Common Hazardous Materials (Hazmats)
- Asbestos
- Lead, Mercury and other Heavy Metals
- Mold / Microbial Growth
- Crystalline Silica
- Hantavirus-Rodent Droppings
- Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB’s)
- Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation
- Radioactive Materials / Radon Gas
- Arsenic
- Ozone Depleting Substances (CFCs/ODS)
- Above Ground Tanks
- Explosives and Combustibles
Occupant Risks (Summary)
- Many installed Hazmats are reasonably safe until disturbed by renovation, demolition, fire or water damage
- Occupants of buildings with loose friable asbestos present are at risk of exposure
- Lead paint can be toxic to children
- PCBs and mercury low risk in undisturbed equipment – potential mercury spillage from thermostats
- Mould growth risk to susceptible individuals
When do Hazmats Become an Issue?
- For workplace owners / employers inventory mandatory at all times
- When renovation or demolition disturbs materials
- When fire or flood damages building
- Property transaction – financial due diligence and liability
Texture finish on walls and ceiling
Vinyl Sheet Flooring (VSF)
Acoustic, Decorative, Texture Finishes
Limpet Fireproofing (Amosite)
Loose Fill Vermiculite Insulation. Location: attics, poured in to cavities of block cores or in cavity wall areas.
Mechanical / Pipe Insulation – Pipes, boilers, tanks,
ducts etc.
Asbestos Cement (Transite or Trafford Tile)
Asbestos Cement Pipe (Transite or Trafford Tile)
Vinyl Floor Tile (VFT) – Can be 9 inch and 12 inches square
Mastics, Coatings and Sealants
Roofing Materials
Asbestos Paper, Textiles and Felts – Asbestos paper on ducts (may be friable)
Drywall Taping / Joint Compound
(DTC / DJC)
Ceiling Tiles
Plaster
Window Putties and Caulking