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!

Conference Season Starts in 3 Months Save the Date: PACNY 2025 Environmental Conference & EIA 2025 National Conference

With the end of 2024 fast approaching, we are looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to announce the dates for the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York's (PACNY's) 2025 Environmental Conference, taking place on Thursday, February 27th, and Friday, February 28th, 2025, being held at Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York.  This is your chance to participate in the most educational and informative environmental abatement conference in New York State, known for delivering critical insights on the industry’s evolving challenges.

Long Island Attendees of the 2024 PACNY Conference

This year’s PACNY Conference will feature multiple simultaneous sessions to cover a wide range of topics relevant to abatement and environmental professionals.  We are bringing in exciting speakers to address pressing issues facing businesses connected to environmental management today. Some of the speakers already committed include Tom Laubenthal, of TGL Consulting, Inc.; Chris Alonge, PE, of Dormitory Authority of the State of NewYork (DASNY); J. Brent Kynoch, of the Environmmental Information Association (EIA); Dr. David Duoford, CIH, CSP, CHMM, of CanAm Environmental Safety; and Marc Rutstein, of Environmental Consulting & Management Services, Inc.  Whether you’re dealing with asbestos, mold, lead-based paint, or general regulatory compliance, there will be sessions tailored to meet your needs.

Meet the NYSDOL regulators at the PACNY Environmental Conference

For PACNY's sponsors, this is a unique opportunity to engage with over 200 attendees from across the abatement industry. With networking events built into the schedule, you’ll have the perfect chance to introduce your products and services to a captive audience of professionals eager to learn about the latest innovations in the field.

The PACNY Conference Sponsors in the Exhibition Hall

EIA National Conference & Exhibition

And don't forget, right on the heels of the PACNY event, the EIA 2025 National Conference & Exhibition will be held March 9-12, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency in Jacksonville, Florida. Over the past 40 years, the EIA has solidified its reputation as a gathering place for the best minds in asbestos management, mold remediation, environmental sampling, indoor air quality, and environmental management systems.

Part of the New York Contigent at EIA

The EIA 2025 conference offers an unmatched platform for industry experts to exchange ideas, build connections, and explore the most cutting-edge solutions to today’s environmental challenges. Sessions will cover everything from regulatory compliance to cost-effective remediation strategies, providing valuable takeaways for attendees from all sectors.

Not all work at EIA

As with PACNY, the EIA 2025 National Conference presents excellent opportunities for businesses to maximize their visibility. Whether through an exhibit booth, sponsorship, or advertisement, you’ll have the chance to showcase your offerings to a broad audience of decision-makers. Don't miss out—take advantage of the special EIA room rate of $239, available until February 21!

Seen during EIA's Women's Committee Social

Mark your calendars and prepare for a dynamic year of learning, networking, and opportunity at both the PACNY and EIA 2025 events. We look forward to seeing you there!

Angelo Garcia, III's presentation at the EIA 2024 National Conference in San Diego, CA.

Future Environment Designs Celebrating 36 Years in Business: A Journey of Growth, Dedication, and Innovation

As we mark the 36th anniversary of Future Environment Designs, Inc., we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey that brought us here.  It’s been a ride filled with countless milestones, hard-earned lessons, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence.  From our humble beginnings in 1988 to where we stand today, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to protecting your employee's health and safety while delivering top-notch occupational safety and health training and indoor air quality consulting services.

Keeping Employees Safe is part of our business and our motto!

Building a Legacy Through Expertise and Dedication

In the beginning, like most small businesses, we faced our share of challenges.  Navigating a highly regulated industry, gaining the trust of clients, and keeping up with rapidly changing indoor environmental and occupational safety and health standards were no easy tasks. But what set us apart from day one was our dedication to truly understanding the intricacies of the environmental and occupational health and safety field. Whether it was asbestos abatement, mold remediation, managing indoor air quality, or lead hazard control, we immersed ourselves in the details—so that our clients didn’t have to.

Speaking at PACNY!

Our expertise and relentless pursuit of staying ahead in the industry have been the foundation of our success.  Over the years, we have expanded our services, invested in new technologies, and continuously improved our training programs to better serve our clients and partners. This journey of continuous growth allowed us to build long-standing relationships with clients who trust us to handle their most complex indoor air quality and occupational safety and health challenges.

A Focus on Innovation and Adaptability

The occupational health and safety industry is not one that stands still. Regulations change, technology evolves, and the needs of clients shift. Over the last three and a half decades, we’ve prided ourselves on being ahead of the curve. From adapting to new asbestos and mold regulations to embracing the digital transformation in project management and compliance, innovation has been at the core of everything we do.

Speaking at EIA

We’ve taken our knowledge beyond the office and into the field, teaching and training the next generation of environmental health and occupational safety and health professionals. Our training programs have evolved over the years to meet the demands of an ever-changing regulatory landscape, helping hundreds of professionals stay compliant and safe.

The Value of Relationships and Trust

Being in business for 36 years also means we’ve had the privilege of forming deep, lasting relationships with our clients, partners, and team members.  Trust is a word we never take lightly, and earning that trust has been paramount to our success.  Whether it’s a new client who needs guidance through a complex abatement project or a returning partner who knows they can rely on us for expert advice, we’ve always approached each project with the same level of commitment and integrity.

PSEG a long time client

BNL a long time client

To our clients—some of whom have been with us since our early years—thank you for putting your trust in us time and time again.  It is your faith in our ability to deliver results that has allowed us to grow and thrive in this industry.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As we look to the future, we are more excited than ever about the possibilities that lie ahead. The challenges we face today, from climate change to emerging contaminants like PFAS, demand new levels of expertise, innovation, and collaboration.  We are ready to meet these challenges head-on, continuing to evolve (see our updated website) and adapt (changes to the virtual training process) just as we have for the past 36 years.

Updated Website

Our vision remains the same: to protect people, property, and the environment through high-quality consulting, training, and project management services. As we step into our next chapter, we will continue to push boundaries, embrace change, and lead with integrity ("Fallacy of Clearance Air Sampling")—just as we’ve done since 1988.

Fallacy of Clearance Air Sampling at EIA

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next 36 years of innovation, leadership, and success!

Proposed Changes to Title 15 by NYC Department of Environmental Protection: A Summary

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) has introduced proposed amendments to Chapter 1 of Title 15 of the Rules of the City of New York, aimed at clarifying procedures, improving safety standards, and addressing issues raised by the regulated community. NYC DEP is holding a public hearing on the proposed rule.  The hearing will take place on September 25, 2024 at 11:00 AM.  The hearing will be conducted by video conference (click here for more information).  These changes focus primarily on asbestos control and are designed to streamline processes and address specific concerns about project management, record-keeping, and compliance (or in other words where the regulated community has beaten NYC DEP at the NYC Office of Administrative Tribunals and Hearings (OATH)). Below is a summary of the most significant proposed changes:

State-Certified Asbestos Inspector must be supervised by physically present CAIs

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Key Definitions and Clarifications

• ARTS E-File: This web-based system is used by applicants to submit and manage asbestos project notifications, variances, permits, and related documents (including amending these documents). The definition has been clarified to reflect its role in the filing process.
• Asbestos Assessment Report: The "Form ACP-5" now has a clearer definition, ensuring that asbestos investigators accurately report the presence (or absence) of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) even if those materials will not be disturbed by construction activity.
• Physically Present: A new definition specifying that an individual, such as a certified asbestos investigator (CAI), must be physically on-site during asbestos surveys or project oversight. Virtual supervision is not permitted.

Variance Applications and Procedures

• The NYC DEP is proposing updates to how variance applications are handled, particularly for projects involving Section 1-22(b), which requires certification by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). New procedures ensure that work cannot start without the NYC DEP’s approval, preventing confusion and improving coordination between variance and non-variance work.  In addition, it creates a Form V2 and Form V5 both forms are required to be posted at the workplace.
• A new fee category has been created for variance applications related to notifications, permits, and recordkeeping, addressing a previous gap in the rules.

Transition to Digital Certificates

• The NYC DEP is preparing for a shift from plastic certificates to digital or electronic alternatives. These certificates will be issued to asbestos investigators, contractors, and workers, making the process more efficient and environmentally friendly.

On-Site Presence, Supervision, and Recordkeeping for CAIs

• Certified asbestos investigators (CAIs) must now be physically present while non-CAI assistants perform survey work.  Not only present but must be there for the duration of the survey. It has always been NYC DEP's intent that CAI be present onsite during the asbestos survey.  This just makes even more clear, that supervision cannot be from a distance or virtually.
• The rules clarify that both CAIs and State-certified asbestos inspectors can perform bulk sampling, provided that a CAI is physically present to supervise. 
• Recordkeeping clarifications that each requirement for recordkeeping must be satisfied independently.  In addition, the removal of "written description" from blueprint, diagram, or drawing section.  The addition, to this section exact location and type of material where bulk samples were collected or assumed to be ACM.  The survey report must now include the scope of work and information regarding non-certified individuals, along with a description of the activities they engaged in.  Chain of custodies must be prepared in accordance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recording requirements (QA Handbook Volume II Section 8.00).

EPA Chain of Custody

Work Place Safety Plan (WPSP) Updates

• Proposed updates to the Work Place Safety Plan (WPSP) removing the requirement to list non-asbestos contractors and introduce a new requirement: an Occupant Protection Plan. This plan is required if the asbestos project is being performed in a building where both asbestos abatement workers and non-asbestos abatement workers are working at any time during the permitted project.

Record-Keeping and Inspection Procedures

• Clarifications have been made to improve how final inspection and other records are stored, with a specific focus on protecting records from water damage. Contractors, Design professionals, etc. must now report any damage to DEP, ensuring that vital documentation is preserved.

Air Monitoring and Abatement Requirements

• A new section has been added to prohibit abatement work from being performed without air monitoring, reinforcing safety measures to protect both workers and building occupants.  The air monitor must be physically present at the workplace and air monitoring is being conducted.
• New air monitoring requirement for areas where a negative air duct has become damaged.
• Visual inspection prior to clearance must be documented in the project air sampling log, along with the inspection required for the A-TR1 final inspection report.
• Abrasive removal methods, including the use of grinder and beadblasters, are prohibited.

Emergency Projects and Variances

• Emergency asbestos removal projects may now be exempt from certain requirements, streamlining the process to address hazardous situations more efficiently.
• Clarification of what must be filed with the emergency notification.

Project Closeout and Final Forms

• The ACP15 and A-TR1 forms must be submitted to DEP within 21 days of project completion. Failure to comply may result in suspension of a contractor or air monitor's ARTS E-File account. This aims to ensure timely submission and project closeout, reducing delays.

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Conclusion

The some of the proposed changes to Title 15 are a step toward increasing safety, clarity, and efficiency in asbestos project management in New York City.  With these amendments, NYC DEP is addressing issues brought up by the regulated community, improving procedural transparency (in other words, closing loopholes), and paving the way for digital record-keeping and certification. 

Some of these updates highlight a commitment to worker and occupant safety, streamlined compliance processes, and clearer guidelines for asbestos professionals.  However, no changes to the air sampling requirements show that they are still in the dark ages for the need to switch to electron microscopic analysis of air samples for clearance.