Future Environment OSH Asbestos Mold Supervisor Courses & Training

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

October 10, 2024 3 Comments

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

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

October 1, 2024 1 Comment

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 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

Re-Post of our 20 Year Anniversary of 9/11, 10-Year Anniversary of the World Trade Center Health Program. Lesson Learned?

September 27, 2024 No Comments

On September 11, 2001, Future Environment Designs (FEDTC) was teaching an asbestos supervisor refresher and an asbestos inspector initial course at the Underhill Blvd. Syosset office. We were some of the fortunate individuals who were not in New York City when terrorists hijacked airplanes and proceeded to fly them into the World Trade Centers (WTC), the Pentagon, and crashed another in Pennsylvania. On that day hundreds of thousands of people were exposed to a massive cloud of toxic gases and particulates from the terrorist attack on the WTC. Significant failings by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led to tens of thousands of people who participated in the ensuing rescue, recovery, and clean-up efforts being exposed to the WTC toxic dust. Nearly a half million people are estimated to be at increased risk of adverse health effects from exposures to physical, psychological, and emotional stressors in the days, weeks, and months following the terrorist attacks. This year we honor their sacrifice on the 20th Anniversary of the attack on the World Trade Center. On January 2, 2011, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2012 (the Zadroga Act) created the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). The WTCHP is administered by the director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). So this year is also the 10th Anniversary of the WTCHP. We have no intention of changing our logo which depicts the NYC skyline with the WTC. The WTCHP provides medical monitoring and treatment of covered health conditions for emergency responders, survivors, recovery and cleanup workers, and volunteers who helped at the WTC, the Pentagon, and the crash site near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and maintains a research program aimed to improve the care and well-being of the affected population. The WTCHP serves four groups of people affected by the 9/11 attacks: Fire Department of New York Responders, World Trade Center General Responders, World Trade Center Survivors

Day Two of PACNY’s 27th Annual Environmental Conference: Key Updates and Interactive Sessions, Part Two

September 26, 2024 No Comments

The second day of the 27th Annual Environmental Conference hosted by the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY) at Turning Stone Casino continued to deliver valuable insights and critical updates for industry professionals. As a Sapphire Sponsor, Future Environment Designs, Inc. was proud to be part of this informative and engaging event. State of PACNY: Leadership Insights and Organizational Updates The day began with an address from Kevin Hutton, PACNY President, and Craig Kaputa, PACNY Past President, who provided an overview of the state of PACNY. Their presentation highlighted the organization’s accomplishments over the past year, ongoing initiatives, and future goals. The duo emphasized PACNY‘s commitment to advancing industry standards and supporting its members through education, advocacy, and networking opportunities. Angelo Garcia, III was honored by receiving the PACNY‘s President Award for his efforts in handling the LinkedIn postings for the conference, sitting on the conference planning committee, and participating as a Board Member. Interactive Keynote: Navigating an OSHA Inspection The keynote speaker, Mike Rubin of Ogletree Deakins, delivered an impactful and interactive session, “An Interactive Walk Through an OSHA Inspection.” Rubin’s presentation was a deep dive into the intricacies of handling OSHA inspections, focusing on key points that every employer must know: Know Your Rights: Employers should be well-versed in their rights during an OSHA inspection to ensure they are adequately prepared. Scope of Inspection: It is crucial to verify that OSHA’s requests are within the scope of the inspection to avoid unnecessary overreach. Cooperate But Be Informed: While cooperation with OSHA inspectors is essential, employers should remain informed and vigilant about their rights and obligations. Document Requests in Writing: Employers should always request that OSHA put their document requests in writing to maintain clear and accurate records. Rubin’s interactive approach, including role-playing scenarios, allowed attendees to gain practical knowledge and confidence in managing real-life OSHA inspections. Vendor Exhibition and Networking: Engaging with Industry Leaders Following Rubin’s

Future Environment Designs Celebrates Labor Day by Remembering Those Who Made Sacrifices!

September 2, 2024 4 Comments

Future Environment Designs (FEDTC) wishes everyone a Happy Labor Day weekend! We hope everyone takes the time to remember that today we are celebrating the contributions of the labor movement to the development and achievements of the United States of America (USA). Many workers have sacrificed their lives in making these achievements. On average, almost 100 workers are killed every week in the United States due to traumatic injuries suffered at work. Over 20 times as many die from occupational diseases, many due to exposure to hazardous substances many years before they died (for example, asbestos, silica, and coal dust) or from COVID-19 acquired at work. It is important to remember those who made these sacrifices while working on the job. These sacrifices also cost businesses profitability and increase workmen’s compensation costs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has created a tool to show the impact different types of injuries cost businesses. The United States Labor Department has produced a video to remember the history behind the creation of Labor Day. Future Environment Designs hopes as we enjoy this weekend, we remember the importance and the sacrifices each of us makes to keep achieving and developing the USA, and even more importantly we remember solidarity, the sense that each of us should look out for the interests of all!

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

August 29, 2024 6 Comments

Future Environment Designs, Inc. (FEDTC) was a proud Sapphire Sponsor at the 27th Annual Environmental Conference hosted by the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York (PACNY). Held at the illustrious Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York, on February 15th and 16th, 2024, this two-day event was packed with enlightening presentations, industry updates, and valuable networking opportunities. FEDTC’s Booth at PACNY’s Environmental Conference Day One Highlights: A Deep Dive into Environmental Challenges The conference kicked off with an array of expert speakers, setting the tone for an engaging and informative event. Ben Reich of Eurofins opened the sessions with his talk on “Interpretation of Laboratory Results: Complicated Considerations Challenging Mold Sample Reporting.” Reich’s detailed analysis shed light on the complexities of mold sample reporting, emphasizing the need for meticulous interpretation of laboratory results. Ben Reich of Eurofins Also opening the conference on the second track was Charles Merritt of Merritt Environmental Consulting Corp. who educated us with “PFAS: Primary Introduction, ‘What is all the talk about?” Merritt’s comprehensive overview of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products and industrial processes since the 1940s) provided attendees with crucial knowledge on this emerging environmental concern. Charles Merritt of Merritt Environmental Consulting Corp. Brent Kynoch of the Environmental Information Association (EIA) followed on the first track with “Compliance Chronicles: Understanding Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Rules.” His presentation provided a thorough overview of the current EPA lead regulations, helping attendees navigate the intricate compliance landscape. Brent Kynoch of EIA Lisa Rogers of Mycometer and Frank Ehrenfeld of Eurofins collaborated on “American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) Standards: Reducing Risk and Adding Value for the Analytical, Environmental, and Occupational Health & Safety Professional.” Their presentation highlighted the importance of ASTM standards in mitigating risks and enhancing value across various sectors, including analytical, environmental, and occupational health and safety. Frank Ehrenfeld of Eurofins, and Lisa Rogers of Mycometer

The Fallacy of Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) Clearance Air Sampling, or 5 Reasons Why We Should Stop Using PCM for Clearance.

August 2, 2024 6 Comments

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) regulation introduced the requirement of clearance sampling after an asbestos abatement project was completed. Remember the AHERA regulation applies to schools from Kindergarten to 12th grade (K-12), both public and private schools. However, for all intents and purposes, the AHERA method serves as the industry standard when final clearance is performed for most asbestos abatement projects, especially when areas are to be re-occupied. The requirements for clearance are found in two sections of the rule: Response Actions; §763.90 (i) Appendix A (to Subpart E) – Interim Transmission Electron Microscopy Analytical Methods – Mandatory and NonMandatory – and Mandatory Section to Determine Completion of Response Actions AHERA allows final clearance air sampling to be done by phase contrast microscopy (PCM) methodology for projects less than or equal to 160 square feet (SF) or 260 linear feet (LF) by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 7400 methodology (Issue 3: 14 June 2019 is the current issue). For projects greater than 160 SF or 260 LF clearance shall be done by the AHERA transmission electron microscopy (TEM) method (requirements at 763.90 (i) (4) and Appendix A). Since this article’s purpose is to discuss why we should not be using the PCM method we will focus our discussion on this method specifically. An important point to remember is that the method was designed for personal sampling of workers in environments with actual asbestos exposures. AHERA adapted the method for clearance requiring that each sample must be less than or equal to a limit of quantitation (LOQ) for PCM of 0.01 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc). Over the years, it has become abundantly clear that the PCM method should not be used for clearance sampling. The top five reasons it should not be used for clearance sampling are: Size of the Fibers Analyzed The rules for

Asbestos Floor Tile Debate Results

July 12, 2017 9 Comments

… … … This debate regarding asbestos floor tiles started at the Professional Abatement Contractors of New York’s (PACNY’s) 2017 Environmental Conference. At the conference,