Microtech Environmental Services services

Asbestos is generic commercial name for a naturally occurring group of six different mineral fibers, (amosite - which usually has brown fibers, chrysotile - white asbestos, crocidolite - blue asbestos, and the fibrous varieties of tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite - usually has grey fibers), that exists in the environment. Asbestos minerals have separable long fibers that are strong and flexible enough to be spun and woven, (just like thin threads) and are heat resistant. In addition, these fibers are not affected by chemicals and do not conduct electricity. Because of these characteristics, asbestos has been commonly used in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant.

Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk.

A hazardous material is any item or agent (biological, chemical, physical) which has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment, either by itself or through interaction with other factors. Hazardous materials professionals are responsible for and properly qualified to manage such materials. This includes managing and/or advising other managers on such items at any point in their life-cycle, from process planning and development of new products; through manufacture, distribution and use; to disposal, cleanup and remediation.

Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.