In our previous blog post on the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York's (PACNY's) 16th Annual Environmental Conference, we mentioned that Dr. Stephanie Ostrowski, of the New York State Department of Health's Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP), was one of the presenters. Dr. Ostrowski's presentation, as we mentioned in our blog, included lengthy discussions on vermiculite and ceiling tiles.
The discussion regarding ceiling tiles included reviewing the decision trees she provided us to help explain the analysis process for regular bulk samples and samples required to undergo gravimetric reduction. Analysis of friable bulk sample (material) must use analysis method 198.1, while non-friable, organically bound (NOB) bulk material must use analysis method 198.6/198.4. Visit my website under Resources for the copy of the decision trees she provided us. Her explainations were excellent and the decision trees did make it easier to understand.
There was also some discussion regarding whether this meant that ceiling tiles were considered NOBs and hence could be removed under the In-plant regulations of New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) Industrial Code Rule 56 (ICR56). Mr. Chris Alonge of NYSDOL came to the microphone and immediately put that issue to rest, saying that ceiling tiles are not considered non-friable, so as such cannot be removed under the In-plant operations section of the regulation. This year's conference was as informative as usual, a great job was done by PACNY, Deborah Johnson of Aramsco, Darren Yehl of LeChase Construction Services and Kevin Hutton of Cornerstone Training Institute.
Future Environment Designs Training Center specializes in asbestos, indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, and occupational safety training programs. We offer New York State asbestos and mold certification courses. We design, develop, and maintain the various indoor air quality, asbestos, and safety programs that are Keeping Your Employees Safe.
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Thursday, April 26, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
More Dangers Related To Toxic Dusts
In our current newsletter (find it at www.futureenv.com), we discuss the hazards of toxic dust at demolition and disaster sites. Three new studies from California seem to support my points regarding the dangers of the dust. Indoor Environment Connections in the February 2012 issue discusses the findings of these studies linking exposure to fine-particulate matter to heart disease.
These study defined particulate matter as a complex blend of substances ranging from dry solid fragments, solid-core fragments with liquid coatings and small droplets of liquid. These particles vary in shape, size and chemical composition, and can contain metals, soot, nitrates, sulfates, and very fine dust. One source of particulate matter, including PM2.5 or fine-particulate matter is exhaust from vehicles, especially diesel engines (which are used frequently on demolition and disaster sites). PM2.5 is particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter (making this particulate matter a respirable dust or dust that can enter into the deep lungs).
The California Air Resources Board (ARB) released three new studies, that indicate exposure to airborne fine-particulate matter significantly elevates the risk of premature deaths from heart disease among older adults and elevates incidence of strokes among post-menopausal women. The third study examined platelets of mice exposed to PM2.5. This study found that the exposed mice showed platelet activation which could promote clotting and lead to stroke and heart attacks. These studies add to the existing scienctific evidence that respirable airborne particulates pose a threat to public health. If these particles pose a threat to public health, what about the threat to workers who are exposed to PM2.5 at their worksites?
These studies further support my call, for the requirement that workers wear respirators on all demolition and disaster sites.
The California Air Resources Board (ARB) released three new studies, that indicate exposure to airborne fine-particulate matter significantly elevates the risk of premature deaths from heart disease among older adults and elevates incidence of strokes among post-menopausal women. The third study examined platelets of mice exposed to PM2.5. This study found that the exposed mice showed platelet activation which could promote clotting and lead to stroke and heart attacks. These studies add to the existing scienctific evidence that respirable airborne particulates pose a threat to public health. If these particles pose a threat to public health, what about the threat to workers who are exposed to PM2.5 at their worksites?
These studies further support my call, for the requirement that workers wear respirators on all demolition and disaster sites.
Related articles
- Toxic Dusts - Demolition Implications (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Honoring Dr. Alice Hamilton For Women's History Month (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Particulate Matter in Our Homes Has a Great Negative Impact on The Elderly (socyberty.com)
- Canadian Health Impacts to Long-Term Exposure to Fine Particulate Matter (pollutionfree.wordpress.com)
- Health Impact of Exposure to Particulate Matter in Beijing, China (pollutionfree.wordpress.com)
- Study finds association between air pollution and cognitive decline in women (eurekalert.org)
- Air pollution may increase stroke, heart attack risk (cnn.com)
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
PACNY 2012 CONFERENCE - MORE CHANGES?
The annual Environmental Conference of the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY) was held at Turning Stone Casino & Resort in Verona, New York. This annual conference has become synonomous with changes - either changing the way we think, new regulations, or new interpetations.
This year's changes (not sure that is the right word, but we will use it anyway), include lengthy discussions about vermiculite (any vermiculite in a sample designates the sample as containing asbestos), and ceiling tiles analysis by Dr. Stephanie Ostrowski of the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP). After last year's PACNY presentation by ELAP and various questions from the audience, ELAP released the April FAQ which answered questions and created new questions regarding a number of items. Major points from Dr. Ostrowski was materials similar to NOBs such as ceiling tiles and fiberglass (where the materials may block or interfere with analysis of asbestos) should be analyzed using gravimetric reduction. Probably one of the most frustrating parts of Dr. Ostrowski's presentation is her using the word "should" when most in the audience thought she should have used "shall or must". For example, in discussing the vermiculite issue she said laboratories should consider the material asbestos contaminated. If the material cannot be analyzed for the contamination of asbestos, why is it "should" why not "shall". From a suggestion from the audience, Dr. Ostrowski was going to go back and discuss with her collegues the adding of a disclaimer for vermiculite on laboratory reports.
The usual highlight of the conference was the update by Mr. Chris Alonge on the progress of the revisions to Industrial Code Rule 56. Dr. David Duford from CanAm Environmental Safety, Inc. did an excellent presentation, before Mr. Alonge's, on the New York State Building and Fire Code which allowed everyone to have a better idea what Mr. Alonge is referencing in the revisions. Probably the most important announcement by Mr. Alonge was that the New York State Department of State has approved the changes and their review is completed. The next hurdle is the NYS Division of Budget, and we will see what happens next on that front. Mr. Alonge said he hoped for a comment period this summer with possible enactment by the beginning of 2013. We recently got an electronic copy of his presentation for this year and that will be added to our manuals (eventually to our website, too) along with the bulk sample analysis decision trees provided by Dr. Ostrowski.
The conference started with a presentation by Mr. Tom Meade the Executive Director of PACNY and discussions on the need for moral & ethics training in the industry, the micro-managing of the industry, a Bill to Amend Section 904 of the Labor Law, recent finding that sprayed-on fireproofing installed in 2005 came back with 2% chrysotile asbestos, and the findings of the FOIL request regarding New York State Department of Labor's Asbestos Control Program budget & notification fees. Brian Sampson of Unshackle Upstate then discussed the importance of his organization's work in providing a balanced voice for upstate New York, his points regarding the industry was support for tax credits for remediation, support for amending Section 904, and streamlining permitting process.
Other speakers included, Mr. Paul Watson from ATC Associates spoke about PCBs (important point - EPA Guidance Document on Caulk, may become the industry standard); Mr. Bob Krell from IAQ Technologies; Mr. Kevin Murphy from Wladis Law Firm (what to do if an allegation is made against you? - know your rights, know you do not have to say anything, know that saying something can have much more serious consequences than saying nothing, etc.); and Mr. Ron Williams from OSHA (National Emphasis Programs on silica, lead, trenching & excavation). The exhibition hall was a little light this year because of conflicts with other meetings, however, DiVal Safety Equipment had an interesting product Rhinotuff Puncture Resistant Insoles (DiValSafety.com). This product is designed to fit into most types of work boots and shoes to provide puncture resistance. A new vendor at the show was The SAFETY house.com, visit them at www.thesafetyhouse.com.
A big Thank You! to PACNY for inviting me onto the panel discussion this year. I was honored and enjoyed the conference as usual.
Dr. David Duford from CanAm Environmental, Angelo Garcia, III from FED, & Darren Yehl from Cornerstone Training on the PACNY Discussion Panel |
This year's changes (not sure that is the right word, but we will use it anyway), include lengthy discussions about vermiculite (any vermiculite in a sample designates the sample as containing asbestos), and ceiling tiles analysis by Dr. Stephanie Ostrowski of the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP). After last year's PACNY presentation by ELAP and various questions from the audience, ELAP released the April FAQ which answered questions and created new questions regarding a number of items. Major points from Dr. Ostrowski was materials similar to NOBs such as ceiling tiles and fiberglass (where the materials may block or interfere with analysis of asbestos) should be analyzed using gravimetric reduction. Probably one of the most frustrating parts of Dr. Ostrowski's presentation is her using the word "should" when most in the audience thought she should have used "shall or must". For example, in discussing the vermiculite issue she said laboratories should consider the material asbestos contaminated. If the material cannot be analyzed for the contamination of asbestos, why is it "should" why not "shall". From a suggestion from the audience, Dr. Ostrowski was going to go back and discuss with her collegues the adding of a disclaimer for vermiculite on laboratory reports.
The usual highlight of the conference was the update by Mr. Chris Alonge on the progress of the revisions to Industrial Code Rule 56. Dr. David Duford from CanAm Environmental Safety, Inc. did an excellent presentation, before Mr. Alonge's, on the New York State Building and Fire Code which allowed everyone to have a better idea what Mr. Alonge is referencing in the revisions. Probably the most important announcement by Mr. Alonge was that the New York State Department of State has approved the changes and their review is completed. The next hurdle is the NYS Division of Budget, and we will see what happens next on that front. Mr. Alonge said he hoped for a comment period this summer with possible enactment by the beginning of 2013. We recently got an electronic copy of his presentation for this year and that will be added to our manuals (eventually to our website, too) along with the bulk sample analysis decision trees provided by Dr. Ostrowski.
The conference started with a presentation by Mr. Tom Meade the Executive Director of PACNY and discussions on the need for moral & ethics training in the industry, the micro-managing of the industry, a Bill to Amend Section 904 of the Labor Law, recent finding that sprayed-on fireproofing installed in 2005 came back with 2% chrysotile asbestos, and the findings of the FOIL request regarding New York State Department of Labor's Asbestos Control Program budget & notification fees. Brian Sampson of Unshackle Upstate then discussed the importance of his organization's work in providing a balanced voice for upstate New York, his points regarding the industry was support for tax credits for remediation, support for amending Section 904, and streamlining permitting process.
Other speakers included, Mr. Paul Watson from ATC Associates spoke about PCBs (important point - EPA Guidance Document on Caulk, may become the industry standard); Mr. Bob Krell from IAQ Technologies; Mr. Kevin Murphy from Wladis Law Firm (what to do if an allegation is made against you? - know your rights, know you do not have to say anything, know that saying something can have much more serious consequences than saying nothing, etc.); and Mr. Ron Williams from OSHA (National Emphasis Programs on silica, lead, trenching & excavation). The exhibition hall was a little light this year because of conflicts with other meetings, however, DiVal Safety Equipment had an interesting product Rhinotuff Puncture Resistant Insoles (DiValSafety.com). This product is designed to fit into most types of work boots and shoes to provide puncture resistance. A new vendor at the show was The SAFETY house.com, visit them at www.thesafetyhouse.com.
A big Thank You! to PACNY for inviting me onto the panel discussion this year. I was honored and enjoyed the conference as usual.
Related articles
- 16th Annual PACNY Environmental Conference Being Held March 1 & 2, 2012 (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- What Happened with NYS ELAP Ceiling Tile Analysis? (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Kings Park Psychiatric Center Bid Awarded to Low Bidder (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- NYCDEP Issues Advisory Memo (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Chamber Wise: Strategic Priorities for 2012 (sbmonthly.com)
Thursday, March 22, 2012
OSHA Quicktakes Announces HAZCOMM Standard Revision
The March 22, 2012 (Volume 11, Issue 7) of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) "QuickTakes" anounced "OSHA Aligns HazardCommunication Standard with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System ofClassification and Labeling of Chemicals." This announcement has been awaited by the environmental, industrial hygiene, and safety industry for some time now. The QuickTakes discusses the March 20 press teleconference hosted by Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis joined by Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels announcing the final rule updating OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.
The purpose of the revision is to align the standard with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. The standard should better protect workers and help American businesses compete in a global economy.
Assistant Secretary Michaels explained that OSHA's revised Hazard Communication standard (HCS), which will be fully implemented in 2016, benefits workers by reducing confusion in the workplace, facilitating safety training, and improving understandings of hazards, especially for low-wage and limited-literacy workers. The harmonized standard will classify chemicals according to their health and physical hazards, and establish consistent labels and safety data sheets (SDS) for all chemicals made in the United States or imported from abroad. For more information, listen to an audio-recording of the press conference and see the press release.
Employers must train workers on the new label elements and SDS format by December 1, 2013. Chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers must comply with all modified provisions of the final rule by June 1, 2015. However, distributors may ship products labeled by manufacturers under the old system until December 1, 2015. By June 1, 2016, employers must update alternative workplace labeling and hazard communication programs as necessary, and provide additional worker training for new identified physical and health hazards. During this transition period, all chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers may comply with either 29 CFR 1910.1200 (this final standard), or the current standard, or both.
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) pictogram for corrosive substances (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
Assistant Secretary Michaels explained that OSHA's revised Hazard Communication standard (HCS), which will be fully implemented in 2016, benefits workers by reducing confusion in the workplace, facilitating safety training, and improving understandings of hazards, especially for low-wage and limited-literacy workers. The harmonized standard will classify chemicals according to their health and physical hazards, and establish consistent labels and safety data sheets (SDS) for all chemicals made in the United States or imported from abroad. For more information, listen to an audio-recording of the press conference and see the press release.
Employers must train workers on the new label elements and SDS format by December 1, 2013. Chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers must comply with all modified provisions of the final rule by June 1, 2015. However, distributors may ship products labeled by manufacturers under the old system until December 1, 2015. By June 1, 2016, employers must update alternative workplace labeling and hazard communication programs as necessary, and provide additional worker training for new identified physical and health hazards. During this transition period, all chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers may comply with either 29 CFR 1910.1200 (this final standard), or the current standard, or both.
Related articles
- OSHA Quick Takes - SPECIAL ISSUE: OSHA Aligns Hazard Communication Standard with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (ehssafetynews.com)
- US Department of Labor's OSHA revises Hazard Communication Standard (prnewswire.com)
- Workplace Safety and Law Development Expected in 2012 (unitedallianceservices.typepad.com)
- Global Harmonization: What You Need To Know - and Do (ehssafetynews.com)
- Gov't requires new labels for hazardous chemicals (seattletimes.nwsource.com)
- Gov't requires new labels for hazardous chemicals (news.yahoo.com)
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Kings Park Psychiatric Center Bid Awarded to Low Bidder
On Saturday, March 10, 2010, Mr. Carl MacGowan of Newsday wrote an article regarding the demolition jobs that will be created by National Salvage & Service Corp. the winner of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center bid. As we discussed in a previous blog post, we are concerned about whether this contractor understands New York State laws regarding labor, asbestos, transportation, and insurance.
The article states that National Salvage is expected to employ about 65 people to demolish 15 buildings and is unsure how many of those jobs would be going to local people (even if those jobs go to out-of-state people they would have to be paid prevailing wage as per New York State laws). In addition, National Salvage anticipates using local subcontractors for work such as security, surveying, and removing asbestos and hazardous materials. They will also be subcontracting 20% of the work to businesses owned by minorities and women.
Even with all of this we still say, the devil will be in the details. We have discussed this project in several classes, and the concensus in our classes is it will be interesting to see if the project remains at $6.4 million or will the change orders and extras bring the project closer to the $15 million budget or exceed it?
This equipment could be used to tear down buildings. |
Even with all of this we still say, the devil will be in the details. We have discussed this project in several classes, and the concensus in our classes is it will be interesting to see if the project remains at $6.4 million or will the change orders and extras bring the project closer to the $15 million budget or exceed it?
Related articles
- Kings Park Psychiatric Center Demolition Up For Bid (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Toxic Dusts - Demolition Implications (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Indiana Firm Wins Kings Park Demoliton Contract (newsday.com)
- Kings Park Psychiatric Center's Lowest Bidder - Cause for Concern? (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- The synchronicity of safety and environment (safetyatworkblog.com)
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Honoring Dr. Alice Hamilton For Women's History Month
Recently saw a tweet by the Young Workers honoring Dr. Alice Hamilton (For Women's history month -- Alice Hamilton (NIOSH video 1988; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E75pST2QTEM&feature=colike). It still surprises us when we see a video on the pioneers in the industrial hygiene field, discussing issues we are still dealing with today. Dr. Hamilton was dealing with imigrant labor being mistreated similar to what we see today with undocumented/illegal aliens. Dr. Hamilton also was dealing with workers being exposed to various toxic dusts and then the workers developing various diseases caused by these exposures. Today we still see this happening as we've written about in our current newsletter (Toxic Dusts - Demolition Implications). When will we learn from our previous mistakes? When will we stop the exposures and the resulting illnesses? When will we start to care?
Image via Wikipedia |
Related articles
Thursday, March 01, 2012
Kings Park Psychiatric Center's Lowest Bidder - Cause for Concern?
We recently received a copy of the range of bids on the Kings Park Psychiatric Center project. Though the low bidder is under the budgeted amount of $15 million (see Newsday article), the spread between them and the next bidder is $1.78 million. The spread between the second and third bidder was only approximately $230,000 and the average bid was $13.988 million. This spread and the fact the low bidder is half the average bid may or may not be cause for concern. It is important to remember that lowest bidder must be a responsible bidder. On this point there are two obvious concerns regarding the lowest bidder, first they are an out-of-state bidder (Indiana) and, as of February 21, 2012, they are not a New York State Licensed Asbestos Contractor. Under New York State Industrial Code Rule 56-3.1 (c), "a copy of a valid New York State Asbestos Handling License shall be submitted by the bidder prior to award of any contract all or part of which involves an asbestos project." At this point, unless the low bidder has a subcontractor doing the asbestos work involved with this contract, they cannot be awarded bid. In addition, out-of-state contractors always cause worries because it brings up questions like:
We have many clients who set-up post bid meetings (some even video tape these meetings) with the contractor and ensure the contractor understands all sections of the contract giving the contractor the opportunity to pull-out of the contract if they missed or misunderstood something. We strongly recommend the designers/owners of this project give this contractor every opportunity to withdraw their bid and make sure the contract is awarded to someone that understands and can meet all the requirements and intricacies of working inside New York State.
- Do they know New York State is a prevailing wage state (meaning you must pay workers on the project the prevailing wage rate for Suffolk County based on their job classification)?
- Do they know that New York State has asbestos regulations that are some of strictest in the country?
- Do they know that New York State requires all workers, including the operating engineers to have asbestos supervisor or handler certificates?
- Do they know that when you do controlled demolition (56-11.5) with asbestos in place in New York State you cannot salvage/recycle/or reuse the building materials, they all (except obvious must be disposed of as regulated asbestos containing materials (RACM)? This means the material have to be hauled by asbestos licensed hauler to an Environmental Protection Agency approved landfill that accepts RACM materials.
- Do they meet the insurance requirements in New York State, has their insurance provided riders or attachments for workers compensation and disability?
Controlled Demolition is covered under NYSDOL ICR 56 |
Related articles
- NYCDEP Issues Advisory Memo (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- What Happened with NYS ELAP Ceiling Tile Analysis? (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Kings Park Psychiatric Center Goes Up For Bid (futureenv.blogspot.com)
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
NYCDEP Issues Advisory Memo
We recently received an advisory memorandum from Mr. Steven A. Camaiore, P.E., the Director of the Asbestos Control Program for New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP). The Advisory had several important points and interesting bits of information. For example did you know NYCDEP was issuing violations directly to asbestos handlers for obvious violations in which the handler was directly at fault? Some of the violations they have issued are:
Another enforcement action NYCDEP announced was giving applicants until March 15, 2012 to close out projects filed in the January and February of 2011. Applicants are required to close-out their project(s), NYCDEP, with this memo, is notifying applicants that if their project is still open after March 15 they will take enforcement action. In addition, NYCDEP will begin strictly enforcing the following sub-sections of the asbestos regulations:
- worker not wearing gloves,
- worker engaged in dry removal,
- worker not taking a shower,
- or a worker altering their certificate.
Asbestos Supervisors are already getting violations for dry removal or 5 or more violations on the site. |
- 1-26 (e) Failure to terminate asbestos abatement permit within year
- 1-44(d) Analysis and Reporting Results
- 1-112 (m) Additional Clean-up Procedures (Final)
- 1-28 (h) Clean-up Procedures: Preparation for Clearance Air Monitoring
Related articles
- NYC DEP Plans Increase In Enforcement On Asbestos Investigators (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Asbestos company owners convicted on criminal charges in Italy; but asbestos still lethal and legal in the US (scienceblogs.com)
- Audits Planned for Asbestos Inspections (green.blogs.nytimes.com)
- NIOSH Blog Discusses Erionite (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- What Happened with NYS ELAP Ceiling Tile Analysis? (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- 16th Annual PACNY Environmental Conference Being Held March 1 & 2, 2012 (futureenv.blogspot.com)
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Fact Sheet About Third-Hand Smoke, Hookahs, & E Cigarettes
We recently read a fact sheet on Third-Hand Smoke, Hookahs, and Electronic Cigarettes that will eventually be available on the website: www.smokefreeapartments.org.
Image via Wikipedia |
Which brings us back to the question what is third-hand smoke? Third-hand smoke is that smell of smoke you get from places where individuals have smoked. Third-hand smoke consists of the chemicals which remain in a room after the smoking has stopped. Many of the chemicals in cigarette smoke can cling to walls, ceilings, & other surfaces or can absorb into carpets, drapes, & other fabrics. A scientific study in 2002 showed that these chemicals can "offgas" back into the air & even re-combine to form harmful compounds that stay at high levels long after smoking has stopped.
The fact sheet is even more interesting when discussing Hookahs which has become because of the false notion that it is safer than smoking cigarettes. Studies have shown that secondhand hookah smoke contains the same cancer-causing chemicals found in secondhad smoke from cigarettes & cigars, along with delivering three times more carbon monoxide, about the same amount of nicotine as cigarettes, and 40% more smoke by volume than cigarettes.While it seems their is not enough information available yet on e-cigarettes. As a whole the fact sheet was very interesting and the website gives resources on banning smoking in apartments, which based on the fact sheet, we would highly recommend building owners develop procedures and rules on handling secondhand and now third-hand smoke.
Related articles
- Secondhand smoke results in graft rejection (eurekalert.org)
- The "New" Cigarette We're All Smoking (Myself Included) (fancyayancey.wordpress.com)
- What exactly are Electronic- Cigarettes? (boldstate.com)
- Second hand smoke in cars still big risk for kids, study says (parentcentral.ca)
- Cigarettes and Smoking Should Be Illegal (thusspokejon.wordpress.com)
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
16th Annual PACNY Environmental Conference Being Held March 1 & 2, 2012
6th Annual PACNY Environmental Conference Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona, NY
Thursday
& Friday, March 1st & 2nd, 2012
This years Speakers are:
Vendor
Tradeshow Registration
Display
your products and services in the Vendor Hall, adjacent to PACNY Conference
Meeting Hall, to over 250 decision makers in the asbestos/environmental
industry. The PACNY conference averages over 250 attendees - the majority of
attendees are decision makers/buyers.
Last
year's conference was very popular with all vendors. Foot
traffic in the Vendor Hall was at an all time high. Registration, breakfast,
and all coffee breaks will once again be held in the Vendor Hall (adjacent to
Conference Meeting Hall) on both days. Also, vendor punch cards will be
distributed to all attendees. Attendees that have their punch cards
"punched" by all vendors will be eligible for a drawing, held on
the second day, for a flat screen TV (winner must be present to claim prize).
The
Thursday (March 1st) afternoon Vendor Reception is
held in the Vendor Hall.
Sponsor Options
Conference
and Vendor Sponsors are the hosts (with no additional responsibilities) for
the Thursday afternoon Vendor Reception held in the Vendor Hall. This
reception is held at 4PM immediately after the last speaker's presentation on
Day 1 of the conference. Hot food, drinks, and adult beverages are provided
at the reception. This is an outstanding opportunity to network and display
your products/services to approximately 250 industry professionals! Last year
the Vendor Reception was the highlight of the conference.
Conference
Sponsor: $1,000.00
Includes
vendor display table, 3 conference passes, 1 page ad in conference program,
listing on sponsor board in registration area, logo display on speaker
backdrop in conference area, logo on PACNY website as conference sponsor, and
logo/firm name on the outside of pre-conference mailings and registration
forms (mailed to over 6,000 industry professionals).
Vendor
Sponsor: $500.00
Includes
vendor display table, 2 conference passes, 1/2 page ad in conference program,
listing on sponsor board in registration area, and logo display on speaker
backdrop in conference area.
Meal
Sponsor: $250.00
Includes
your company name and logo on large tent cards on all lunch tables, on both
days of the conference, as well as a 1/2 page ad in the conference program.
Meal Sponsors will be announced to attendees prior to both days' lunches.
Business
Card Sponsor: $50.00
Display
your "business card" ad, 1/4 page ad, in the conference program.
To secure your
sponsorship...
Please
download the form here
as a PDF, complete it and fax /email
the form to the info on the form.
Payment
is due no later than February 18th.
For
additional information please call either Deb Johnson @ 716-570-6726/
Conference
Attendee Registration Form
Wednesday Evening's
President's Reception, February 29th, 7 - 9PM
Registration by February 18th $225 for one reservation, both days $175 per person for two or more persons, both days $120 per person for one day only
Turning Stone - Room Reservations by February 18th
$115 per night + tax + gratuity $79 per night + tax + gratuity with government voucher For Room Reservations, call Turning Stone at (800) 771- 7711
For
additional conference information please call either Deb Johnson @
716-570-6726/
PACNY, PO Box 3148,
Syracuse, NY 13220, Phone (315) 466-3150, Fax (315) 437-1440, www.PACNY.org
|
About PACNY
PACNY addresses the needs and concerns of abatement
contractors, and those in related industries.
The abatement industry faces many challenges, and this
organization allows contractors to band together to face these challenges,
rather than alone as individual businesses.
PACNY is a powerful, intelligent voice and force in the industry. PACNY's new address is: PO Box 3148
Syracuse, NY 13220
Tel: (315) 466-3150
|
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Toxic Dusts - Demolition Implications
We have posted our Winter-Spring 2012 Newsletter on our website. The main article discusses the implications of toxic dusts on demolition, disaster relief, and emergency response workers. This is an issue I feel really strongly about and if my recommendations are taken seriously, maybe there will be no need for any Zadroga Bills to deal with 9/11 type illnesses in the future.
Related articles
Demolition, Emergency Response, and Disaster Relief Workers should wear respirators when they respond. |
Related articles
- WCO - the role of Customs in natural disaster relief (mpoverello.com)
- Disaster Relief Dirigible -Via Yanko Design (overview-effect.com)
- Kings Park Psychiatric Center Demolition Up For Bid (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- CDC Website Discusses Earthquakes (futureenv.blogspot.com)
Friday, January 20, 2012
This Saturday Is The Taste of Spring Event - See You There!
Even though it seems winter has only just arrived, it makes you wonder if spring will be late, too. To help you get in the mood for spring and breakaway from the winter doldrums for one night, the Board of Directors and staff of the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center are hosting their 6th annual winter cocktail party, “A Taste of Spring”, on Saturday, January 21st.
This event is being held once again at the Main Greenhouse at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park and hosted by Vinnie Simeone and the Arboretum staff. Visitors will enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres prepared by Pat Spafford of Periwinkles, while taking in the melodic sounds of tree frogs and the wonderful aromas of tropical flowers. This fun event will allow community members to mingle with fellow sanctuary supporters and get an up close view of the Sanctuary's birds of prey while having their questions answered about local wildlife and the Nature Center. Proceeds from the event will support the programs and services offered by Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center.
Time: 6:00PM on Saturday, January 21
Always a Great Event with Some Great People |
Time: 6:00PM on Saturday, January 21
Place: Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
Cost: $85 per person (reservations required)
Reservations are required and limited to the first 100 patrons. Please call Brooke Roeper
or Ted Scherff for more details and to purchase tickets. (516) 922-3200.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Study: Number of NYC Construction Industry Workers Falls in 2011 | ENR: Engineering News Record | McGraw-Hill Construction
Study: Number of NYC Construction Industry Workers Falls in 2011 | ENR: Engineering News Record | McGraw-Hill Construction
Interesting study showing the number of construction industry workers fell from 2009. However, more interesting is the fact that 55% of construction workers are doing without health insurance. That is up from 53% from 2009. Another interesting statistic is that Black non-Hispanics were up 2% from 2009; and Asian workers were up 12% from 2009. Though these statistics indicate what most of us already knew, that the economy is significantly hurting the construction industry. We hope the New Year will bring new projects into construction industry.
Interesting study showing the number of construction industry workers fell from 2009. However, more interesting is the fact that 55% of construction workers are doing without health insurance. That is up from 53% from 2009. Another interesting statistic is that Black non-Hispanics were up 2% from 2009; and Asian workers were up 12% from 2009. Though these statistics indicate what most of us already knew, that the economy is significantly hurting the construction industry. We hope the New Year will bring new projects into construction industry.
Related articles
- Will the Construction Industry Rebound in 2012? The Debate Rages On (constructionlawva.com)
- The Best States For Construction Workers (larrysconstructionblog.com)
- Green Jobs Make Up One-Third of Construction Workforce: McGraw Hill (ibtimes.com)
- How Much Does A Construction Worker Make? (celebritynetworth.com)
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Indoor Air Quality Television Posts Foreclosed Property Video
Indoor Air Quality television (IAQTV) on you tube just posted an excellent informational video on "Foreclosed Properties & Indoor Environmental Risks". This video provides a basic informational warning on the potential indoor environmental risks in buying a foreclosed property.
Many of these dangers are well-known to those of us in the indoor environmental consulting industry. Future Environment Designs strongly recommends before the purchasing of a foreclosed property (one that has been unoccupied for a long period of time), that the buyer hire a Council-certified Indoor Environmental Consultant (CIEC) to perform an indoor environmental assessment to ensure these dangers are not present or can be easily eliminated. The CIEC will be able to help you determine what would be necessary to eliminate these hazards and help develop cost estimates to be used in negotiating a purchase price of the foreclosed property. If we can help give us a call.
Related articles
- Investigate Your Indoor Air Quality (everydayhealth.com)
- Strong Link Between Mold & Asthma in Children. (futureenv.blogspot.com)
- Three Simple Steps for Improving Indoor Air Quality (prweb.com)
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
New OSHA Website For Winter Storms
Just before the holidays, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a new website regarding Winter Storms. Even though the northeast got snow on halloween, so far this year it has been tame regarding winter storms. Last winter was a different story, which is probably the reason OSHA has published this informational site to assist employers in proteecting workers from the anticipated hazards
associated with winter storm response and recovery operations that
workers are likely to conduct.
The site provides information in preparing for a winter storm, response and recovery, and additional resources. Preparation includes such things as listening to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio or going to the NOAA Watch website for information on the storm, winterizing your car, preparing and carrying an emergency kit. Response and recovery includes information regarding the different hazards workers may face, such as driving/vehicle accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia and frostbite, exhaustion, dehydration, back injuries and heart attack, slips and falls, electrocution, burns, being struck by falling objects, roof collapse, and lacerations or amputations.
The site is a very good source of information for preventing the hazards discussed above. In particular the winterizing your car part is very helpful in getting yourself ready for the winter storms that are only a matter of time before they get here.
The site provides information in preparing for a winter storm, response and recovery, and additional resources. Preparation includes such things as listening to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio or going to the NOAA Watch website for information on the storm, winterizing your car, preparing and carrying an emergency kit. Response and recovery includes information regarding the different hazards workers may face, such as driving/vehicle accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia and frostbite, exhaustion, dehydration, back injuries and heart attack, slips and falls, electrocution, burns, being struck by falling objects, roof collapse, and lacerations or amputations.
The site is a very good source of information for preventing the hazards discussed above. In particular the winterizing your car part is very helpful in getting yourself ready for the winter storms that are only a matter of time before they get here.
Related articles
- OSHA Winter Storm Preparedness Tips & Guidelines (ehssafetynews.com)
- Read The Preamble, To Better Understand The Standards (futureenv.blogspot.com)
Sunday, January 01, 2012
FED Wishes Everyone A Happy New Year!
Future Environment Designs would like to wish everyone a Happy, Prosperous, and Healthy New Year. Future Environment Designs hopes your 2012 will be better than 2011 and hope that the New Year will bring all of us peace, a better economy, safety, and health. Happpy New Year!
Times Square December 2011 |
Saturday, December 24, 2011
We Wish You A Merry & Jolly Holidays!
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