Decontamination

Decontamination

Mitigation for our commercial, institutioanl, industrial & residential clients

Removal of materials containing asbestos (Asbestos abatement/Remediation)

Our team is trained to remove asbestos-containing materials according to the highest standards established by competent authorities.

 What is asbestos?

According to the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), asbestos is a fibrous mineral. Each fiber has a length-to-width ratio of at least 3:1. Depending on their physical and chemical characteristics, asbestos fibers form two groups; Serpentines (Chrysotile) and Amphiboles (Crosidolite, Amosite, Actinolite, Anthophyllite, Tremolite).

Since its discovery, asbestos has been widely used in many industrial sectors; construction (plaster, heat-insulating, vermiculite, tiles, flocking, etc.), cars (brake, transmissions, etc.), textiles (thermal protection) and many others for these physical and chemical characteristics; resistance to high temperatures, friction and wear, does not break down, etc.

Asbestos can be a health risk when it becomes brittle(crumbly) and releases its fibers into the air. The latter can be inhaled and go to the airways.

Long exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to asbestosis (lung fibrosis), lung cancer or mesothelioma.

To avoid this kind of exposure, the state of asbestos-containing materials must be constantly monitored and made sure they are not friable. In addition, it is necessary to call professionals for any work involving this kind of materials.

When purchasing building or house (built between 1930 and 1990) or planning renovation work, make sure that it does not contain friable materials containing damaged asbestos. This is done by performing analysis of these by a certified laboratory (Sampling-Test- & Analysis Service offered by Biovac System).

Biovac System Inc. is often requested for asbestos removal work. In fact, whether for a vermiculite removal in the attic, under the floor or behind the walls, asbestos removal involving acoustic tiles, plaster / gypsum walls/ceilings, furnace panels, insulation or flocking, we answer present by offering a fast and efficient service. In addition, our technicians are trained and certified to perform this type of work.

Feel free to use our services. Quick response and FREE submission.

Fire & water damage mitigation (decontamination of molds):

It is not pleasant to note that a water damage in the building has caused undesirable consequences such as fungal growth (mold development). We are able to decontaminate your facilities according to recommended protocols by competent authorities and within a timeframe set at your convenience.

 What is mold?

 Molds are microorganisms that are part of fungi. Their main role is the decomposition of organic materials (ACC82-2004). They spread through their spores (reproduction structures) and are everywhere!!!

Since they are naturally present outside, it is quite normal to find a background concentration in buildings. This concentration depends on the environment in which they are located. Where it starts to be problematic is when the concentrations inside the buildings are higher than those outside of them. This implies that mold spores that have accumulated inside have found adequate conditions for their growth. These conditions are: a substrate (nutrients), humidity(moisture) and adequate temperature.

Mold can affect our health. Indeed, several symptoms (headache, throat irritation, … etc) may appear after a certain time of exposure to fungal toxins (molds) and deteriorate the occupants’s health. It should be noted that people with compromised immune systems are most at risk.

According to the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS): ” The key factor is moisture because moulds and fungi need it to grow. As a result, moulds and fungi are most often found in basements, kitchens and bathrooms’’.  Also, in attics and enclosed areas where there are organic materials. It is therefore important to maintain the level of the latter under acceptable thresholds, to prevent any fungal growth (mold development).

Black mould(mold): Contrary to what is widespread, mold is not always black it can take a range of different colors … SO PAY ATTENTION TO IT. It is important to watch for signs of potential water seepage, water damage or even condensation (water stains, peeling paint, curled floor, etc.).

CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) has made recommendation within its guide Mold in Homes Information for First Nations Occupants, to Prevent Fungal Growth:

– Check the humidity(moisture) levels.

– Identify and fix leaks

– Operate the bathroom evacuator, when needed

– Operate the kitchen hood, when needed

– Be attentive to the possible presence of molds.

If you confirm the presence of fungal(mould/mold) contamination, an adequate decontamination will be required, following the protocols. Technicians must secure the perimeter of work, to prevent cross-contamination, prior to decontamination(mitigation).

We are able to decontaminate your contaminated facilities, according to the protocols, within a timeframe set at your convenience … DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL OUR SERVICES FOR DECONTAMINATION (MOLD ABATEMENT/REMEDIATION).

Preparation of decontamination protocol

For your decontamination projects, we can prepare precise protocols adapted to your needs according to recommended protocols by competent authorities.