glossary

Asbestos Related-Terms and Acronyms (non-alphabetical order)

Asbestos - Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral. There are six types, all of which are composed of long and thin fibrous crystals, each fibre being composed of many microscopic "fibrils" that can be released into the atmosphere by abrasion and other processes.

Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) - is any material containing more than one percent (>1%) asbestos.

Asbestos Containing Construction Material (ACCM) - any manufactured construction material which contains more than 1/10th of 1% asbestos (>0.10%) by weight.

PLM - Polarised Light Microscopy a method for analyzing asbestos fibers in bulk samples. Also known as: PLM.

TEM - Transmission Electron Microscopy a method for analyzing asbestos fibers in air and bulk samples. Also known as: TEM.

PCM - Phase Contrast Microscopy a method for analyzing fibers in air. Not asbestos fiber specific. Also known as: PCM.

OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Administration

BAAQMD - Bay Area Air Quality Management District

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency

DTSC - Department of Toxic Substances Control

DOSH - Department of Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

HEPA - High Efficiency Particulate Air filtration which includes being, using, or containing a filter usually designed to remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles measuring 0.3 micrometers or greater in diameter passing through it.

HEPA Vacuum - Vacuum equipped with HEPA filtration.

Negative Air Machine - used to clean the air and create positive or negative air pressure inside work area containments where asbestos is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

Air Scrubbers - used to clean the air inside work area containments where asbestos is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

Containment - Plastic sheeting, typically 6mil thick plastic, erected to enclose the work area from the remainder of the structure during the course of work.

Critical Barriers - Plastic sheeting, typically 6mil thick plastic, placed over to cover furnace registers, windows, doorways, and objects inside the containment or work area to protect and avoid cross contamination during asbestos removal.

Wet Method - The application of water or surfactant applied to asbestos materials prior to and during asbestos removal.

Lockdown - sealing treatment for microscopic residual fibers present after the removal of asbestos. Applied in the containment work area environment once asbestos has been removed.

HEPA Vacuming - Using a vacuum that contains HEPA filtration designed to remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles measuring 0.3 micrometers or greater.

Waste Manifest - The Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest is the shipping document that travels with hazardous waste from the point of generation, through transportation, to the final treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF).

Friable - When dry, asbestos is considered friable if it can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure.

Non-Friable - divided into two categories. Category I non-friable ACMs are asbestos-containing resilient floor coverings (like vinyl asbestos tile), asphalt roofing products, packings, and gaskets. These materials rarely become friable because the asbestos is locked securely into the material. All other non-friable ACMs are considered category II non-friable ACM. Category II non-friable ACMs are more likely to become friable because they are not as resistant to crushing or pulverizing.

RACM - Regulated asbestos-containing material is any friable asbestos material or nonfriable asbestos-containing material (ACM) that will be or has been subjected to sanding, grinding, cutting, or abrading or has crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder in the course of demolition or renovation operations.

AHERA - Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986. In 1986, the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) was signed into law as Title II of the Toxic Substance Control Act. Additionally, the Asbestos School Hazard Abatement Reauthorization Act (ASHARA), passed in 1990, requires accreditation of personnel working on asbestos activities in schools.

Asbestosis - a non-cancerous disease associated with inhalation of asbestos fibers and characterized by scarring of the air-exchange regions of the lungs.

Bulk Sample - a sample of suspected media (e.g., soil or dust) is obtained from a site to be analyzed microscopically for asbestos content. Bulk sample analysis can be part of a process to assess the hazard from asbestos at a site.

Carcinogen - any substance that causes cancer.

Chrysotile - a fibrous member of the serpentine group of minerals. It is the most common form of asbestos used commercially, also referred to as white asbestos.

Contaminant - a substance that is either present in an environment where it does not belong or is present at levels that might cause harmful (adverse) health effects.

Continues Exposure - exposure that occurs 24 hours/day, 365 days/year.

Exposure - contact with a substance by swallowing, breathing, or touching the skin or eyes. Exposure may be short-term [acute exposure], of intermediate duration, or long-term [chronic exposure].

ASTM - American Society for Testing and Materials

Asbestiform - fibrous minerals possessing the properties of commercial grade asbestos (e.g., flexibility, high tensile strength, or long, thin fibers occurring in bundles).

Mold Related-Terms, Acronyms, and Species (non-alphabetical order)

Mold - a mold or mould is one of the structures that certain fungi can form. The dust-like, colored appearance of molds is due to the formation of spores containing fungal secondary metabolites. The spores are the dispersal units of the fungi.

Allergenic molds - affect people who have certain allergies or asthma. When people who are allergic to mold are exposed to it, they have a hypersensitive reaction, during which an excessive number of mast cells are activated, resulting in an extreme inflammatory response in the respiratory system. About 20%-30% of the population is susceptible to mold and/or other allergens, which can lead to reactions like allergic rhinitis. Most people without allergies are unaffected by allergenic molds in small amounts.

Pathogenic molds - are capable of causing certain infections or diseases. Most healthy individuals, with their immune systems in good shape, are able to regularly fight off pathogens. However, pathogenic molds are dangerous to people who have compromised or weakened immune systems, which is why pathogenic molds are considered an opportunistic pathogen. Pathogenic molds most commonly affect infants, the elderly and people with suppressed immune systems.

Toxic molds - produce mycotoxins, poisonous chemicals that are dangerous to humans. Unlike allergenic and pathogenic molds, toxic molds intentionally harm other living things rather than the harm merely being a side effect. Some of the most deadly chemicals on the planet are mycotoxins. They’re found both on mold and on mold spores. People can get exposed to mycotoxins via ingestion, dermal exposure (skin contact) and inhalation. This can lead to temporary irritation or even long-term illness depending on the individual.

Microbial Disinfectant - fungicide and disinfectant used to clean and eradicate mold growth on surfaces and substrates. Used on surfaces and substrates that are exposed, prior to mold resistant coating application and reconstruction.

Mold Resistant Coating - a fungistatic agent applied to surfaces and substrates to resist mold growth. Used on surfaces and substrates that are exposed, prior to reconstruction.

Negative Air Machine - used to clean the air and create positive or negative air pressure inside work area containments where mold is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

Air Scrubbers - used to clean the air inside work area containments where asbestos is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

HEPA Vacuum - Vacuum equipped with HEPA filtration.

Containment - Plastic sheeting, typically 6mil thick plastic, erected to enclose the work area from the remainder of the structure during the course of work.

Stachybotrys - is otherwise known as black mold and is one of the more harmful toxic mold species. Black mold is usually found inside a house. The mycotoxins that this species of mold produce can cause the lungs to bleed, which is fatal to animals and infants. The problem with black mold is that it’s hard to detect; it usually develops behind walls and under ceilings and is resistant to regular air sampling.

Memnoniella - also referred to as black mold, is similar to Stachybotrys and has the same effects. Memoniella differs in that when viewed under a microscope, its spores are released in chains, whereas the spores that Stachybotrys releases are in clumps.

Aspergillus - are gray or green flecks and appear on wooden surfaces. Aspergillus, with 20 species in total, is dangerous, because it will often cause allergies, leading to serious asthmatic reactions, hay fever or lung infections. Every Aspergillus species produces mycotoxins, which are a health hazard, especially for those individuals with compromised immune systems.

Penicillium - there are many species of Penicillum, some beneficial and some harmful. Some species of Penicillum are used when producing cheese and medicine. Similar to other molds, Penicillium causes allergies, and it’s especially troublesome for people that already have a weak immune system.

Alternaria - is one of the most prevalent toxic molds and includes many species. Asthma and hay fever are among the conditions one might suffer or suffer worse from when he or she has inhaled Alternaria spores.

Geotrichum - is white in color and usually appears powdery. It is known to spread pretty fast and is often associated with adverse health conditions such as tuberculosis and pulmonary infections. Geotrichum breeds in moist conditions and temperate climate. Its spores can easily spread via air to new environments. It is an allergen that causes itchy eyes, fatigue, and sometimes chronic headaches.

Trichoderma - is also white in color with green patches. It is an allergic type of mold that mostly thrive in moist areas. The mold has five different subspecies, most of which are non-pathogenic. However, some of the subspecies have been associated with liver and pulmonary infections. Trichoderma contains a lethal enzyme, which can destroy such building materials as wood, textiles and paper products. This may lead to the crumbling of buildings when the materials rot.

Chaetomium - is also allergic and is often found in a drywall that has previously been damaged by water. Its spores have been linked to autoimmune diseases, neurological damage and allergic reactions such as difficulty in breathing and red watery eyes. It has a musty odor and flourishes in wet, dark environments such as under carpets, drywall, baseboards, and wallpapers. Chaetomium is often mistaken for the black mold as they have the same characteristics and exists in similar environments.

Bipolaris - as it begins to grow, bipolaris is whitish or grayish brown in color, but gradually turns to dark olive as it ages. It looks soft and fluffy and usually grows outdoors on grasses and soil. It also thrives in water damaged materials such as carpets, hardwood floors, and houseplants. The bipolaris grows rapidly and only takes about five days to mature. It is a well-known allergen and may cause asthma, wheezing, stuffy nose and coughing when its spores are inhaled.

Ulocladium - is black in color and often found in wet areas and homes that have suffered water damage. This type of mold commonly grows in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Ulocladium has two subspecies both of which are highly allergic. It is linked to severe allergic reactions such as hay fever and sometimes skin infections. Prolonged exposure to its spores causes difficulty in breathing and asthma-like symptoms.

Fusarium - can range from pink, reddish or white in color. It is capable of adapting to colder temperatures and mostly grows on food products, compost, carpets, wallpaper, and any other water-damaged materials.

Exposure to this mold can cause allergic reactions, including a sore throat, dermatitis, itchy eyes and running nose. Further exposure can cause lethal conditions such as brain abscess and bone infections. Its toxins can damage the nervous system and cause internal bleeding.

Aureobasidium - is also allergic and may cause skin, eye and nail infections. It is normally pink, brown or black in color, but gradually turns to darker brown as it matures. This type of mold grows in wet and water-damaged areas as such behind wallpapers, wooden surfaces, and carpets.

Cladosporium - can survive in both cold and warm environments. It commonly grows indoor in carpets, fabrics and under floorboards. It is brown in color or sometimes olive-green with a suede-like texture. Exposure to its spores can cause a variety of allergic reactions, including itchy eyes, running nose, sore throat, and skin infections. It is also associated with asthma, sinusitis and lung infections.

Ascospores - thrive in damp substrates and other water damaged indoor areas. It is one of the most resistant types of mold. Even after drying a wet surface, it may continue surviving until it finds another conducive environment for growth. It is commonly found in labs where it is spread by infected animals. Ascospores come in different groups such as Dermatophytes, which can destroy keratin-based materials such as nails and hair and the Histoplasmacapsulatum, which is specifically resistant to dry conditions.

Basidiospores - are usually spread through the wind and released when there is humidity or rain. It mostly grows outdoors in woodlands, gardens, forests and indoors on damp environments. They only grow indoors in rare cases when they are brought in through open windows, doors, pets or clothing.

Moisture Content - The amount of moisture inside a material, relative to the actual material. Certain materials can sustain a greater moisture content before mold growth occurs.

Porous -materials that allow air to easily pass through. These materials can absorb and allow mold spores to easily flow into hidden areas and grow. When mold is accessible to hidden locations it gives the fungi a substantial place to expand.

Relative Humidity - is the ratio that identifies the amount of water present in the air to the maximum water the air is capable of holding. Mold thrives in wet environments, so a high ratio promotes mold growth.

Remediation - is the action of a professional mold handling company going to an infected area and fully remediating the site. This is through assessment, containment, removal, and treatment.

Spore - are microscopic, reproductive structures emitted from fungi. They travel through the air, looking for the proper environment to latch onto and reproduce.

P.P.E. - Personal Protective Equipment is gear regulated by OSHA that technicians will wear when performing mold remediation. These masks help filter out any potentially dangerous substances one may inhale on the site of a mold outbreak.

MVOC - Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds are chemicals produced by mold colonies that are released into the air as a moldy, musty odor.

Fungi - The overall term identifies fungi that define the entire kingdom. There are many subclasses – such as molds, mushrooms, yeasts, and puffballs.

Lead Related-Terms and Acronyms (non-alphabetical order)

Lead is a chemical element with the symbol Pb and atomic number 82. It is a heavy metal that is denser than most common materials. Lead is soft and malleable, and also has a relatively low melting point. When freshly cut, lead is a shiny gray with a hint of blue. It tarnishes to a dull gray color when exposed to air.

Lead paint or lead-based paint is paint containing lead. As pigment, lead(II) chromate, lead(II, IV) oxide, and lead(II) carbonate are the most common forms. Lead is added to paint to accelerate drying, increase durability, maintain a fresh appearance, and resist moisture that causes corrosion.

Lead-based paint means paint or other surface coatings that contain lead equal to or exceeding 1.0 milligram per square centimeter, 0.5 percent by weight, or 5,000 parts per million (ppm).

Lead-Based Paint Hazards - any condition that causes exposure to lead from dust-lead hazards, soil-lead hazards, or lead-based paint that is deteriorated or present in chewable surfaces, friction surfaces, or impact surfaces, and that would result in adverse human health effects.

Lead Dust Action Levels - EPA's new clearance levels are 10 micrograms (µg) of lead in dust per square foot (ft2) for floor dust and 100 µg/ft2 for window sill dust, significantly lower than the previous levels of 40 µg/ft2 for floor dust and 250 µg/ft2 for window sill dust. Read the final rule that strengthens the dust-lead clearance levels.

Lead Water Action Level - EPA's action level for lead in water delivered to users of public drinking water systems is 15 µg/L.

Lead Soil Action Level - The EPA’s standard for lead in bare soil in play areas is 400 ppm by weight and 1200 ppm for non-play areas.

Lead Poisoning - a buildup of lead in the body, usually over months or years. Lead poisoning typically transpires via dust and hand to mouth contact. Symptoms include developmental delays, abdominal pain, neurologic changes, and irritability. At very high levels, it can be fatal. Treatment always involves avoiding further exposure to lead or lead-based products and may include medications to help remove lead from the body.

CDPH - The California Department of Public Health is the state department responsible for public health in California. It is a subdivision of the California Health and Human Services Agency. It enforces some of the laws in the California Health and Safety Codes,

Negative Air Machine - used to clean the air and create positive or negative air pressure inside work area containments where lead is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

Air Scrubbers - used to clean the air inside work area containments where asbestos is being removed. These machines are equipped with HEPA filters.

Containment - Plastic sheeting, typically 6mil thick plastic, erected to enclose the work area from the remainder of the structure during the course of work.

HEPA Vacuum - Vacuum equipped with HEPA filtration.

Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program - any renovation, repair, or painting (RRP) project in a pre-1978 home or building can easily create dangerous lead dust. EPA requires that RRP projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and preschools built before 1978 be performed by lead-safe certified contractors.

Lead Certified Firm - Firm certification is a key requirement to ensure the training of individuals and the use of lead-safe work practices. Firms must apply to the EPA. EPA RRP firm certifications are good for five years.

Lead in Construction - OSHA's lead in construction standard applies to all construction work where an employee may be exposed to lead.

Lead Clearance - a lead clearance is the process of visual inspecting and testing a property to determine risk of lead poisoning at a property. Peformed post lead abatement or renovation, repair, or painting activity.

RRP - Renovation, repair, or painting activity.

Lead Abatement - is an activity designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards. Abatement is sometimes ordered by a state or local government, and can involve specialized techniques not typical of most residential contractors.

D-Lead Wipes - disposable towels are generously saturated with a gentle pH balanced cleaner to quickly remove lead and heavy metal dusts.

TCLP -Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure. US EPA Allowable Limits (Lead) - 5.0 ppm (mg/L) . This analysis is performed to determine hazardous waste disposal for lead.

STLC - Soluble Threshold Limit Concentration is a California requirement for hazardous waste. This test is also referred to as the Waste Extraction Test (WET). STLC: 5.0 mg/L (ppm) regulatory action level. This analysis is performed to determine hazardous waste disposal for lead.

Lead-Based Paint Hazards: Any condition that causes exposure to lead from dust-lead hazards, soil-lead hazards, or lead-based paint that is deteriorated or present in chewable surfaces, friction surfaces, or impact surfaces, and that would result in adverse human health effects.

Visual Assessment: A visual inspection of interior and exterior surfaces to identify specific conditions that may be lead-based paint hazards. A visual inspection does not identify lead-based paint. The assessment may be performed by a person trained in visual assessment.

Clearance Examination: Clearance is performed after hazard reduction, rehabilitation or maintenance activities to determine if a unit is safe for occupancy. It involves a visual assessment, analysis of dust samples, and preparation of report. The certified risk assessor, paint inspector, or lead sampling technician (called a clearance technician in the HUD regulation) performing clearance must be independent from the entity/individual conducting paint stabilization or hazard reduction.

Paint Stabilization: An interim control method that stabilizes painted surfaces and addressed the underlying cause of deterioration. Steps include repairing defective surfaces, removing loose paint and applying new paint.

Abatement: Measures to permanently control (i.e., 20 years or more) lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards. EPA regulations exclude from the definition of abatement “renovation, remodeling, landscaping or other activities, when such activities are not designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards, but instead are designed to repair, restore, or remodel a given structure or dwelling, even though these activities may incidentally result in a reduction or elimination of lead-based paint hazards.” [40 CFR 745.223].

Environmental Intervention Blood Lead Level: The level of lead in blood that requires intervention in a child under age six. This is defined as a blood lead level of 20 µg/dL (micrograms per deciliter) of whole blood or above for a single test, or blood lead levels of 15-19 µg/dL in two tests taken at least three months apart.

µg (Microgram): A microgram is 1/1000th of a milligram (or one millionth of a gram). To put this unit into perspective, a penny weighs 2 grams. To get a microgram, you would need to divide the penny into 2 million pieces. A microgram is one of those two million pieces.

ft² (Square foot): One square foot is equal to an area that has a length of one foot (12 inches) and a width of one foot (12 inches).

µg/dL: Micrograms per deciliter used to measure the level of lead in children’s blood to establish whether intervention is needed. A deciliter (1/10th of liter) is a little less than half a cup. As noted above, a microgram is the same weight as one penny divided into two million parts.

µg/gram: Micrograms per gram of sample, equivalent to parts per million (ppm) by weight. Used to measure lead in soil.

µg/ft²: Micrograms per square feet is the measurement used to measure levels of lead in dust samples. The clearance report should have the dust sampling results listed in µg/ft² (micrograms per square foot).

mg/cm2: Milligrams per square centimeter. Used to measure lead in paint. percent: Percent by weight, used usually for lead-based paint (1 percent = 10,000 µg/gram)

ppm: Parts per million by weight, equivalent to µg/gram (10,000 ppm = 1 percent). Used to measure lead in paint and soil.