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Density A measurement on how close one strand of carpet fibre %u0028yarn%u0029 is close to the next strand of fibre. The measurement of density as of the year 2%u002C000%u002C is ounces per cubic foot instead of ounces per square yard.
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Face Weight The measurement of ounces of fibre per square yard%u002C which%u002C as of the year 2000%u002C will be changed to fibre per square foot. Typically for residential carpet%u002C the face weight is above 30 ounces%u002C averaging 40 to 50 ounces for better grade carpet.
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Tuft Bind The measurement of tightness carpet fibres are bound to the carpets backing. Tuft bind measurements are in pounds%u002C and quality residential carpet is above 6 pounds but not below 4 pounds.
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Twist The measurement of the number of times the carpet fibres are twisted per inch of finished yarn. A good quality residential carpet has 4 our more twists per inch.
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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
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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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2%u0029 Loss of Rents If a covered property loss makes that part of the residence premises rented to others or held for rental by the insured%u002C the policy may cover loss of rents less any expense that does continue during the loss period. The policy may pay 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. Insurance Note%u003A If there is coverage for 1 and 2 above%u002C the time period is not typically limited by expiration of the policy.
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3%u0029 Prohibited Use If a civil authority prohibits the insured from use of the residential premises because of direct damage to neighboring premises by a loss which would have been covered under the Property Section of the policy%u002C the insurance policy may allow additional living expense or loss of rents for a defined period%u002C which use of the property is prohibited.
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and reputation%u002C etc.%u0029 begins yet again. This all-too-familiar scenario will continue to play itself out%u002C with the current %u0022facts%u0022 creating more questions and confusion than answers. The likelihood is that this problem will continue to increase in frequency%u002C with the confusion increasing - unless the influences of dewpoint in the building are considered. Installers Note%u003A Dew point does a nearly indistinguishable imitation of classic moisture %u0022problems%u0022 that can result in real floor covering installation concerns. Yet%u002C dewpoint is in reality%u002C a transitory effect%u002C which once detected%u002C can be controlled at the time prior to installation%u002C if the installer is made aware of its existence and how to control the potential detrimental effects.
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Maximum Level of Employee Protection in Known or Potential High Hazards
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Level A Requirement for entry into areas of very high contamination or areas of unknown exposures that may pose%u002C or potentially will pose%u002C moderate to serious risk%u002C injury or death%u002C from contact or inhalation.
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High Level of Employee Protection in Known or Potential Contamination
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Level B Requirement for entry into areas of high contamination%u002C or areas of unknown exposures that may pose%u002C or potentially will pose%u002C moderate to serious risk or injury from inhalation hazard%u002C but having a lesser skin absorption hazard.
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Moderate Level of Employee Protection in Known or Potential Contamination
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Level C Requirement for entry into areas of moderate to low contamination%u002C or areas of unknown exposures that may pose%u002C or potentially will pose%u002C low risk or injury from inhalation hazard%u002C while having a lesser skin absorption hazard.
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Basic Entry Level of Employee Protection or Modified Construction Protection Level
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Level D Requirement for entry into areas of a nuisance contamination%u002C that may pose%u002C or potentially will pose%u002C low risk%u002C from inhalation or skin contact hazards.
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Sewage Saturated Drywall and Insulation means%u002C the 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.
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Removal of Contaminated Building Contents means%u002C the careful inventory%u002C bagging and removal for disposal of contents that cannot be sanitized%u002C are not cost effective to sanitize%u002C or items which later may be a health issue if they have not been properly sanitized.
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Salvage of Contaminated Building Materials and Contents means%u002C the preferred restorative method by which materials and contents are to be cleaned and sanitized back to their pre-loss and healthy condition.
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Detaching of Vanities and Counters means%u002C the physical detaching of the cabinet or counter from the wall to inspect for sewage effluents or water behind and under the cabinet or counter.
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Detergent Cleaning means%u002C warm water washing and agitation of the surface with scrub brushes or electric floor scrubber.
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Rewashing means%u002C and often refers to porous surfaces such as concrete slabs%u002C requiring repeat warm water washing and agitation of the surface until the rinse water is clear.
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Rinsing means%u002C a complete and thorough flushing of the detergents and rinse water%u002C until the rinse water itself becomes clean and clear in color.
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Sanitizing means%u002C the use of a 5.25%u0025 of a hypochlorite %u0028household bleach%u0029 properly diluted to provide a kill rate of %u003E1%u002C000 organisms per 2 square inch or 25 square centimeter area. Bleach as a sanitizer should only be used on surfaces that will not damage the surface%u002C color or content.
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Safe use of Sanitizing 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.
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Inhalation Particulate Mass Dust particles having 50%u0025 cut point at 100 microns in size. Dusts which may be hazardous when deposited in the nasal passages.
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Thoracic Particle Mass Dust particles having a 50%u0025 cut point at 10 microns in size. Dusts particles hazardous when deposited in the lung airways.
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Respirable Particulate Mass Dust particles having 50%u0025 cut point at 4 microns in size. Dusts are hazardous when deposited in the gas-exchange region.
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must be aware%u002C that in California%u002C employees have an increase occupational hazard and potential of inhalation spore hazards from Coccidioides immitis after earthquakes%u002C where all appropriate respiratory protection measures must be provided.
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Centrifugal
In refrigeration%u002C centrifugal is a type of compressor%u002C which compresses refrigerant vapor through centrifugal force.
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%u005DCove Base
See Base Molding
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Abandoned Property
In insurance terminology%u002C abandoned property is property which has been intentionally vacated or discarded%u002C typically because of a hazardous or potentiallly hazardous condition. Education Note%u003ADepending on the situation resulting in the abandonment%u002C the abandoned property rights of a policy.
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Abandonment
The willful vacating of a building. The willful removal%u002C discarding and/or disposal of a content.
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Abandonned Dwelling
In water%u002C fire and chemical exposures%u002C an abandoned dwelling is a building%u002C dwelling%u002C to an office suite%u002C which has beeen intentionally vacated%u002C typically because of a hazardous or potentially hazardous condition. Education Note%u003A An abandoned dwelling%u002C after a period of time%u002C loses its insurance policy rights%u002C even though a policy is active%u002C typically 30 days after the date of abandonment.
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Abate
To cut away%u002C remove completely.
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Abatement
a%u0029 The completeremoval of a contaminate in providing abatement services. b%u0029 Education Note%u003A Pertaining to water and sewage damage%u002C the ability of specially trained water damage contractors to assess%u002C control%u002C remove and completely eliminate%u002C any and all water and effluent damage and environmental concerns %u0028bacteria and fungi%u0029 in buildings. Contractor Note%u003A Unlike the words mitigation and remediation%u002C which means to control%u002C to lessen%u002C to a reasonable and acceptable level%u002C abatement interpretation is the complete removal of contaminate. See Bioremediation%u002C Mitigation%u002C Remediation.
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Above Grade
a%u0029 Buildings which are built on a foundation having an average of 18%u0022 clearance or greater of well ventilated air space. b%u0029 Any section of a building that is above ground height.
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Above Grade Subfloors
A floor above ground levels%u002C but having no headroom below.
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Abrade
To scrape or wear away a surface or material by friction or striking.
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Abrams%u0027 Law
The rule stating that with given materials%u002C curing and testing conditions%u002C concrete strength is inversely related to the ratio of water to cement. Low water-to-cement ratios produce high strengths.
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Abrasive
A more course or harder material that is capable of debriding the surface of another material%u002C such as sand paper. An abrasive can be a soft abrasive which%u002C when mixed with water%u002C allows for gentle surface cleansing%u002C such as scouring powder%u002C baking soda or Soft-Scrub %u0028TM%u0029
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Abrasive Blasting
A process by which compressed air and a mixture of particulate materials are forced across or on to another surface%u002C for the purpose of removing a material or contaminate. See Air Blasting%u002C Air Sparging
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Abrasive Cleaner
A substance such as a powdered cleaner having a scouring effect%u002C which is used to remove surface contaminates and loose stains. Abrasive cleaners must be tested to insure that they will not harm%u002C discolour or damage a material surface. Mitigation Note%u003A Abrasive cleaners are very important in the structural breakdown of Gram-negative bacteria cell structure in sewage blackwater contamination of non-porous building materials.
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Abreuvoir
The mortar joint between masonry units.
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Absolute Humidity
Total water vapour in unit or mass. Absolute humidity is usually is expressed in grams of water per kilogram of air. Education Note%u003A For an easier rule%u002C grains of moisture %u0028Grains per pound %u003D GPP%u0029 can be calculated instead of using grams per kilogram. See Grains of Moisture%u002C Psychometrics%u002C Relative Humidity
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Absolute Pressure
Air at standard conditions %u002870 degrees %u0028F%u0029 air at sea level with a barometric pressure of 29.92 in. Hg.%u0029 exerts a pressure of 14.696 psi. Thjis is the pressure in a system when the pressure gauge reads zero. So the absolute pressure of a system is the gauge pressure in pounds per square inch added to the atmospheric pressure of 14.696 psi %u0028use 14.7 psi in environmental system work%u0029.
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Absorb
In water damages%u002C the temporary ability of porous building materials and contents to absorb %u0028hold and retain%u0029 liquid water and water vapour for periods of time. Education Note%u003ALike a sponge%u002C most absorbent materials are able to give up their water when atmospheric conditions are desirable or when forced to through dynamic pressure. See Absorbant%u002C Air Dynamics
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Absorbed Moisture
Moisture that has been absorbed by a porous or semi-porous solid materialsuch as drywall%u002C wood or masonry.
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Absorbed water
Surface water which is held in place by tension or electrochemical forces. The adhesion of water in the form of molecules as a liquid%u002C vapour%u002C or gas as a dissolved substance bound in or on a material.
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Absorbency
The moisture measurement difference between a dry porous material and a saturated material is a weight neasurement of the material%u0027s absorbency. Education Note%u003A The ability of a porous building material%u002C like drywall and some insulation%u002C to absorb water%u002C and very high humidity%u002C rapidly.
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Absorbent
Any material that has an affinity for certain substances and attracts these substances from a liquid or gas state with which it is in contract. A substance that attracts and holds quantities of water vapour or a liquid.
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Absorber
A mechanical device such as a dehumidifier which collects and contains liquid from the absorption of water vapour.
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Absorbtivity
The ratio amount of water which is able to absorb in a porous material.
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Absorption
A process whereby a porous material extracts one or more substances present in an atmosphere or a mixture of gases and liquids%u002C accompanied by the material%u0027s temporary physical and/or chemical change into another material. Education Note%u003A Absorption in water damage building materials is the temporary entrapment of moisture into porous and semi-porous building materials%u002C such as carpets%u002C pad%u002C drywall%u002C and cellulosic insulation. See Absorb%u002C Absorbency%u002C Absorption
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Absorption Chiller
A heat operated refrigeration unit that uses an absorbent %u0028lithium bromide%u0029 as a secondary fluid to absorb the primary fluid %u0028water%u0029%u002C which is a gaseous refrigerant in the evaporator.
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Absorption Loss
Water losses that occur in wet building materials that are not retrieved during the restorative drying process. Absorption loss can be described as the unknown water quantity which dispersed and flowed in a building and was not recovered.
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Absorption Rate %u0028Initial Rate of Absorption%u0029
The weight of water absorbed by a building material that is partially immersed in water for one minute%u002C five minutes or ten minutes. The absorptive weight increase %u0028as compared to dry weight%u0029 is expressed in ounces of water weight per minute%u002C five minutes or ten minutes.
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Acceleration
In structural drying%u002C the amount of time or increase of evaporation which a building or a material is dried.
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Acceleration Velocity
The rate of change in velocity of air as a moving body%u002C which over time%u002C can assist and aid in drying wet building materials and contents. See Air Movement%u002C Dynamic Pressure%u002C entrainment Velocity%u002C Turbidity Air Currents
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Acceptable Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air%u002C in which there are no known contaminants at harmful concentrations and with which a substantial majority %u0028usually 80%u0025%u0029 of the occupants exposed do not express a dissatisfaction.
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Acceptable Indoor Therma Comfort
An indoor environment which at least 80%u0025 of the occupants would find as being thermally acceptable to temperature%u002C humidity and air velocity.
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Accesible
In cleaning and mold remediation%u002C that area which is easily accessed and is able to be cleaned or mold remediated. In repair and restoration that area which is easily removed%u002C repaired%u002C restored%u002C replaced or serviced.
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Access
In legal terms%u002C the offers and acceptance to allow a person or contractor access to a building or property. The means of entry into a buiding area or room.
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Access Door or Panel
An inspection%u002C service or repair area usually concealed in a building in service areas.
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Access Flooring
A raised area of a floor that has removable panels to allow access to the floor and space below the primary floor. Education Note%u003A A computer floor is often an access floor serving the equipments electrical supply with conduit and air conditioning. During a water damage%u002C all access floors must be carefully evaluated first by the computer technicians then the water damage technicians.
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Access Point
An opening into a building%u002C vent%u002C hole or other part of a building or material.
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Accident
A sudden unexpected event%u002C identifiable in terms of time and place%u002C that results in personal injury or property damage.
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Acclimatization
The physiological adjustment of a person%u002C or even an organism%u002C to adjust to a new%u002C unusual%u002C or modified environment. Education Note%u003A Acclimatization can be found in building environments which have changed due to a water damage%u002C flood or sewage contamination. See Sensory Perception
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Accord and Satisfaction
A legal term referring to an agreement between two or more parties to contract whereby at least one or all parties accept payment in the compromise of a dispute%u002C claim or change proposal. Typically%u002C this term is used concerning a mutual release of responsibility for a claim upon an agreed payment. See Settlement
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Accuracy of Moisture Measurements
The degree which electronic moisture sensoring and monitoring equipment are capable of calculating the moisture content of water damaged building materials and atmospheres.
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Acetone
A highly flammable organic solvent. Acetone is used with lacquers%u002C paint thinners%u002C paint removers and strippers. Health and Safety Note%u003A Acetone by itself is a clear%u002C colourless solvent%u002C having a mint-like odour. Acetone can cause skin irritation and flammable in improperly ventilated atmospheres. Acetone is also called ketone%u002C propane and propanone.
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ACGIH
An abbreviation for the American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists Association. See AIHA%u002C Bioaerosol%u003A Assesment and Control
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ACH %u0028Air Changes per Hour%u0029
The measurement of the complete replacement of inside air within a building area measured over an exact period of time. Education Note%u003AAn office or space which has its total air volume replaced in the time period of one hour experiences one Air Change per Hour.
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Acid Smoke in Water/Fire Damages
A result of acids from fire damage in a building%u002C of the residue vapours and airborne char residues which are present. Education Note%u003A Fire related acids along with the water damage and high humidity increase the corrosion potential of finishes on metals%u002C computer circuit boards and other finishes.
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Acid%u0028s%u0029
A class of chemical substances having a PH below 7%u002C on the PH scale. Education Note%u003A Acids have the ability to react with bases and certain metals to form salts. Acids in a water solution yield hydroxide ions. Acids can be very dangerous to breathe and have skin contact with. All chemicals%u002C especially acids%u002C must be handled as per manufacturer instructions. Improper use of acids can result in severe burns%u002C causing permanent injury.
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ACM %u0028Asbestos Containing Materials%u0029
See Asbestos%u002C Asbestos Containing Materials
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Acoustic Blown Ceiling
A compressor blown-on ceiling made primarily of paint and mineral fibres. Sometimes%u002C prior to 1980 the mineral fibres were asbestos. Acoustic blown ceiling are usually found in residential buildings.
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Acoustic Board
A construction material in board form that restricts or controls the transmission of sound.
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Acoustic Ceiling
A ceiling that has the ability to absorb sound.
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Acoustic Materials
Building materials which absorb sound and noise%u002C such as carpet and acoustic tiles. Education Note%u003A Most sound absorption materials%u002C besides being good sound insulators%u002C are also highly absorbant%u002C and they are capable of retaining unwanted moisture and humidity after a water damage.
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Acoustic Spray
A fibrous material blown on to the surface of a wall or ceiling for the purpose of sound reduction.
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Acoustic T-Bar Ceiling
A ceiling made with metal wire hangers and metal T-bar assembly%u002C and inserts of 2%u0027 %u00D7 2%u0027 or 2%u0027 %u00D7 4%u0027 acoustic ceiling tiles. Acoustic T-bar ceilings are usually found in commercial building and offices.
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Acoustic Tile
A formed material usually made with cellulosic substances and binders%u002C that are compressed into a tile form. Acoustic tiles take many shapes%u002C from 12%u0022%u00D712%u0022%u00D72%u0022 tiles that are stapled or mastic adhered to walls and ceilings%u002C to 2%u0027%u00D72%u0027%u00D72%u0027 and 2%u0027%u00D74%u0027%u00D72%u0022 tiles for placement into a ceiling grid.
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Acoustic%u002C Acoustical
Building materials containing%u002C producing%u002C arising from%u002C actuated by%u002C related to%u002C or associated with sound absorption.
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Acoustical Plaster
A plaster finish coat applied on the surface of drywall or button board. Education Note%u003A The plaster is a sound absorptive plaster%u002C that has large cell structures to absorb sound%u002C or it has a texture to break up the sound wave while reducing bounce back.
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Acremonium
Fungi which are members of the genus that are found in soil%u002C on decaying plant matter and compost%u002C including dead wood. Education Note%u003A Acremonium can be identified in indoor air samples after a water damage%u002C and its presence may warrant further investigation in determining why it is indoors.
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ACS
An abbreviation for the Air Conveyance System. The air conveyance sytem is the mechanical air handling part of the building%u0027s ventilation system.
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Act of God
An unforseeable and an uncontrollable event%u002C caused by natural forced over which an insurance policy holder has little or no control%u002C such as floods%u002C earthquakes%u002C tornadoes%u002C windstorms and lightning strikes.
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Actinomycetes
A group of soilborne bacteria that are mould-like in appearance. These organisms are sometimes found in flood-contaminated buildings. %u0028The characteristic musty smell of wet/damp soil comes from compounds released by this group of bacteria%u0029. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Soilborne bacteria and mould in flooded buildings usually consist of dirt%u002C mud and/or silt. And when removed%u002C most of the bacteria and mould-like smells on top of hard surfaces will go away with detergent washing%u002C rinsing%u002C disinfecting and fast drying. b%u0029 The presence of soilborne bacteria and mould-like odours will not go away in porous building materials that have come in contact with the flood water. These materials must be removed and disposed . The remaining building materials must be detergent washed%u002C rinsed and thoroughly dried%u002C then inspected for additional damage. c%u0029 In particular%u002C actinomycete bacteria produce similar smells to some fungi%u002C and they appear under the microscope structurally similar to certain fungi. See Saprophytic Fungi
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Action Level %u0028AL%u0029
a%u0029 Under OSHA regulations%u002C a measured concentration of certain airborne contaminates or noise in the workplace that require immediate attention by testing exposure levels. b%u0029 A term used by OSHA and NIOSH to express the level of toxicant which required medical surveillance%u002C usually one half the PEL. Education Note%u003A In water damage emergencies%u002C the level of action emergency managers determine is necessary for workers when entering and exposing themselves to a contamination or hazard.
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Action Plan
After a disaster%u002C and a review of the assessment and inspection phase %u0028also called the loss and evaluation phase%u0029%u002C an action plan includes all elements of the preliminary findings incorporated into a plan called the action plan. The action plan is the operation and performance which all work is to be completed and in the order they are addressed. An action plan is usually an oral plan that is implemented at a tail-gate meeting. An action plan is based on the best available control technology by a supervisor using his best professional judgement.
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Action-Bac Carpet
Action-Bac%u002C a Trademark name of the Amoco Fabrics Company. The term Action-Bac carpet%u002C relates to the secondary backing of a carpet%u002C which is a stretchable backing. Mitigation and Restorative Drying Note%u003A Action-Bac carpets when wet%u002C and during their drying in place%u002C will tend to stretch. Even after reinstallation after drying an Action-Bac carpet still having higher than normal humidity coming up from a wet slab or subfloor will appear to be baggy%u002C slack or loose%u002C which%u002C in fact%u002C it is. Liability Note%u003A The loose %u0028relaxed%u0029 carpet can cause trips and falls. Under these situations Action-Bac carpet may require its removal until the excess moisture from a slab or subfloor can be abated. Caution Note%u003A Do not cut excess yardage off the perimeter of an Action-Bac carpet. This may cause the carpet to split at the seams or pull away from the walls after the subfloor is dry.
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Activated Carbon
Carbon charcoal that has an increased absorption capacity of retaining chemicals%u002C vapours%u002C hydrocarbons%u002C and sometoxins from a contaminated environment. Education Note%u003A Scrubbing contaminated indoor air with an air scrubber having an activated carbon %u0028charcoal-based%u0029 filter%u002C are capable of trapping and reducing organic vapours in a building. Activated charcoal is commonly used as a gas vapour absorbent in air-prifying respirators and as a solid sorbent in air-sampling. See Adsorbent%u002C Air Scrubbers%u002C Air Sparging
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Activation Reaction
The minimum energy required for a chemical or a biological reaction to take place. Education Note%u003A In a reaction%u002C the reactant molecules come together and chemical or biological bonds are stretched%u002C broken and reformed to produce new products. Mitigation Note%u003A In a wet building water damaging event for example%u002C during the flooding phase%u002C the water becomes the catalyst activation reaction%u002C allowing biochemical energy to be produced and increase from moisture. The biomechanical energy %u0028activation reaction%u0029 decreases to the original energy%u002C only after the building has been dried out properly. The activation energy Ea %u0028reaction%u0029 is the difference between the maximum energy and the energy of the water and moisture %u0028vapour%u0029 reactants. The activation reaction determines the way in which the rate of the reaction varies with temperature and humidity. In other words%u002C the activation reaction %u0028fresh water flooding%u0029 is reversible %u0028drying and dehumidification%u0029 and the activation reaction it is meant to return back to a balance or equilibrium%u002C as long as the building materials are dried out properly and within a reasonably short period of time. See Balanced Drying
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Active Ingredient
One or more compounds%u002C either dry or in solution%u002C that enable the active ingredient compound%u0028s%u0029 to perform a specific function.
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Activity and Building Occupancy Use and Limitations
A term describing the type of building activity and the particular occupancy use in a building. Education Note%u003A Activity may indicate that the business enterprise in the building contains a laboratory%u002C compared to regular office usage. Or%u002C the activity is a preschool%u002C compared to a plating shop. Building occupancy must be considered%u002C as for example%u002C a 2%u002C000 square foot home may have 4 persons residing in it during an 8 hour period%u002C whereas a 2%u002C000 square foot office suite has 50 people working in it during an 8 hour period. Adjustor Note%u003A The activity of a building and its occupants may limit the remedial actions of a loss. Certain activity may result in the physical limitation of building occupants%u002C and restrict other persons from entering loss site. Knowing the activity and building occupancy usage is important%u002C and it must be described in detail in the historical information about a claim.
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Acute
Describing a sudden exposure to a significant dose of a dangerous substance. See Anaphylactic Shock%u002C Chronic
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Acute Exposure
In toxicology%u002C the contaminate doses received over a period of 24 hours or less. Some acute exposures can result in temporary and permanent health effects while other acute exposures can result in death. Education Note%u003A A single exposure to a toxic substance from a water damage situation%u002C may be as a result of an exposure to airborne sewage bacterial toxins. To a water damage remediation worker%u002C an acute exposure may include some of the chemicals that are loose in a building while being activated in solution%u002C or some of the cleaning and disinfectant chemical they come in contact with as part of their work.
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Acute Health Effects
A circumstance in which a chemical or substance results in the rapid development of severe symptoms.
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Acute Toxic Chemical
A chemical substance having the ability to cause and result in an acute reaction to the chemical. While the substance has an immediate health effect%u002C it does not necessarily mean there will be permanent adverse effects to workers who are treated shortly after an exposure.
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Acute Toxicity
a%u0029 Toxicity resulting from an acute exposure. The adverse effects closely spaced in time between the absorbed dose and the toxic material. b%u0029 A substance so poisonous as to cause severe biological harm or death soon after a single exposure or dose.
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ACV %u0028Actual Cash Value%u0029
In property insurance adjusting%u002C ACV means replacement cost new less depreciation. Education Note%u003A Actual Note%u003A Actual cash value is calculated by the cost of the the replacement minus a ceratin value for depreciation. See RCV %u0028Replacement Cost Value%u0029
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ADA %u0028Americans with Disabilities Act%u0029
A federal law passed by the U.S. Congress to protect Americans who have disabilities. Under the law%u002C buildings are to be modified and retrofit to meet the revised building code requirement of those who are disabled.
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Adamant Plaster
A quick setting plaster applied over the undercoat plaster.
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Adaptation
The ability of a substance or environment to change or modify%u002C based on temporary or a permanent change. Education Note%u003A Adaptation can temporarily occur in wet buildings where the interior environment becomes humidified for a short period of time. If the building is allowed to remain wet%u002C environmental changes may alter the building%u002C resulting in the building to adapt to its new environment. Persons occupying the wet building may feel the health effects of the environmental influences from fungi and other biological influences. Some persons may not experience the health effects%u002C while other persons may may not adapt to the previously flooded environment.
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Addendum or Addendum to the Contract
A term%u002C phrase or paragraph of the contract%u002C which alters or changes specific portions of the contract. An addendum may be an addition%u002C deletion or modification of a particular contract provision. See Change Order
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Addition
A term%u002C phrase or paragraph of the contract%u002C which modifies the contract to add items in the contract through a change order. See Addendum%u002C Change Order
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Addition
An expansion to an already existing structure%u002C generally an increase of floor%u002C wall or room space that will increase the total volume of the structure.
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Additional Living Expenses
In residential insurance policies%u002C it is that portion of the insurance contract that allows for the insured to temporarily relocate%u002C because of a damage%u002C disaster or health consequence%u002C caused by the dwelling from its damage. Education Note%u003A If a covered property loss makes the residential premises unfit to live in the policy typically covers the necessary increase in the 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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Adhesion
The ability of a material to adhere and bond to another surface or material usually with a chemical binder or adhesive. Education Note%u003A In painting%u002C for example%u002C the adhesion increases as the surfaces are able to molecularly bond with each other.
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Adhesion%u002C loss of
The resistance to delaminate or separate from one or more layers%u002C resulting in a loss of bonding strength.
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Adhesive
A chemical substance used to bond materials together. In most carpets which have backings%u002C adhesives are applied between the primary and secondary backing. In plywood%u002C adhesives are used to bond layers of wood together. Often%u002C adhesives are stronger than the materials they hold or bond together%u002C while in other instances%u002C the loss of adhesion strength by the adhesive%u002C results in delamination or loss of structural integrety of the material.
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Adiabatic
Changes in matter %u0028material%u0029 which take place without the transfer of heat. A condition in which there is no change in the measurement of temperature %u0028where there is no gain or loss of heat%u0029%u002C but there can be a change involving the expansion or contraction of a material without the loss or gain of heat%u002C the change of entropy. An example is the curing of concrete or mortar%u002C or in a water damage building where wood floor expand because of water and not a a result of heat. Education Note%u003A in other words%u002C when heat is added or withdrawn from a material the material generally experiences changes in temperature%u002C pressure and volume%u002C and sometimes a change of its physical makeup. These changes severely involve the absorption or the release of energ%u002C which may be regarded respectively as positive nergy increments%u002C and there is an algebraic sum of which is equivalent to the quantity of heat either supplied or removed id the material could be provided with perfect thermal insulation so that no heat could enter or leave it%u002C then any change requiring energy%u002C which might take place within the material%u002C would necessarily be effected at the expense of energy by the other internal changes. But a rise of temperature might be caused by heat generated in compression. processes of this sort%u002C unaccompanied by any transfer of heat across the insulating boundaries of the material%u002C are said to be adiabatic. In reverse%u002C the adiabatic processes are also isentropic%u002C that is%u002C they take place without change to entropy. %u0028A hardwood floor expands due to water as a liquid of vapour that cause the cells to dilate%u002C resulting in wood expansion%u002C and over time%u002C the wood releases the water and vapour%u002C resulting in the hardwood floor to relax. Was there a change in temperature %u0028heat%u0029 which caused the wood to expand or contract%u003F Sometimes not. The same is true for wet walls and partcleboard damage from contact with water%u002C resultingin the swelling and damage to the material%u0029. Adiabatic processes%u002C though hardly realized in practice by a water damage or restorative drying technician%u002C are often considered in thermodynamic reasoning. See Entropy
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Adiabatic Processes in Atmosphere
When a parcel of air is moved from one atmosphere to another in a building%u002C with respect to the ambient air%u002C in such a manner that energy does not flow across boundaries%u002C thermal changes taking place are said to be adiabatic changes. Education Notes%u003A Any process in the buildings atmosphere occurring adiabatically is known as an adiabatic process. In water damaged buildings%u002C for example%u002C temperature and humidity are important. The adiabatic process during which the air involved in non-effected areas %u0028the parcels of air remaining unsaturated during the drying process%u0029 are relatively simple and they do not effect the humidified air parcel directly. the adiabatic processes involving condensation or evaporation through dehumidification are considerably complicated by heat of condensation. Monor temperature and humidity changes within static air may not be important%u002C but the same changes in moving air may be significant. This method of measurement of heat or the absence of heat in a water damaged atmosphere of a building%u002C for example%u002C is based on the first law of thermodynamics. Author%u0027s Note%u003A The author placed this brief discussion about adiabatic processes purposely to bring attention to the reader%u002C the seriousness about understanding building and restorative drying processes and methods and the dynamics required to dry a wet building properly. It is also reasonable to help technicians recognise that the use of a moisture probe or a moisture stick is only the tip of the iceberg%u002C when attempting to understand physics and natural laws of thermodynamics. The author is not attempting to have the subject fully discussed%u002C but is bringing the subject up for the reader to investigate further. See Adiabatic%u002C Entropy
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Adjusted Base Costs
The total estimate or estimated cost of a project or repair after adding or deducting changes.
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Adjusted Dry Bulb Temperature
The average of the air temperature %u0028ta%u0029 and the mean radiant temperature %u0028tr%u0029 at a given location. The adjusted dry bulb temperature %u0028tadb%u0029 is approximately equivalent to operative temperature %u0028to%u0029 at air motions less than 80 fpm %u00280.4 m/s%u0029 when tr is less than 120%u00B0F %u002850%u00B0C%u0029.
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Adjuster
A professional and knowledgable person who has been trained in the art of adjusting of property losses. A property adjuster is not a contractor%u002C nor do they claim to be. Education Note%u003A Adjusters will often retain the expertise of a licensed contractor to assess and estimate a loss and write a scope of work for the emergency and restoration phase in returning a building and its contents back to pre-loss conditions. Even though an adjuster is employed or retained by the insurance company%u002C the adjuster must employ and fairly balance all aspects of property claims adjusting.
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Adjuster
A representative of an insurance company who has specific training and knowledge about claims and who negotiates with the insured in order to claim equitably. Besides the insured %u0028policyholder%u0029%u002C the adjuster deals with emergency repairand restoration contractors%u002C and acts as a middle man between all parties and the insurer %u0028insurance company%u0029.
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Adjustment
The means it is necessary to attain settlement or adjustment in claims paid by an insurance company or other party. An adjustment in a claim will require the contractor and/or adjuster to document the loss%u002C type and extent of loss and determine repair or replacement cost value to which the claimant is entitled under the provisions of the policy after all allowances and deductions have been made.
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Adjustment Factor
A calculation or constant %u0028usuallly a multiplier%u0029 used to calculate damage or costs.
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Administrative Controls
Methods used to control building contaminates during employee exposure. By changing work assignments%u002C rotation of workers%u002C reducing exposure time%u002C stress and other factors%u002C administrative controls can reduce stress and over exposure. See Action Level
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Administrative Costs
On some jobs and insurance claims a contractor or engineer may oversee a project or be part of the overall team management of the project%u002C while not providing any direct equipment or manpower. Education Note%u003AThe billing will include administrativecosts as a percent of the general overhead of the contractor or engineer. In other instances administrative costs are direct costs added to the job. See Mobilization Costs%u002C Overhead %u0026 Profit
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Adsorbent
The incorporation of a liquid or energy absorbed into another substance. Absorbent of a substance can be a permanent change to the building material%u002C such as sewage contamination%u002C fire%u002C odour or pesticide exposure. Education Note%u003A For example%u002C the rate of adsorbency of drywall to adsorb a substance or a vapour will%u002C most likely%u002C cause permanent damage to the drywall material. Note%u003A %u0027Adsorbent%u0027 means to molecularly bond together. See Absorbent%u002C Adsorption
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Adsorbent Sampling
One of a number of adsorbent materials used to collect a contaminate. Education Note%u003A Absorbent sampling%u002C such as from a carbon-type of sorbent sample media%u002C allows the collection of chemicals%u002C gases and vapours. After collection they %u0028the contaminates%u0029 are adsorbed in a laboratory usually through GC/MS/FID. See Air Sampling%u002C Bulk Material Sampling%u002C Soil Sampling%u002C Surface Sampling%u002C swab Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling%u002C Vacuum sampling
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Adsorption
The ability of solids and liquids to codense%u002C consolidate and permanently bond to another surface or substrate.
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Advection
In water damage mitigation%u002C the transfer of cold%u002C heat%u002C moisture%u002C particles and other properties in air by the horizontal motion of a movement of dynamic air. See Acceleration Velocity%u002C Convection
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Adverse Health effects
The ability of a compound or agent to cause acute or chronic health effects. See Acute%u002C Aeroallergens%u002C Allergens%u002C Chronic%u002C Toxic%u002C Toxins%u002C Neurotoxins
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Aeolian
Matter that is wind blown or transferred in the air.
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Aeolian Contamination
Matter in the form of a contaminate which is transported and broadcast through dynamic air movement. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C one of the concerns comes from clean up contractors who use portable equipment to extract and clean up indoor floods. The exhaust of the equipment indoors aerosolize micropollutants which are inhaled. Another concern is the use of air drying equipment in a dusty or biologically contaminated building%u002C or a building which has friable lead-based paint or asbestos. Caution Note%u003A No sewage or other pathogenic waste should be extracted into portable machines when the machines are left and allowed to exhaust indoors%u0021 See Aeolian%u002C Airborne Contaminates%u002C Airborne Microorganisms%u002C Bioaerosols%u002C Dusts
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Aerate
To expose to air and flush out. An example would be a humidified building that needs aeration of the indoor air with dryer dehumidified air%u003B or a building that sustained a smoke-soot damage that will benefit through aeration.
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Aeration
In water damage restorative drying the process by which dryer air is artificially introduced into wet building materials and contents%u002C allowing some building materials and contents to dry faster. See Air Movement%u002C Air Dynamics%u002C Acceleration Velocity%u002C Advection%u002C Turbidity
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Aerobic
The ability of most fungi and bacterial organisms to live in an oxygenated environment. See Aerobic Bacteria%u002C Anaerobic
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Aerobic Bacteria
Single-cell organisms%u002C including some of those oxygen-living bacteria in sewage and dirt that are responsible for some diseases and decomposition of organic materials. See Anaerobic Bacteria
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Aerobiology
The scientific discipline that studies airborne allergey producing substances including dusts%u002C mites%u002C pollens%u002C mold and animal dander. Scientists and microbiologists specializing in airborne contaminates research and investigation are called aerobiologists.
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Aerodynamic Forces
The forces exerted on particles to remain suspended%u002C either by the movement of air or gases%u002C and/or the change in temperature and pressure.
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Aerodynamic Instability
In restorative building dryingand the use of air movers%u002C a harmonic motion occurring in an area or throughout the building%u002C during which high winds that results in damage to certain materials in the building. Education Note%u003A An example of aerodynamic instabiluity is when carpets are dried and forced-air is placed under the carpet and the carpet is allowed to flap up and down%u002C resulting in further damage to the carpet from the instability of the air movement.
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Aerodynamic particles
The particles in air that stay suspended based on their diameter and dimension or their shape%u002C size and weight.
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Aerollergens
Airborne allergen producing substances such as dust%u002C mites%u002C pollens%u002C mould and other airborne substances%u002C from animal dander and hair to human skin cells. Education Note%u003A Aeroallergens can be a vapour from perfumes or toxins from organic decay. See Aerobiology%u002C Aeolian Contamination%u002C Allergens
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Aerosol
A suspension of fine gases%u002C liquids and solid droplets in air. Droplets of 0.01 to 100 microns in size%u002C which are able to stay suspended in air from short to long periods of time%u002C depending on size%u002C structural configuration and weight. See Bioaerosols%u002C Volatile
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Affinity
A tendency for two or more substances to unite chemically or physically%u002C often resulting in their atoms combining and remaining combined.
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Aflatoxins
A poisonous toxin found in some fungi%u002C such as Aspergillus flavius. Health Note%u003A a%u0029 The species flavius usually produce harmful toxins in stored foods such as grains%u002C peanuts and cassava. b%u0029 Aflatoxins are a human health concern%u002C both from eating contaminated food products and in breathing certain fungi toxins. c%u0029 Aflatoxins have been found to cause liver cancer in laboratory animals and is believed to responsible for cancer in humans. See Endotoxins%u002C Exotoxins%u002C Mycotoxins
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After-tack %u0028Residual Tack%u0029
A defect often in the paint that causes the painted surface to become tacky %u0028sticky%u0029 under certain environmental conditions. Residual tack may be as a result of an environmental condition before painting.
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Agency Law
Regulations%u002C rules and procedures written%u002C approved and promulgated by an agency%u002C such OSHA%u002C EPA%u002C FEMA%u002C to local city and county health authorities.
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Agent
1%u0029 The person insurers use to represent and sell them an insurance policy. 2%u0029 The sworn or licensed person assigned by a governmental authority to act on the agency%u0027s behalf. 3%u0029 The person acting on behalf of a building owner or principal.
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Agent
Ingredients which cause chemical activity or reactions to take place%u002C such as with spotters and cleaning agents.
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Agglomeration
The gathering and collection of a material or particles into a group%u002C cluster%u002C pile or mass. Education Note%u003A An example of an agglomeration is the collection of damaged building materials that are heaped together for bagging or removal%u002C or the sweepings of loose material into a pile.
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Agitation
The spinning or rotation of water in the form of a liquid%u002C vapour or gas%u003B a solid such as powder or dust%u003B particulates suspended in the air%u003B or disturbing the undisturbed matter on a surface.
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Agricultural Buildings
Means the non-resident farm buildings%u002C such as barns%u002C storage%u002C tool and maintenance sheds%u002C and other detached buildings from the farm house. Education Note%u003A Non-agricultural buildings may include garages where the residence car is stored on farm property%u002C but not garages where a tractor is stored%u002C which again becomes and agricultural building.
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Air
The volume of all clean-breathable air having an average of 20.95%u0025 oxygen and a minimum 19.5%u0025 oxygen to be safefor human health. Fresh air is a combination of gases and particles that are not harmful to healthy humans%u002C plantsand animals. Health Note%u003A Building air is considered to be the indoor air which we breathe. Indoor air has an acceptable number and type of particles%u002C pollutants%u002C vapours and gases which should not be exceeded. See IAQ%u002C Ventilation Systems
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Air
The colourless%u002C odourless and tasteless mixture of gases that support life on earth. 99%u0025 of clean%u002C dry air consists chiefly of four gases%u002C nitrogen and oxygen%u002C along with argon and carbon dioxide and smaller quantities of other gases such as neon%u002C helium%u002C methane%u002C krypton%u002C nitrous oxide%u002C hydrogen%u002C xenon and various organic vapours. Under actual conditions air contains up to 3%u0025 water vapour%u002C dusts%u002C spores and pollens. See Air Quality
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Air Blasting
The process of using pressurised air and different size tips and nozzles%u002C to force and dislodge surface materials and contaminates. See Abrasive Cleaning%u002C Air Sparging
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Air Changes
A measurement method expressing the amount air movement into or out of a room or building by the number of building volumes of air%u002C or room volumes of air%u002C exchanged per hour. Air changes are described as AC/h or ACH
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Air Cleaner
A mechanically engineered device and filters that remove particles%u002C fumes%u002C vapours%u002C pollens and other bioaerosols from the air and in ventilation systems. Education Note%u003A Air cleaners in a building%u002C especially commercial and high-rise buildings%u002C have air clean filters installed on the suply side and sometimes on the return side%u002C before pollutants enter a building conditioned air space.
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Air Conditioning Unit
A specifically designed and manufactured piece of equipment for the treatment of indoor air%u002C so as to control%u002C simultaneously%u002C its temperature%u002C humidity%u002C cleanliness and distribution%u002Cthus meeting the air requirements of a conditioned space of a room%u002C zone or building.
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Air Conditioning%u002C Unitary
An evaporator%u002C compressor%u002C and condenser combination. The unitary unit is specifically designed%u002C assembled and balanced to meet the air requiremnts of a conditioned space.
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Air Density %u0028also known as Weight Density%u0029
The weight of air measured in pounds per cubic foot %u0028lbs/cu ft.%u0029. Dry standard air at a temperature %u0028T%u0029 %u003D 70 degrees F%u002C bp %u003D 29.92 inch Hg%u002C has a density of 0.075 lbs/cu ft.
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Air Diffuser
A circular%u002C square or rectangular air distribution outlet%u002C generally located in and on the ceiling%u002C and is comprised of deflecting vanes and louvres discharging supply air to various directions and planes. Air diffuser vanes or louvres are arranged in such a direction or pattern to promote the mixing of the primary with secondary room air.
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Air Drying Process
Restorative Drying Note%u003A In water damaged buildings%u002C air drying is the process of removing wet %u0028humidified%u0029 indoor air from a structure. The air drying process may be completed using natural means or engineering controls %u0028drying eequipment%u0029%u002C sufficient enough to dry the indoor air%u002C wet and humidified wall cavities and other building materials%u002C within a relatively short period of time before building damage occurs or mold growth occurs. See Air Dynamics%u002C Air Exchange Rate
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Air Dynamics
The ability of air to have energy and force in motion. The transfer or induction of air from one area to another through pressure%u002C temperature or humidity. Air dynamics are in contrast with static air. Air dynamics can move airborne contaminates from or into porous materials. See Adiabatic%u002C Air Movement%u002C Air Pathway%u002C Convection%u002C Static
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Air Exchange Rate
The rate %u0028speed%u0029 at which the indoor air volume is to be exchanged one time from a building. Often%u002C the air exchange rate is expressed in air changes per hour %u0028ACH%u0029.
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Air Exhaust
a%u0029 The exhaust unit of an air conditioning system that extracts the contaminated indoor air from a room%u002C zone or building. See Exhausted Air
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Air Filters for HVAC Supply Systems
Air filters are particulate filters which are used for protection of HVAC components and the reduction of airborne dust%u002C pollens%u002C and microorganisms from recirculated and from outdoor air streams. Education Note%u003A ASHRAE Standard 63-1989R requires filters having a minimum of 25-30%u0025 dust spot efficiency %u0028ASHRAE Standard 52.1%u0029 or %u003E60%u0025 efficiency %u0028ASHRAE Standard 52.2 for 3 micron particle%u0029. Where system design can accomodate them%u002C filters having %u003E65%u0025 efficiency for 1 to 3 micron size particles will improve the IAQ/IEQ with respect to respirable particles.
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Air Injection
a%u0029 The mechanical means of introducing forced dryer air into a humidified atmosphere or a wet wall cavity. b%u0029 The process by which contaminated air is replaced with cleaner air.
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Air Makeup
The outdoor air supplied indoors to makeup and replace exhaust air and exfiltration. Also referred to as makeup air.
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Air Monitoring
In wet or humidified buildings%u002C air sampling is the sampling of ambient air using a scientific instrument for the purpose of assessing and monitoring temperature and humidity. The measurement of humidity and temperature for the purpose of monitoring the building drydown phase.
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Air Monitoring
The measurements of pollutants and the microbiological activity in air. The sampling and monitoring of pollutants in the ambient atmosphere.
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Air Movement
Restorative Drying Note%u003A In wet building drying the ability to move %u0028force%u0029 large amounts of dryer air across wet surfaces%u002C allowing liquid water to become moisture vapour%u002C which is then exhausted or dehumidified. See Advection%u002C Aeration%u002C Airmover%u002C Dynamic Pressure%u002C Turbidity%u002C Air Currents
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Air Pathway
The direction in which building air is forced through pressure. Air pressure in a building space or zone that is either under positive or negative pressure.
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Air Quality
The quality of air outside a building should not be significantlt different than the indoor air%u002C except that indoor air is usually filtered air from dusts%u002C spores and pollens%u002C especially in tight or confined building spaces. Air which humans breathe outside and inside a building must meet certain governmental regulatory criteria.
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Air Quality Standards
In outdoor air%u002C the air quality standars are set for the emissions of an outdoor environment and monitored by the local Air Quality Management District %u0028AQMD%u0029. In indoor air the air quality standards and guidelines are set and monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency %u0028EPA%u0029. In the united States%u002C there are 247 air quality control regions that manage outside air. each region contains at least two urban areas that share actual or potential air quality problems.
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Air Sampling
One of several collection methods used to capture airborne contaminates from air. Education Note%u003A Air sampling may include charcoal sorbent sampling%u002C filtering%u002C vacuum extraction%u002C water impinges%u002C bioaerosol sampling. See Adsorbent Smapling%u002C Smear Tab Sampling%u002C Soil Smapling%u002C Surface Sampling%u002C Swab Sampling%u002C Tape Lift Sampling%u002C Water Sampling%u002C Wipe Sampling%u002C Vacuum Sampling
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Air Scrubber
Depending on the application a machine that has an air intake and one or more - prefilters%u002C HEPA filters%u002C carbon filters%u002C plenum motor and exhaust that is contained in a metal housing. Mitigation Note%u003A Air scrubbers scrub and remove contaminated air%u002C allowing cleaner air to remain in a building. For example%u002C asbestos and lead abatement contractors must use HEPA filtered air scrubbers machines during abatement. When fungi and bacteria contaminated building materials are disturbed or removed%u002C air scrubbers must be installed for the protection of employees and for the reduction of cross-contamination in non-contaminated areas. See HEPA Air Scrubber.
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Air Sparging
The use of pressurised air%u002C forced across a surface to breakaway and strip-off settled smoke%u002C soot%u002C lint%u002C dust and other surface-borne contaminates from a surface. Mitigation Note%u003A Air sparging is a method used in fire damage and dust-down remediation to remove contaminates and pollutants. Air sparging can be used in confined ceiling and attic spaces where general cleaning and HEPA vacuuming cannot be accomplished%u002C or are not cost effective. Education Note%u003A Quite often air sparging is more efficient than HEPA vacuuming and surface cleaning. The equipment for air sparging includes an air compressor as pressurized air%u002C blown across a contaminated surface and aerosolized. The aerosolized particles must not be allowed to become free in the air without being directed to a collection device%u002C airborne particulates must be captured down stream with negative air pressure and HEPA containment equipment %u0028bag filters%u0029. The air compressor and forced wind is to be directed towards the negative air flow and HEPA containment vacuums. Safety Caution Note%u003A 1%u0029 Do not under any circumstances use air sparging technology to aerosolize grains%u002C flour and any other farm product in a confined space%u002C or at all due to the potential for explosion. 2%u0029 Do not use air sparging technology if the mitigation employess are not properly fit with PAPR-type respirators and have appropriate PPE%u002C and the air sparging environment is not completely sealed off from non-effected areas of the building. See PAPR%u002C PPE
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Air Stripping
Mechanical and engineering methods used to remove harmful contaminates%u002C gases and toxins from indoor air. Mitigation Note%u003A Air stripping may include fresh air forced negative air exhausting%u002C 100%u0025 air exhaust with 100%u0025 new air makeup%u002C HEPA extraction and/or carbon filtration of pollutants that may pose health issues to humans if the ambients remain for prolonged periods or contaminates exceed acceptable and permissable exposure levels. See Administrative Controls%u002C Air Cleaner%u002C Air Scrubber%u002C Carbon Filtration
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Air Toxics
the airborne pollutants that may pose chronic health risks to humans when inhaled. See Allergies%u002C Asthma%u002C Respiratory Diseases%u002C Toxics%u002C Toxins
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Air Ventilation and Recirculation
Outdoor air plus any recirculated indoor air that has been treated %u0028filtered%u0029 for the purpose of maintaing acceptable indoor air quality.
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Air Washer
A water spray system or device required for cleaning%u002C humidifying or dehumidifying the air before ventilation into a building.
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Airborne Contaminates
Vapour%u002C gas and solid contaminates%u002C such as fumes and emissions%u002C carbon monoxide%u002C carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons%u002C dusts%u002C pollens and other bioaerosols%u002C including bacteria%u002C viruses%u002C fungi and yeasts.
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Airborne Microorganisms
a%u0029 Living%u002C decaying and dead microorganisms suspended in the air as free-floating particles and cells which can be inhaled. b%u0029 Biologically active contaminates suspended in the air either as free-floating particles surrounded by a film or organic or inorganic material%u002C or attached to the surface of other suspended particulates. Education Note%u003A Airborne microorganisms can be biologically active contaminates surrounded by a film and cell wall%u002C or they can be attached to the dust%u002C dander and dirt. See Aeolian Contamination%u002C Aerobiology
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Airflow
The ability of air to move and flow in a predesigned direction by forced air or negative air pressure.
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Air-mover %u0028Airmover%u0029
A fan%u002C pump%u002C or other device that causes ear still%u002C staticair to move forward resulting in forced air pressure. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 In water damage and odour control air movers are used to vapourise surface water and odours. b%u0029 Forced air movement directs and suspends settled but not airborne contaminates to an outside source%u002C dehumidifier%u002C or air scrubber. c%u0029 Employees who use airmovers during the drying phase must do so with proper respirator and eye wear protection. d%u0029 Airmovers should only be used indoors after cleanup services have been completed. See Air Movement%u002C Air Scrubber%u002C Air Sparging%u002C Allergies%u002C Conjuctivitis%u002C Dynamic Pressure%u002C Pink-Eye%u002C respirable Particles%u002C Rhinitis
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Air-Purifying Respirator %u0028APR%u0029
A filter cartridge half-face or full-face respirator having the proper filters to remove known or suspected airborne contaminates so they will not be allowed to enter the wearer%u0027s nose or lungs.
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Algae
A group of one-celled%u002C free floating green plant life often found in aquatic ecosystems. Point of Interest Note%u003A Algae is often found on buildings where sufficient sunlight %u0028photosynthesis%u0029%u002C humidity/moisture and organic nutrients exist. When identified%u002C algae on buildings are on the outside surface of a walkway or a garden%u002C and grow on the side and roof of a building. Investigation Note%u003A The presence of algae may be an indicator that there is mould and water damage behind the building substrate. Like mildew algae will flourish where is an adequate source of moisture and a nutrient such as dust and dirt.
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Algae
A fresh water plant associated with fungi%u002C which forms a scum or film on the surfaces of the ventilation recirculated water apparatus and drain pans%u002C interfering with fluid flow and heat transfer. The presence of algae build up is an indication of poor maintenance and possible poor indoor air quality.
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Alkali
A compound that has the ability to neutralise an acid and form a salt. For example%u003A sodium hydroxide%u002C referred to as caustic soda or lye. Alkali is used in soap manufacturing and many other applications. Alkali turns litmus paper blue.
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Alkaline Salts
A material%u0027s ability to loosen inert minerals when wet and after hydration. Engineering Note%u003A Under concrete slabs and concrete walls%u002C for example%u002C it is the moisture %u0028as high vapour pressure%u0029 exerting through the concrete%u002C surrounded by air in which partial vapour pressure is rather low on the surface%u002C allowing water to pass from the mineral salts into air. The remaining salts are called efflorescence. See Efflorescence
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Alkalinity Testing
The ability of a test to determine the alkalinity %u0028pH%u0029 of a concrete surface. The test method and results must be repeated in more than one area and it must be reproduceable.
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Allergens
Those substances that act as an antigen %u0028e.g. pollens%u002C dander%u002C dust mite proteins%u0029 causing the formation of antibodies. Health and Saftety Note%u003A Allergens that form antibodies affect certain persons to certain substances. Allergens may cause moderate or severe skin reaction%u002C respiratory impairment and other health reactions. Allergens even in extremely low doses may still cause severe health reactions in some sensitized persons by hypersensitivity. See particulate Matter
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Allergic Reactions
An abnormal physical or psychological reaction to a chemical or substance.
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Allergic Sensitizers
Certain chemical and allergen producing substances that act as antigens to produce an allergic reaction after repeat sensitizing exposures to the skin or respiratory system.
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Allergy
A number of disease symptoms caused by exposures to the skin and of the respiratory system. Dusts%u002C moulds%u002C mits%u002C grass%u002C animal dander and pollens are some of the primary allergens that cause persons to suffer from allergies. Health Note%u003A Water damaged buildings are known to increase indoor allergens and mite activity. The use of airmovers during building drying are known to cause some allergy sufferers to leave contaminated buildings.
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Alligatoring
On painted surfaces alligatoring is%u003A a%u0029 The result of water damge and/or high humidity%u002C causing a paint film to release from the surface and run down on top of itself on a wall due to excess moisture and stress. b%u0029 A surface cracking to a coat of paint which has the appearance of an alligator hide. It is typically the last surface layer of paint on which alligatoring appears. c%u0029 Alligatoring can appear from an improper application of a paint film being applied on to a surface containing too much moisture or by putting incompatible coatings over each other.
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Allogenic Exosures
Health Note%u003A a%u0029 Exogenous in nature%u002C caused by external factors%u002C such as a change in a microbial habitat %u0028microflora%u0029 of a flooded building%u002C caused directly by and as a result of catastrophic flooding. b%u0029 Allogenic exposures may also be a result of sewage contamination from sewer system backflows into a building. See Autogenic Exposures
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Allowance
In insurance adjusting terminology%u002C the costs allotted as a reimbursement%u002C deduction or compensation by a contractor or insurer for some action or condition which exists at the property or a particular content.
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Allowance
In material measuring and ordering%u002C the variation from an exact measurement%u002C taken for the purpose of anticipated material needs overage or minimum material costs.
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Alluvial Soil
The soil commonly identified and associated with river flood plains. Referring to alluvium%u002C it is the fertile sediment deposits of alluvial soil. Alluvial soil is found in catastrophic flooded buildings%u002C it is rich in microbial nutrients. Mitigation Note%u003A It is very hard to remove all of the fine soil deposits in porous building materials%u002C including studs and sill plates. See Autogenic Exposures%u002C Fines
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Alternaria
Common outdoor fungi found in soil. Alternaria%u0027s primary growth season is late summer and early autumn. Alternaria is an allergen.
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Alveolar Macrophage
a%u0029 A scavenger cell that thrives naturally and can engulf %u0028phagocytize%u0029 inhaled microbes and particles deposited in the alveolar region of the lungs. These are migratory cells which constitute a major part of the natural lung microflora and resistance of the body to diseases related to bacteria%u002C fungi and viruses. Health Note%u003A Reduction of the alveolar macrophage population can result in infection and scarring by certain particulate matter air contaminates. Respiratory Protection Note%u003A Proper respiratory protection by mitigation employees is their only defense in protecting the alveolar macrophage cells and reducing lung damage %u0028scarring%u0029.
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Alveolitis
An inflammation of the alveoli sacs in the lungs. The most common cause of allergic reaction is from inhaling dusts and fungi spores.
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Ambient
referring to the encompassing air%u002C the indoor air of a room%u002C wall or whole building. See Ambient Humidity
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Ambient humidity
the indoor humidity of a builfing that is within a range of comfort%u002C typically between 35-60%u0025 humidity. Restorative Drying Note%u003A Ambient humidity is effected by the indoor water damages. Flooded building%u0027s receive indoor humidity loads from 70%u0025 to 95%u0025 which must be removed and controlled before fungi growth occurs. Often wet building wall cavities are hidden and they are not identified as being a wet building issue%u002C resulting in poor ventilation and increased molds. See Absolute Humidity%u002C Fungi%u002C Relative Humidity
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Amoebic Dysentery
a%u0029 A disorder of the gastrointestinal tract%u002C caused by contact with a protozoan parasite belonging to the genus Entamoeba histolytica. The dysentery is common in communities having poor personal hygiene and sanitary conditions. Health Note%u003A b%u0029 In catastrophic flooding the amoebic dysentery can be transmitted by contaminated water supplies%u002C contaminated food%u002C flies%u002C hand-to-mouth contact%u002C person-to-person contact and the remediation of nutrient rich mud and muck from flooded buildings.
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Amplifier
In water damaged buildings%u002C an amplifier is the condition in which water%u002C in the form of a solid or vapour%u002C along with organic building materials%u002Cas nutrients%u002C trigger the growth of fungi and mold%u002C resulting in building material decay and potential health effects to building occupants.
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Amps %u0028Ampage%u0029
The strength of electrical current as measured by a standard unit for measuring electricity. Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 In water damaged mitigation building ampage must be calculated since a portion of the available electricity is to be used for building drying equipment. Electrical Note%u003A b%u0029 The average air mover draws about 8 amps%u002C while the average commercial size dehumidifier draws 9 amps. %u0028The figures vary depending on manufacturer and model%u0029. c%u0029 An average single family home has a 90/120 amp service%u002C while an average 1-2 bedroom appartment has 90 amps. It doesn%u0027t take much drying equipment to overload the ampage of the circuit or the building. See Generators
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Anaerobic Bacteria
Those bacteria that survive in partial or complete absence of air. They include intestinal bacteria and many soil bacteria. See Aerobic. Aerobic Bacteria
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Anaerobic Decomposition
The degradation oforganic materials by anaerobic organisms living in oxygen-deficient environments. In sewage rich soil%u002C anaerobic decomposition can result in the increase of methane and hydrogen sulphide gas.
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Anaphylactic Shock
A rare but severe allergic reaction to a chemical%u002C vapour%u002C toxin or an allergen. Health and Safety Note%u003A Anaphylactic shock can be life-threatening and immediate medical response is often necessary. Some persons response to toxins can cause anaphylactic shock reactions. See Neurotoxins
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Anderson Viable Air Impactor
A commercially made machine that is manufactured to a scientific standard%u002C it impacts viable airborne fungi%u002C bacteria and yeast spores onto an agar plate and media.
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Anemometer
A scientific instrument that measures air velocity.
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Anhydrous
Denoting a chemical compound lacking water of crystallization%u003B not hydrated. Many compounds like sulphur and sodium chloride are anhydrous.
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Animal Dander
Small and microscopic size flakes of shed animal skin and hair %u0028including body oil%u002C urine and feces%u0029. Education Note%u003A Animal dander produce allergens and persons susceptible to certain animal dander have lgE antibodies to such allergens as cat FEL d-l %u0028Duffort et al%u002C. 1991%u0029. Persons suceptible to animal dander will most likely develop symptoms rapidly when entering a house where animals like cats are present%u002C since this allergen is constantly airborne %u0028Van Metre et al.%u002C 1996%u0029. Although there are significant differences in allergen content in homes with or without pets%u002C many homes that are normally without a cat%u002C nonetheless contain surprisingly high levels of Fel d-l in household dust %u0028Wood et al.%u002C 1998%u0029. It is felt that the homes not having animals present%u002C the allergen from animals is brought into the house on the clothes of the inhabitants . Levels of cat allergen%u002C for example%u002C as low as 2 ug Fel d-l/g of household dust%u002C commonly onserved in dust sample studies of houses without cats%u002C may be a risk factor for sensitization to Fel d-l %u0028Wood et al.%u002C1998%u0029. See Antigen
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Annual Aggregate Limit
The total amount an insurance company ill pay for all occurrences which happen in each 12 month period%u002C beginning with the iception date of the policy%u002C regardless of the number of such occurrences.
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ANSI %u0028American National Standards Institute%u0029
A membership organization that develops consensus standards nationally which are recognised internationally.
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Antibiotic
a%u0029 A chemical substance%u002C excreted by microrganisms or synthetically produced that has the capacity to inhibit or kill bacterial infections when applied in dilute solutions. b%u0029 An immune system response from a chemical or biological substance including fungi and bacteria that react and are capable of producing allergic reactions in human. see Allergic Reaction%u002C Animal Dander%u002C Endotoxin%u002C Mycotoxin%u002C Toxin
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Antigen
Any substance%u002C chemical%u002C particle or toxin that causes the formation of an antibody. b%u0029 An immune system response from a chemical or biological substance including fungi and bacteria that react and are capable of producing allergic reaction in humans. See Allergic Reaction%u002C Animal Dander%u002C Endotoxin%u002C Myotoxin%u002C Toxin
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Antimicrobial
A chemical agent responsible for reducing and controlling unwanted microscopic growth. Education Note%u003A Antimicrobial chemicals are not always disinfectants%u002C yet disinfectants are considered to be the microbial of choice in their ability to kill and reduce microorganism growth in building floods. The improperuse of antimicrobial disinfectants may cause health impairments to employees and building occupants. See Antiseptics%u002C Disinfectants
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Antique
An object of sufficient age or style that represents itself as being an antique. Some antiques must be more than 100 years of to be truly classified as an antique. If they are not%u002C they may be classified as heirloom%u002C vintage or collectable. Adjuster Note%u003A All pieces in or near the damaged area must be itemized as being fragile or antique%u002C and all damage must be noted and documentedas soon as possible.
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Antique Handling
Specific methods of handling and after a disaster requires the property owner to disclose and identify th eantique or content as having extraordianry or exceptional value. Contractor Liablity Note%u003A Antiques in water damged buildings must be identified and separated from all other contents and they are to be carefully handled and taken to a safe control area. Before handling items described to you as being collectable or antique%u002C a survey of the item is in water or sewage%u002C your log and inventory sheet must note the current condition of each item as it is before handling the item. Note that all chips%u002C scratches%u002C marks and missing pieces before picking up the piece%u002C including furniture. As important%u002C carefully evaluate each item for loose peices%u002C such as legs and backs or items which come apart such as back mirrors and table tops. Damaged antiques are seldom repaired back to an acceptable quality once damaged%u002C at least that is what some content owners report. See Antique%u002C Appraisal%u002C Collectable
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Antiseptic
A substance that prevents the spread or inhibits the growth of microorganisms on animate surfaces%u002C such as skin.
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Antiseptics
Most antiseptics are used to kill most skin microorganisms%u002C reducing the chance for infection on humans. Health Note%u003A Antiseptics are mild topical disinfectants%u002C they are not to be confused with building chemical-type disinfectants. Liability Note%u003A Antiseptics are to be given to employees who have sores%u002C wounds and scrapes allowing the employee to put on the antiseptic. Unless you are first aid trained%u002C I understand you cannot assist with the antisceptic application. Commonly used antispetics are rubbing alcohol %u0028IPA%u0029%u002C 3%u0025 hydrogen peroxide%u002C iodine.
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AO-Zone
A designation by FEMA for the flood insurance zone for portions of the 100-year floodplain where flood depths are identified on Flood Insurance Rate Maps in feet above grade. AO-Zone water depths range from one to three feet.
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Appraisal
An independent evaluation or estimate as to the value of an item or property. Appraisals may include the devaluation of an item or property from a loss%u002C as well as an estimate to bring the item or property back to its pre-loss damage. See Antique%u002C Antique Handling%u002C Collectables
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Appropriate Technology
The application of knowledge and equipment%u002C in ways that best suit problem mitigation and problem solving.
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Aqueous
Describing a liquid environment that is of or containing water%u003B a material solution in its water state%u002C such as paper during its process of being made into paper pulp%u002C or gypsum at the point it is being formed into drywall.
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Aquifer
Typically a layer of earth below permeable rock that is of or containing water. Water Mitigation and Education Note%u003A In water damages an aquifer may be described as being a trapped void under subflooring such as a metal-pan under concrete in a high-rise building that is retaining water%u002C or metal stud walls that have the base plate full of water.
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Arbritration Suit
Depending on the contract agreement%u002C or the agreement of the parties%u002C it is the binding resolution of disputes between all parties named in the dispute%u002C and settled by an independent arbritrator. Legal Note%u003A The abritration proceedings are less formal%u002C but they are as binding as a court of law. Arbritration often requires an independent appraisal of the issues surrounding the disagreement. See Appraisal
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Aromatic
a%u0029 One of two main main hydrocarbon compounds containing one or more benzine rings. Aromatic compounds are usually more difficult to decompose and they present a greater hazard to humans and the environmentat compared to aliphatic hydrocarbons. b%u0029 Aromatics that apply to a group of hydrocarbons and their derivatives%u002C which are characterized by the presence of the benzine nucleus %u0028molecular ring structure%u0029.
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Arrestance
A filter medias ability to remove a coarse dust particle.
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Artifactual Influences
An adjective that best describes some compounds%u002C materials and agents%u002C or a process that is made by humans or influenced by human activity.
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As Needed or As Required
a%u0029 An indefinite term used when quantities or services cannot be fully agreed or determined%u002C based on the conditions present at this time. b%u0029 As Required or As Necessary%u002C is an indefinite term used throughout the job to state%u002C that when necessary%u002C certain actions will be preformed%u003B or certain actions will be required to complete a specific task%u002C once the task has been identified%u002C then it will be completed. See Open Item
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Asbestos
A family of silicate minerals that are non-conductive to heat and electricity. The minerals have been used extensively in insulating materials%u002C including insulation%u002C acoustic tiles and ceilings. Asbestos is a good insulator%u002C but friable asbestos has been known to cause illness and death. Health and Safety Note%u003A Damaging asbestos containing materials %u0028ACM%u0029 from fire and water%u002C may result in some of the mineral fibres becoming airborne and friable. Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 Remediation contractors may be required to test fior the presence of ACM. If asbestos is suspected %u002C air movement must be restricted and HEPA filtered negative air equipment must be properly installed. b%u0029 Asbestos requires sampling and testing to confirm the material%u0028s%u0029 actually contain asnestos. depending on the amout of ACM to be removed%u002C a licensed asbestos abatement company will need to be hired.
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Ascospores
Fungi spores which produce an ascus%u002C an elongated sac or cell in which spores of ascomycetes are formed. The largest class of fungi typically found in soil%u002C nutrient rich farm field%u002C marine and fresh water. The majority of ascospores are common saprophytes that are found on decaying plant debris. See Basidiospores
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ASCR%u002C International
The Association of Specialists in Cleaning and Restoration%u002C International. ASCR incorporates membership divisions in fire damage%u002C water damage%u002C mechanical hygiene cleaning%u002C to fabric cleaning and care management. The internationaly recognised organisation has membership in many countries. Depending on the needs of its meebership ASCR provides technical%u002C professional and educational support. ASCR%u002C International %u002C 10830 Annapolis%u002C Junction Road%u002C Suite 312%u002C Annapolis Junction%u002C MD 20701-1120 USA. Telephone 301/604-4411%u002C inthe US and Canada 800/272-7012 Fax 301/604-4713%u002C E-mail info@ascr.org%u002C Internet ascr.org
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Asepsis
Methods of treatment%u002C as in the removal and destruction of disease causing organisms in an infected material. Mitigation Note%u003A In sewage damage mitigation asepsis includes the protection of workers and the buildings environment during gross clean up through and after the final sanitization phase.
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Aseptic
Mitigation Note%u003A In water and sewage damaged buildings%u002C aseptic is the treatment means%u002C after clean up%u002C where the building is made free of harmful disease causing organisms%u002C including fungi%u002C bacteria and viruses. To have an aseptic condition%u002C it first requires methods of treatment %u0028labour%u002C equipment and chemicals%u0029 to eliminate all potentially toxic and infectious microorganisms.
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Aseptic Conscience Image
A heightened awareness by mitigation workers that is developed through training%u002C maintaining appropriate health and safety at the cleanup job at all times while enforcing appropriate sanitary procedures. Aseptic conscience image includes addressing contaminated areas and non-contaminated areas%u002C and providing appropriate steps to keep them separate. Mitigation Note%u003A Surprisingly and unknowing to most black water sewage mitigation workers for example%u002C the field of contamination amplifies and becomes larger as the cleanup progresses. This comes from dragging in and removing equipment%u002C walking on to non-contaminated surfaces%u002C moving contents sitting in sewage to clean or less contaminates areas%u002C The removal of sewage saturated carpet and pad%u002C the removal of sewage effected drywall and insulation%u002C to the installation of airmovers before all contamination of infected building materials have either been removed or have been made aseptic%u002C resulting in aerosolizing sewage bacteria throughout the building%u0027s environment.
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Aspect Radio
Ratio At air distribution outlets%u002C the ratio of the length of the core opening of a grill%u002C face%u002C or register to the width. In rectangular ducts%u002C the ratio of the width to the depth.
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Aspergilliosis%u002C Brocho-Pulmonary Allergy %u0028ABPA%u0029
An immunologic hypersensitivity reaction in the bronchi caused by colonization of sputum of patients with Aspergillus fumigatus. The inflammatory reaction may recur and progress over years to result in destruction of the bronchi and fibrosis of pulmonary tissue.
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Aspergilliosis%u002C Brocho-Pulmonary Fungosis %u0028ABPF%u0029
A syndrome similar to ABPA in which the fungal organisms are not Aspergillus fumigatus. ABPF is far less common than ABPA
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Aspergillosis
A disease from the Aspergillus fungus genus%u002C a fungi found in wet-damp buildings. Health Note%u003A Persons who are susceptible are those whose immune system are compromised%u002C they are on immune-suppressive medication%u003B are less than six or over sixty%u003B pregnant or had recent operations should not be around aspergillus spores. Sickness can result in the disease Aspergillosis. It is a known carcinogen.
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Asphyxiant
A substance or chemical causing suffocation by removal or exclusion of oxygen%u002C preventing oxygen absorption%u002C or preventing oxygen use in the tissues.
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Asphyxiating Atmospheres
An atmosphere which a chemical or other substance can absorb the oxygen in air as a result of a chemical reaction or other reaction%u002C including gases that make the atmosphere inert%u002C consuming the breathable oxygen. Health and Safety Note%u003A Chemicals used to mist and fog in the atmosphere%u002C chemicals that are allowed to evaporate%u002C and the use of ozone are asphyxiants. As dangerous and seldom recognized as an asphyxiant%u002C are power generators giving off carbon monoxide gas. See Confined Space%u002C Permit Required Confined Space%u002C Toxic Air Contaminates
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Assessor
Usually appointed by the insured and works on a commission basis
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Assimilative Capacity
The ability of air%u002C water%u002C or soil to effectively degrade%u002C decompose or disperse chemical or biological substances. Mitigation Note%u003A As in the case of sewage saturation in soil under a building%u002C the rate of introduction of the sewage pollutants to the soil%u002C may exceed the rate at which the soil can assimilate all of the sewage and effluent matter. Health Note%u003A If the substructure soil cannot assimilate and decompose the sewage matter through bioaugmentation in situ%u002C adverse health effects may occur to human health of the building occupants.
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Asthma
A combining force of reoccurring episodes of exposure resulting in wheezing and coughing and laboured breathing. The episodes are often related to or precipitated by inhalation of allergens%u002C pollutants%u002C dander%u002C molds%u002C dusts%u002C infections%u002C cold air or vigorous exercise. Repeat attacks of asthma can result in permanent lung and bronchi damage.
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Athletes Foot
A fungus called Tinea pedis resulting in a fungal disease called dermatophytosis. Personal Hygiene Note%u003A Water damage technicians%u002C who allow their feet to stay damp or have skin cracks%u002C are more susceptible to athletes fungi. The athlete fungi Tinea pedis%u002C can be an occupational exposure hazard and disease. See Tinea
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Atmosphere in Buildings
The ambient atmosphere containing temperature%u002C humidity%u002C gases%u002C and particulates%u002C that engulf and make up the indoor regions of the building%u002C including wall%u002C floor and ceiling spaces.
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Atmospheric Conditions
Based on ASTM standards%u002C atmospheric testing conditions are those atmospheres having a moisture equilibrium of 65 %u0025 Rh %u0028+/- 2%u0025%u0029 and temperature of 70 degrees F %u0028+/- 2%u0025%u0029 or 21 degrees C %u0028+/- 1%u0025%u0029.
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Atmospheric Hazards
Atmospheric hazards are any airborne hazard in air. Health and Safety Note%u003A Most atmospheric hazards are inhalation hazards%u002C but atmospheric hazards are airborne ingestion and skin absorption hazards%u002C radiation%u002C flammable%u002C gas%u002C vapor%u002C mist%u002C chemical and atmospheric explosion hazards. Atmospheric hazards include too much or too little oxygen in air%u002C and airborne pollutants that are easily inhaled.
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Atmospheric Pressure
The pressure exerted in all directions by the atmosphere. At sea level%u002C mean atmospheric pressure is 29.92 inches Hg%u002C 14.7 psi%u002C 407 inches w.g.%u002C or 760 mm Hg.
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Atmospheric Stability of a Building
An expression of the air and environmental influences exerted on the building throughout the day. Atmospheric stability includes variance in air pressure%u002C thermal changes%u002C occupancy use%u002C and dispersion and dilution of airborne contaminates.
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Atmospheric Testing
In confined space entry%u002C it is the testing and continuous monitoring of an air space before and during confined space entry. Testing and monitoring includes oxygen levels%u002C and the presence of different gases%u002C which mainly are carbon monoxide%u002C carbon dioxide%u002C flammable%u002C explosives%u002C methane and hydrogen sulfide.
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Atomizer
A machine that is used to produce a fine spray or mist from a liquid. a%u0029 Atomizers are used in fire damage mitigation of damaged building%u002C and the application of deodorants. b%u0029 Atomizer are used in the treatment and control of malodor producing substances%u002C such as from a water damage or sewage contamination.
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ATP %u0028Adenosine Triphosphate%u0029
A scientific method of determining a real-time qualitative number of organic matter present on a surface. ATP is an organic matter screening method that uses bioluminescence as a marker%u002C as to the biological activity%u002C including dead and decaying cells on a surface. A trained specialist must always use a clean control surface of like kind%u002C measured against the qualitative meaurements of a potentially contaminated surface.
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Attached Ground
1%u0029 That portion of ground which is physically attached to the base and bottom of a building. Mitigation Note%u003A 2%u0029 Engineered ground which is stable through compaction%u002C excavation or shoring. 3%u0029 Ground which was designed to meet a specific density and load-bearing capacities. See Compacted Soil%u002C Contaminated Ground%u002C Soil
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Attendant
In confined space%u002C it is the third or fourth employee who must be stationed outside the permitted space%u002C who monitors the authorized entrants inside the permit required confined space.
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Attendant Duties
In reference to confined work spaces%u003A Education Note%u003A In confined space entry%u002C besides monitoring the confined space with electronic monitoring equipment%u002C the attendant must know and be able to recognize the hazards that are a potential or that may be faced during entry%u003B be aware of the possible effects of hazard exposure in authorised entrants%u003B keep track of all authorised entrants in the permitted work space%u002C and make sure the names of the entrants listed on the entry permit%u002C match and accurately identify the employees in the confined space%u003B remained stationed outside the permit space at all times during entry%u002C until the attendant is relieved by another qualified attendant%u003B communicate with authorized entrants to monitor their status and to alert entrants if they must leave %u0028evacuate%u0029 the permit space%u003B the attendant should have current first air and CPR certification%u003B if there is an emergency%u002C the attendant must know how to immediately call for aid and assistance without leaving the post. See Entry Supervisor
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Attenuation
The sound reduction process in which sound energy is absorbed or diminished in intensity as the result of energy conversation from sound to motion or heat.
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Attic
An upper area of a building or space below the roof line. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage mitigation of highly humid atmospheres%u002C an attic can receive exceptionally high amounts of trapped humidity and condensation due to temperature gradients from within the building.
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attributable Risk
The incremental risk increase of an individual who previously experienced an exposure or health effect%u002C that can be assigned to a particular contaminate source or activity.
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Authorisation
Verbal or written permission given to preform a certain action or task. Contractor Note%u003A Verbal authorization is acceptable by phone for an emergency or scheduled response%u002C but written authorization must be acquired to actually provide the service. Along with the written authorisation%u002C the contractor must state in the agreement%u002C that these are the terms and conditions which the contractor agrees to preform the tasks%u002C as well as terms and conditions for payment. As part of the payment agreement%u002C the contractor must provide an estimate and acceptance of the estimate before the services can begin. In an emergency situation%u002C the authorisation to proceed must be accompanied by a price list of services%u002C equipment%u002C rental%u002C and labour%u002C attached as an addendum to the agreement.
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Autogenic Exposures
Endogenous in nature. Microbial contamination arising from the increase of internal microbial populations from within the building. Such increases in microbial population may be a result of uncleaned ventilation systems and water leaks%u002C including roof leaks and broken water pipes. See Allogenic Exposures
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Automatic Floor Scrubber
A self-contained and often self-powered vinyl floor and hard surface cleaning machine. Education Note%u003A An automatic floor scrubber can be used with multiple floor scrubbing/cleaning disks %u0028brushes or pads%u0029%u002C that dispenses cleaning solution%u002C scrubs the floor%u002C and takes up the spent solution in one singe operation. The automatic floor scrubbing process%u002C on completion%u002C is meant to leave the floor clean and dry. While many automatic floor scrubbers are designed to walk behind the machine while using electric AC/DC power%u002C some automatic floor scrubbers are large enough to sit in and drive%u002C and are propane powered. See Floor Scrubber%u002C High-speed Buffer
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Awl
A tool common to carpet layers. Mitigation Note%u003A An awl is also a common tool for water technicians during the pull-up of the corner of wet carpets and releasing the carpet from a tack strip. Health and Safety Note%u003A An awl is always to be used during the disengagement of sewage contaminated carpets from tackstrips. Tack-less strips or tackstrips%u002C that are contaminated with sewage can result in puncture and cuts causing illness and disease.
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Axial Fans
Tubular airflow fans that support flexible ducting. The fan consists of propeller-like blades rotating perpendicular to the flow of the general air stream. Axial fans are usually exhaust fans often containing contaminated air that must be directed to an outside source%u002C but axial fans properly used can be directed to pressurize atmospheres in buildings or zones.
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B.A.C.K.
A safety acronym by health and safety professionals that describes B.A.C.K.%u002C as proper methods for worker%u0027s bending and lifting techniques. B- bow back in%u002C when reaching for a floor item%u003B A- align yourself vertically before lifting%u003B C- chin up%u002C when lifting%u003B and K- keep feet on a diagonal with each other and keep feet apart.
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Back Pressure
A forced air pressure%u002C which is present by design or error. In water damages when using air drying fans%u002C back pressure is a result of the improper use of air drying equipment. Back pressure in this instance is the restriction of air velocity while trapping humidity in a wall%u002C to a cabinet or corner. Back pressure can be present when drying fans are positioned improperly under wet carpets and to wall cavities.
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Backcoat
A screeded adhesive applied to the back %u0028rear%u0029 side of woven fabric goods%u002C such as found on carpets and some upholstery. The backcoat adhesive adds strength and durability while increasing the woven goods structural integrity.
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Backfill
Construction and non-construction grade soil%u002C which may or may not have been compacted%u002C and fills the soil void next to a building area previously excavated.
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Background and Post Clearance Sampling
A means by which through observation and scientific methods%u002C industrial hygienists are able to attaining historical and current base-line data information for the eventual post clearance testing. Education Note%u003A In catastrophic disasters%u002C such as from fires and floods%u002C much of the historical and base-line data has been destroyed since the building%u0027s microflora will have been changed%u002C and new baseline data must be established for the building and its occupants after restoration. See Baseline Data
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Background Concentration
The level and concentration of air%u002C organisms%u002C and chemicals that are part of the natural processes alone. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Usually%u002C background concentrations are gathered outside and upstream of the area or building in question. b%u0029 Background concentrations are usually a starting point for determining a safe or acceptable levels of outside gases%u002C particles and microorganism from that of inside gases%u002C particles and microorganisms. See Background Measurements%u002C Baseline Data
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Background Measurements
a%u0029 The measurements usually required of non-effected atmospheres and materials%u002C which are used as comparative measurements%u002C measuring against questionable atmospheres and materials. b%u0029 Background measurements are measures of a control atmosphere or material. Education Note%u003A For example%u002C the temperature%u002C humidity and moisture contents readings of outside atmospheres and dry materials%u002C verses known or suspect wet atmospheres inside a building. See Baseline Data%u002C Comparative Measurements%u002C Moisture Content
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Backing
The rear face secondary material which is attached to a primary material. Backings are commonly found on carpets%u002C area rugs%u002C vinyl floors%u002C upholstery and drapes.
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Backwashing
The surface washing of soilborne contaminates and sewage back to its source or a lower level. Mitigation Note%u003A The process of removing sewage effluents from in and under contaminated buildings. By reflooding contaminated buildings and ground with fresh water and detergents%u002C causes flushing contaminates out of their settled sources. See Soil-Ground Flushing/Scrubbing
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Bacteria
Single cell microorganisms that are arround and on us for all our life. Cell size ranges from 0.4 to 10 microns. a%u0029 Most bacteria are found in soil and some are able to live comfortably in controlled amounts in house dust and dirt%u002C and they are commonly found as part the general microflora of a building. Health and Safety Note%u003A b%u0029 Some bacteria are harmful to humans and can result in infection and disease. c%u0029 Water damages in buildings can bring in unwanted bacteria as well as accellerate the growth of already existing microorganisms. Health Note%u003A Sewage Contamination Category-3 black water from sewage backflows into buildings%u002C bring in large amounts of sewage bacteria and coliforms. If the coliform bacteria are not removed by trained professionals%u002C the building can become a biological sink%u002C resulting in sickness and disease to the occupants. See Coliforms%u002C Sewage Contamination Category-3
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Bacterial Plate Count
Following incubation%u002C a nutrient media on a petri dish where bacterial organisms are grown and counted by trained laboratory technicians and microbiologists.
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Bacteriostatic
A chemical or substance that inhibits bacteria growth%u002C but it not necessary is lethal to humans. Mitigation Note%u003A If the bacteriostatic material is applied on a large field of organic matter%u002C such as a sewage contamination in a building%u002C the bacteriostatic chemical dissipates and becomes inactive in the presence of heavy bacteria growth. Bacteriostatic chemicals should only be applied on a relatively clean area for the bacteriostat to be effective.
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Baffle
A wall or barrier that disperses%u002C screens or dissipates particles%u002C vapours%u002C gases%u002C light or sound and regulates their passage.
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Baghouse
An air pollutant control devise that removes particulate matter and gases from air by forcing airborne contaminates through large filtering bags. Baghouses can vary in their purpose according to the filter materials %u0028media%u0029 and methods of collection. Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 Baghouse machines are used in large construction cleanup jobs where there is a considerable amount of airborne contamination. b%u0029 Baghouses are also filtering devices that are attached to vacuums extracting large amounts of dust%u002C dirt and construction debris. See Filtering
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Bailee
The person or company legally receiving the property %u0028contents%u0029 of others.
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Bailee%u0027s Insurance
A special policy of insurance coverage which protects contractors who take possession the property %u0028contents%u0029 of others.
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Bailment
The transfer of property %u0028contents%u0029 to other persons for the purpose of storage%u002C cleaning or restoration%u002C with the intent of returning the property back to the person whom they belong.
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Bake-Out
A process through heating by which volatile organic compounds are released from their bond to a material and is vapourised in air%u002C resulting in the release%u002C curing and oxidization of some chemical VOC%u0027s. Education Note%u003A When appropriate%u002C the bake-out process must be carefully used and monitored since the results can prove to cause more harm than another form of building cure. See Flush-Out
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Balanced Drying
The drying method most likely to produce an even drying process throughout a wet building and its parts. Restorative Drying Note%u003A Related to water damage remediation%u003A a%u0029 The temperature and humidity controls necessary to dry a wet building and its contents%u002C using air movement and dehumidification. b%u0029 The fastest and safest drying method%u002C without over or under drying the building and its contents back to their pre-loss condition. Balanced drying requires trained technicians who understand psychometry%u002C monitoring and state-of-the-art restorative drying methods. See Dehumidification%u002C Baseline Data
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Balancing by Static Pressure
Measurement and design of local exhaust system ducts%u002C by selecting the duct diameters that generate static pressure to distribute airflow without dampers.
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barometric Gauge
An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure. See Atmospheric Pressure
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BASE
BASE is an acronym%u002C meaning the EPA recommended process in providing a Building Assessment Survey and Evaluation Study. See TIME
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Base Flood Evaluation %u0028BFE%u0029
A description by FEMA describing the elevation of ground for which there is a one-percent chance in any given year that flood levels will equal or exceed it. The BFE is determined by technical analysis for a floodplain area and it is designated on that areas Flood Insurance Rate Map. It is known as the 100-year flood.
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Base Molding
Usually vinyl and wood molding located at the base perimeter of a wall. Mitigation Note%u003A 1%u0029 When walls are wet from flooding%u002C the base molding must be detached to allow seepage and weeping of saturated moisture. 2%u0029 It is the water remediation industry standard of practice%u002C when appropriate%u002C to immediately install mechanical air drying equipment into wet wall cavities%u002C starting the interior wet wall drying process%u002C while removing high humidity and condensation%u002C resulting in the reduction of mold growth.
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Baseline Emissions
As required for a particular pollutant%u002C the levels of the pollutant which monitoring of emissions are counted or calculated.
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Basement
A substructure purposely cut or dug out below grade%u002C it typically contains a concrete slab floor and concrete pour or concrete block foundation walls. The basement walls in many mid-west and back-east buildings are the concrete foundation bearing walls supporting the above grade building.
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Basidiospores
Fungi spores produced by a basidium%u002C which are small club shape-like structures%u002C producing spores%u002C typically 4%u002C at the tip of a stalk. Basidiospores are the largest class of fungi which include smuts%u002C rusts%u002C mushrooms%u002C puffballs and jelly fungi%u002C that typically grow on plants and soil. Education Note%u003A Basidiospore rusts grow on plant-like ferns%u002C including gymnosperms%u002C which are pine trees and cone producing trees%u002C and angiosperms%u002C which are seed bearing like grasses%u002C oak trees and strawberries%u002C producing an orange-like look. Basidiospore smuts are parasitic of angiosperms%u002C especially grass and sedges%u002C which produce a sooty look. See Ascospores%u002C Myxomycetes
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Batch Sampling
The method of sampling and collection of the same substance or material over and over again for acquiring a known qualitative or quantitative scientific result.
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Batt
Referring to insulation%u002C batt material are those insulating materials that are common in walls and attics%u002C and sometimes under a subfloor. See Insulation%u002C R-Value
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Bay Window
A large projecting type of window made of a group of windows set at angles to each other and joined to each other on some sides.
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BDMA
The British Damage Management Association. The BDMA promotes and regulates professional standards in the UK for fire/water related claims and disasters.
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Bearing Wall
A primary wall that carries the load from an upper part of the building. A wall that supports the weight of a vertical load and its own weight.
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Beavioural Effect
The effect of chemicals%u002C gases%u002C microorganisms and pollutants to act together in a common atmosphere from within the building. The behavior of certain elements from within the building may change when temperature and humidity change%u002C during remodelling or restoration%u002C or when other agents are introduced in a building. See Biodiversity%u002C Ecosystem
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Benzine
A major organic intermediate and solvent derived produced from coal or petroleum. The simplest member of the aromatic series of hydrocarbons.
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BEST
A software manufacturer that produces computer state-of-the-art building estimating repair programs%u002C which is updated annually. See Bluebook
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Best Available Control Technology %u0028BACT%u0029
The Best Available Control Technology %u0028BACT%u0029 in water damage remediation includes%u003B training%u002C equipment and industry standards%u002C implemented for the purpose of mitigating flood waters in wet buildings. Education Note%u003A If the appropriate remediation and drying equipment are not available or are not capable of functioning properly%u002C based on limitations such as electrical supply%u002C the BACT requires the lowest achievable control rate and method which can manage and mitigate the damage. Often the lowest achievable control rate in water removal and building drying can result in secondary damage and an increase of mould growth in wet building materials. This lowest achievable rate must be carefully monitored%u002C in its success or failure%u002C and the results reported to the building owner and insurance adjuster.
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Best Conventional Control Technology %u0028BCCT%u0029
In water damage remediation%u002C the BCCT incorporates the best use of a control technology%u002C following industry standards%u002C offering the maximum benefit in water damage mitigation and restorative drying.
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Best Management Practices %u0028BMP%u0029
In water damaged buildings%u002C BMP are formulated from practical training and knowledge%u002C using prior experience and judgement %u0028BPJ%u0029. Education Note%u003A On-site management in an emergency requires BMP to use all available engineering controls%u002C berms and equipment%u002C to contain water and sewage%u002C controlling the release or spill from entering other areas of the building. BMP assesses the damage and removes other items from possible harm%u002C including building occupants and workers.
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Best Professional Judgement %u0028BPJ%u0029
An educational and experiential judgement tool used by environmental engineers%u002C industrial hygienists and water damage remediation contractors. BPJ chooses the best technology and drying equipment necessary to properly dry a wet building properly%u002C based on their training and experience. With the use of historical information and hypothesis modeling%u002C best professional judgement results in fact-finding%u002C problem identification and problem solving. See Extrapolation%u002C Hypothesis Theory
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Betterment
An improvement in the value of an item or material resulting from repair or replacement%u002C after an insurance loss.
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Binding Arbritration
Binding arbitration is a legal action%u002C whereas all parties of a complaint agree to present their claims to a qualified arbitrator. An arbitrator acts as a judge%u002C and acts as the court%u002C and this person will hear all sides of the case%u002C including evidence and experts%u002C to reach a binding decision.
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Bioaccumulation
1%u0029 The increase concentration of organisms and waste in buildings and materials. 2%u0029 Elements that reside in building environments contaminated with normally low concentrations of various organic compounds. Health Note%u003A 3%u0029 The increased accumulation of viruses%u002C bacteria%u002C fungi and yeasts%u002C from improper cleaning and sanitizing.
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Bioactivation
A bioactivity process that takes place in the building%u0027s natural biological ecosystem%u002C resulting in certain elements of growth%u002C such as fungi%u002C to become biologically active because of a flood and/or high humidity event.
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Bioaerosol
a%u0029 Bioaerosols are airborne particles of biological origin including bacteria%u002C and viruses%u002C fungi and yeasts%u002C pollens and organic matter. Bioaerosols also include the cell structures and spore parts of non-viable components %u0028such as toxins%u0029. b%u0029 An aerosol containing living organisms or particles derived from living organisms such as pollen%u002C animal dander%u002C insect emanations%u002C microbial endotoxins%u002C and human skin scales. c%u0029 An airborne organic contaminant that is either generated by or is itself a living organism such as fungi%u002C bacteria%u002C viruses and protozoa. Education Note%u003A Moisture-vapour and airborne contaminates from a flooded building that are forced in air from a surface%u002C through dynamic air movement contain bioaerosols. See Aerosol%u002C Air Movement
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Bioaerosols
Biologically derived airborne particles that are living or originate from living organisms. They include microorganisms that are culturable%u002C nonculturable%u002C and dead microorganisms. Bioaerosols include microorganism cell fragments%u002C cell toxins%u002C and particulate waste products from all varieties of living things. Bioaerosols are unbiquitous in nature and may be modified by human activities. All persons are repeatedly exposed%u002C day after day%u002C to a wide variety of such materials.
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Bioaerosols%u003A Assessment and Control
The name of a book published in 1999 by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists %u0028ACGIH%u0029 for practitioners assessing and developing mitigation strategies for contaminated indoor environments. Education Note%u003A Other practitioners in mitigation%u002C remediation and abatement%u002C will find this book applicable and valuable.
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Bioaugmentation
The natural ability of soil or ground to biologically-augment its biodiversity%u002C back to its normal background microflora over time.
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Bio-Availability
A measure of the fraction of the chemical or biological agents of concern in an environment that are present at any one time.
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Biocide
A chemical disinfectant that kills living organisms. See Disinfectants
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Biodegradation
The metabolic breakdown of materials and their components into simpler components by other living organisms. Sometimes referred to as biodeterioration. See Bioaugmentation
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Biodiversity
The amount and species of organisms found living in soil or in a building environment.
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Biofuel
Water%u002C moisture vapour and carbon base substances such as wood%u002C that become the energy of microorganisms allowing for the reproduction of spores. Biofuel is also the bacteria generated from sewage%u002C as a result of mainline sewer backflows into buildings.
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Bio-Gas
The ability of anaerobic organisms %u0028bacteria%u0029 to produce methane gas during their decay and decomposition.
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Biohazard
a%u0029 In risk assessment%u002C property loss management and handling%u002C a biohazard can be found in a water damage building. For example%u002C in a building where effluents and bacteria are present because of a sewage backflow or the sewage may have come from an upper floors%u002C as in the case with high-rise buildings. b%u0029 A biohazard can be described in insurance terms as mold contamination%u002C where fungi is allowed to grow and the condition eventually effects the health of the occupants. A biohazard associated with the sewage related bacteria%u002C and the fungi from wet building materials%u002C can result in higher occupational exposures to worker%u0027s who become involved with the cleanup of biohazardous materials. Education Note%u003A Improperly handled%u002C both sewage bacteria and wet building material fungi are known to cause serious debilitating health effects in workers. And if the contamination is improperly handled%u002C most likely the contamination is still present in the building%u002C causing a higher risk of exposure to the occupants%u002C and insured%u002C potentially resulting in a law suit. Adjuster Note%u003A Adjusters are becoming educated to this fact%u002C that contractors are leaving biohazardous substances behind%u002C while insurers are more and more asking contractors for their contractor%u0027s license and liability coverage%u002C and certifications%u002C that they have been properly trained in all aspects of their trade%u002C before referring an emergency clean-up contractor%u002C under a preferred vendor program.
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Biohazard Control
Any number of administrative methods%u002C engineering controls%u002C procedures%u002C equipment and manpower%u002C necessary to control or minimize the exposure of a biohazardous agent or material.
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Biological Catalyst
A substance or material that increases the rate of chemical and biological reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical or biological change. Education Note%u003A In flooded buildings%u002C bacteria%u002C yeasts and fungi can be described as having biochemical reactions %u0028biological markers%u0029 having homogeneous catalyst reactions%u002C if the building%u0027s effected environment is left alone after a biological occurrence. Detergents and disinfectants %u0028oxides%u0029 acting as neutralizing reactions%u002C can be stated as having heterogeneous catalyst reactions. With heterogeneous reactions%u002C the catalyst of detergents and some disinfectants provide the pathway by which the catalyst reaction can proceed%u002C where the biological activation of the pollutant energy becomes lower. Proper use of detergents and disinfectants increase the rate at which the biological reaction of harmful bacteria%u002C yeasts and fungi come to equilibrium%u002C although it does not alter the position of the equilibrium of the building%u0027s resident microflora%u002C except may be for a short period of time after cleaning and disinfection. In certain circumstances%u002C very small quantities of a detergent cleaning and disinfectant agent can speed up biochemical reactions to a pollutant. Most catalysts are also highly specific in the type of reaction they catalyze%u002C particularly chemical disinfectants such as aldehydes%u002C iodophors%u002C oxidizers%u002C phenols%u002C and enzymes in biochemical reactions. Generally%u002C the term is used for a substance that increases reaction of the biological marker rate producing %u0028 a positive catalyst%u0029. Some cleaning and disinfectant reactions can be slowed down by %u0028negative catalyst%u0029 acting as a sanitizer or inhibitor of growth.
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Biological Contaminates
Any one of a number of viruses%u002C bacteria%u002C fungi%u002C yeasts%u002C protozoa and helminths%u002C that are capable of producing allergic reactions%u002C illness and disease in persons who are exposed or susceptible. Also referred to as biological pollutants or biopollutants. See Biohazard
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Biological Contaminates in Buildings
The presence of a%u0029 biologically derived aerosols%u002C gases%u002C and vapours of a kind and concentration likely to cause disease or predispose persons to adverse health effects%u003B b%u0029 inappropriate concentrations of outdoor bioaerosols%u002C especially in buildings designed to prevent their entry%u003B c%u0029 indoor biological growth and remnants of growth that may become airborne and to which people may be exposed.
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Biological Control
The elimination or reduction of undesirable species and colonies of organisms to safe indoor acceptable levels. See Resident Organisms%u002C Non-Resident Organisms
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Biological Convergence
The tendency in organisms not closely related to each other to develop similar characteristics when living under the same condition. Mitigation Note%u003A Biological convergence may be apparent in sewage damaged buildings%u002C where porous building materials experience a heavy bacteria presence along with fungi growth.
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Biological Disorder
A change in the biological ecosystem or mass in a building due to a disturbance. Education Note%u003A Most biological disorders in buildings are a result of a flood or some other disaster produced by water or humidity. Biological disorder can be produced from events such as sewer line and toilet overflows%u002C where the high concentration of biological waste disturbs the random selection and quantity of resident microorganisms through the addition of non-resident microorganisms that are pathogenic.
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Biological Monitoring
The ability to use science in determining the microbiological organism presence and activity in building materials%u002C ambient air and in soil. See Air Monitoring
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Biological Particles
Microbial particles such as airborne dust%u002C spores%u002C plant and animal matter%u002C which can cause asthma and allergies in some persons. See Bioaerosols
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Biological Pathway
The exposure route from an identified source of a biological agent to building occupants.
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Biological Toxins
Harmful toxins that are produced from biological particles and wet building materials that support biological growth and decay %u0028fungi mycotoxins%u0029. Other biological toxins can occur from such incidences involving sewage backflows %u0028bacteria endotoxins%u0029 into buildings. See Endotoxins%u002C Mycotoxins
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Biologically Derived Airborne Contaminates
Bioaerosols%u002C gases%u002C and vapours that living organisms produce. Biologically derived materials are natural components of indoor and outdoor environments%u002C but under certain circumstances%u002C biologically derived agents may be considered contaminates when found indoors.
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Bioremediation
The careful and safe removal of harmful microbiological agents. Education and Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 In sewage damage backflows effecting buildings%u002C bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all sewage and bacteria under controlled conditions which are associated with sewage effluents. This includes all coliform bacteria%u002C and porous building materials and contents saturated with sewage. If the building materials and contents cannot be cleaned and disinfected to an acceptable level of cleanliness%u002C then the building materials and contents require replacement with new materials. b%u0029 In fungi contamination%u002C bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all contaminated building materials and contents under controlled conditions which are associated with the fungi contamination. c%u0029 In ventilation system cleaning and sanitizing%u002C bioremediation is the careful and safe removal of all dusts and debris in the HVAC supply air ducts followed by sanitizing%u002C removal of all contaminated insulation%u002C cleaning and sanitizing of the previously insulated surfaces%u002C cleaning and sanitizing of coils%u002C condensers%u002C drain pans%u002C plenum%u002C mixing boxes and all return air ducts. d%u0029 In areas containing water or sewage saturated ground of a soil floor basement or crawl space substructure%u002C bioremediation is the containment and control of all standing water or sewage%u002C providing negative air out of the substructure where contaminated air does not effect the building%u0027s interior air space%u002C and appropriate remediation measures in removing potentially harmful pathogens from the air and controlling pathogens in soil. Bioremediation of contaminated ground under a substructure is a complicated issue where each problem must be based on the conditions presented in each case.
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Biotic Factors
The influence or impact which other living organisms %u0028resident and non-resident%u0029 have on persons and the building environment. See Non-Resident Organisms%u002C Resident Organisms
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Biowashing
The appropriate use of detergents and cleaners%u002C scrubbing and rinsing followed by sanitizers and disinfectants%u002C that are meant to reduce or eliminate surfaceborne contamination. To be truly effective%u002C biowashing%u002C especially to contaminated porous building materials must be completed twice to truly be effective.
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Black Light Florescence
Special wide-spectrum high intensity black lights that are used to pick up patterns of urea and bacteria which fluoresce in the presence of high intensity black lights. The application of black light florescence ideal conditions are without the presence of sun light and is best completed early morning or at night%u002C when outside light sources affecting indoors%u002C cannot be eliminated.
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Blastomycosis
An infection caused by inhaling in fungal spores. Blastomyces dermatitides is found in wet-damp wood and soil.
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Bleach
Household Chlorox-type chlorine bleach that has an active ingredient of approximately 5.25%u0025 hypochlorite. Safety Note%u003A a%u0029 For sanitizing already cleaned and rinsed salvageable hard-surface building materials%u002C use a 10%u003A1 solution of water to bleach. If the hard surface has been cleaned with detergents the surface application of 10%u003A1 water to bleach will give you approximately %u003C5%u002C000 ppm of remaining organisms in a given area. b%u0029For contents%u002C test all contents for color safe and damage to the contents from oxidizing bleach. c%u0029 For salvageable porous building material surfaces that are contaminate saturated%u002C they need to be warm water washed and scrubbed with detergents%u002C rinsed then bleach applied with a 5%u003A1 solution%u002C having a dwell time of 10 minutes%u002C before fresh water rinsing or pressure spraying. d%u0029 Bleach%u002C like any disinfectant should be removed once it has become effective. Mitigation Note%u003A Household bleach is the CDC%u002C EPA and health department disinfectant of choice in flooded buildings. See Disinfectants
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Bleeding
In water damage%u002C the permanent removal and displacement of colours%u002C dyes and pigments from a material substrate%u002C due to swelling%u002C moisture and pressure. Technician Note%u003A Often bleeding of colours%u002C dyes and pigments effect other materials%u002C such as carpet%u002C resulting in their damage. To correct bleeding of a fabric%u002C the fabric should be kept wet and in solution%u002C along with a detergent. The surfactant in the detergent along with the detergent itself%u002C may temporarily suspend the migrant pigment dyes%u002C until the bleeding can be removed. But once the material is dry%u002C the bleeding is set into the dry fabric%u002C which most likely has permanently damaged the fabric finish.
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Bleeding of Paint
A condition resulting in newly painted surface flotation of colour%u002C showing a bleed through of the subsurface. If the subsurface is wood%u002C the condition of bleeding usually is a result of tannin bleeding. Typically%u002C the subsurface was not prepped properly or primed with a base coat to eliminate a bleed through. See Tannin Bleeding
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Blistering
In water damage%u002C blistering are small bubbles or bulges of the finish coat caused from entrapped moisture%u002C and vapour pressure exerting up through the material to the finish. Blistering can be seen on painted drywall%u002C finished floors%u002C wallpaper%u002C vinyl wallpaper%u002C and on furniture.
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Blisters on Hardwood Floors
In finish coats on hardwood floors%u002C such as urethane finish%u002C blistering and blister popping is the break down%u002C popping and release of trapped air and moisture vapour from under the blister. Some blister popping is due to excess moisture vapour pressure%u002C while other blister popping is from dry blisters.
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Blisters on Painted Surfaces
Blisters on a paint film is a dome shape bubble of paint that has released its adhesion from the underside surface. The dome shape blister may be irregular or circular in shape. If the condition exists after a flood or there exists excessive moisture content behind the painted surfaces%u002C the blister may be filled with water or water vapour.
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Blocking in Painting
Blocking is a paint condition resulting in undesired adhesion between newly painted surfaces%u002C such as painted cabinets and doors%u002C that have been closed and opened before or after the paint film was allowed to thoroughly dry and cure. Education Note%u003A Blocking refers to the new paint sticking to itself%u002C and usually the condition leaves bare patches of the substrate. Blocking may be a result of painting too soon after a water damage occurrence%u002C or the presence of to high of a moisture content in building materials.
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Blocking of Hardwood Floors
In water damage mitigation%u002C blocking is an attempt to control the movement of a large hardwood floor during swelling. More than likely%u002C blocking will not succeed%u002C since hardwood strip floors swell%u002C mainly laterally%u002C and one or more wood section at the exterior walls require removal in large floor installations. Education Note%u003A When originally installed%u002C the edge of the hardwood floor perimeter to the wall%u002C must have no less than 3/8%u0022 clearance to allow expansion%u002C having less than that can become a concern during a water damage%u002C possibly resulting in one or more section of the hardwood floor perimeter to become removed%u002C in an attempt to salvage the remaining hardwood floor. In a total hardwood floor water damage%u002C blocking is most always futile%u002C since thousands of pounds of pressure are exerted on the floor through pressure which you cannot stop. See Hardwood Floor Cupping%u002C Parquet Floor
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Blooming
In painting terms%u002C blooming is a bluish fluorescent coat which forms on the surface of some paint films. The condition may also appear as a rust bloom. Both conditions are a result of insufficient film building during painting.
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Blown Acoustic Ceilings
The adhesive and acoustic material sprayed on to a ceiling%u002C giving the ceiling an even appearance and better sound absorption. Prior to 1980 and as late as 1994%u002C some of the blown acoustic ceilings contained asbestos.
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Blue Glue
A colour and type of permanently sticky glue made for thick commercial-grade rubber-back carpet tiles. Mitigation Note%u003A During a water damage%u002C and the disengagement removal of wet floor tiles%u002C the concrete slab will permanently remain sticky with standing water on top. During the water damage flood%u002C extract all water off of the floor tiles%u002C and try not to allow flood water to entrain under the tiles. The tiles usually have thick rubber backing%u002C and it is almost impossible to get spilt water trapped under them. If the slab is definitely wet from the flood%u002C you will need to remove the tiles off of the wet concrete. When disengaging the floor tiles%u002C you will need to take special care of the tiles so they continue to remain salvageable. Place the back of two tiles together%u002C keeping the sticky side towards each other. Just stacking the floor tiles%u002C will result in some adhesive transfer to the face fibres of the next fabric floor tile.
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Bluebook
A generic term used by many industries to describe industry pricing.
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Bluebook
The Bluebook in water damage%u002C cleaning and restoration industry%u002C which is Copyright and is called The Bluebook of Cleaning%u002C Reconstruction and Repair Costs. This particular Bluebook is updated annually. Their phone number is 714/731-3389 or they can be contacted at www.bluebook.net.
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Blushing on Paint
Blushing on paint is the dulling%u002C mottling%u002C or a cloudiness in film appearance%u002C as a bloom %u0028dull appearance%u0029 in a lacquer. Blushing on paint is usually caused by drying of the paint under improper drying conditions.
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Blushing on Wood
The cloud-like appearance under a glass that left a circle or ring%u002C from condensation of the glass. The transparent cloud is also apparent in water damages%u002C when buildings are flooded%u002C and high humidity exists. Condensation can form on some objects%u002C transferring their footprint under the finish of some furniture.
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Board-Up
The temporary emergency measure necessary to secure%u002C close and seal a building after an emergency. Board-up is required after disasters%u002C including hurricanes%u002C fire damage%u002C tornadoes and earthquakes. Board-up after regular building floods are unusual%u002C unless the flood is a catastrophic flood or a fire is involved.
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Bodily Injury
A bodily harm%u002C sickness or disease%u002C including care%u002C loss of services and death resulting from that injury.
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Boroscope
An instrument which can see inside wall cavities%u002C ventilation ducting and inaccessible areas%u002C to assess and inspect for surface contamination or the condition of the surrounding surfaces. Some boroscopes are battery light operated and they have a telescopic 45 degree angled mirror on top to inspect surfaces%u002C while more sophisticated boroscopes work with laser-like precision%u002C they can see for long distances and closer detail. These boroscopes can be connected to video recording units for later playback.
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Bottom Plate
The base plate usually made of wood or metal%u002C that represents the base of a wall or building frame%u002C where building studs are placed onto. Bottom plate may be described regionally as being a sole plate%u002C sill plate or mud sill plate.
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Bounce Back
In restorative drying%u002C the term bounce back refers to ambient humidity that appears to be under control when using a dehumidification process%u002C but when that process is removed or turned-off%u002C bounce back occurs%u002C resulting in the return of increased ambient humidity. Restorative Drying and Education Note%u003A For example%u002C a wall drying system that is turned off because the face of the drywall appears to be dry%u002C including moisture measurement of the face of the drywall. Bounce back occurs when trapped humidity or condensation results in the wall cavity%u002C due to the drying or dehumidification process being turned off too soon or before the total wall cavity and surrounding building materials %u0028and insulation%u0029 are allowed to completely dry. Bounce back has been studied and recurred%u002C and it is not unusual for a wall cavity to indicate a reduced moisture content of 30%u0025%u002C but 12 hours later%u002C the wall cavity reads 60%u0025 Rh. See Dehumidification Shock
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Bound Water
Water molecules that are held together in wood building material cells once they are saturated. Education Note%u003A Bound water in saturated wood cells is partially responsible for wood cupping%u002C warping%u002C crooking and twisting. This water cannot easily become vaporized and removed by normal drying processes without the aid of mechanical dehumidification equipment. See Adsorption%u002C Free Water
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Boundary Layer
Associated with water damaged buildings%u002C the boundary layer is the very thin layer of water immediately next to a solid body that flows more slowly than the rest of the fluid. Restorative Drying Note%u003A The boundary layer is that layer of a wet porous floor where water continues to have surface tension. The boundary layer will inhibit evaporation from the surface of the porous material unless it is completely adsorbed by the hard surface%u002C removed through suctioning%u002C wicked-off through aeration or when complete evaporation takes place.
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Branching
In ventilation systems%u002C it is the smaller fresh air side supply duct that branch off from the larger main supply duct. In sewer systems%u002C branching is a lateral which comes off from the sewer main to a building.
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Brick Veneer
Usually%u002C the outside wall affixed to the stucco or unfinished wall%u002C having wood paneling and a vapor barrier%u002C that is an appearance item having no structural value. Some brick veneer are attached to concrete walls as a decorative finish.
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