u002C streams and oceans. Environmental Note%u003A At no time should any material other than rain water be brought%u002C pored or drained at or near a storm drain. Doing so is a serious violation of many environmental laws%u002C as well as paying for the clean-up and removal of your substance%u002C which is now called a contaminate%u002C pollutant and hazardous waste.   Storm Water Runoff Rain water runoff which gathers in streets%u002C storm drains%u002C sewers and in fields. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Storm water runoff retains various contaminates which can microbiologically become harmful to buildings and occupants. Health Department Note%u003A b%u0029 In an average storm water runoff and resulting flooding into buildings%u002C health departments report%u002C there can be approximately 20/30%u0025 of coliform bacteria present that are associated with flood waters and runoff. c%u0029 The health department reports%u002C contact with flood water can increase illness and disease. See Coliform Bacteria   Strategic Disaster Management Planning Planning by building owners and on-site operations management%u002C providing and implementing written protocol and acceptable methods for dealing with relatively minor to catastrophic disasters.   Stripping In cleaning and restoration%u002C stripping is the removal of old floor polishes and finishes%u002C using s strong%u002C and usually very alkaline detergent and scrubbing procedure. Education Note%u003A Stripping is done to small segments of a floor at a time%u002C with each segment being thoroughly rinsed before moving to the next segment. Stripping is a very aggressive floor maintenance procedure often required after a fire or water damage%u002C especially when there is an exposure to soot or sewage%u002C where caustic acids and harmful bacteria effect the floor and the environment.   Structural Drying In water damage remediation%u002C it is the use of mechanical and engineering controls necessary to dry a wet building properly. Restorative Drying Note%u003A a%u0029 Structural drying can only be completed properly by trained water damage technicians who have had classroom and hands-on knowledge on how to professionally dry various types of wet buildings and indoor atmospheres. b%u0029 Structural drying requires an amount of science and scientific equipment to dry a wet building properly. In the IICRC S500%u002C the suggested guidelines are to reduce wet indoor humidity below 30-45%u0025 rh as the target humidity soon as possible%u002C and keep the ambient temperature below 72%u00B0F. or 22%u00B0C%u0029 Structural drying%u002C may also require post-testing by microbiologists and industrial hygienists%u002C assuring the building is not influenced or has not become unhealthy from fungal contamination of the previously wet building materials. See Consequential Building Damage%u002C Due Diligence%u002C High-rise Damage%u002C Secondary Damage%u002C Substructural Damage   Structural Respiration Excluding windows and doors%u002C structural respiration is the infiltration of outside air into a building through unplanned air pathways%u002C such as through walls%u002C ceilings%u002C and floors.   Structural Wood Building members made of wood%u002C manufactured and installed to provide structural stability for the life of the building. Education Note%u003A Most structural wood that is considered dry has a moisture content %u0028MC%u0029 of 8-12%u0025. However%u002C since MC percentages vary from one geographic location to another%u002C the remediation technician must determine what are normal background levels of MC when setting drying goals and when drying wet structural wood.   Subcontractors Contractors as licenses sub-trades%u002C such as plumbers%u002C electricians%u002C drywall%u002C flooring%u002C painters to engineers%u002C who are necessary to complete a particular portion of a job. Subcontractors maintain their own professional licenses and insurance. Subcontractors must have published with the general contractor all current licenses and insurance before starting work. The general contractor of record is allowed to charge a reasonable overhead and profit for each subcontractor and any equipment or supplies required and used on the job.   Sublimation The direct transition from a solid to a vapour without passing to a liquid phase%u002C or a vapour to a solid. See Frost   Submicron Particles and matter smaller than one micron in size. Submicron is a distance or less than one millionth of a meter. Health and Safety Note%u003A Submicron is often used to describe particle diameter size. Submicron particles such as dust%u002C dirt%u002C spores%u002C organic and inorganic substances%u002C are easily inhaled in the lungs and bronchi%u002C resulting in acute and chronic illness and disease. The only devise accepted by OSHA and used for employee protection against submicron particles%u002C is a HEPA rated filter and mask. See HEPA Filtration   Subsidence a%u0029 The sinking of soil or a land mass. b%u0029 The sinking of ground from around%u002C behind or under a building. c%u0029 Contractor Note%u003A In flooded buildings%u002C subsidence is the sinking of subfloors from over saturation. c1%u0029 Subsidence of a floor is seen in flooded mobile homes%u002C where chipboard is used and the glues and adhesives are releasing%u002C and the wood chips are swelling. Usually crowning from swelling of the subfloor%u002C it occurs when furniture weight is removed%u002C and when weight is added%u002C the chipboard subfloor subsides. c2%u0029 Subsidence is also seen in water saturated plywood subfloors%u002C where there is wide placement of the floor joists. c3%u0029 Subsidence can also be due to a weak subfloor from a structural defect%u002C and it may not be from over saturation with water.   Subsidence in Air Subsidence in air is the sinking of an air mass in the center of a vortex or surrounding high-pressure. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation and restorative drying%u002C subsidence in air can be felt or seen when air fans are placed at right angles to the walls around a room to increase wall drying through increasing velocity. In a square room%u002C the center of the room will experience a subsidence in the air volume%u002C pulling down and drawing the center of the rooms air mass to the outside. In large open ceilings and vaulted rooms%u002C with an increase of room temperature and decrease of humidity%u002C a condition called subsidence inversion may occur.   Subsidence Inversion A temperature inversion condition brought about with increased room pressure. Restorative Drying Note%u003A In water damage mitigation of wet buildings%u002C having large open and vaulted ceilings%u002C where temperatures increase at higher heights%u002C the sinking air in the center of the room compresses the air mass below it%u002C resulting in cooler air al lower levels%u002C which raises the temperature of the upper levels. When indoor dusts can be seen through outside light%u002C the upper inversion conditions at higher heights%u002C can be seen at the higher temperature levels. What becomes visually apparent%u002C the inverse condition %u0028at the increased temperature levels%u0029 suppresses the vertical motion %u0028movement%u0029 of air contaminates %u0028dusts%u002C spores%u002C gases%u002C vapours etc.%u0029%u002C and thus allow the air contaminates to increase in mass. The inversion condition will continue until temperature and humidity change%u002C or the pressures in the air mass changes.   Substantial Damage Damage that has a repair cost equal to or exceeding 50%u0025 of the market value of the structure either before the improvement is started or%u002C if the structure has been damaged and is being restored%u002C before the damage.   Substantial Improvement Any repair%u002C reconstruction%u002C or improvement of a structure%u002C the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure either before the improvement is started%u002C or%u002C if the structure has been damaged and is being restored%u002C before the damage occurred.   Substructural Drying In water damage remediation%u002C substructure drying is the use of mechanical and engineering controls necessary to dry a wet substructure properly. Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 Unlike wet above-grade structures%u002C wet below-grade substructures are influenced by an increase amount of moisture vapor coming from inside the substructure foundation walls and soil. a1%u0029 To dry a wet substructure properly%u002C all contents and wet building materials must be removed from a basement or below-grade structure%u002C including old carpet%u002C cardboard and plastic sheeting. a3%u0029 All standing water or sewage must be extracted and appropriately removed. a4%u0029 Allow as much fresh air access to the substructure as possible during water/sewage removal. In fact%u002C use an exhaust fan forcing contaminated air outside the substructure%u002C but not in the building. a5%u0029 Depending on the soil matrix and amount of saturation%u002C and if there is sewage present%u002C detergent washing the soil may be appropriate before attempting surface drying or tilling the soil. b%u0029 If the below grade substructure is large%u002C 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%u0029 Unlike above-grade wet buildings%u002C below-grade buildings may take two to three times as long to dry. See High-Rise Drying%u002C Structural Drying   Suggested Guidelines for Remediation of Damage from Sewage Backflow into Buildings A peer reviewed scientific article published in the Journal of Environmental Health%u002C October%u002C 1994%u002C %u0028Berry%u002C Michael%u002C Ph.D.%u002C et. al.%u0029%u002C which speaks about the importance of removing sewage properly from a sewage contaminated building. Education Note%u003A The article points out that sewage contains disease causing microorganisms%u002C and if they are allowed to remain%u002C the health of the public at large and the occupants are at health risk.   Sulphur Hexafluoride %u0028SF6%u0029 A physiologically inert gas used as a tracer gas during building investigations.   Supplied Air Respirators Full-face respirators that are attached to a SCBA or in-line air source. OSHA Note%u003A a%u0029 Supplied air respirators are the minimum requirement for worker protection when oxygen deficient atmospheres exist. b%u0029 When atmospheres do not have 19.5%u0025 oxygen or when atmospheres indicate through monitoring%u002C the presence of flammable%u002C chemicals or gases supply air must be provided. c%u0029 In reference to sewer gas%u002C methane and hydrogen sulphide%u002C a canister filtering mask will not remove airborne toxins and gas contaminates. Only SCBA and in-line supplied air can be used in these atmospheres.   Surface Cleaning Surface Cleaning means methods used by which surfaces are cleaned and decontaminated by. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Surface cleaning includes mechanical agitation to remove dried contaminates%u002C and detergents that allow for suspension. b%u0029 Mechanical cleaning with a brush%u002C detergent chemicals%u002C cleaners%u002C followed with rinsing completes surface cleaning. See Clean%u002C Clean-up%u002C Sanitization   Surface Leaching A condition found on top of concrete and painted surfaces resulting from the leaching of efflorescence on concrete and paint. Education Note%u003A Surface leaching may be corrected on new paint with the use of cleaners and detergents followed by drying. If the surface leaching condition continues%u002C the problem is behind the paint in the matrix of concrete and other materials due to moisture vapor pressure and high moisture content.   Surface Sampling The sampling and removal of a cell%u002C spore or matter%u002C which when collected%u002C is identified in a laboratory. Surface sampling may include swabs%u002C tape lifts%u002C vacuuming%u002C Rodac plate%u002C or other acceptable devise for sampling collection. See Air Sampling%u002C Adsorbent Sampling%u002C Bulk Material Sampling%u002C Soil Sampling%u002C Swab Sampling%u002C Smear Tabs%u002C Tape Lift Sampling%u002C Water Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling%u002C Vacuum Sampling   Surface Sampling Kits Specially prepared kits to sample for a known contaminate%u002C such as PCBs%u002C lead%u002C mercury%u002C nickel%u002C cadmium or chromate.   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%u002C adjuster or contractor%u002C then%u002C a visual assessment and survey of the problem area%u0028s%u0029 is completed. Only after the visual investigation%u002C should bacteria screening be conducted. Swab sampling in this instance is a screening devise only. To be cost effective%u002C 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%u002C is through laboratory microscopic analysis. Since we cannot see bacteria with our eyes%u002C the industrial hygienist or microbiologist must use their best judgement%u002C knowledge and training%u002C in considering their sampling strategy. See Qualitative Surface Screening   Surfactant %u0028Surface Acting Agents%u0029 Agents which are used to modify or decrease surface tension of water resulting in a reduction of interfacial tension. Surfactant are useful for suspending%u002C removing oils and organic contaminates%u002C and they provide a cleansing action.   Swab Sampling A sterile swab in a collection tube used to sample a surface. In the case of evaluation of fungi or bacteria%u002C once exposed to the source %u0028such as a 2%u0022 x 2%u0022 swab area%u0029%u002C the swab is placed back in its collection transport tube and closed. Information about the swab is written on the transport tube as well as a log sheet. The swab is then transported to a laboratory for incubation and analysis in a petri dish. Swab sampling is mainly used for culturable samples of cells and spores. Laboratory results may take an average of 2-3 days for bacteria%u002C to 7-10 days for fungi and other pathogen identification. See Air Sampling%u002C Adsorbent Sampling%u002C Bulk Material Sampling%u002C Soil Sampling%u002C Surface Sampling%u002C Tape Lift Sampling%u002C Water Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling%u002C Vacuum Sampling