saif.com
Industrial hygiene services
04/05/2019
Jennie Scarborough, Human Resources Ron Cutter - [email protected] Lincoln County School District Brown & Brown of Oregon LLC PO Box 1110 Brown & Brown Northwest Newport, OR 97365 PO Box 29018 Portland, OR 97296
SAIF policy: 489788
Dear Jennie,
I am reporting the results of the industrial hygiene survey conducted on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 12 – 13, 2019, at Crestview Heights School, 2750 S. Crestline Drive, in Waldport, Oregon. Claims Adjuster David Fung requested this evaluation.
The executive summary outlines the survey results and is followed by recommendations for your review and consideration. The associated Industrial Hygiene Report contains more detailed information about the process and activities, occupational health hazards and standards, sampling and analysis, and results interpretation.
Executive Summary
Combustion byproducts of diesel exhaust were sampled after the January 26 and January 28 boiler misfires. Air contaminants such as oxides of nitrogen and sulfur dioxide that were not detected with direct-reading instruments during February 8, 2019 testing were not re- sampled.
The March 12 – 13, 2019 evaluation included sampling for diesel particulate matter, formaldehyde, and general indoor air quality parameters, including carbon monoxide, fine particulates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The results of the survey were as follows:
Diesel particulate matter (DPM) was not detected in an area sample collected in the Main Office. The detection limit of 6 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/cu. m.) total carbon was less than 3.8 percent of the recommended occupational exposure limit (OEL) of 160 µg/cu. m. for DPM.
No formaldehyde was detected in the Main Office area sample. The reported detection limit of 0.023 parts per million (ppm) was less than 7.7 percent of the recommended OEL of 0.3 ppm.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility.
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
General indoor air quality parameters (carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity) met guideline levels recommended by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers). Concentrations of other measured air contaminants (carbon monoxide, PM2.5 (fine) particulates, and VOCs) were below concentration measured in outdoor air and/or below recommended ASHRAE concentrations of interest.
Recommendations
1. Communicate survey results to employees. This practice is consistent with effective risk management programs. This communication can be achieved during a safety meeting, in a letter, or verbally.
2. Retain a copy of this report for your records for at least 30 years [ref. OAR 437-002-360 (1010.1020(d) (1) (ii)]. Industrial hygiene reports contain important information about occupational health at your facility and are considered employee exposure records. SAIF recommends keeping a copy of this report indefinitely.
Jennie, please thank the staff at Crestview Heights School for their cooperation and assistance. If you have questions after reviewing the report, please call or email me.
Sincerely,
Debra Corbin, CIH ______SAIF Industrial Hygienist, SAFE AND HEALTHY WORKPLACE CENTER 503.373.8575 | 800.285.8525 400 High Street SE, Salem, OR 97312 [email protected]
Peer reviewed by: Lea Jensen, CIH, SAIF Industrial Hygienist
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility.
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Attachments SGS Galson Laboratories Laboratory Analysis Report L473941 3M™ EVM-7 Report
c: Underwriter Rebecca Clemons – [email protected] Senior Safety Management Consultant Christina Dykes – [email protected] Industrial Hygiene Supervisor David Johnson – [email protected] 489788 – Policy File
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility.
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Industrial Hygiene Report Prepared for: Lincoln County School District Date of Site Visit: 03/13/2019 Date of Report: 04/05/2019
Description of Process and Activities
Lincoln County School District (LCSD, https://lincoln.k12.or.us) serves more than 5,000 K- 12 students from all areas of the Lincoln County. Crestview Heights School is located at 2750 S. Crestline Drive in Waldport, Oregon.
On Saturday, January 26, 2019, the Crestview Heights School boiler misfired, and diesel exhaust was reportedly drawn into the gymnasium where a game was being held. The boiler was in B7 at the rear of the Crestview Heights School building (see attached building map for location of B7 and gymnasium). When regular classes resumed on Monday, January 28, the boiler misfired again.
School was closed Tuesday, January 29, for boiler repairs and filter replacement with camfil Aeropleat® MERV 8 filters. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. MERV 8 filters have an average arrestance of greater than 90 percent for 3.0 to 10 µm particles. Examples of particles this size include mold and spores, cement dust, hair spray, and powdered milk. The school building re-opened on Wednesday, January 30, after the Central Coast Fire Department was called to the school and provided clearance for classes to resume.
LCSD contracted with PBS Engineering and Environmental (PBS) to conduct a survey of the school, which was performed on Friday, February 8, 2019. PBS used direct-reading instruments to measure combustion products of diesel exhaust, among other reported constituents of diesel exhaust. Oxides of nitrogen and sulfur dioxide were included in the measurements; none were detected.
The focus of the industrial hygiene survey conducted on March 12 – 13 was measuring general indoor air quality parameters (carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity), carbon monoxide, fine particulates, volatile organic compounds, diesel particulate matter, and formaldehyde in the Main Office. This survey was conducted at the request of SAIF Claims Adjuster David Jung.
The Main Office was adjacent to the Main Entrance to the building. There were glass sliding customer service-type windows on an interior wall that opened onto the hall. There was good airflow from the foyer immediately outside the Main Office and from the mechanical heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) system.
During the March 12th on-site visit, the custodian reported that “smoke” was observed being exhausted from the vent on the roof of the boiler room during the boiler misfire. It is possible that diesel exhaust was drawn into a fresh air intake and distributed throughout the school via the HVAC system, although it would be diluted significantly in outdoor air.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Outdoor environmental conditions were as follows: March 12th, temperature 52 °F; humidity 73 percent; north-northwest wind 13.671 miles per hour (mph). March 13th, temperature 52 °F; humidity 73 percent; west-northwest wind 5.593 mph. Source: https://www.timeanddate.com.
Description of Hazards
Major components commonly associated with diesel exhaust include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, particulates, and sulfur dioxide. OSHA provides a partial list of major and minor components on the OSHA diesel exhaust topic page (https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/dieselexhaust/index.html). PBS’s study focused on several of the major components (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and sulfur dioxide) that were measured with real-time instrumentation. Additional minor components not sampled by PBS that were the focus of this study included diesel particulate matter and formaldehyde.
Health Hazards, Diesel particulate matter. Diesel engine exhaust (DE) is a complex mixture of airborne particles and gases, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide, aldehydes, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and polynuclear aromatics. Diesel particulate matter (DPM), composed of elemental carbon particles and adsorbed organic compounds, is the most frequently determined measure of DE and the measure reported in toxicological studies of diesel engine exhaust. The previous RfC (inhalation Reference Concentration) of 5 µg DPM/cu. m. was entered in IRIS (Integrated Risk Information System) on 6/1/93. This updated RfC reflects the use of a revised model for lung deposition of DPM and remains unchanged for the critical effect “pulmonary inflammation and histopathology.”
Chronic respiratory effects are the principal noncancerous hazard to humans from long-term environmental exposure to diesel engine exhaust (DE). Several occupational studies have evaluated the noncancerous effects of chronic exposure to DE (U.S. EPA, 2002, Chapter 5.1.1.2). There is some evidence suggesting that exposure may impair pulmonary function, though the results are not robust. While the increased occurrence of mostly transient symptoms such as cough, phlegm, and chronic bronchitis is clear in noncancerous occupational studies, the studies are deficient in exposure information.
While diesel exhaust is a mixture of gases and particles, health concerns have long focused on DPM, and the organics adhering to the particles. DPM is considered the prime etiologic agent of noncancerous health effects when DE is sufficiently diluted to limit the concentrations of gaseous irritants (nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide), irritant vapors (aldehydes), CO, or other systemic toxicants (U.S. EPA, 2002). The small size of DPM, combined with large surface area, likely enhances the potential for subcellular interactions with important cellular components of respiratory tissues, once the particles are inhaled by humans or other species.
Mode-of-action information about respiratory effects from DE exposure indicates that, at least in rats, the pathogenic sequence following the inhalation of DPM begins with the phagocytosis of diesel particles by alveolar macrophages (AMs). These activated AMs release chemotactic factors that attract neutrophils and additional AMs. As the lung burden of DPM increases, there are aggregations of particle-laden AMs in alveoli adjacent to terminal bronchioles, increases in the number of Type II cells lining particle-laden alveoli, and the presence of particles within alveolar and peribronchial interstitial tissues and
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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associated lymph nodes. The neutrophils and AMs release mediators of inflammation and oxygen radicals, and particle-laden macrophages are functionally altered, resulting in decreased viability and impaired phagocytosis and clearance of particles. This series of events may result in pulmonary inflammation, fibrosis, and eventually lesions like those described in the chronic exposure rat studies. Although definitive information describing the possible pathogenesis of respiratory effects in humans is not available, the symptomology reported in studies of humans exposed to DE are not inconsistent with the findings in controlled laboratory animal studies. (See U.S. EPA, 2002, for more information.)
It also should be noted that diesel particles make up a portion of ambient particulate matter (PM). U.S. EPA has established an annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), to provide protection against adverse health effects associated with both long- and short-term exposures to ambient fine PM. DPM is a typical constituent of ambient fine PM, generally about 6 to 10 percent of PM2.5 with some examples up to 36 percent (U.S. EPA, 1996a, 1996b). Given the similarity of health concerns for respiratory inflammation and pulmonary health effects from both DPM and fine particles, it is reasonable to expect that DPM contributes to some of the health effects associated with PM2.5. Current knowledge is insufficient, however, to describe the relative potencies of DPM and the other components of PM2.5. If the percentage of DPM to total ambient PM2.5 remains in similar proportion, protective levels for PM2.5 would be expected to offer a measure of protection from effects associated with DPM.
In terms of the potential for other critical health effects, there is growing evidence suggesting that DE can exacerbate allergenic effects to known sensitizers, while also evoking production of biochemical markers typically associated with asthma. While some work in this area indicates that humans may be as sensitive as rats and mice to the immunologic effects (U.S. EPA, 2002; Chapter 6.3.4), this database is currently lacking key exposure-response data. It also should be noted that the ambient PM health effects data show a broader array of adverse human health concerns (e.g., cardiovascular effects, as well as acute exposure effects).
A persistent association of risk for lung cancer associated with DE exposure has been observed in more than 30 epidemiologic studies published in the literature over the past 40 years. Most of the epidemiologic studies evaluate distinct populations of occupational groups, including railroad workers, truck drivers, heavy-equipment operators, farm tractor operators, and professional diesel vehicle drivers. Several organizations have reviewed available relevant data and evaluated the potential human carcinogenicity of DE or DPM and have concluded that DE is probably carcinogenic to humans (IARC, Internal Agency for Research on Cancer), or is reasonably anticipated to be a carcinogen (NTP, National Toxicology Program).
Health Hazards, Formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is used in a variety of manufacturing processes. It is ubiquitous in building materials, insulations, and items such as glues, preservatives, permanent press fabrics, and other cosmetics and household products.
Formaldehyde gas may be emitted from fiberboard in cabinets or furniture, shelving, wall panels, or sub-flooring. Burning wood, cigarette smoking, and other forms of incomplete combustion emit formaldehyde.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Formaldehyde exposure can occur in various ways, and only mild symptoms are expected in very low concentrations. Respiratory tract irritation, rhinitis, anosmia, cough, dyspnea, wheezing, tracheitis, bronchitis, laryngospasm, pulmonary edema, headache, weakness, dizziness, and palpitations may result from inhalation.
Chronic exposures may increase the risk of cancer and occupational asthma.
• Differing beliefs exist regarding the ability of formaldehyde to cause occupational asthma. A review of current literature indicates there is a lack of substantial evidence to prove that formaldehyde vapor inhalation induces allergic asthma. There is no clear evidence that formaldehyde can act as a true respiratory allergen, distinct from its irritant effects.
. The major concerns with repeated formaldehyde exposure are allergy and possibly cancer. Formaldehyde is a potent allergen and can cause contact dermatitis, both irritant and allergic. Formaldehyde exposure is one of the most common causes of occupational skin disease.
References: RightAnswer® Knowledge Solutions IRIS and HazardText™ Documents.
Description of Hazards, General Indoor Air Quality Parameters
Health Hazards, Carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless, non- flammable gas. It is naturally generated during metabolism of oxygen in the body and released from the lungs on exhalation. Low concentrations are not considered harmful. Higher concentrations can impact respiratory function and cause central nervous system effects.
Carbon dioxide is an asphyxiant, meaning that it takes the place of oxygen in the environment when it rises to dangerous concentrations, and can cause suffocation. The concentrations needed to cause negative health impacts are well above those found indoors.
Health Hazards, Carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless odorless gas, mainly found as a product of incomplete combustion from vehicles and oil and gas burners. Inhaling CO can cause headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, and fatigue. Higher CO exposures can lead to sleepiness, hallucinations, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. Carbon monoxide is a flammable gas and a dangerous fire hazard.
Carbon monoxide can cause personality and memory changes, mental confusion, and vision loss, and can affect the heart and damage the nervous system. Smoking increases exposure to CO. Individuals who have heart disease should not be exposed to CO levels above 25 parts per million (ppm).
Extremely high exposures to CO can cause the formation of carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and decrease the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. COHb can produce a bright red color to the skin and mucous membranes, leading to trouble breathing, collapse, convulsions, coma, and death.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Health Hazards, PM2.5 Particulate. Sources of PM2.5 particles (fine particulate) include combustion products, cooking, candles, incense, resuspension, and outdoor air. Exposure to particle pollution is linked to a variety of significant health problems, including aggravated asthma; chronic bronchitis; reduced lung function; irregular heartbeat; heart attack; and premature death in people with heart or lung disease.
Health Hazards, Thermal comfort. Thermal comfort includes factors such as temperature and relative humidity (RH). Thermal comfort is an important factor in human function and performance.
Multiple factors play a role in thermal comfort, including temperature, clothing, relative humidity, and level of exertion. If indoor air temperatures are excessive, whether low or high, employees may feel physically stressed. This can contribute to discomfort and reduced performance and may prolong symptoms in those already experiencing illness. Factors such as clothing, activity level, age, and physiology of people vary widely, so thermal comfort requirements may vary for everyone.
Low relative humidity may cause dryness of throat and nasal passages in addition to eye and skin irritation. Static may also be caused in the indoor environment from low humidity and friction between two surfaces. Static can be a hazard if sparks in the area need to be controlled for any reason (e.g., due to flammable materials used or stored). High relative humidity can encourage and promote mold growth in the indoor environment.
Health Hazards, Volatile organic compounds. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic (carbon-based) materials that vaporize easily at room temperature. Items that may emit VOCs include office equipment, cleaning chemicals, paints, adhesives, furnishings, carpeting, and air fresheners.
VOCs in the indoor environment are common yet can cause irritation and respiratory distress at high concentrations. Health effects associated with VOCs in the indoor environment may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. As VOC concentrations increase indoors, the probability of adverse health effects increases. Health impacts may be more severe in sensitive individuals or in those with asthma.
References: ASHRAE 62.1-2016; The IAQ Investigator’s Guide (American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), 3rd Edition, 2016).
Evaluation Criteria
Airborne exposures were evaluated and compared to published occupational exposure limits (OELs). OELs are developed to protect against health effects related to the inhalation of substances in the workplace for various timeframes during an average workweek.
Different limits from governmental agencies or private associations may exist for the same substance. Those limits may differ numerically because of the data used to establish the guideline, the health effects targeted for protection, timeliness of updating a limit based on current scientific data, or in the way the air sample is collected or analyzed. When limits from different sources disagree, SAIF Industrial Hygiene recommends that the most protective value be used as the OEL.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Mine Safety and Health Administration Permissible Exposure Limits (MSHA PELs): There are currently no permissible exposure limits for organic or elemental carbon for diesel exhaust. MSHA is the only agency in the United States that regulates diesel particulate matter, as total carbon, in underground mines, to 160 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/cu. m.) in air as an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Recommended Exposure Limits (NIOSH RELs). NIOSH develops RELs for workplace hazards, acting under the authority of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act of 1970. RELs are intended to limit the concentration of the potential hazard in workplace air to prevent and reduce workers’ risk of occupational cancer and other adverse health effects.
To formulate these recommendations, NIOSH evaluates all known and available medical, biological, engineering, chemical, trade, and other information relevant to the hazard. NIOSH recommendations are published in a variety of documents: Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards; Criteria Documents; Current Intelligence Bulletins (CIBs); and Alerts, Special Hazard Reviews, Occupational Hazard Assessments, and Technical Guidelines are available on the NIOSH website at http://www.cdc.gov/NIOSH/.
Before 1995, RELS for most carcinogens were non-quantitative values labeled “lowest feasible concentration (LFC).” RELs were sometimes based on the analytical limit of quantitation or on technologic feasibility, i.e., the ability to reduce exposure using engineering controls. Current RELs are based on “risk evaluations using human or animal health effects data, and on an assessment of what levels can be feasibly achieved by engineering controls and measured by analytical techniques.” That means there will not only be a no-effect exposure, but also exposure levels at which there may be residual risks. The current REL policy is under review.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (ACGIH® TLVs®). TLVs® for exposure assessment have been established by the ACGIH® and are updated annually. TLVs® do not consider technical or economic feasibility but are based solely on health effects. The ACGIH® updates TLVs® based on available information from industrial experience; experimental human and animal studies; and when possible, from a combination of all three.
The TLVs® refer to airborne concentrations of substances and represent conditions under which it is believed that nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed day after day without adverse health effects. Because of a wide variation in individual susceptibility, however, a small percentage of workers may experience discomfort from, or be affected by, some substances at concentrations below the threshold limit.
These limits are not fine lines between safe and dangerous concentrations and are developed as guidelines to assist in the control of health hazards.
Oregon OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (Oregon OSHA PELs). PELs are legally enforceable limits established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The PELs in the Z-tables were incorporated into OSHA regulations in 1970. They can be viewed at Oregon Rules for Air Contaminants.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Federal OSHA recognizes that many of its PELs are outdated and inadequate for ensuring the protection of worker health. Most of OSHA’s PELs were issued shortly after adoption of the OSH Act in 1970 and have not been updated since that time. Industrial experience, new developments in technology, and scientific data clearly indicate that in many instances these adopted limits are not sufficiently protective of worker health.
To provide employers, workers, and other interested parties with a list of alternate occupational exposure limits that may serve to better protect workers, OSHA has annotated the existing Z-Tables with other selected occupational exposure limits. OSHA has chosen to present a side-by-side table of regulatory limits with recommended limits (Cal/OSHA PELs, NIOSH RELs, and ACGIH® TLVs®). The tables at OSHA Annotated Table Z-1 list air concentration limits, but do not include notations for skin absorption or sensitization.
Formaldehyde is regulated in a substance-specific standard [ref. 1910.1048]. Substance- specific Oregon OSHA standards also include an Action Level (AL), which is an exposure limit below the PEL at which Oregon OSHA requires specific actions (i.e., administrative controls, exposure monitoring, medical surveillance, etc.) be taken by the employer. The Oregon OSHA formaldehyde regulation, which also includes a Short-Term Exposure Limit, is available at http://www.cbs.state.or.us/osha/pdf/rules/division_2/2Z_1048_formaldehyde.pdf.
Time-Weighted Averages (TWAs). Eight-hour TWAs refer to airborne concentrations averaged over a conventional 8-hour workday and a 40-hour work week. The TWA exposure can be measured by a single 8-hour sample or calculated from a series of sequential samples covering the work shift.
Short-Term Exposure Limits (STELs). A STEL is defined as a 15-minute TWA exposure which should not be exceeded at any time during a workday. It is the concentration to which it is believed that workers can be exposed for a short period of time without suffering from irritation; chronic or irreversible tissue damage; dose-rate-dependent toxic effects; or narcosis that increases the likelihood of accidental injury, impaired self-rescue, or materially reduced work efficiency.
Ceiling. Ceiling Limits for selected substances are the concentration that should not be exceeded during any part of the working exposure. Although the TWA concentration often provides the most satisfactory, practical way of monitoring airborne agents, there are certain predominantly fast-acting substances whose OEL is more appropriately based on this response. Substances with this type of response are best controlled by a ceiling limit that should not be exceeded.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
TABLE 1. Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs)
Chemical Agency Concentration Time Period
Diesel particulate NIOSH REL† N.E. N/A matter MSHA PEL 160 µg/cu. m. 8-hour TWA
2019 ACGIH® TLV® N.E. N/A
Oregon OSHA PEL N.E. N/A
Formaldehyde 0.016 ppm TWA NIOSH REL† CAS No. 50-00-0) 0.1 ppm 15-minute Ceiling
0.1 ppm 8-hour TWA 2019 ACGIH® TLV® 0.3 ppm 15-minute STEL Oregon OSHA PEL 0.75 ppm 8-hour TWA Oregon OSHA AL 0.5 ppm 8-hour TWA Oregon OSHA STEL 2 ppm 15-minute STEL
TLV® basis: Upper respiratory tract (URT) & eye irritation; URT cancer
† = Carcinogen
N.E. – Not established N/A = Not Applicable
µg/cu. m. = micrograms per cubic meter ppm = parts per million
Evaluation Criteria, Indoor Air Quality
There are no federal or state occupational health regulations governing indoor air quality. Certain professional organizations, research agencies, and the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) make general recommendations and provide guidelines regarding indoor air quality.
ASHRAE (American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) has published generally accepted standards that provide guidance in design and maintenance of the indoor environment [ref. 55-2013, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy and 62.1-2016, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality]. These standards are the primary basis for comparison for the general indoor air quality data collected in this survey.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
ASHRAE defines acceptable indoor air quality as “air in which there are no known contaminants at harmful concentrations as determined by cognizant authorities and with which a substantial majority (80% or more) of the people exposed do not express dissatisfaction.” The purpose of the standard is to specify minimum ventilation rates and other measures intended to provide indoor air quality that is acceptable to human occupants and that minimizes adverse health effects.
Carbon Dioxide as an Indicator Gas
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an odorless, colorless gas that is a normal constituent of the atmosphere and of exhaled breath. Every person produces carbon dioxide as a normal function of metabolism within the body. The amount of oxygen consumed is directly related to how much CO2 is exhaled. Both are a function of the level of exertion and on physical activity of the person.
CO2 levels have been used as a surrogate for the build-up of other indoor air pollutants and as an indicator of ventilation adequacy. Outdoor CO2 levels typically range from 300 to 500 parts per million (ppm) and are normally higher inside a building than outside due to human sources of carbon dioxide concentrated in each building environment. Make-up air refers to the amount of outdoor air, for comfort and dilution, being introduced into a building's ventilation system relative to the number of occupants in that building or space.
ASHRAE recommends that the ventilation rate be set to maintain a steady-state CO2 concentration in a space no greater than 700 ppm above outdoor air levels. If CO2 levels exceed this guideline, it is suggestive of inadequate ventilation. This recommendation does not mean that exceeding the guideline of 700 ppm plus outdoor CO2 is hazardous, but that complaints may arise, and that additional outdoor air needs to be provided to the building to satisfy odor and comfort criteria.
Carbon Monoxide
ASHRAE has included a Concentration of Interest (COI) for carbon monoxide (CO) in ASHRAE 62.1-2016. The guideline level of 9 ppm as an 8-hour standard is designed to provide additional protection on days with high peak CO concentrations. Sources of CO include leaking vented combustion appliances; unvented combustion appliances; parking garages; burning of gasoline, natural gas, coal, oil, etc.; and outdoor air.
Particulate
ASHRAE has included a COI for PM2.5 particles in 62.1-2016 which is based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The PM2.5 guideline of 15 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/cu. m.) was designed to provide additional protection on days with high peak PM2.5 concentrations. Sources of fine particulate such as PM2.5 include combustion products, cooking, candles, incense, resuspension, outdoor air, diesel exhaust, and parking garages.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Thermal Comfort
ASHRAE Standard 55-2013 lists acceptable ranges of temperature and relative humidity for indoor environments. The recommended temperature ranges mean that an individual wearing a normal amount of clothing should feel neither too cold nor too warm. Some people may feel uncomfortable even if these values are met, so that additional measures may be required.
Humidity is also a factor in human comfort. There is no recommended lower level of humidity for achieving thermal comfort. However, ASHRAE recommends that relative humidity be maintained between 20 and 65 percent to prevent throat and nasal passage dryness, reduce the incidence of static sparks, and prevent health effects such as eye and skin irritation. High humidity can also promote the growth of mold and mildew, so ASHRAE recommends that relative humidity be maintained below 65 percent.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Oregon OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (Oregon OSHA PELs) and American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (ACGIH® TLVs®) have not been set for total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs). Although there are no regulatory levels for TVOCs, guidelines and/or recommendations for acceptable levels are available. TVOC results are often compared to the guideline levels produced by Mølhave L. [ref. Indoor air quality in relation to sensory irritation due to VOCs. ASHRAE Transaction. 1992]. Guidelines for certain VOCs encountered indoors are also published in The IAQ Investigator’s Guide, published by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), 3rd Edition, 2016.
TABLE 2. Indoor Air Quality Guidelines
Parameter Recommended Range or Limit
1 Carbon dioxide 700 ppm + outdoor CO2
Carbon monoxide 1 9 ppm *
1 Particulate (PM2.5) 15 µg/cu. m. *
Relative humidity 2 20 – 65 %
68 – 75 °F (winter) Temperature 2 73 – 79 °F (summer)
1 ASHRAE 62.1-2016 2 ASHRAE 55-2013 * Concentration of Interest
ppm = parts per million µg/cu. m. = micrograms per cubic meter
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Sampling Strategy, Methods and Analysis
PBS conducted sampling with direct-reading instruments on February 8, 2019, for major gaseous combustion products of diesel exhaust such as oxides of nitrogen and sulfur dioxide; none were detected. Those air contaminants were not re-sampled.
Diesel particulate matter (DPM) is a typical constituent of ambient fine particulate matter, generally about 6 to 10 percent of PM2.5, with some examples up to 36 percent. If the percentage of DPM to total ambient PM2.5 remains in similar proportion, protective levels for PM2.5 would be expected to offer a measure of protection from effects associated with DPM. The sampling strategy included collecting an air sample for DPM in the Main Office and measuring general indoor air quality parameters, including fine particulate levels. An area sample for formaldehyde was also collected as a representation of the minor constituents of diesel exhaust. Volatile organic chemical levels were also measured. Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons were not sampled.
Air sampling. A sample for diesel particulate matter as carbon was collected with a GilAir air sampling pump set at a nominal flow rate of 2.0 liters per minute. Media (25 mm quartz fiber filter) was attached to the pump with Tygon tubing, and the sampling train with open- faced cassette was placed in the area sample location near the window of the Main Office.
The Gilian air sampling pump was pre- and post-calibrated with the with the Gilibrator Standard Flow Cell (S/N 15686-S, factory calibrated 06/28/2018). Post-sampling flow rates were within 5 percent of pre-sampling values.
A field blank (quartz fiber filter cassette) was submitted with the diesel particulate matter sample. The filter field blank was a filter cassette that was handled in the same way as the air sample, except that no air was drawn through the filter cassette.
Samples were shipped to SGS Galson Laboratories, East Syracuse, NY, for analysis. Diesel particulate matter samples were analyzed using Modified NIOSH 5040 with TOA (thermo- optical analysis).
SGS Galson Laboratories is accredited by the AIHA Laboratory Accreditation Programs, LLC (#100324) and participates in the proficiency testing program for metals, organic solvents, diffusive samplers, asbestos, and beryllium.
The formaldehyde area sample was collected with an AT Labs N571 ChemDisk™ Monitor for Aldehydes. Aldehydes enter the passive monitor by the process of diffusion and are collected on a glass fiber filter treated with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine and phosphoric acid. The amount of air contaminant quantified is based on the exposure time and sampling rate, which was reported as 16.2 milliliters per minute by Assay Technology.
Formaldehyde samples were shipped to AT Labs in Boardman, OH, for analysis. A field blank was submitted with the samples. The field blank was a passive monitor that was handled in the same way as the air samples, except that no air was drawn through the passive monitor. Formaldehyde samples were analyzed using modified OSHA Method 1007 (high- performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection, HPLC/UV).
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
AT Labs is accredited by the AIHA Laboratory Accreditation Programs, LLC (#100903) and participates in the proficiency testing program for metals, organic solvents, diffusive samplers, asbestos, and beryllium.
Indoor Air Quality. General indoor air quality parameters were measured in the Main Office with a 3M™ EVM-7. The 3M™ EVM-7 datalogged with a 1-minute log and average interval. The 3M™ EVM-7, S/N EMR100001, was factory calibrated 11/14/2018. The instrument used the following measurement systems:
. CO2, NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) detector. . Temperature, capacitive detector. . Relative humidity, capacitive detector. . CO, electrochemical sensor. . VOCs, 10.6 electron-Volt (eV) photoionization detector (PID). . Particulate, 90° optical light-scattering photometer. A size-selective impactor was used to measure the PM2.5 fraction.
Before the survey, each sensor was zeroed before being spanned with calibration gas following the manufacturer’s instructions (1,000 ppm CO2 calibration gas; 50 ppm CO calibration gas; 100 ppm isobutylene gas for the PID sensor). The particulate impactors were zeroed per the manufacturer’s instructions before the survey. All particulate profiles were calibrated to Arizona Road Dust (ARD) with its particle size and composition. This standard test dust was used because of its wide particle size distribution.
Sampling was conducted in the Main Office for approximately 24 hours. An outdoor sample was collected for comparison on March 13th. After the survey was completed, data from the 3M™ EVM-7 was downloaded using 3M™ Detection Management Software (DMS). The DMS reports, which contain more detailed information about the survey, are enclosed with this report.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Results
Survey results are summarized in the tables that follow and are also presented in the attached laboratory and instrument data sheets.
TABLE 3. Air Sampling Results Crestview Heights Main Office Date of Sampling: March 13, 2019
Location/Sample Detail Measured Concentration OEL
Diesel particulate matter area sample, Main Office. Start Organic carbon: < 3 µg/cu. m. 11:17 a.m.; end 2:49 p.m. Elemental Carbon: < 3 µg/cu. m. 160 µg/cu. m. 212-minute sampling period. Total Carbon: < 6 µg/cu. m. Lab Sample ID L473941-1
Formaldehyde area sample, Main Office. Start 11:15 a.m.; Formaldehyde: end 2: 51 p.m. 216-minute 0.3 ppm < 0.023 ppm sampling period. Lab Sample ID 19009152
OEL = Occupational Exposure Limit < = less than
µg/cu. m. = micrograms per cubic meter ppm = parts per million
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
TABLE 4. General IAQ Parameters Date of Sampling: March 12 – 13, 2019
Location CO2 Relative Humidity Temperature
Main Office Start 12:18 p.m. 03/12/19 End 1:42 Average 331 ppm Average 29.8 % Average 70.3 °F † p.m. 03/13/19 Run time: 1:01.23
Outdoor sample. Start 2:13 p.m. End Average 286 ppm* Average 53.1 % Average 53.1 °F 2:24 p.m. Run time: 00:10
ASHRAE 986 ppm* 20 - 65 % 68 – 75 °F † Recommended
* ASHRAE recommends CO2 levels inside no greater than 700 ppm plus outside CO2 (i.e., 700 ppm + 286 ppm).
† ASHRAE recommends a winter temperature range of 68 – 75 °F (heating season) and a summer temperature range of 73 – 79 °F (cooling season)
Carbon † Location PM2.5 VOC (Photo) Monoxide
Main Office Start 12:18 p.m. Average 15.70 mg/cu. 03/12/19 End 1:42 Average 1 µg/cu. m. Average 4 ppm m. p.m. 03/13/19 Run time: 1:01.23
Outdoor sample. Start 2:13 p.m. End Average 20.16 mg/cu. Average 6 µg/cu. m. Average 5 ppm 2:24 p.m. m. Run time: 00:10
ASHRAE 15 µg/cu. m. 9 ppm VOC-specific † Recommended ppm = parts per million µg/cu. m. = micrograms per cubic meter mg/cu. m. = milligrams per cubic meter
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Discussion and Conclusions
Sampling data obtained during this survey was representative of the time period sampled and the level of work performed during that time period. Air sampling data represents a specific moment in time based on conditions and work practices at the time of the survey.
Employee exposures during periods of higher levels of work and different types of tasks may vary from these results. Whenever there is a question about exposure levels or for temporary, potentially high exposures, appropriate engineering and/or administrative controls, personal protective equipment, or other measures, should be utilized as necessary to reduce and control employee occupational exposure levels.
Diesel particulate matter. No diesel particulate matter level was measured in the Main Office area sample. The detection limit for the sample was reported as less than 6 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/cu. m.) as total carbon. This concentration was less than 3.8 percent of the recommended occupational exposure limit (OEL) of 160 µg/cu. m.
Formaldehyde. Formaldehyde was not detected in the Main Office area sample. The detection limit for the sample was reported as less than 0.023 parts per million (ppm). This concentration was less than 7.7 percent of the recommended OEL of 0.3 ppm.
Indoor air quality/PM2.5 particulate. General indoor air quality parameters (carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity) met guideline levels recommended by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) as an indicator of ventilation adequacy and comfort. Concentrations of other constituents measured (average indoor PM2.5 particulate, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds) were below the ASHRAE Concentrations of Interest (ASHRAE COI) and/or below the measured concentration in outdoor air.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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Lincoln County School District 489788 04/05/2019
Photos
Photo 1. Boiler room (B7) at rear of Crestview Heights School.
Photo 2. Main Office, Crestview Heights School. Arrow is pointing to area sample location.
This report is advisory only. It may not list all existing hazards. SAIF assumes no responsibility for correction of conditions identified as hazardous. Safety remains your responsibility
400 High St SE | Salem, OR 97312 | P: 800.285.8525
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