Press Releases

Press Releases 2023

National Safety Month and EHS Resources for Businesses and Institutions – May 31, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and environmental, health and safety (EHS) testing, monitoring, consulting and training services to protect workers and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

FHFA Announces New Radon Testing Requirements for Multifamily Property Loan Applications – May 10, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides radon and other indoor environmental quality testing and consulting services to protect building occupants and to help loan applicants comply with the new radon standards.

Air Quality Awareness Week and Optimizing the Indoor Environment – May 9, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides indoor and outdoor air quality testing, monitoring and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to airborne pollutants.

Protecting Building Occupants and Workers from Exposure to Mold and Other Common Asthma Triggers – April 10, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) testing, monitoring and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to asthma triggers, allergens and respiratory irritants.

Portable Generators and Ways to Protect Workers and Building Occupants from Carbon Monoxide Hazards – March 7, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides indoor air quality testing services, worksite assessments and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to carbon monoxide and other combustion gases.

1,4-Dioxane and Resources to Protect Workers from Exposure Hazards – March 1, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and environmental testing, consulting and training services to safeguard workers and the public from chemical and biological threats, and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Released by BLS and Resources to Improve Safety – February 6, 2023

The industrial hygiene professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide environmental, health and safety consulting, testing and training services to identify and mitigate occupational exposure hazards.


Winter Storms Cause Water Damage, Mold and Other Exposure Concerns in Homes and Businesses across California – January 30, 2023

The industrial hygiene and indoor environmental quality professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide building assessments and testing services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to biological and chemical hazards.

Lithium Batteries and Environmental, Health and Safety Resources to Mitigate Fire Risks – January 11, 2023

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and environmental testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to protect workers and building occupants from a wide range of hazards.

Press Releases 2022

Candida auris and Infection Control Resources for Healthcare Providers – December 12, 2022

The infection control, industrial hygiene and environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide consulting services, employee training and environmental testing to identify microbial exposure risks to protect patients, workers and the public.

OSHA’s New Top 10 Citations List and Ways to Prevent Workplace Injuries, Illnesses and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – December 5, 2022

The industrial hygiene professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide consulting, testing and training services to identify and mitigate occupational exposure hazards.

Protecting Workers from Exposure Risks to 2-Butoxyethanol and Other Potential Chemical Dangers – November 14, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to protect workers and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

Protecting Building Occupants, Workers and Children from Lead Hazards – November 1, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and environmental testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to lead and other hazardous materials.

Ethylene Glycol and Potential Occupational Exposure Risks – October 10, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to a wide range of hazards in the workplace.

Mitigating Occupational Exposure Risks to Leptospira and Other Microbial Pathogens – October 3, 2022

The infection control, industrial hygiene and environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide consulting services, employee training and environmental testing to identify microbial pathogens to protect workers and the public.

Identifying and Mitigating Occupational Exposure Risks to Xylene and Other Industrial Chemicals – September 1, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to protect workers and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

Asbestos, Lead and Other Exposure Hazards Encountered by Firefighters and Fire Damage Cleanup Crews – August 8, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and environmental services to identify and mitigate exposure risks associated with building fires and the debris left behind.

Identifying and Mitigating Exposure Risks to Phosphine and Other Chemicals in the Workplace – August 1, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate occupational exposure risks to phosphine and other chemical and biological hazards.

EPA Presents the Clean Air in Buildings Challenge to Building Owners and Operators – July 11, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides building inspections, HVAC assessments and indoor air quality testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure concerns while optimizing indoor conditions.

Preventing Methyl Alcohol Exposure Risks in the Workplace – July 5, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to methyl alcohol and a wide range of other chemical and biological hazards.

Identifying and Mitigating Occupational Exposure Risks to Sodium Hydroxide and Other Industrial Chemicals – June 07, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to protect workers and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

OSHA Launches National Emphasis Program to Protect Indoor and Outdoor Workers from Heat Hazards – June 01, 2022

The industrial hygiene professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide consulting, monitoring and training services to identify and mitigate occupational thermal stressors.

Dermal and Respiratory Exposure to Chemical Hazards in the Workplace – May 09, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to a wide range of occupational risks.

Asthma Awareness Month and Indoor Exposure Risks to Pollen and Other Airborne Pollutants – May 03, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides air quality testing services, building assessments and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure concerns.

Identifying and Mitigating Occupational Exposure Risks to Sulfuric Acid and Other Industrial Chemicals – April 06, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to safeguard workers and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance.

Global Asbestos Awareness Week and Exposure Risks in the United States – March 31, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to asbestos-containing materials.

Hydrogen Cyanide Exposure Risks in the Workplace – March 07, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to hydroge
Press Releases 2022n cyanide and a wide range of other chemical and biological hazards.

Secondhand Marijuana and Tobacco Smoke Can Create Indoor Air Quality Issues and Leave Behind Damaging Residues – March 01, 2022

The indoor air quality and industrial hygiene professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide testing and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure to airborne pollutants and surface residues.

Millions of Americans Depend on Private Wells for Drinking Water and the Potential for Contamination Issues – February 07, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides testing, monitoring and consulting services to identify and mitigate drinking-water contaminants in all types of properties.

Identifying Hydrogen Chloride Exposure Risks in the Workplace – February 1, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to a wide range of potential chemical and biological hazards.

The Indoor Microbiome and Its Impact on Indoor Environmental Quality – January 10, 2022

Clark Seif Clark provides building assessments, testing and consulting services to identify and mitigate microbial and chemical exposure concerns.

OSHA’s New Top 10 Citations List and Programs to Prevent Workplace Injuries, Illnesses, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – January 03, 2022

The industrial hygiene professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide consulting, testing, monitoring and training services to identify and mitigate all types of occupational hazards.

Press Releases 2021

Preventing Frozen Pipes and Water Damage in Homes and Buildings – December 07, 2021

The building science professionals at Clark Seif Clark offer tips to help prevent frozen pipes and provide resources to identify water damage and potential exposure hazards.

Occupational Exposure Risks to Hydrazine and Other Industrial Chemical Compounds – December 01, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate a wide range of potential chemical and biological exposure hazards.

Potential Exposure Risks to Workers, the Public and the Environment from Leaded Aviation Gasoline – November 08, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides environmental and industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to protect people and the environment from lead and other exposure hazards.

Airborne Pollutants from Cooking Activities in Residential, Commercial and Institutional Kitchens – November 03, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides air quality testing and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to combustion gases, particulate matter, odors and organic chemicals produced while cooking

Mitigating Ocular Infection Risks in the Workplace and the Importance of Eye Protection – October 11, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) testing and consulting services to identify and resolve exposure risks.

Preventing Occupational Exposure Risks to Phosgene and Other Industrial Chemicals – October 04, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate a wide range of chemical, radiological and biological exposure hazards.

Tips to Protect Homes and Buildings from Flood Damage – September 13, 2021

The building science and indoor environmental quality professionals at Clark Seif Clark provide property assessments, surveys and testing services to help identify and mitigate exposure hazards following water damage.

Identifying and Mitigating Exposure Risks to Barium and Barium Compounds – August 31, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to protect workers and the public from occupational and environmental hazards.

Mold Clean Up Tips from the CDC to Help Property Owners Following Water Damage – August 9, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides testing and consulting services to identify and resolve indoor environmental quality issues associated with water damage, mold, and other microbial or chemical concerns.

 

Occupational and Community Exposure Risks to Phenol and Other Chemicals – August 3, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides environmental and industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify and mitigate a wide range of chemical and biological exposure hazards.

 

Occupational Exposure Risks to Fiberglass and Other Synthetic Vitreous Fibers – July 7, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides industrial hygiene testing, consulting and training services to identify exposure hazards and safeguard workers.

 

PCBs in Aging Fluorescent Light Ballasts a Potential Threat to Students and Other Building Occupants – July 1, 2021

Clark Seif Clark provides testing, consulting and training services to help protect against exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls and other hazardous substances in schools, businesses, institutions and homes.

 

Identifying and Mitigating Occupational Exposure Risks to Nickel and Nickel Compounds – June 7, 2021

Nickel is a naturally occurring element with many beneficial chemical and physical properties. Pure nickel is a hard, silvery-white metal used to make stainless steel and other metal alloys.

 

Simple Steps to Help Protect Homes and Buildings during Hurricane Season – June 1, 2021

Today marks the first day of hurricane season in the Caribbean and Atlantic. In the Eastern Pacific, the season began on May 15th and both continue through November 30th.

 

OSHA Releases Top 10 Citations List for 2020 and Ways to Prevent Injuries, Illnesses, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – May 10, 2021

Protecting the health and safety of the U.S. workforce has improved over the years, but the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 5,333 workers still died on the job as recently as 2019

 

Infection Control and Indoor Environmental Quality are Key to a Successful Cruise Ship Industry Recovery – May 3, 2021

In a typical year, millions of people in North America take a cruise on one of hundreds of cruise ships that employ hundreds of thousands of workers, both directly and indirectly.

 

Sad, But True: Beware Counterfeits in the Time of COVID-19 – April 7, 2021

It’s nothing short of miraculous that COVID-19 tests, N95 respirators and SARS-CoV2 vaccines were made available so quickly. But, sadly we are compelled to ask… are they real or counterfeit ?

 

Clark Seif Clark Celebrates 25 Years of Environmental, Engineering and Industrial Hygiene Consulting Services – April 1, 2021

Twenty-five years ago today, several of the nation’s leading environmental, industrial hygiene, engineering and building science professionals decided to go into business for themselves and officially opened the doors at Clark Seif Clark (CSC).

 

Exposure Concerns Following a Fire in a Multifamily Residential Building – March 8, 2021

Millions of people across the United States live in multifamily residential buildings. These include apartments, town houses, row houses, condominiums and other tenement properties. Unfortunately, fires in multifamily residential buildings happen all too frequently.

 

Protecting Workers from Exposure to Acrylonitrile and Other Chemical Hazards – March 1, 2021

The Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR) describes acrylonitrile as a colorless, liquid, man-made chemical with a sharp, onion- or garlic-like odor that can be dissolved in water and evaporates quickly. It is used in many industries to make various plastics, rubbers and chemicals.

 

Protecting Patients and Staff from Healthcare-Associated Mold Outbreaks – February 8, 2021

Over the last several years there have been multiple hospitals in the United States that have had to halt operations and temporarily close portions of their facilities after the discovery of indoor mold growth. The closures were put in place to prevent exposure risks to staff and patients, especially for those vulnerable to fungal infections due to a weakened or suppressed immune system.

 

Identifying and Mitigating Occupational Exposures to Chloroform and Other Chemical Hazards – February 1, 2021

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) describes chloroform (CHCl3) as a colorless liquid that quickly evaporates into a gas. Other common names for chloroform include trichloromethane and methyl trichloride.

 

Protecting Workers and the Public from Acrylamide and Other Chemical Exposure Risks – January 11, 2021

Acrylamide is described by the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR) as a colorless, odorless, crystalline solid that can react violently when melted. It is used to make polyacrylamides, which are mainly used in treating wastewater discharge from water treatment plants and industrial processes.

 

Mitigating Exposure Risks to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the Workplace – January 4, 2021

Staph bacteria are commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. It can sometimes cause infections and is one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. Most of these skin infections are minor. But, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a strain of staph that is resistant to a commonly prescribed antibiotic known as methicillin and is often resistant to other antibiotics, the infections can be serious and sometimes even fatal.

 

Press Releases 2020

OSHA Provides COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses and Institutions with Employees Using Cloth Face Coverings – December 7, 2020

With most businesses and institutions reopened even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, employers have had to implement a number of safeguards to protect their workers and the customers they serve. One of the very visible changes in many parts of the country has been the use of face coverings in the workplace.

 

New California Law Bans PFAS Chemicals in Most Firefighting Foams – December 1, 2020

Earlier this fall, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law SB-1044. The new law covers firefighting equipment and foams that contain the man-made chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

 

Potential Hidden Exposure Hazards Found in DIY Home Improvement Projects – November 9, 2020

With the COVID-19 pandemic causing millions of people to be stuck at home for much of 2020, do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement projects have become increasingly popular. Unfortunately, depending on the type of project, and the age and condition of the home, many DIYers may come into contact with hidden exposure risks.

 

National COPD Awareness Month and Identifying Indoor Pollutants to Help those Suffering from the Disease – November 2, 2020

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The institute reports that 17 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with the disease and millions more likely have it, but have not officially been diagnosed. Globally, COPD affects 251 million people according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

 

Identifying Respiratory Irritants, Allergens and Known Asthma Triggers to Mitigate Occupational Asthma Risks – October 1, 2020

Occupational asthma, also known as work-related asthma, can dramatically impact a worker’s quality of life and reduce their productivity. Sadly, it’s the most common occupational lung disease in the United States and the condition increases costs to employees, employers and society.

 

Fungal Disease Awareness Week and Protecting Workers and the Public from Preventable Exposure Risks – September 8, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated September 21st through the 25th as Fungal Disease Awareness Week. The week is meant to highlight the importance of recognizing serious fungal diseases early enough in the course of a patient’s illness to provide life-saving treatment. The agency also reports that some fungal diseases go undiagnosed and cause serious infections in people in the United States.

 

Air Filter Selection and Replacement for Optimizing Indoor Air Quality and HVAC System Efficiency – September 1, 2020

Just as the type of fabric used in a face mask can influence what people breathe from their surrounding environment and exhale into the air, building air filters can also have a significant impact on the indoor air quality (IAQ) of a home or building. Air filters play an important job in the HVAC system, trapping particulates, which could include allergens, asthma triggers, respiratory irritants, infectious pathogens and other contaminants, as the air circulates.

 

Back to School Brings COVID-19 Concerns and Indoor Environmental Quality Challenges – August 10, 2020

There are over 130,000 K-12 schools across the United States according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Over the coming weeks, countless students and teachers will be returning to classrooms, or to variations of online and in-person learning, to begin the new school year.

 

Protecting Workers from Exposure to 1,3-Butadiene and Other Chemical Hazards – August 4, 2020

Back in 1988, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) added 1,3-butadiene to the list of chemicals known to the state to cause cancer for purposes of Proposition 65. Sixteen years later, it was also added to the list for developmental and reproductive toxicity.

 

Mold and Other Potential Hazards Following Water Damage Caused by a Natural Disaster or Man-made Event – July 7, 2020

Each year, insurance claims caused by water damage are one of the most common and expensive types of claim. Water damage can not only destroy building materials, furnishing and belongings, it will also often result in the growth of mold, not to mention other contaminants that may have been introduced with the water. These frequently include sewage and even chemicals.

 

CDC Guidance for Businesses and Institutions for Cleaning and Disinfecting if Someone in the Workplace Gets COVID-19 – July 1, 2020

With many businesses and institutions reopened, and millions of confirmed COVID-19 cases across the globe, there will be numerous cases of employees getting sick on the job. In response, the CDC has released a wealth of information to help plan, prepare and respond to these risks and challenges.

 

Infection Control and Indoor Environmental Quality Challenges for Airlines and Airports – June 8, 2020

According to some estimates, in a typical year, approximately 3.6 billion people across the globe travel on commercial airlines. The industry is supported by over 17,000 commercial airports and millions of workers.

 

COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfecting Guidance from the CDC for Reopening Businesses and Institutions – June 1, 2020

Many of the millions of businesses and institutions that were temporarily shut down earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic have reopened or are planning to in the next few weeks. With restrictions being lifted in states across the country, employers face challenges ensuring the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) of their facilities are safe for workers, customers and the public due to coronavirus and other exposure concerns.

 

Common Sources of Formaldehyde in the Home and Ways to Prevent Exposure Risks – May 4, 2020

The National Toxicology Program (NTP) has listed formaldehyde as known to be a human carcinogen. The National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that studies of workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde, such as industrial workers and embalmers, have found that formaldehyde causes myeloid leukemia and rare cancers, including cancers of the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity and nasopharynx.

 

Mitigating Coronavirus Exposure Risks to Keep Essential Businesses Open and to Support the Reopening of Temporarily Closed Buildings – April 17, 2020

Across the United States, countless non-essential businesses and institutions have been temporarily closed. Others, deemed essential, have faced a myriad of challenges keeping their doors open and ensuring their employees and customers are safe. This has all been the result of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the disease it causes, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

 

Antibiotic Resistance Threats Identified by the CDC and the Importance of Infection Control Procedures and Education – April 8, 2020

While much of the media’s attention has been focused on the novel coronavirus that spread across the globe this year, SARS-CoV-2 is not the only emerging threat. Just before reports of the initial outbreak of COVID-19 last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published an update to the agency’s first Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States (AR Threats Report) from 6 years earlier.

 

Monitoring Building Water Systems to Prevent Outbreaks of Legionnaires’ Disease – April 1, 2020

Legionellosis is a respiratory disease caused by a type of bacteria known as Legionella. It includes both Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever, which people can develop by breathing droplets of water from the air that are contaminated with the bacteria.

 

Detecting PCBs in Building Materials to Protect the Public, Workers and the Environment – March 9, 2020

In the United States, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were manufactured from 1929 until production was banned in 1979. Due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point and electrical insulating properties, PCBs were used in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications. Unfortunately, PCBs have also been identified as probable human carcinogens and may also cause a variety of non-cancer health effects.

 

OSHA Publishes New National Emphasis Program Instructions for Respirable Crystalline Silica – March 2, 2020

ILast month, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published instructions for implementing a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to identify and reduce or eliminate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) in general industry, maritime and construction.

 

Veterinary Workers Issued Isoflurane Workplace Hazard Update from the California Department of Public Health – February 10, 2020

Last year, the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) Hazard Evaluation System & Information Service (HESIS) published a Workplace Hazard Update about veterinary workers and potential exposure risk to isoflurane, a commonly used anesthetic gas. Isoflurane is used for both animals and humans and is sold under various trade names. It is a general anesthetic that is inhaled and can be used to start or maintain anesthesia.

 

California Residents Learn of PFAS Contaminants Detected in Water Systems that Serve Millions – February 3, 2020

In March of last year, the California State Water Resources Control Board sent California Water Code (CWC) Section 13267 orders requiring soil and ground water samples to sites considered to be potential sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

 

Federal Publication Provides Tips to Help Control Occupational Exposure to Mold after a Disaster – January 13, 2020

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Occupational and Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a document to help workers and employers deal with mold issues. The publication, Mold: Worker and Employer Guide to Hazards and Recommended Controls, summarizes basic procedures for mold remediation after flooding and other natural disasters with an emphasis on worker protection.

 

Protecting Workers in the Recycling and Reuse Industries from Occupational Exposure Risks – January 6, 2020

While there is no federal law that mandates recycling, many states and municipalities have introduced recycling requirements over the past several decades. Some states and cities have even enacted landfill bans on certain recyclable items and yard waste, and in some areas, government entities can fine people for including recyclable materials with garbage waste.

 

Press Releases 2019

 

OSHA Top 10 Citations for 2019 and Preventing Injuries, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – December 9, 2019

Protecting the health and safety of the U.S. workforce has improved over the years, but as recently as 2017, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 5,147 workers still died on the job. In addition, countless more were injured on the job or developed occupational diseases.

 

Exposure Risks to Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) – December 2, 2019

The first recorded nosocomial outbreak of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the United States occurred in 1968 in Boston, Massachusetts. This infection was traditionally associated with hospitalization or other health care-associated risk factors, but this is no longer the case.

 

Preventing Building Occupant Exposure to Chemical Odors and Other Inhalation Irritants – November 12, 2019

Odorous compounds are often the impetus for indoor environmental quality (IEQ) dissatisfaction reported by building occupants. Offensive chemical odors can be produced by both organic and inorganic compounds. A few common examples of odorous chemical sources include sewer gas infiltration from dry p-traps, improperly mixed cleaning agents, improperly applied pesticides, applications of specialty coatings in unventilated spaces and more. Exposure to some of which, at high enough concentrations, could be a health concern.

 

Coal Ash Regulations and Protecting Workers, Communities and the Environment from Exposure Risks – November 4, 2019

When coal is burned by power plants to produce electricity, coal ash is created. Also known as coal combustion residuals (CCRs), it is one of the largest types of industrial waste generated in the country according to the U.S. Environmental Protection (EPA).

 

Emergency Regulation to Protect Workers in California from Wildfire Smoke Exposure Risks is in Effect – October 7, 2019

The frequency and severity of wildfires across California have increased in recent years. Tragically, a number of residents have been impacted, losing homes and businesses to these natural and man-made disasters. Many others have had to deal with exposure to wildfire smoke, ash and residues that can travel a tremendous distances from the actual fire.

 

Children’s Health Month and Avoiding Environmental Exposure Hazards – October 1, 2019

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes October as Children’s Health Month. To spread public awareness of this important topic and provide information about ways people can protect children from a number of potential environmental exposure risks, the agency has created a list of online educational resources.

 

Children’s Health Month and Environmental Exposure Risks – September 18, 2019

October is recognized as Children’s Health Month and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created a list of resources (EPA1) to help spread public awareness about protecting children from a number of potential environmental exposure risks.

Building Occupant Exposures to Sewer Gas and Other Unpleasant Odors – September 9, 2019

The presence of sewer gas in a home, school or commercial building can have a number of negative effects on building occupants. Aside from the obvious unpleasant nature of smelling an offensive odor, exposure can also decreased property values and result in lost revenues, impact productivity and increase absenteeism, cause metal corrosion, and result in health concerns and complaints.

 

New EPA Lead Standards Designed to Help Reduce Childhood Exposure Risks Going Into Effect Soon – September 3, 2019

It has long been recognized that lead-contaminated dust from chipped or peeling lead-based paint is one of the most common causes of elevated blood lead levels in children. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that lead-based paint and lead contaminated dust are the “most” hazardous sources of lead for children.

 

Protecting Emergency Responders from Occupational Exposure Risks to Fentanyl and Other Hazardous – August 1, 2019

Several months back, WUSF in Tampa published a story about a deputy from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office that passed out after exposure to suspected airborne fentanyl. The event occurred during a traffic stop when the car’s occupants tried to hide a white powder.

 

Healthy Homes Guide and Ways to Ensure Optimal Indoor Environmental Quality – July 8, 2019

Last month was National Healthy Homes Month (NHHM). The month of recognition, sponsored by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and other agencies, is meant to raise awareness about what makes a healthy home and the connection between common indoor conditions and various health and safety issues.

 

Protecting Workers from Occupational Exposure to Glutaraldehyde and Other Chemicals – July 1, 2019

Back in 2006, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released Best Practices for the Safe Use of Glutaraldehyde in Health Care. The 48-page document provides information for health care employers and employees to understand and control exposures to glutaraldehyde to prevent adverse health effects.

Indoor Air Quality Testing and Consulting Services Support the Efforts of Clean Air Month – May 8, 2019

Back in May of 1972, the American Lung Association (ALA) sponsored Clean Air Week for the first time to educate the public about the connection between clean air and respiratory health. In 1994, Clean Air Week was expanded to become Clean Air Month which is still recognized in May.

 

California Company Cited for Failure to Protect Workers from Valley Fever Exposure Risks – May 1, 2019

In late March of this year, California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health, also known as Cal/OSHA, issued serious health and safety citations to a construction company after two of its employees contracted Valley Fever (coccidioidomycosis). Both employees were hospitalized after being diagnosed with the infection.

 

New PCB Regulations Coming Soon for Demolition Companies Operating in the San Francisco Bay Area – April 8, 2019

New demolition regulations are coming soon for businesses involved with demolition activities in seven counties surrounding San Francisco Bay. Effective July 1st, 2019, companies involved with the demolition of buildings constructed between 1950 and 1980 will face new regulations concerning polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as part of the demolition permit application process.

 

Clark Seif Clark Celebrates 23 Years of Environmental, Engineering and Industrial Hygiene Consulting Services – April 1, 2019

Back on April 1st of 1996, several of the leading environmental, industrial hygiene, engineering and building science professionals decided to go into business for themselves and officially opened the doors at Clark Seif Clark (CSC). The firm quickly made a name for themselves in their home state of California before expanding and opening several offices on the West Coast and Southwest. The company now provides services for clients nationwide.

 

NIOSH Releases New Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool for General Buildings – March 11, 2019

Three months ago today, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) announced it had developed and released a Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool for General Buildings. The document, with instructions and worksheets, is available online, along with other information from NIOSH on this important topic.

 

Building Science Professionals Protect the Public from All Too Common Indoor Pollutants and Exposure Hazards – February 11, 2019

Most people spend the vast majority of their day indoors. Whether at home, in the office or attending school, many spend upwards of 90% of their time in indoor environments. With so much time inside buildings, the quality of the indoor environment and air people breathe is a key component of their health and safety.

 

Protecting Workers, Communities and the Environment from Hexavalent Chromium and Other Industrial Pollutants – February 4, 2019

In 2000, the dangers of exposure to hexavalent chromium gained national attention after the release of the Erin Brockovich movie. In the award winning film, the leading actress discovers that hexavalent chromium (Cr+6), a toxic form of the element chromium, has contaminated the groundwater in a small town in California. Leading up to the discovery, the town’s residents had experienced a cluster of tumors, cancers and other medical issues.

 

National Radon Action Month and Identifying Exposure Risks in Residential and Occupational Environments – January 9, 2019

January is recognized as National Radon Action Month across the entire United States. This time to raise awareness and take action is important as estimates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicate that radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. In fact, in the U.S. alone

 

Top 10 OSHA Violations and Preventing Injuries, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – January 7, 2019

Protecting the health and safety of the U.S. workforce has improved over the years, but as recently as 2016, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reports that over 5,190 workers still died on the job.

 

Press Releases 2018

 

Understanding Which Asbestos-Containing Products the Federal Government has Banned – December 12, 2018

Shortly after Hurricane Michael left a path of destruction across parts of the Florida Panhandle and neighboring areas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released a guidance document for residents and workers tasked with cleaning up and repairing damaged properties.

Recognizing Mold Exposure Issues in the Work Environment – December 3, 2018

Shortly after Hurricane Michael left a path of destruction across parts of the Florida Panhandle and neighboring areas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released a guidance document for residents and workers tasked with cleaning up and repairing damaged properties.

Lawsuit Alleges Property Management Company Tried to Covered Up Asbestos Hazards – November 6, 2018

Recently, Oregon’s KOIN broadcast a report about a $40 million lawsuit that has been filed against a Portland property management company. According to their reporting, a renovation project at a 291 unit complex uncovered asbestos in the walls back in May of this year.

Respirable Particulates, Airborne Contaminants and Lung Cancer Awareness Month – October 31, 2018

There are carcinogens that may be present in an indoor environment or at a worksite in the form of gases, dusts or fumes.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month begins tomorrow and runs the entire month of November. This month of recognition is acknowledged across the globe and is a time to raise awareness and engagement in the fight against lung cancer. It is also the ideal opportunity to educate the public and workers about things they can do to minimize their chances of getting the disease.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week and Protecting Families and Workers from Exposure Hazards – October 8, 2018

Later this month, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) is recognized across the United States. The event takes place from October 21st through the 27th in what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes as a weeklong campaign to bring together individuals,

Testing for Tobacco and Other Smoke Residues and the New HUD Smoke-Free Housing Rule – October 1, 2018

On July 21st of this year, a final rule from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requiring Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) to implement smoke-free policies went into full effect. The new rule has a major impact on thousands of PHAs and the over 1 million households in the U.S. that live in public housing units.

Exposure to Fragrances and Perfumes in the Work Environment Could Cause or Exacerbate Asthma – September 11, 2018

The perfumes and fragrances that are found in personal care products, air fresheners and even cleaning products are frequently encountered and all too common. While some people find these odors to be pleasant, these same scents can act as a respiratory irritant for others.

Industrial Hygiene Services and Safety Data Sheets Identify Chemical Exposure Risks in the Workplace – September 4, 2018

In 2012, the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) (29 CFR 1910.1200(g)) was revised to require chemical manufacturers, distributors or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDS, to communicate the dangers of hazardous chemical products.

Safe + Sound Week and Protecting the Nation’s Workforce from Exposure Risks – August 7, 2018

Next week, Safe + Sound Week is observed across the United States. The event is described by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as a nationwide event to raise awareness and understanding of the value of safety and health programs that include management leadership, worker participation, and a systematic approach to finding and fixing hazards in workplaces.

 

Protecting Workers from Ear Damage due to Noise Exposure and Ototoxicants – July 10, 2018

Several months back, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) published an advisory bulletin about protecting workers� hearing.

CMS Publishes Requirements to Reduce Legionella Risks in Healthcare Facility Water Systems – July 9, 2018

In June of last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a survey and certification memo stating requirements for healthcare facilities to develop and adhere to ASHRAE-compliant water management programs to reduce the risk for Legionella and other water-related pathogens.

Take-Home Lead Exposure Dangers for Families of Some Workers – June 11, 2018

Today, in the United States, there are a number of rules and regulations in place that are designed to protect workers from occupational exposure to lead hazards.

Indoor Air Quality Testing and National Healthy Homes Month – June 4, 2018

Back in June of 2016, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) inaugurated the first annual National Healthy Homes Month (NHHM) with the theme, “Everyone Deserves a Safe and Healthy Home.”

Measuring Carbon Dioxide as an Indicator of Indoor Air Quality Conditions – May 7, 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that naturally occurs in the atmosphere as a trace gas. Humans and animals also exhale CO2 as an end product of cellular respiration.

OSHA to Begin Enforcement in May of its Final Rule Covering Occupational Exposure to Beryllium – May 1, 2018

In March, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced the upcoming enforcement date for its final rule on occupational exposure to beryllium. May 11th is the date the agency will now begin enforcement actions for general industry, construction and shipyards.

 

Environmental Pathogens, Antimicrobial Resistance and the Importance of Surface Disinfection in Healthcare Environments – April 9, 2018

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is the ability of microbes to resist the effects of drugs – that is, the germs are not killed and their growth is not stopped.

 

Lead Disclosure for Homebuyers and Identifying Poisoning Hazards – April 2, 2018

To protect families from exposure to lead from paint, dust and soil, the U.S. Congress passed the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992.

 

Identifying Asthma Triggers and Managing the Condition in the Nation’s Schools – March 7, 2018

In 2013, students missed 13.8 million school days due to asthma, making the disease a leading cause of school absenteeism according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As recently as 2015, the agency reports that 1 in 12 children had asthma.

 

California’s Rule 1466 to Control Toxic Particulate Emissions from Earth-Moving Operations is in Full Effect – March 1, 2018

Last July, California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) adopted Rule 1466 – Control of Particulate Emissions from Soils with Toxic Air Contaminants. The new rule was amended last December before going into effect earlier this year for all applicable earth-moving operations that take place in parts of California regulated by the SCAQMD.

 

Chrysotile and Other Forms of Asbestos Still a Threat in Homes, Schools and Businesses – February 6, 2018

Throughout the United States, chrysotile is one of the most commonly found forms of asbestos. It is just one of six asbestos and asbestiform minerals that regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), recognize and regulate.

 

General Industry and Maritime Operations Prepare for OSHA’s Crystalline Silica Standard Enforcement – January 31, 2018

On June 23rd, companies and institutions categorized as maritime or general industry will be subject to enforcement of a new final rule from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to limit worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica.

 

How Exposure to Disinfectants and Cleaning Products Could Trigger Work-Related Asthma – January 11, 2018

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) describes work-related asthma as a lung disease caused or made worse by exposures to substances in the workplace.

 

Identifying Concerns Associated with Exposures to Elevated Levels of Indoor Mold – January 2, 2018

Mold is a natural part of the environment and people breathe it on a daily basis, but exposure to elevated levels of mold in the air in homes, schools or work environments can lead to indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and potential exposure concerns.

 

Press Releases 2017

 

Building Occupant Exposures to VOCs in New Construction or Recently Renovated Structures – December 11, 2017

Protecting the health and safety of the U.S. workforce has improved over the years, but as recently as 2015, the Occupational Safety & Health Almost everyone has at one time or another walked into a newly constructed or recently renovated home or office and comment about the “new” smell. While the odor is pleasant to some, and may invoke feelings of a clean and fresh indoor environment, quite often it actually means the person is being exposed to elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

 

OSHA’s Most Frequently Cited Violations and Preventing Injuries, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties – 12/4/2017

Protecting the health and safety of the U.S. workforce has improved over the years, but as recently as 2015, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reports that over 4,800 workers were killed on the job. This is a dramatic improvement from the estimated 14,000 workers killed on the job each year before the creation of OSHA back in 1971.

 

Property Damage and Mold Contamination Often Left Behind Following Natural Disasters – 11/15/2017

In the past several months, Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose and Maria left paths of destruction worth billions of dollars. The natural disasters destroyed or damaged tens of thousands of homes, business, schools and other properties across hundreds of square miles of the United States.

 

Veteran Environmental Consultant and Professional Geologist is the Newest Addition at Clark Seif Clark – 11/1/2017

Clark Seif Clark (CSC) is pleased to announce that Donald “Bill” Clarke, P.G. is now part of the company’s esteemed group of industry professionals. Mr. Clarke brings over three decades of combined environmental, engineering, industrial hygiene, hazardous waste, and health and safety experience to benefit Clark Seif Clark’s clients.

 

Volatile Organic Compound Exposure Risks from 3D Printers – 10/9/2017

Due to their initial high cost, corporate research laboratories and major universities were some of the earliest adopters of three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies. In recent years, 3D printers have become increasingly popular as the cost to own and operate these devices has dropped dramatically.

 

Legal Marijuana Grow Operations and Unique Occupational Exposure Risks – 10/3/2017

With marijuana being legal in one form or another in approximately 30 states, legal marijuana grow operations (MGOs) and extraction facilities are becoming big business in many parts of the country. Just this past April, The New York Times published an article entitled, “Marijuana Goes Industrial in California.”

 

Preventing Injuries, Fatalities and Costly Noncompliance Penalties with Effective Fall Protection Programs – 9/5/2017

Just last month, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced proposed penalties of over $1.5 million for a Florida roofing contractor for repeatedly failing to protect its workers from the risks of dangerous falls and other hazards.

 

Preventing Occupational Hazards due to Heat Exposure and Temperature Extremes – 8/7/2017

July and August are the months that typically bring the hottest outdoor temperatures. These hot and often humid conditions can create health and safety challenges for workers in countless outdoor occupations. Many other workers are subject to hot conditions year-round due to the physical activities of their jobs, contact with heated objects or radiant heat sources.

 

The Many Ways Hoarding Creates Indoor Environmental Quality Problems – 7/18/2017

Last month, USA Today published a story about a California couple who plead guilty to charges associated with hoarding approximately 170 dogs in their home in Poway, California. According to the article, many of the dogs were in poor condition and the home was covered in animal waste.

 

Preventing New Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease in Health Care Environments – 7/17/2017

One in four people that contract Legionnaires’ disease from a health care facility dies according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These unsettling figures were posted in June issue of the CDC’s Vitalsigns™ publication.

 

Clark Seif Clark’s industrial hygiene and indoor air quality professionals identify and help to resolve potential occupational exposure risks. – 6/13/2017

Last year, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) published the science blog, Coffee Workers at Risk for Lung Disease. It discusses two alpha-diketones, diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione, both volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that workers can be exposed to when roasting coffee or working with certain food flavorings, such as butter-flavored cooking oils. Each of these chemicals is naturally produced when coffee beans are roasted.

 

Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provides testing and consulting services to help protect families and workers from lead and other potentially hazardous materials. – 6/1/2017

There are still at least 4 million households in the United States that have children living in them who are being exposed to high levels of lead according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

 

The building science professionals at Clark Seif Clark identify and help to mitigate environmental asthma triggers in all types of buildings. – 5/16/2017

This time of year is the peak season for many allergy and asthma sufferers, making the month of May the ideal time to recognize Asthma Awareness Month and World Asthma Day, which took place on May 2nd.

 

Construction Projects in Occupied Buildings and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) – 5/1/2017

Millions of workers in the United States are exposed to solvents on a daily basis according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The agency also reports solvents share many chemical, physical and biological properties that warrant national attention be directed to them as a group.

 

Protecting Workers and the Public from Solvent Exposure Hazards – 4/10/2017

Millions of workers in the United States are exposed to solvents on a daily basis according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The agency also reports solvents share many chemical, physical and biological properties that warrant national attention be directed to them as a group.

 

Dirty Air Ducts and Indoor Air Quality Issues for Building Occupants – 4/3/2017

Air ducts are a critical component of a building’s HVAC system. They deliver ventilation and a path for warm or cool air to provide a pleasant indoor environment for building occupants in homes, schools and commercial buildings.

 

Seasoned Environmental, Health and Safety Consultant is the Newest Addition at Clark Seif Clark – 3/8/2017

Clark Seif Clark (CSC) is pleased to announce that Nicole Henson, CMC is now part of the company’s esteemed group of industry professionals. Ms. Henson brings decades of combined forensic engineering, industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, environmental, health and safety experience to benefit Clark Seif Clark’s clients.

 

Occupational Hazards due to Exposures to Welding Fumes and Gases – 3/1/2017

More than 500,000 workers in a wide variety of industries are exposed to a unique combination of both safety and health risks according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

 

ADEQ Announces Plans to Test for Lead in 7,000 School Buildings – 2/8/2017

Last month, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) announced the agency was coordinating with multiple state and local agencies, public water systems and public schools to proactively conduct a statewide screening program for the presence of lead in the drinking water of schools.

 

Three Construction Workers Lose Their Lives after Entering Manhole – 2/6/2017

In 2015, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) announced that it had issued a final rule to increase protections for construction workers in confined spaces. The new rule provides construction workers with similar protections to those of employees from other industries who have had them for over 20 years.

 

Occupational Airborne Hazards and the Importance of Proper Respiratory Protection – 1/12/2017

Each year, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a preliminary list of the 10 most frequently cited safety and health violations for the fiscal year. It is comprised and compiled from thousands of workplace inspections conducted by federal OSHA staff from across the country.

 

Protecting Workers in Industries that Utilize Cobalt and Cobalt Compounds – 1/10/2017

During the cold winter months, many people burn wood in their homes for heat and ambience. While this can provide for an economical way to heat a home, some people could be exposed to wood smoke in the air they breathe.

 

Press Releases 2016

 

Protecting Workers in Industries that Utilize Cobalt and Cobalt Compounds – 12/7/2016

Last month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the 14th Report on Carcinogens (RoC). It contained newly reviewed substances that are known or reasonably anticipated to cause cancer in humans. Included in this list was the metallic element cobalt and cobalt compounds that release cobalt ions in vivo.

 

Identifying and Mitigating Particulate Matter Pollution Exposure Risks – 12/1/2016

Particulate matter (PM) is described by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some of these particles, such as dust, dirt, soot or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye, but others are so small they can only be detected using powerful instruments.

 

Aspergillus Exposure Concerns in Moldy Residential, Commercial and Healthcare Environments – 11/8/2016

Aspergillosis is a disease caused by some species of Aspergillus, a common type of mold. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the approximately 180 known species of Aspergillus, fewer than 40 are known to cause infections in humans.

 

Protecting Workers in Industries that Utilize 1-Bromopropane and Other Solvents – 11/1/2016

In February, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released for public comment and peer review a draft risk assessment for 1-bromopropane (1-BP), also known as n-propyl bromide. The draft assessment was conducted as part of EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Work Plan assessment effort.

 

Identifying and Preventing Exposure Risks to the Growing Number of Superbugs – 10/12/2016

Last month, for only the fourth time in its history, the United Nations General Assembly took up a health issue and voted to take a broad and coordinated approach to confront antimicrobial resistance. The historic action by the United Nations was due to the growing list of drug-resistant microorganisms that are now found across the globe, including in United States.

 

PCB-Containing Caulk Found in Many Homes and Buildings – 10/10/2016

Caulking is a common building material found in virtually all homes and buildings. The flexible material is used to seal gaps and joints to make them water and airtight. Unfortunately, many caulking materials used in the past to build and renovate residential and commercial properties contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

 

Recognizing and Preventing Lead Exposure Risks in the Workplace – 9/12/2016

This year has been filled with media reports about lead poisoning hazards faced by the public. Stories have been broadcast about contaminated water in Michigan homes, drinking fountains being shut down in schools in the Northwest and East Coast, and most recently, over 1,000 residents of a housing complex in East Chicago being asked to relocate due to high levels of lead in the soil around their homes.

 

Identifying Sewer Gas Exposure Risks in Commercial and Residential Properties – 9/6/2016

Many people have at one time or another walked into a home or building and immediately encountered the unpleasant odor associated with sewer gas. Exposure to these objectionable odors can not only be distressing, in high enough concentrations they can even create health and safety concerns for building occupants.

 

The Importance of Eyewash Station Maintenance and Monitoring – 8/8/2016

Many different types of industries are required to install and maintain eyewash stations for their employees’ safety and health. These eyewash stations are an important safety device that can be instrumental for mitigating a number of different types of eye injuries.

 

Indoor Water Leaks can Quickly Result in Mold Issues and Termite Infestations – 8/1/2016

When a water leak occurs in a residential or commercial property, the presence of water and moisture can not only ruin and destroy building materials and personal belongings, it could also result in mold contamination, indoor air quality (IAQ) issues and even a termite infestation.

 

Workers in Some Industries Could Expose Family Members to Asbestos – 7/14/2016

Several years ago, an Oakland, California jury awarded over $27 million in compensation to an elderly couple. A lawsuit had been filed because the wife of a man who worked with asbestos insulation years before developed mesothelioma.

 

PERC Exposure Risks Due to Vapor Intrusion and Other Pathways – 7/5/2016

The San Gabriel Valley Tribune recently published an article about indoor air quality testing that is being conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Over 100 residential homes, commercial properties and recreational facilities have been tested so far for chemical contaminants in the El Monte and South El Monte areas.

 

Protecting Workers from Hearing Lose Due to Excessive Noise Levels – 6/7/2016

Worker exposure to environmental noise is sometimes difficult to avoid. However, understanding noise levels employees are exposed to is not difficult.

 

New Workplace Crystalline Silica Requirements Begin this Month – 6/1/2016

Silica is a part of the environment, commonly occurring in most soils. Chronic exposure to respirable crystalline silica particulates has long been known to cause restrictive lung disease and complications that can lead to cancer.

 

Preventing Workplace Soft Tissue Injuries and Cal/OSHA Requirements – 5/9/2016

If a company has experienced more than one diagnosed repetitive motion injury (RMI) within a 12 month period and the injured employees were conducting “identical” or even “similar” work, Title 8, Section 5110 of California’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) requires specific actions be taken.

 

Improving Indoor Environmental Quality with Maintenance Tips for the Spring Season – 4/4/2016

Several weeks into the spring season and people are enjoying warmer weather and longer days of sunlight. The start of spring is also an excellent time to check the condition of a home or commercial property.

 

Identifying Cockroach Allergens in Residential and Commercial Environments – 3/7/2016

Cockroaches are one of society’s most commonly found pests. Worldwide there are thousands of species of cockroaches and several dozen are associated with human habitats.

 

Hexavalent Chromium Requirements in the Workplace – 3/1/2016

If a company works with chromium containing materials such as stainless steel, conducts chemical film or plating operations involving hexavalent chromium (Cr+6) or spray paints with products containing Cr+6, it is required by state and federal Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHAs) to take specific actions.

 

Flood Risks, Property Damage and Indoor Environmental Concerns – 2/8/2016

Clark Seif Clark provides testing and consulting services to identify and resolve indoor environmental quality issues associated with flood damage.

 

Veteran Certified Industrial Hygienist the Newest Addition at Clark Seif Clark – 2/1/2016

Clark Seif Clark welcomes William Jones, CIH, CSP, CPE to their management group and team of seasoned environmental and engineering professionals.

 

Indoor Allergens & Steps to Reduce Exposure in the Home or Office – 1/11/2016

For the millions of Americans with respiratory allergies, asthma or COPD, their home or office can sometimes be the source of allergens that can trigger or aggravate their condition.

 

National Radon Action Month and Exposure Risks in Residential and Occupational Environments – 1/4/2016

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that at least 4 million households have children living in them that are being exposed to high levels of lead.

 

 

Press Releases 2015

 

Signs & Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Children and Ways to Prevent Exposure Risks – 12/8/2015

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that at least 4 million households have children living in them that are being exposed to high levels of lead.

 

Residents of the West Coast and Southwest Urged to Prepare Properties for a Powerful El Nino – 12/2/2015

According to some meteorological experts, the developing El Nino weather phenomenon now appears to be the strongest that has ever been observed. El Nino occurs approximately every two to seven years as an unusually warm area of water develops in the central and east-central equatorial region of the Pacific Ocean.

 

Wind Damage – A Common Cause of Moisture and Mold in Residential & Commercial Properties – 11/9/2015

Each year, wind damage caused by thunderstorms, microbursts, tornadoes and hurricanes results in billions of dollars in property damage. While it is true that certain regions of the country are more susceptible to high velocity winds than others areas, they can and do occur virtually everywhere.

 

Fall Property Maintenance Tips to Help Avoid Common Indoor Environmental Quality Issues – 11/2/2015

With the fall season in full swing, now is an ideal time to check the condition of a home or commercial property and perform some preventive maintenance tasks. Taking steps now can help to ensure a property is in good condition to provide a safe and comfortable place for building occupants before cooler winter weather arrives.

 

Preventing Common Sources of Water Damage and Mold Growth – 10/7/2015

One of the most common reasons for an insurance claim in a commercial or residential property is due to water damage. Water damage can be caused by many factors, including natural flooding events, leaking roofs and windows, indoor plumbing leaks and even sewer backups.

 

Occupational Allergens May Exist Everywhere from High-Rise Office Buildings to the Factory Floor – 10/1/2015

It may be hard for everyone to accept, but some people are actually allergic to their work. For countless employees in a wide range of professions, occupational allergens can make it difficult, if not impossible, to be a productive employee.

 

OSHA Imposes Costly Asbestos Violations for Two Affiliated Construction Companies – 9/8/2015

Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced that two affiliated construction companies and one of its managers is facing almost $1.8 million in fines.

 

Mold in Classrooms a Problem for Some Students and Faculty as the New School Year Begins – 9/1/2015

Students in many parts of the country have already been in class for weeks, while others start the new school year after Labor Day. Regardless of when students begin school, the indoor environmental quality of their classrooms and other facilities is an essential component for their well-being and ability to learn.

 

Deaths due to Legionnaires Disease Results in Widespread Order to Inspect Cooling Towers – 8/10/2015

The outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in New York continues to grow. So far, 10 people have died from the condition and over 100 have reportedly been infected.

 

Thousands Evacuated and Countless Homes and Businesses Threatened by California Wildfires – 8/5/2015

Close to two dozen wildfires are burning across California as of the first week of August. The ongoing drought conditions, warm temperatures and strong winds have fueled the fires that have forced the evacuation of thousands of residents in different parts of the state.

 

Identifying Naturally Occurring Asbestos Hazards at Worksites – 8/3/2015

Asbestos is the name given to a group of six different fibrous minerals that occur naturally in the environment. These minerals can be found in soil and rock formations in many regions of the Western United States.

 

Seasoned Environmental Expert & Forensic Engineer the Newest Additions to Clark Seif Clark – 6/8/2015

Clark Seif Clark (CSC) is pleased to announce that Jeff Bannon, PG and Mike Hennessy are now part of the company’s esteemed group of veteran industry professionals. Together, they bring decades of combined environmental consulting, geology and engineering experience to benefit Clark Seif Clark’s list of clients.

 

Is Your Home, School or Place of Business Suffering from Sick Building Syndrome? – 6/1/2015

As defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the term “sick building syndrome” (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.

 

Could Isocyanates from the Application of Spray Polyurethane Foam Cause Indoor Environmental Concerns? – 5/11/2015

Across California and the Southwest, spray polyurethane foam (SPF) has become a popular alternative to other forms of insulation in homes and buildings due to its excellent insulating properties. In many applications, SPF also has the ability to protect against moisture, fill cracks and crevices, and works well to reduce airborne sounds in urban areas.

 

Demolition Projects and Air Quality Concerns for Workers and Nearby Residents – 5/4/2015

Last month, The Desert Sun published a report about the demolition of a 229 room hotel and spa in downtown Palm Springs. The article stated that the building, constructed in the 1960s, was found to contain asbestos during the demolition project. Due to this find, containment of the worksite and air monitoring was put into place to prevent exposure to any asbestos fibers released into the air.

 

IAQ Professionals Identify Indoor Pollutants to Help those Suffering from COPD – 4/8/2015

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the United States according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The agency reports that it claims more than 120,000 American lives each year and that more than 12 million people have been diagnosed with the condition.

 

Structure Fires Can Damage More than Just the Property Touched by Flames – 4/1/2015

Fire departments across the United States respond to over 1 million fires of all types according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Many of these fires take place in people’s homes and businesses and in addition to causing injuries and deaths in some circumstances, also result in billions of dollars in property damage.

 

California Introduces New C-22 Asbestos Abatement Classification – 3/9/2015

On January 1st, California’s new C-22 Asbestos Abatement Contractor Classification went into effect. This new classification does not replace the existing 7058.5 asbestos certification and a contractor can hold either of these asbestos abatement work authorizations, depending on their licensure needs.

 

TCE Exposure Risks Due to Vapor Intrusion & Other Pathways – 2/10/2015

Vapor intrusion occurs when there is a migration of volatile chemicals from contaminated groundwater or soil into an overlying building. Volatile chemicals emit vapors that migrate through subsurface soils and into indoor air spaces that can cause exposure concerns for the building’s occupants.

 

Environmental Professionals Share Information about Lead Poisoning Risks at Shooting Ranges – 2/02/2015

There are an estimated 9,000 non-military outdoor firing ranges and approximately 16,000 to 18,000 indoor ranges operating in the United States according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The U.S. military alone operates more than 3,000 indoor firing ranges.

 

Ways a Home’s Ventilation Could Cause Indoor Air Quality Issues – 1/12/2015

Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors so the indoor air quality (IAQ) in their homes is a critical component of a healthy life. At times, indoor pollutants can accumulate to levels that can pose health and comfort issues, particularly when there is too little outdoor air entering a building.

 

Mold Often Follows Water Damage from Burst Frozen Pipes – 1/5/2015

During the chilly months of January and February, pipes may freeze and burst in any type of building. Each year, this type of water damage results in billions of dollars in property damages.

 

 

Press Releases 2014

 

Property Damage Results from Heavy Rains across California – 12/8/2014

The first week of December soaked most of California with much needed rain. Along with the rain came flooding in some areas, backed up sewers, toppled trees and even mudslides.

 

Building Science Experts Offer Tips to Prevent Water Damage, Mold & IAQ Problems during the Winter Season – 12/5/2014

Even though the official start of winter is still several weeks away, many parts of the country have already experienced snow and freezing weather.

 

Property Managers Turn to CSC to Resolve Mold and IAQ Issues – 11/12/2014

According to some estimates, there are approximately 30 million apartment units in the United States. These units are managed by landlords and professional management companies and range from low income apartments to luxury living accommodations.

 

Derrick Denis Shares His Building Restoration Expertise with R&R Magazine – 10/13/2014

In the September issue of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) magazine, Clark Seif Clark’s (CSC) Derrick A. Denis had the opportunity to provide his insight into the pros and cons of vacating a building that is part of a restoration or remediation project. The article, “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” sheds light on this touchy subject so that restoration and remediation professionals are not caught off-guard when it is time to make the tough call.

 

San Diego Fined for Failing to Properly Enforce Storm Water Regulations – 10/06/2014

Last month, the City of San Diego was fined for failing to enforce rules that require storm water runoff to be properly treated before it enters nearby bays and the ocean through a municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4).

 

New Cases of Occupational Asthma can often be Prevented – 09/08/2014

Occupational asthma, also known as work-related asthma, impacts workers’ quality of life and reduces their productivity. It is the most common occupational lung disease in the United States and the condition increases costs to employees, families, businesses and even taxpayers.

 

Northern California Residents Cautioned to be Aware of Indoor Hazards Following Recent Earthquake – 08/25/2014

On August 24th, the strongest earthquake to hit Northern California in 25 years caused widespread damage to properties and injured dozens of people. The 6.0 magnitude earthquake’s epicenter was a few miles southwest of Napa and it knocked out power for thousands of area residents.

 

Respirable Particulates, Airborne Contaminants & Lung Cancer Risks – 08/19/2014

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths and the second most common cancer among both men and women in the United States according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

 

Back to School Can Sometimes Mean a Return to IAQ Problems for Students & Faculty – 08/6/2014

In some parts of the country, students and teachers have already returned to the classroom to start the new school year. Many other districts are gearing up for the annual return as they wrap up building repair and renovation projects that took place during the summer break.

 

Allergens Lurking in Your Indoor Environment – 07/7/2014

With the recent arrival of summer, warm conditions in many parts of the country have people closing their windows and turning on their air conditioners. In many circumstances, closing doors and windows in a home or building can allow concentrations of indoor pollutants and allergens to rise.

 

Hotels and Indoor Environmental Quality – A Critical Component – 07/1/2014

Last month, media outlets reported that workers from a hotel in Michigan took to the streets with signs warning the public about health hazards and mold where they work.

 

IAQ Experts at Clark Seif Clark Discuss Asbestos Exposure & Mesothelioma – 06/9/2014

Many people with malignant mesothelioma have worked or lived in places where they inhaled or swallowed asbestos. Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which cancer cells are found in the thin layer of tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs or the thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers many of the organs found there.

 

Structures not Touched by Recent Wildfires May Still Be Impacted by Smoke Residues – 06/2/2014

To date, California has experienced a record wildfire season with CAL Fire reporting 1,563 fires between January 1st and May 17th of this year. This number compares to a 5 year average of 831 during the same time period.

 

Indoor Air Quality Needs to be a Top Priority Following any Flood – 05/1/2014

While some parts of the country have had a relatively dry spring, other regions have experienced heavy rains that have resulted in flooding events and water damage to homes and buildings.

 

R&R Magazine Features Article from Prominent Indoor Environmental Quality Expert – 04/7/2014

In the March issue of Restoration & Remediation magazine, Clark Seif Clark’s Derrick A. Denis had the opportunity to provide his insight of some common indoor environmental quality (IEQ) issues and hazards that restoration and remediation contractors might face during the course of their work.

 

Clark Seif Clark’s Derrick Denis Elected as IAQA Vice President & to the Board of Directors – 04/1/2014

In March, the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) concluded their 17th Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. The annual meeting and exposition is one of the premier events for professionals from across the globe that provide services and solutions for indoor air quality issues.

 

Indoor Environmental Expert Shares His Experiences with IAQ Radio – 03/10/2014

For the past 6 years, ‘IAQRadio’ has been providing a venue for professionals dealing with various indoor environmental issues to discuss the industry.

 

Property Owners Encouraged to be Aware of Potential Mold Problems in Crawl Spaces – 03/05/2014

When mold is visibly growing on walls, ceilings or the floor of a home or other type of building it is pretty obvious that there is a moisture problem and a mold issue.

 

Lead Still a Hazard for Millions of Children in the United States – 02/11/2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are approximately half a million U.S. children, ages 1-5, with blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter, the reference level at which the agency recommends to initiate public health actions.

 

Clark Seif Clark Announces Merger with CSC Targhee – 01/02/2014

Established in 1987, Targhee, Inc. has been providing customers with a wide range of technical and consulting services related to environmental chemistry and regulatory compliance. Targhee’s services have been built upon science-based protocols with a strong background in chemistry.

 

 

Press Releases 2013

 

Environmental Experts Provide Solutions for Contaminated Soils near Properties – 12/16/2013

In August of this year, the City of Los Angeles approved a plan to redevelop Jordan Downs Public Housing Community into a mixed-use development. Concerns have been raised because some of the land in the redevelop plan was used in the past for industrial and agricultural purposes.

 

Environmental Consulting Firm Provides Information and Testing Services to Identify Phthalates – 12/09/2013

In recent years, there has been growing concern over human exposure to a group of widely used chemicals known as phthalates. Phthalates are used in numerous products and materials to soften and increase the flexibility of plastics and vinyl.

 

Indoor Air Quality Experts Educate the Public about Common IAQ Pollutants – 11/11/2013

For most people, the vast majority of their day is spent indoors. Whether at home, in the office, or attending school, many people spend up to 90% of their time in indoor environments.

 

OSHA Warns that Worker Exposure Standards are Out-of-Date – 11/4/2013

Last month, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a news release that stated, “While many chemicals are suspected of being harmful, OSHA’s exposure standards are out-of-date and inadequately protective for the small number of chemicals that are regulated in the workplace.”

 

Building Science Experts Warn of Indoor Hazards following Historic Colorado Floods – 10/1/2013

In September, what some experts have called a thousand year flood ravaged large parts of Colorado. In addition to the floods destroying roads and bridges, several thousand homes and numerous commercial buildings are likely beyond repair.

 

CSC Asbestos Expert’s Article Makes R&R Magazine’s Cover Story – 09/11/2013

Derrick A. Denis had the opportunity to share his vast knowledge of asbestos with readers of Restoration & Remediation magazine.

 

IEQ Expert from Clark Seif Clark Shares Knowledge with Restoration & Remediation Magazine – 08/08/2013

Last month, readers of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) magazine got a special opportunity to hear from one of the nation’s leading indoor air and environmental quality experts.

 

Three Veteran Industrial Hygiene, IAQ & Environmental Professionals Join the Growing Team at CSC – 08/01/2013

Clark Seif Clark is pleased to announce that Dianne Franks, Emmanuel Lao and Marie Tullai have joined the company’s expanding roster of environmental, industrial hygiene and building science experts.

 

Health Concerns due to Hidden Mold – 07/10/2013

When someone walks into a home or building and notices a strong musty odor, this telltale clue may indicate there is microbial growth somewhere in the structure. The building may have visible mold growth, but many times the mold may be growing out of sight.

 

Understanding Categories of Water to Properly Remediate Damaged Structures – 07/02/2013

Coliseum forced the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners out of their locker rooms after sewage was reported to have flooded the facilities. Sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) like this happen every day and can cause extensive damage, costly remediation and create potential health hazards.

 

New Rules Regarding Formaldehyde Proposed by the EPA – 06/10/2013

Last month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed two rules to help protect Americans from exposure to formaldehyde.

 

Flame Retardants under Scrutiny Once Again – 06/4/2013

Last month, concerns over flame retardants and their ongoing impact in young children were in the news once again.

 

Homes not Touched by Recent California Wildfires May Be Impacted by Smoke Particles – 05/06/2013

Last week, Southern California’s wildfire season arrived early with several large blazes across the greater Los Angeles area.

 

IAQ & HVAC Veteran Joins the Growing Team at Clark Seif Clark – 04/08/2013

Joe Johnson brings over 15 years of construction and HVAC experience to the expert team at Clark Seif Clark (CSC).

 

Clark Seif Clark’s Derrick Denis Elected as IAQA’s 1st Vice President – 04/01/2013

Last month, the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) wrapped up their 17th Annual Meeting & Indoor Environment & Energy Expo (IE3) in Orlando, Florida. The important event brought together indoor air quality (IAQ) professionals from across the globe.

 

Study Links Exposure to Cadmium & Lead to Hearing Loss – 03/18/2013

Environmental Health Perspectives, of over 3,500 U.S. adults looked at the relationship between exposure to lead and cadmium and hearing loss.

 

Mold in California School Raises Concerns for Teachers, Students & Parents – 03/12/2013

Star published an article about leaking roofs and health concerns over mold at Fillmore Middle School. The school, which is only a dozen years old, has been plagued with roof problems that have resulted in water damage to the school.

 

Exposure to Metalworking Fluids & Microbial Health Hazards – 02/14/2013

Over one million workers in the United States work in machine finishing, machine tooling, and other metalworking and metal-forming operations. Many of these workers could potentially be exposed to microbial hazards in metalworking fluids (MWFs).

 

Could Something in Your House Dust be Triggering Allergies or Worse? – 02/07/2013

Most people have experienced sneezing, a running nose or itchy eyes while cleaning activities are going on in their home or office. These conditions are often caused by exposure to airborne dusts that are often times full of allergens.”

 

Home Renovations & Remodeling Projects May Expose People to Lead – 01/08/2013

Back in 1991, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services called lead the “number one environmental threat to the health of children in the United States.”

 

Just Released – Winter Season Creates Indoor Environmental Concerns for Many – 01/02/2013

During January and February, many parts of the country experience their coldest temperatures of the year. Even in places many think of as hot deserts, such as Phoenix and Palm Springs, temperatures can reach freezing temperatures at night.

 

 

Press Releases 2012

 

Just Released – Airborne Fungal Contaminants can be an Indoor Health Hazard – 12/10/2012

Most people have been unfortunate to at some point witness water damage in their home, school, or place of business. Water damage, whether from a flood, leaking roof, or broken pipe, can lead to mold growth in as short as 24 to 48 hours.

 

Just Released – Leading Environmental Experts Warn of Asbestos and Microbial Hazards following Hurricane Sandy – 11/16/2012

Two weeks ago, Hurricane Sandy left a path of destruction across many parts of the East Coast. In addition to numerous deaths caused by the historic storm, countless homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed.

 

Just Released – New 2012 HUD Lead Paint Guidelines that Replace the 1995 Edition Released – 11/7/2012

Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released Guidelines for the Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing.

 

Just Released – Clark Seif Clark Selected for Award of Arizona’s Statewide Environmental Consulting Services for Asbestos and Lead Contract – 11/1/2012

Clark Seif Clark is pleased to announce that they have been selected for award of the State of Arizona’s Contract No. ADSPO12-033355.

 

Just Released – Phoenix Industrial Dust Explosion Sends Workers to the Hospital – 10/15/2012

Last month, two workers were rushed to a Phoenix hospital after suffering second and third degree burns following a combustible dust fire at their place of employment.

 

Just Released – New California Guidance Document for Leaking Underground Fuel Tanks – 10/01/2012

Last month, the California State Water Resources Control Board released the “Leaking Underground Fuel Tank Guidance Manual.”

 

Mold Closes California Medical Center – 1/25/2012

In October of last year, the Calavera Enterprise reported that the Valley Springs Medical Center was being temporarily closed due to an unexpected discovery of mold…

 

Odorless Indoor Gases Can Create Safety Issues – 1/19/2012

In September of last year, an 80 year old woman died at a Georgia McDonald’s restaurant after being found unconscious in the ladies restroom…

 

 

Press Releases 2011

 

Norovirus Outbreaks Impact Both Human Health and Businesses – 10/9/2011

An article published this year in USA Today described a double outbreak of the norovirus on a single cruise ship providing vacation trips departing that…

 

California School District Battles Mold Problems Again – 10/7/2011

In September, The Record published an article about mold being discovered in another California school campus. According to the article, the Washington School Development Center…

 

California Home Rental Company Fined for Lead Violations – 10/6/2011

This month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released information about a home rental company that was fined for lead violations in Fresno…

 

Did Deadly Bacteria in a Pool Lead to Multiple MRSA Infections? – 9/13/2011

In July of this year, the Eastern Arizona Courier reported about a recent outbreak of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that took place…

 

Toxic Soil Leads to California Lawsuit – 9/12/2011

In July, it was reported in the Marin Independent Journal that former business owners of a retail store filed a lawsuit against their past landlords…

 

Deadly Fungal Diseases Spread by Birds – 9/8/2011

Cryptococcosis is a potentially deadly disease caused by Cryptococcus fungi. The major species of Cryptococcus that causes illness in humans is Cryptococcus neoformans, which is found…

 

Anthrax Risks Persist from Natural and Manmade Occurrences – 8/4/2011

Anthrax is a serious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium that forms spores. The B. anthracis spores can remain viable in soil for many years…

 

Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak Reported at Las Vegas Resort – 8/3/2011

In July, Reuters reported that a 4,000 room hotel and casino has been linked to an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease or legionellosis. It was reported…

 

Environmental Quality Enforcement and Compliance Veteran Joins the Growing Team at Clark Seif Clark – 8/3/2011

Clark Seif Clark is pleased to announce that Randy Ballard has accepted the position of industrial hygienist at the company’s Phoenix, Arizona office…

 

Leading Building Sciences Firm to Present at the AASBO Conference – 7/19/2011

On July 20th through the 23rd, hundreds of Arizona school business officials and other education professionals will come together for one of the largest and most comprehensive…

 

California’s Indoor Air Quality Program Targets VOCs – 7/19/2011

Volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) refer to chemicals with significant vapor pressures, so they can easily be emitted into the environment as a gas. VOCs can…

 

San Francisco Residents Voice Concerns over Toxins from Hunters Point Shipyard – 7/15/2011

Hunters Point Shipyard was a heavily used naval base from 1941 until 1974. When the base was closed the property was leased to a large machine shop…

 

Los Alamos Medical Center Open for Business after Wildfires – 7/14/2011

The Las Conchas fire in New Mexico has charred thousands of acres and caused the closing the Los Alamos National Laboratory. In addition to closing…

 

Mold Closes California Daycare Center – 6/30/2011

This May, the College of the Sequoias closed the school’s daycare center after mold was found in up to seven areas throughout the building. Parents were contacted…

 

Leading IAQ Consulting Firm Helps Educate People about Aspergillus – 6/29/2011

Aspergillus is a genus consisting of several hundred mold species found in various climates worldwide. It is commonly found in the environment…

 

California Air Pollution Control District Reminds Residents about Asbestos Testing Requirements – 6/28/2011

Recently, the Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control District issued an advisory regarding cleanup efforts in Capitola Village. The concerns resulted from…

 

Phase 1 ESA Gives Property Owners Peace of Mind – 6/13/2011

Performing Phase 1 ESAs, also known as environmental due diligence, are common before commercial property transactions are completed. The Phase 1 site assessment…

 

Source of Mystery Mercury Spill in Arizona Remains Unknown – 5/24/2011

On March 31st, the El Mirage Fire Department released a news bulletin about a mercury spill at a bank-owned home in the town. Fire crews…

 

Leading Building Sciences Firm to Exhibit at the Southern California Facilities Expo – 4/28/2011

On May 4th and 5th, facility professionals will be meeting at the Southern California Facilities Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center. The Southern California Facilities Expo…

 

National Healthy Schools Day Spotlights Indoor Air Quality – 4/11/2011

Across the nation educational institutions are recognizing National Healthy Schools Day. The important day is coordinated by the Healthy Schools Network in cooperation with…

 

Asthma and the Link to Exposure to Mold and Bacteria – 4/5/2011

A new study by European scientists has found that children who grow up on a farm appear to be less likely to develop asthma. In February of this year it was reported…

 

Infrared Expert from Clark Seif Clark Discusses Thermography – 4/4/2011

An article in the February 2011 issue of Indoor Environment Connections (IEC) discusses the benefits and limitations of utilizing infrared (IR) cameras during IAQ investigations…

 

Hair Salons may expose Workers and Customers to Dangerous Levels of Formaldehyde – 4/21/2011

Last year the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) cautioned salons using hair-smoothing products about health risks…

 

Health Conscious Californians Advise How to Improve their IAQ by Selecting the Right Consultant – 3/23/2011

In 1983, California was the first state in the union to create a state IAQ program. The State of California Indoor Air Quality Program is part of the California Department of Public Health…

 

Crystalline Silica Exposure can be Deadly – 3/22/2011

Earlier this month it was reported at ClaimsJournal.com that the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has fined a marble and granite…

 

Mold Issues at an Arizona Hotel Result in Arson – 3/7/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide mold and indoor air quality (IAQ) testing services for residential, commercial and industrial properties. In…

 

Environmental Professionals Play Crucial Role in Remediating ‘Bomb Factory’ House – 3/2/2011

The indoor environmental health and safety professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) recently completed their oversight of an illegal bomb factory in Southern California. In January of this year a re…

 

Mystery Respiratory Illness Reported after Event at the Playboy Mansion – 2/22/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing services to help prevent or respond to outbreaks of respiratory illnesses. Last week the Associated Pr…

 

Vermiculite Insulation could be a Health Threat to Families – 2/7/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide asbestos sampling to ensure building occupants are not exposed to their deadly fibers. Since 2002, the Califor…

 

Water Main Break in Van Nuys Causes Havoc – 2/2/2011

The environmental and indoor air quality (IAQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) have been contracted to respond to lead and asbestos concerns at several flooded apartment complexes. Yesterda…

 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning is Preventable – 2/1/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing services for carbon monoxide and other harmful gases to protect workers and building occupants. In Jan…

 

Mystery Odor Sickens People in Los Angeles – 1/31/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing services to help identify and resolve indoor odor complaints. In early January the Associated Press re…

 

Clark Seif Clark Honored for Contributions to St. Anne’s Charities – 1/24/2011

St. Anne’s, a leading Los Angeles charity, recently recognized the contributions of Franco Seif and Clark Seif Clark (CSC) for years of dedicated assistance. At an awards ceremony last month, the…

 

Legionnaires’ Disease Leads to a $4.5 Million Verdict – 1/6/2011

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing services to help prevent or respond to outbreaks of the deadly disease caused by the waterborne bacteria…

 

 

Press Releases 2010

 

Dangers from Chlordane Pesticides Still a Threat – 12/28/2010

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide inspection and testing services for chlordane and other dangerous pesticides. The United States Environmental…

 

Mold in Schools Can Make Children Sick – 12/27/2010

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive mold testing services to ensure the indoor air quality (IAQ) is safe for students and faculty. I…

 

Record Rainfall in California May Result in Indoor Air Quality Problems – 12/24/2010

The indoor air quality (IAQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide moisture inspections and testing services for mold, bacteria and other contaminants following five days of record storms. …

 

New Green Building Codes Set to be Enforced in California – 12/20/2010

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive testing solutions for new construction and remodeling to meet California’s new green building codes …

 

An IAQ Legend Passes the Torch at the IAQA Los Angeles Chapter – 12/16/2010

Franco Seif’s last workshop as the Los Angeles IAQA Chapter Director took place last week on December 10th. Mr. Seif of Clark Seif Clark, Inc. (CSC) founded the L.A. Chapter on behalf of the American …

 

Veteran Industrial Hygienist Joins the Growing Team at Clark Seif Clark – 11/30/2010

Mr. Christopher Knobble brings his expertise in industrial hygiene to the lineup of industrial hygiene and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark, Inc. (CSC). Clark Se …

 

PCB Dangers Persist in Some Older Structures – 11/30/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing solutions for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to identify their presence and protect building occupants. PCBs belong to a …

 

Odors Cause Health Concerns and Impact Worker Productivity – 11/23/2010

The building science professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide indoor air quality (IAQ) identification services and solutions for commercial and residential property owners plagued by problemati …

 

Thermal Imaging Cameras Provide Important Answers during IAQ Investigations – 11/22/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) utilize advanced infrared cameras to help solve complex indoor air quality (IAQ) and building science issues. Thermal imaging cameras have …

 

Bedbug Treatment Options Abound, But Beware of Scams – 11/19/2010

The environmental and building science professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) play a key roll in identifying safe and effective identification services, prevention advices and control solutions to…

 

Allergens and Air Quality Concerns from Indoor Plants – 11/4/2010

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive consulting and testing services to determine of indoor plants are causing a degraded environment…

 

Mold a Common Fixture in Foreclosed & Abandoned Properties – 10/29/2010

The indoor air quality (IAQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive consulting and testing services for foreclosed residential and commercial properties. This month a number…

 

Environmental Impact of Nuisance Birds – 10/29/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive investigative and sampling services to determine if nuisance birds are causing health risks for building occupants and…

IEQ Testing for LEED Certification – 10/21/2010

The indoor environmental quality (IEQ) professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide comprehensive air sampling services for residential and commercial structures working to achieve LEED certificati…

Stormwater Monitoring & Sampling Season Begins in California – 10/19/2010

The environmental professionals at CSC Targhee, a member of the Clark Seif Clark (CSC) family of companies, are busy helping California companies comply with stormwater regulations. The stormwater…

 

Scripps Health Renews its Contract with Clark Seif Clark (CSC) – 10/12/2010

The environmental and infection control professionals at Clark Seif Clark recently announced their contract to help ensure optimum indoor environmental quality (IEQ) for Scripps Health was renewed …

 

Meth Lab Dangers Risk Building Occupants’ Health – 10/11/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide environmental sampling services for former clandestine methamphetamine laboratories to protect future building occupants from a toxic …

 

Federal Authorities Recommend Removing Corrosive Chinese Drywall – 10/7/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide corrosive Chinese drywall and other indoor air quality (IAQ) testing services to protect building occupants and properties from damage …

 

Asbestos Still a Major Threat in Homes across America – 10/4/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide asbestos and other indoor air quality (IAQ) testing services to protect building occupants from health hazards. From decades of …

 

Buildings with Vapor Intrusion Problems May Pose a Significant Risk to Building Occupants – 9/30/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing solutions for commercial and residential properties to identify vapor intrusion problems and to protect occupants from any …

 

Building Owners & Property Managers Prepare for Strict New Lead Regulations – 9/29/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing solutions for commercial and multi-housing residential properties in preparation of the EPA’s RRP lead testing requirements. …

 

Mercury is still a Hazard in Most Buildings across the U.S. – 9/22/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide mercury and other heavy metal testing services to protect building occupants from its toxic health hazards. Mercury is a metal that …

 

CDC Reports California has New “Superbug” Infections – 9/20/2010

The environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) help medical facilities and infection control professionals combat the growing threat of drug-resistant microbial contaminants. A deadly…

 

Smoke Damage Claims on the Rise from Recent Fires – 9/14/2010

Environmental professionals at Clark Seif Clark (CSC) provide testing solutions for commercial and residential properties for thorough fire and smoke damage investigations. A devastating natural …