EPA and OSHA Have Interesting Timing for Asbestos Regulations

As usual, summer is the busy season for the asbestos abatement industry.  With most schools closed for the summer, this is the perfect time to do asbestos abatement work for the renovation, remodeling, or demolition work necessary.  Interestingly, both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) thought this would be the best time to ask for comments from the public and the industry about asbestos regulations.

Also interesting is that OSHA is looking to reduce regulatory requirements while EPA is looking to create regulations.  OSHA's public comment period ends August 21, 2026, and EPA's docket for public comments closes on August 24, 2026.

OSHA Still Pushing Its Unpopular Asbestos Respirator Proposal

OSHA's proposed changes actually came out July 1, 2025, and that comment period closed on November 1, 2025, after an extension from the original closing date.  As we discussed in our classes, the proposed changes are to reduce compliance burdens, allow for the use of more up-to-date technology, and improve the comprehensibility of the requirements for respiratory protection programs under the standards.  Part of the intent of this proposal was also to better align these standards with OSHA's respiratory protection standard.  However, this proposal would significantly increase a worker's exposure to asbestos.  Just the elimination of the HEPA filter requirement would increase a worker's exposure by 24,000 asbestos fibers in an 8-hour workday.  For more information about these changes, see our blog post OSHA’s Proposed Asbestos Respirator Changes Raise Important Safety Concerns.

On April 1 and May 19, 2026, OSHA consulted with the Advisory Committee and Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) on the proposed changes to asbestos and the other changes they proposed for the chemicals (there are 16 chemicals) that have specific respiratory protection requirements like asbestos.  If you review the meeting minutes of the ACCSH, OSHA's proposal for removing the HEPA filter requirement was rejected, and the same for the proposal to change assigned protection factors.  So we hope, based on all this, that should be the end of this dangerous proposal.

EPA Opens Public Docket for Asbestos Part 2 Rulemaking: A Critical Opportunity to Shape the Future of Legacy Asbestos Regulation

For decades, those of us in the asbestos industry have understood one simple truth: legacy asbestos is the problem that isn't going away.  While the EPA's 2024 rule addressing chrysotile asbestos represented a step forward, it left many unanswered questions regarding the millions of asbestos-containing materials that remain in schools, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and homes throughout the United States.  Those "legacy uses" continue to expose workers, contractors, maintenance personnel, building occupants, and even homeowners to asbestos every day.

Now, the EPA has officially opened a public docket seeking additional information to assist in developing "Asbestos Part 2: Legacy Uses and Associated Disposals of Asbestos" under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).  This is more than another request for comments.  It is an opportunity for the environmental consulting, remediation, industrial hygiene, laboratory, and construction industries to provide the real-world information EPA needs to develop regulations that are scientifically sound, practical, and enforceable.  As someone who has spent decades training asbestos inspectors, project designers, contractors, and consultants, we believe many of these questions deserve thoughtful responses from professionals who perform this work every day.

Why EPA Is Asking for More Information

EPA has determined that additional information is necessary before it can propose a final risk management rule addressing legacy asbestos.  Unlike the Part 1 rule, which focused primarily on ongoing commercial uses of chrysotile asbestos, Part 2 addresses the asbestos that already exists throughout our built environment.  EPA specifically states that the additional information will help develop:

• Practical regulatory requirements
• Economic analyses required under TSCA
• Science-based worker protections
• Feasible implementation strategies

That last point is important.  Protecting workers is essential, but regulations must also recognize how asbestos work is actually performed in the field.

Demolition and Renovation Projects

One area EPA is examining involves demolition and renovation projects that fall below the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) thresholds.  Anyone working in our industry knows this is where many exposures occur.  EPA's asbestos NESHAP requires inspections, notifications, work practices, and trained personnel when projects exceed:

• 260 linear feet (LF)
• 160 square feet (SF)
• 35 cubic feet (CF)

But thousands of smaller renovation projects occur every year that never trigger these requirements.  EPA wants to know:

• Are building owners hiring accredited asbestos professionals?
• What work practices are being used?
• Are wet methods, containment, and proper disposal still being followed?
• What happens in single-family homes?

These are important questions because many exposures occur during "small jobs" that are incorrectly assumed to present little risk.  As we've discussed in our asbestos training classes for years, the amount of material removed does not determine whether asbestos fibers are released.  The work practices do.  See our blog post on how floor tile removal can cause asbestos exposures: "Asbestos Floor Tile Debate Results"

Self-Employed Contractors

Perhaps one of the most significant sections of EPA's request concerns self-employed contractors.  OSHA's asbestos construction standard applies to employees.  It does not apply to many self-employed individuals (i.e., handymen).

EPA wants information about:

• Flooring installers
• Drywall contractors
• Roofing contractors
• Renovation contractors
• Siding contractors
• Handymen
• Sole proprietors

Questions include:

• How often do they disturb asbestos?
• How do they identify asbestos-containing materials?
• Do they receive asbestos awareness training?
• What engineering controls do they use?
• What barriers prevent them from having suspect materials analyzed before beginning work?

This is a conversation our industry has needed for years.  Many self-employed contractors work in older buildings where asbestos-containing materials remain common. Unfortunately, many rely solely on experience or visual assessment rather than laboratory analysis.  That approach is risky—not only for the contractor but also for their clients and anyone occupying the building.

Legacy Asbestos Products Still in Service

EPA is also looking beyond insulation and floor tile.  The agency is requesting information about asbestos still present in:

• Industrial equipment
• Pumps
• Valves
• Gaskets
• Packing materials
• Brakes
• Clutches
• Electrical equipment
• Textiles
• Heat-resistant fabrics
• Commercial appliances
• Boilers
• Furnaces
• Kilns
• Elevators
• Military equipment

Many younger environmental professionals may never encounter some of these products.  Those of us who have been in the industry for several decades know they are still out there.  Understanding where they remain, who works with them, and how often they are disturbed will be critical in developing effective regulations.

The Air Sampling Debate Continues

One section of EPA's request immediately caught our attention.  EPA is requesting information regarding the use of:

• Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM)
• Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

Specifically, EPA asks whether laboratories have sufficient TEM capacity if lower exposure limits ultimately require TEM analysis instead of PCM.  Anyone who has followed our writing knows we have discussed the limitations of PCM for years.  PCM counts fibers.  TEM identifies asbestos.  Those are two very different things.  See our blog post: "The Fallacy of Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) Clearance Air Sampling, or 5 Reasons Why We Should Stop Using PCM for Clearance."

EPA is asking practical questions that deserve careful consideration:

• Can laboratories handle increased TEM demand?
• What would increased costs mean?
• How much longer would turnaround times become?
• Would compliance monitoring become impractical?

These aren't academic questions.  They directly affect contractors, consultants, industrial hygienists, laboratories, regulators, and building owners.  Finding the balance between scientific accuracy and practical implementation will be one of the biggest challenges facing EPA.

Practical Experience Matters

One aspect we appreciate about this request is that EPA is not simply asking for opinions.  The agency is requesting:

• Exposure data
• Industry practices
• Economic impacts
• Laboratory capabilities
• Engineering controls
• Worker training information
• Real-world implementation challenges

This is exactly the type of information regulators need.  Those of us working in the field every day understand that regulations look very different on paper than they do during an emergency water loss, a school renovation, a hospital shutdown, or an industrial outage.  Field experience matters.

This Is Your Opportunity to Be Heard

EPA cannot develop effective regulations without meaningful participation from those who perform this work every day.  If you are an

• Asbestos consultant
• Industrial hygienist
• Laboratory director
• Project designer
• Contractor
• Building owner
• Safety professional
• Environmental attorney
• Training provider
• Equipment manufacturer

This is your opportunity to contribute.  Your experience can help ensure future regulations improve worker protection while remaining practical and achievable.

Final Thoughts

The asbestos industry has evolved tremendously over the past four decades.  Technology has improved.  Analytical methods have advanced.  Training has become more comprehensive.  Yet legacy asbestos remains one of the most significant occupational and environmental health challenges facing our country.

EPA's Part 2 rule has the potential to shape asbestos management for decades to come.  Whether that rule becomes practical and effective depends, in part, on the quality of information EPA receives during this public comment process.  As we've said many times throughout our careers, "good regulations are built on good science—but they must also be informed by real-world experience."

This is one of those opportunities where the professionals who work with asbestos every day can help shape the future of our industry.  Let's make sure our voices are heard.

**Call to Action**

If you work in the environmental, construction, remediation, industrial hygiene, or laboratory industries, we encourage you to review EPA's questions carefully and consider submitting comments based on your professional experience.  Your input could influence how legacy asbestos is regulated for years to come—affecting worker protection, building owners, contractors, laboratories, and consultants nationwide.

At Future Environment Designs, we will continue monitoring this rulemaking process and providing updates as additional information becomes available.  We will also continue to incorporate these regulatory developments into our asbestos training programs so that inspectors, designers, contractors, and environmental professionals remain informed and prepared for the future.

The best regulations are developed when regulators listen to those who do the work every day. This is one of those opportunities. Don't let it pass.

Future Environment Designs wishes all of you a Merry Holidays and a Happy New Year!

As we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, we reflect that 2025 was a really good year for Future Environment Designs, Inc. (FEDTC).  We trained over 1,000 individuals this past year, and over 870 of them reviewed us and gave us a 4.9 out of 5 evaluation on the over 25 different training programs we provided.  Our At Your Convenience Service provided respirator fit testing and medical evaluations for over 50 individuals.   As we continue to provide these different training programs and services into 2026, we look forward to partnering with more companies and individuals as we enter our 38th year in business.  We are still working on a balance between the company and our personal life (though in 2025, we did celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary by taking a three-week European Vacation).  Which is almost always intertwined.

Verona, Italy, to see the opera Carmen at the Colosseum

HERALD 2025 GreenBIZ Award 

Future Environment Designs was proud to announce that Angelo Garcia III, Principal-Industrial Hygienist and Founder, had been selected as a recipient of the HERALD 2025 GreenBIZ Award, presented by HERALD Community Newspapers and RichnerLIVE. The inaugural GreenBIZ Awards recognize Long Island companies and individuals leading the way in environmental sustainability and community impact. Mr. Garcia was chosen for his more than 30 years of commitment to improving environmental health and safety through education, advocacy, and industry leadership.  

Angelo Garcia, III, Awarded Green Biz Award

PACNY 2025/2026

We were honored to be re-elected to the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY). board back in January.  The 2025 Environmental Conference was one of our most successful conferences ever.  Having the highest number of vendors in the Vendor Exhibit Hall.  The panel we put together went over very well. Read about last year's conference in our March 30, 2025, blog post.

Front Row - Tom Laubenthal & Matthew Brooks
Back Row - Chris Alonge, Marc Rutstein, & Angelo Garcia, III

The 2026 PACNY Environmental Conference registration and sponsorship sign-up have already opened.  Visit their website here to register or sign up for sponsorships.  We will have the pleasure of presenting with Martin Rutstein and Marc Rutstein of Environmental Consulting and Management Services, Inc., on "Asbestos in Settled Dust- Is it a valid method in a consultant’s toolbox? Two case studies."  It should be very entertaining.

The Fight to Ban Asbestos and Protect Workers From Asbestos Exposure continues.

In September, we attended the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization's (ADAO's) conference at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, New York.  We learned about the continuing work going on regarding Dr. Irving Selikoff's legacy of protecting workers from asbestos exposure.  See our December blogpost regarding the conference.  At the conference, we learned about the industry challenge of the current ban, see our blog post “Chrysotile Asbestos Banned? More Like Certain Conditions of Use Will Be Eventually Banned!“ and the introduction of the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act see our September blog post.  

BADGES: A Memorial Tribute to Asbestos Workers

So in 2026 we will be keeping watch regarding the industry challenge to the current ban, the status of ARBAN, the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) progress on Legacy issues (see our December 2024 blogpost regarding this issue) and finally the Occupational Safety and Health Administraion (OSHA) proposed changes to the asbestos respirator requirements (see our August blogpost regarding this issue).

Having Fun in 2026

We will continue our podcast "After The Refresher" on our YouTube Channel, we're up to episode 4, and the podcasts have been well received (see our October blogpost regarding the podcast).  We look forward to continuing the episodes and interviewing various individuals who attend our classes.  We look forward to showcasing our new display at this year's PACNY Environmental Conference.  We would like to thank Tom Watral from Watral Brothers, Inc. for doing a promotional video regarding FEDTC's At Your Convenience services.

We are so grateful to all our clients for your loyalty and the support of our business.  We could never have made it to 38 years in business without it.  We would also like thank those who have helped our business operate these past years!  We wish you all a Merry Holiday and a Happy New Year season!

Rockefeller Christmas Tree, NYC

Future Environment Designs, Inc. Celebrates 37 Years in Business With a New Program Called "After The Refresher"

On October 5, 1988, Angelo Garcia, III, founded Future Environment Designs, Inc. (FEDTC) as an indoor air quality consulting and training service to the facility management sector.  Since then, we have transformed the company into a provider of asbestos, mold, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance training.  That has enabled us to continue for 37 years, with plans to continue for at least another 13 years.  

Once we converted the company into a training company, we became completely focused on our Blue Ocean Strategy of separating our company from our competitors by including additional services in our training courses to meet our clients' needs.  Services like:

• supplying personal protective equipment (PPE),
• providing quantitative respirator fit testing,
• providing respirator medical evaluations, 
• our monthly Safety Suzy newsletter with content on asbestos, mold, indoor air quality, and occupational safety and health information, 
• our blog where we post items of interest and discussion, 
• our negative air app, 
• our air sampling charts, 
• our training library, 
• our partnership with SiteDocs, 
• and all of it found on FEDTC's website.

In keeping with our Blue Ocean Strategy, we are starting a program called "After the Refresher".  "After the Refresher" will consist of interviews and recordings with people who attended our refresher classes, where our attendees get to introduce themselves and we discuss some of the topics we covered in the refresher class.  As we develop this program, we hope to interview people at conferences and other events that have an impact on the asbestos, mold, and OSHA compliance business.

In our first episode above, we discussed the different items we are currently discussing in our asbestos refresher courses.  In our second episode below, we interviewed John Paciulli of Insight Environmental, Inc., on the new New York State Department of Labor fact sheet on asbestos surveys and how it would impact the asbestos and mold industries.  We also discuss issues regarding contamination assessments.

As we continue to develop these programs and services, we are looking forward to what the next 13 years have to offer.  When you watch these programs, please don't forget to subscribe to Future Environment Designs Training Center's YouTube Channel and hit the like button.  Thank you!

EIA Joins Coalition in Strong Support of the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2025

On September 16, 2025, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), and Representative Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act of 2025. This long-overdue legislation finally addresses what many of us in the asbestos and environmental industry have been fighting for decades: a complete ban on asbestos in all its forms.

Asbestos Pipe Insulation Properly Managed

The bill is named in honor of Alan Reinstein, a passionate advocate for asbestos awareness whose legacy continues through the tireless work of his widow, Linda Reinstein, and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO).  If passed, ARBAN will eliminate all asbestos imports and uses, close the dangerous loopholes left by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA's) 2024 Risk Management for Asbestos, Part 1: Chrysotile Asbestos rule, and ensure that protections are permanent through law - removing the risk of judicial reversal.

J. Brent Kynoch, Managing Director of EIA

The Environmental Information Association (EIA), representing professionals across asbestos abatement and environmental remediation (Future Environment Designs, Inc. (FEDTC) is a proud member of EIA), has proudly announced its strong support for ARBAN. J. Brent Kynoch, Managing Director of EIA, stated:

“On behalf of the Environmental Information Association, I express our strong support for the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2025.  We greatly appreciate the continuing commitment of Congress to finally ban commercial asbestos—a toxic substance our members have worked tirelessly to help manage and remediate for decades.  With the passage of ARBAN, the United States will finally join nearly 70 countries that have already taken decisive action to protect public health.”

For those of us in the industry, the facts remain painfully clear: asbestos exposure has caused generations of suffering, disease, and death.  The scientific consensus is undeniable—there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.  Yet in 2025, asbestos remains legal in the United States.  ARBAN represents the first comprehensive solution that will finally align the U.S. with international public health standards and put an end to preventable asbestos-related tragedies.

Linda Reinstein of ADAO

Linda Reinstein, President of ADAO, powerfully reminded us:

“We have known for decades that asbestos causes suffering, disease, and death.  It is long past time to end the importation and use of all asbestos in the United States and put a stop to the preventable tragedies that have claimed far too many American lives.”

The legislation has already garnered strong early support from a broad coalition, including ADAO, the American Public Health Association (APHA), Environmental Working Group (EWG), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Center for Environmental Health (CEH), and EIA, among others.  These organizations represent public health advocates, labor unions, scientists, and industry experts who have all witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of asbestos exposure.

ARBAN would:

• Ban all asbestos — including all six recognized fibers, plus winchite and richterite
• Close regulatory loopholes left by EPA’s 2024 rule
• Ensure permanent protections through legislation immune to court reversal

With more than 40,000 Americans dying each year from asbestos-related diseases, the stakes could not be higher.  Passing ARBAN is not only about preventing illness and death today - it is about securing a healthier, safer future for workers, families, and communities across the nation.

As someone who has spent their career in the asbestos and industrial hygiene field, we cannot stress enough how critical this legislation is.  The United States has delayed for far too long.  It is time for Congress to act.   Contact your legislators today and urge them to support the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2025.  Together, we can end asbestos use in the U.S. once and for all.

Related Posts:

• Still Not a #BanAsbestos: Over 40 Years in the Asbestos Industry and the Ongoing Fight for Real Change
• Chrysotile Asbestos Banned? More Like Certain Conditions of Use Will Be Eventually Banned!

A Bitter Birthday: Celebrating NIOSH’s Legacy Amid Uncertain Times

 Today, April 28, marks the anniversary of the day NIOSH first opened its doors in 1971, following the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Congress created NIOSH — the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health — to "assure so far as possible every working man and woman in the Nation safe and healthful working conditions."

Types of Respirators

For more than half a century, NIOSH has stood as a cornerstone of worker protection.  Its research has helped shape critical safety standards for asbestos, silica, lead, heat stress, mental health, and countless other hazards across industries.  From construction sites to healthcare settings, from manufacturing floors to environmental consulting offices, NIOSH’s work has been integral to safeguarding the health and lives of American workers.

But this year’s celebration is bittersweet — and frankly, alarming.

In a stunning and deeply concerning move, mass layoffs have gutted key NIOSH research and education programs.  Overnight, the agency’s capacity to investigate workplace hazards, develop scientific guidelines, and educate the next generation of safety professionals has been drastically reduced.

The consequences of this cannot be overstated.  Without NIOSH’s leadership:

• Standards for silica, a deadly airborne hazard linked to silicosis and lung cancer, are now at risk of stagnating.

• Protections against lead exposure, which affects the brain and nervous system, could weaken.

• Efforts to address heat-related illness, a growing crisis as climate change intensifies, are left vulnerable.

• Momentum around mental health in the workplace, a long-ignored pillar of occupational safety, may lose critical support just when it's finally gaining ground.

Occupational safety and health cannot afford to stand still — and it certainly cannot afford to move backward.  Every advance we’ve made — every reduced injury rate, every improved standard, every saved life — was built on a foundation of science, research, and proactive leadership.  Without a strong, fully functioning NIOSH, that foundation starts to crack.

Thankfully, the fight to #SaveNIOSH is growing stronger by the day.

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) are actively advocating through letters, partnerships, and a public #SaveNIOSH campaign.  Workers, safety professionals, and the general public are encouraged to use the Voter Voice system to contact legislators, share their support on social media, and help safeguard worker protections that are critical to U.S. health, safety, and economic well-being.

A coalition of 460 organizations is urging Congress to stop the planned layoffs at NIOSH, warning that cutting more than 870 employees would cripple efforts to protect the health and safety of 164 million U.S. workers.  These cuts — part of a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) restructuring set to take effect by June 30 — would devastate critical programs like the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory,  providing info on Firefighter research, services, and health and safety information, and Coal Workers' Health Surveillance Program and other such initiatives.

NYC FireFighter

The coalition emphasizes that NIOSH provides the nation’s only dedicated federal research on preventing workplace injuries and illnesses — losses that cost the U.S. economy more than $250 billion annually.

Lawmakers, including Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA), are demanding hearings and greater transparency, arguing that gutting NIOSH would not only endanger workers but also undermine decades of public health progress and weaken evidence-based solutions that have saved countless lives.

Protecting NIOSH is not just about preserving an institution — it's about maintaining a safer, healthier workforce and a stronger economy. It’s about continuing the work that has made American workplaces among the safest in the world.

As we mark this important milestone, let’s honor NIOSH’s legacy — not just with words, but with action.  Speak up.  Get involved.  Fight for the future of occupational health and safety.

Because workers deserve better.

Future Environment Designs wishes all of you a Merry Holidays and a Happy New Year! EPA delivers an early holiday present!

As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025, we reflect on 2024 and how it has changed us.  2024 has been a good year for Future Environment Designs which helps to keep the business viable as we enter our 37th year in business. We are still working on a balance between the company and our personal life. Which at times can be so entertwined.

PACNY's Holiday Meeting at Skaneateles, NY 

Future Environment Designs is looking forward to 2025 as many of our clients have asked for initial courses in the coming year and we look forward to assisting them with their needs.  We will continue to service the other areas of the State (such as Plattsburgh, Rochester, Syracuse, Hudson Valley, and Buffalo) looking for quality training.  Thank you to all our clients for helping us maintain a 4.8 rating out of 5 for another year! Your positive feedback means a lot to us. If you'd like to share your experience, please visit our course reviews at CourseCheck.  We look forward to continuing our work on the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY) Board of Directors (if reelected), event, and communications committees.  In addition, some indoor air quality consulting work has also come through the door for the New Year we look forward to meeting those needs, too.  

Anthony's Restaurant in Plattsburgh, NY

On a more global note, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on December 3, 2024, that it has determined that disturbing and handling asbestos associated with legacy uses, and asbestos as a chemical substance, poses an unreasonable risk to human health.  EPA's Risk Evaluation for Asbestos Part 2: Supplemental Evaluation Including Legacy Uses and Associated Disposals of Asbestos - Part 2 of the Risk Evaluation for Asbestos, EPA considered chrysotile (serpentine), crocidolite (riebeckite), amosite (cummingtonite-grunerite), anthophyllite, tremolite, actinolite, and Libby Amphibole Asbestos (and its tremolite, winchite, and richterite constituents).  EPA considers this expansion to be consistent with the focus of Part 2 of the Risk Evaluation for Asbestos on legacy uses and associated disposals.  Additionally, the EPA assessed the relevant conditions for the use of asbestos-containing talc because talc has been implicated as a potential source of asbestos exposure.

Rockefeller Centre, NYC

It will be interesting moving forward since this announcement means rules or regulations must be promulgated to mediate the risk.  Especially with a new administration that is looking to reduce regulation.  It will be interesting to see if we get another SNUR.  See our post on the SNUR.  Several items we hope will be addressed:

• a National Aggressive TEM Clearance requirement for all-size asbestos projects.  Read my post regarding clearance.
• a reduction of the exposure limit for all asbestos workers.  Remember EPA in Part One set an exposure limit of 0.005 f/cc for chlor-alkali workers.  Read my post regarding Part One. 
• in addition, a plan to replace phase contrast microscopy with a better method for evaluating worker exposures.
• Getting rid of the greater than 1% rule for asbestos-containing materials (ACM).  Changing it to any percentage even trace amounts would eliminate some confusion between EPA and OSHA regulations.
• Coming up with a method for handling Libby-Amphibole Asbestos.

Bergdorf Goodman, NYC

On a personal note, we will miss our youngest sister Dr. Melissa Garcia who passed on in May. This has altered our view of things a bit. How short life is and the time we have on this planet can end at any time. Specifically, most will not see much of a difference because we have always been a positive (glass half-full) person. Though we're starting to feel our age.  Our worries and cares are very different now and going forward.

Bryant Park, NYC

We look forward to seeing many of you in 2025 as we continue our journey together!

PACNY's 27th Annual Environmental Conference: Insights and Innovations Unveiled at Turning Stone Casino, Part One.

Future Environment Designs, Inc. (FEDTC) was a proud Sapphire Sponsor at the 27th Annual Environmental Conference hosted by the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY). Held at the illustrious Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York, on February 15th and 16th, 2024, this two-day event was packed with enlightening presentations, industry updates, and valuable networking opportunities.

FEDTC's Booth at PACNY's Environmental Conference

Day One Highlights: A Deep Dive into Environmental Challenges

The conference kicked off with an array of expert speakers, setting the tone for an engaging and informative event. Ben Reich of Eurofins opened the sessions with his talk on "Interpretation of Laboratory Results: Complicated Considerations Challenging Mold Sample Reporting." Reich's detailed analysis shed light on the complexities of mold sample reporting, emphasizing the need for meticulous interpretation of laboratory results.

Ben Reich of Eurofins

Also opening the conference on the second track was Charles Merritt of Merritt Environmental Consulting Corp. who educated us with "PFAS: Primary Introduction, 'What is all the talk about?"  Merritt's comprehensive overview of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products and industrial processes since the 1940s) provided attendees with crucial knowledge on this emerging environmental concern.

Charles Merritt of Merritt Environmental Consulting Corp.

Brent Kynoch of the Environmental Information Association (EIA) followed on the first track with "Compliance Chronicles: Understanding Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Rules." His presentation provided a thorough overview of the current EPA lead regulations, helping attendees navigate the intricate compliance landscape.

Brent Kynoch of EIA

Lisa Rogers of Mycometer and Frank Ehrenfeld of Eurofins collaborated on "American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) Standards: Reducing Risk and Adding Value for the Analytical, Environmental, and Occupational Health & Safety Professional." Their presentation highlighted the importance of ASTM standards in mitigating risks and enhancing value across various sectors, including analytical, environmental, and occupational health and safety.

Frank Ehrenfeld of Eurofins, and Lisa Rogers of Mycometer 

Jerrod Garrett from LeChase brought a practical perspective with "Safety by Design: The Crucial Role of Well-Considered Task Hazard Analysis." Garrett's insights into task hazard analysis underscored the importance of proactive safety measures in project planning and execution.

Jerrod Garrett from LeChase

The Fallacy of PCM Clearance: A Critical Examination

Just before lunch, we had the honor of presenting on a topic close to our heart: "The Fallacy of PCM Clearance."  Our presentation aimed to challenge the conventional reliance on Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) for clearance in asbestos abatement projects.  By highlighting PCM's limitations and potential inaccuracies, we advocated for more rigorous and reliable clearance methodologies, like the EPA's Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) method.

Angelo Garcia, III of Future Environment Designs, Inc.

Addressing Disposal Challenges and Standards Updates

Also just before lunch, Jonathan Wagman, the Area Director of Industrial Sales for NY/NE Market for Waste Management, tackled a critical issue with "PCB Disposal: Identification and Disposal of PCB Contaminated Debris." Wagman's expertise in hazardous waste management offered valuable guidance on identifying and properly disposing of PCB-contaminated materials.

Jonathan Wagman of Waste Management

Cole Stanton, representing Sentinel Products, updated attendees on the latest "Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards" with his presentation. Stanton's discussion on standards in the restoration industry highlighted recent advancements and best practices, ensuring professionals stay abreast of current protocols.

Cole Stanton representing Sentinel Products

Engaging Panel Discussions and Safety Insights

Lunch and Networking Break

After lunch, the conference continued with the two tracks coming together for the PACNY Panel Discussion featuring insights from industry leaders including Jesse Scuderi of AEG, Angela Liddell of Paradigm, and Mike Waller of Lozier.  Kevin Hutton of EAST, acted as the moderator. Their dialogue on "Project Designers Discuss Variances and Project Design" offered diverse perspectives on tackling variances and optimizing project designs.

Jesse Scuderi of AEG, Mike Waller of Lozier, and Angela Liddell of Paradigm

After the Variances panel discussion, we returned to the two-track presentations.  The first track was the collaboration between Jeremy Starr of MSA and Jerrod Garrett of LeChase in "Elevating Safety: Unraveling the Importance of Fall Protection for Contractors and Consultants" which was particularly impactful. Their emphasis on fall protection underscored the critical need for comprehensive safety protocols in the construction and environmental sectors.

Jeremy Starr of MSA

Joel Hoomans from Livingston Associates discussing "Attracting and Retaining the Best Talent and Managing an Intergenerational Workforce" was in the second track.  Hoomans' strategies for workforce management resonated with many attendees facing challenges in talent retention and engagement.

Joel Hoomans of Livingston Associates

Finishing Day One and Heading Into Happy Hour

Elizabeth Kirkland of the New York State Department of Labor wrapped up the day's sessions with "Common DOL Inspector Observations." Kirkland's firsthand insights into frequent violations and inspection observations provided invaluable knowledge for ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.

Elizabeth Kirkland of NYSDOL

At the Happy Hour, after day one of the conference, attendees further discussed and got better acquainted with the speakers, made new connections, met the conference sponsors, and left day one with a renewed commitment to advancing environmental practices. Stay tuned for our detailed coverage of the presentations and insights from the second day of PACNY's 27th Annual Environmental Conference!

The 2023 PACNY Fishing Derby - A Beautiful Day on the Lake But Where Are All The Fish?

On Wednesday, July 12, 2023, the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY) held its 10th Annual Salmon Fishing PROAM tournament in Point Breeze, New York.  19 Boats were part of this year's tournament, one more than last year's tournament.  Unfortunately, Future Environment Design's boat this year was down two and only included Ms. Veronica Hansen-Garcia and Angelo Garcia, III but we were in the same boat as the previous year's "Catchin' Hell" piloted by Captain Tom Murray and First Mate Mike.

Sun coming up off Point Breeze

We would to send a great big "THANK YOU" to Darren Yehl of Cornerstone Training (CTI) and PACNY for organizing this event.  This event allows us to catch up with many of the PACNY members and see how the year is doing.  Here was this year's line-up of PACNY members and boats:

• Cornerstone - Sunrise II
• Cornerstone  - Legacy
• Lozier - Richmond II Salmon Doctor
• United Rentals - Tomahawk
• Paradigm Environmental - Shotgun
• Paradigm Environmental - Gone Costal
• Sessler Environmental Services - Intimidator 
• Republic - Double Trouble
• Republic - Troutman
• Future Environment Designs - Catchin’ Hell
• Expert Environmental - Get Hooked
• Abscope Environmental - Make the Turn
• DiVal - Rally Killer
• Aramsco - Mister 
• Aramsco- Lake Runner
• AAC Contracting - Bite Me
• First On-site - 3 Dogs
• Metro Environmental - Rusty Lure
• Cornerstone - Bait Master

Our catch was a bleeder.

A beautiful day on the lake it was actually a perfect temperature with a slight breeze.  This was the first time we took a nap while fishing which was only possible because we only caught one fish the whole time from 6 am to noon.  Though it seems we weren't the only ones.  Thank you again Darren Yehl for making our trip worthwhile by giving us the fish you and your team caught.   After the weigh-in, a catered buffet lunch was provided by the Black North Inn, delicious as always, and the trophies/prizes were awarded.  This year's winners were:  

First On-Site with Captain Jason Matthews of 3 Dogs Sportfishing

We enjoy our trip to Point Breeze every year, however, we have a little trepidation about next year.  The fishing was really bad this year and it looks like we will be missing Sheryl & Matt, again next year.  We will have to decide what Future will do next year.  The event next year will be Wednesday, July 10, 2024.  We hope to see you next year!