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Tag: Hazardous Material Removal

  • 5 Shocking Facts About Asbestos

    5 Shocking Facts About Asbestos

    Asbestos is not always taken seriously these days, with many people feeling it’s completely banned. The fact is, asbestos is not banned everywhere, and you can still be exposed. It’s still found in products in commercial and residential settings. Below are five shocking facts about asbestos you should know.

    Women are Catching Up with Men When it Comes to Asbestos-Related Illness

    Los Angeles schools, hospitals, and large office buildings can all have materials inside that contain asbestos fibers. In years past, men were the primary workers in blue-collar positions that dealt with asbestos exp[osure. Increasingly, women are at the forefront of many industrial positions and work in larger buildings that are capable of exposing them to dangerous asbestos.

    Asbestos Can Be in Imported Products

    Asbestos was banned from being used in products manufactured in the US years ago, but other countries still use it regularly. Many of these products hit our shores and enter the Los Angeles County workplace or home on a frequent basis. The risk of asbestos fiber exposure is still a present danger.

    Most Types of Occupational Cancers are Caused By Asbestos Exposure

    Tracing cancer back to an Orange County job site exposure is not an easy thing to do, in most instances. Asbestos-related cancer is very specific in origin and it’s not hard to pinpoint the exposure. It’s the leading cause of occupationally derived cancer in the United States. It’s mainly due to the prevalence of exposure.

    You Can Be Around Asbestos and Never Know It’s There

    The fibers of asbestos, when allowed to come loose and float freely, have no foul odor, will not burn the skin, and leave no bad taste if it lands on your food. You can be exposed to asbestos daily and never know. It’s important to be aware of this common workplace hazard.

    Illness Doesn’t Start for Many Years

    You can have asbestos-related illness show up 20 to 40-years after initial exposure. It’s the only thing that might make it hard to determine the source of exposure. The difficulties of remembering every place you have been or worked for the last 40-years can be a challenge.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Call the asbestos abatement specialists at Tri-Span if you need testing or removal of this harmful product. We can solve asbestos problems anywhere in the Los Angeles County area.[/su_note]

  • How Did A Small Kitchen Fire Cause So Much Damage?

    How Did A Small Kitchen Fire Cause So Much Damage?

    Fires have a way of causing an incredible amount of damage in a home, no matter how small. At Tri Span, we specialize in complete fire damage remediation to ensure that your Los Angeles County area home is brought back to the condition it was before the unexpected fire.

    The Overwhelming Smell of Smoke

    One of the first things you notice when stepping back into your fire-damaged home is the overwhelming smell of smoke. Even small isolated fires in the kitchen can send the smell throughout your Los Angeles home. Experiencing a fire can be traumatizing. It’s important to completely rid the home of the odor to avoid feeling re-traumatized at the smell.

    Soot and Grime

    The black soot left behind after a fire is grimy and greasy feeling. It can coat walls, ceilings, flooring, and your personal belongings. You need experts in fire and smoke damage remediation to clean the soot completely out of your Orange County home. It will require a combination of cleaning, repainting, and replacing fire and smoke damaged items.

    Water, Water Everywhere

    The fire department that shows up to put out a Riverside County house fire will use a ton of water to get the blaze quickly under control. It’s beneficial to minimize the fire damage, but it sets up your home for different problems due to water damage. You need to have the water removed fast to avoid mold.

    Replacing Burned Materials and Appliances

    The home will begin to look and smell better as the damaged items and materials of your San Bernardino County home are replaced. Your kitchen and home will begin to look as good as new.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Contact our fire and smoke damage specialists at Tri Span and we will come out right away to assess the situation. We offer the right solutions for homes throughout Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, and San Bernardino County area.[/su_note]

  • Why Does My Home Still Smell Like Smoke After Fire Repairs?

    Why Does My Home Still Smell Like Smoke After Fire Repairs?

    When you have experienced a fire in your Los Angeles area home and have hired professional repair services, you expect that your life can go back to normal. A lingering odor of smoke means something has been overlooked and you have not received true remediation of the problem. At Tri Span, we believe in making sure that every step is followed to alleviate the complete problem.

    Hidden Fire Damaged Material

    If you hire repair services to handle the aftermath of a fire, they may not find all of the materials that are damaged or choose to cover over some damage without realizing the odors will be left behind. You need to make sure that repairs are made by experts that understand the importance of being thorough in removing and repairing your fire-damaged Los Angeles County home.

    Carpeting and Drapery In Other Rooms

    The fibers of carpeting and drapery in rooms that were not directly impacted by the fire can still suffer from smoke damage. Your San Bernardino County home will remain smelling like smoke until these items are thoroughly cleaned or replaced.

    Smoke On Walls, Shelving, and Personal Items

    Smoke from a fire in your Riverside County home can also coat the walls, shelving, and seep deep into your personal items. Bedding, clothing, stuffed animals, and many other items can retain the smell of smoke without looking damaged.

    Clean the Air Ducts and Vents

    The smoke from a fire in your Orange County home will follow the “path of least resistance” route. It means your air vents and ducts are not out of the question when it comes to smoke infiltration. It will coat the interior walls and leave the smell behind. Have these surfaces cleaned to eliminate the odor.

    Remove and Change the HVAC Filter

    The filter for the HVAC system will become soiled completely from the smoke in the air from a fire. It’s often forgotten about until you restart the system and the odor permeates the entire home. Shut the unit down and replace the filter.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Contact us at Tri-Span if you have experienced a fire and still have lingering smoke odors. We will investigate the problem and find you the most affordable solutions. We offer smoke remediation services to the entire Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside County areas.[/su_note]

  • What You Need to Know About Lead Paint

    What You Need to Know About Lead Paint

    It seems hard to believe that lead paint is still an issue since it was banned as a paint additive in 1978. Many Los Angeles County area homes have an existing problem that jeopardizes the health of anyone inhabiting these locations. Our lead paint removal specialists at Tri Span Inc are ready to help you find the permanent solution you need.

    Lead Paint Can Be On the Interior or Exterior of An Older Home

    Lead was an additive used to help quicken the drying process in both interior and exterior paints made in the mid-1970’s and earlier. Not every home that pre-dates the late 1970’s contains lead paint, but you need to understand that there is a risk. You will find as many homes in this era using lead-based paint as an exterior and interior cover.

    You Can Still Have Lead Paint Present with a Remodeled Home

    The purchase of a fully remodeled older home in Orange or Riverside County does not guarantee you that there is no lead paint present. Unless you are shown paperwork that a full lead removal was completed, the risk is there that lead paint is under some of the new materials and simply disguised. You should do a little investigating to get to the base materials and have any paint tested.

    Hidden Areas of Lead Paint Can Lurk In Closets and Cupboards

    Any older home in the Los Angeles area can have lead paint lurking in spaces that are not frequently used, or have a need for frequent repainting. The interiors of closets and cupboards are common to having the surface remain coated with lead paint. It will have to be isolated and professionally removed for the safety of you and your family.

    Trying to Remove Lead Paint Yourself Can Be Dangerous

    You can find a myriad of products advertised to remove lead paint, but trying to do this yourself can be dangerous. When lead paint is moved and removed, it flashes out dust that is highly toxic and easy for your body to absorb.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Contact us at Tri Span Inc and get a free estimate for complete lead paint removal. We offer effective and affordable lead paint removal in Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties.[/su_note]

  • Why You Need Bio-Hazard Clean-Up for Sewage Back-Up

    Why You Need Bio-Hazard Clean-Up for Sewage Back-Up

    Environmental cleaning services are never more needed than at a time that raw sewage spills into your Orange County home. The smell can seem overwhelming, and the possibility of germ exposure makes cleanup a priority. At Tri SPan, we are ready to tackle this type of emergency at any time.

    No One Wants to Deal With Raw Sewage

    The mere thought of having to trudge through human waste to clean a sewage back-up is disgusting for most people. Unexpected sewage problems in your Orange County home can make you want to flee to the next county. Specialized equipment, protective gear, and hazmat suits are necessary when cleaning up large amounts of human waste.

    Germ Exposure

    It is not impossible for most people to understand that human waste is covered with germs. What many people do not realize is that some of these germs are quite deadly. You need to make sure that all of the biohazardous waste is removed from the surfaces of your home. It may require changing some sheetrock and other materials that have soaked up the waste.

    Removing the Smell

    The smell of a sewage back-up can permeate the entire home. It is most likely6 detected outside of the immediate Orange County residence. Our specialized environmental hazard cleaning team will make sure all of the waste is removed and that there are no lingering odors.

    Quick Relief

    Attempting to clean up a backup of sewage in your Orange County home can take forever. If you have not dealt with a situation this serious, the learning curve can be steep. Hiring our environmental cleanup crew will ensure the sewage gets taken care of right away.

    Get Your Home Sanitary Again

    Not only will our experts completely remove the physical waste from the home, but they will ensure that all surfaces you touch are clean and sanitized. Your Orange County home will be back to normal in no time. We can make your home look as if the incident never happened.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Contact us immediately if you experience an unexpected backup of raw sewage into your home. It is a mess that warrants the expense of having experts remove the problem. We handle sewage backup cleaning anywhere around the Orange County area.[/su_note]

  • Why You Should Encapsulate the Crawlspace of Your Home

    Why You Should Encapsulate the Crawlspace of Your Home

    Most homes in the Los Angeles County and surrounding area have crawlspaces instead of basements. The crawlspace of your home is the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow unnoticed. It then enters the interior of your home through the ventilation system. At Tri Span, we can encapsulate this area and provide a barrier of protection for you and your family.

    Stabilizes the Temperature of Your Home

    Fully encapsulating the crawlspace of your home allows your HVAC unit to cool or warm the air easier and provide an even temperature. Moisture that comes up from the crawlspace can dramatically affect the way your Los Angeles and surrounding area home heats and cools during cold and warm spells. You will feel more comfortable on a consistent basis.

    Improves Air Quality

    Most crawlspaces have a dirt floor. The air that is trapped in this space is pulled in and cycled through your home ventilation. It is often the reason you get an earthy-type smell when the HVAC system is operating. It can drag mold, pollen, germs, and bacteria that make their way into your crawlspace directly into the home.

    Reduces Energy Use

    The added insulative qualities of an encapsulated crawlspace equate to energy savings you can enjoy all year long in your Orange County and surrounding area home. Lower energy bills are an attractive part of placing a good moisture barrier over the bottom area of the home.

    Reduces Mold

    The dark, quiet, damp area offered by crawlspaces without moisture barriers are perfect for spreading mold up into your house through the vents. It can bring mold spores into the home even during periods of little and no rain. The ground has natural levels of moisture that can promote mold growth.

    Reduce the Chance of Pest Infestations

    A quality crawlspace encapsulation will limit the ability of bugs and rodents from infesting your home. Pests tend to enter homes through their most vulnerable openings. Getting this added layer of protection will help you keep pest free without spending a small fortune.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Call us at Tri Span and find out more about crawlspace encapsulation. We offer moisture barrier services throughout the Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside County areas.[/su_note]

  • Handling the Stress of a Hazardous Materials Spill

    Handling the Stress of a Hazardous Materials Spill

    Many industries need to keep hazardous chemicals on hand or generate hazardous waste as a byproduct. No one wants to think of what to do if a spill happens but it is necessary to visit this and mentally prepare for the chance of it happening in your Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, or San Bernardino County business.

    Do Not Freeze Up In Shock

    If a hazardous chemical spill happens in your business, two of the worst things you can do are panic or freeze. Neither will help you get anything done to help the situation. Take a moment to gather your thoughts, but then you need to make every move and action count.

    Call All Emergency Response Needed and the Hazardous Material Cleaning Company

    If there are injuries from exposure, or the spill is bad, call the necessary Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, and San Bernardino County emergency management people to the scene. Contact your chosen Environmental Clean-up company and have them on site to help minimize the contamination and begin the process of cleaning up when safe to do so.

    Check for Injuries and Chemical Exposure of Employees IF It Is Safe

    Check on all of your employees if possible and find out if there are any chemical exposure injuries. Do NOT enter the area of the spill if it is releasing toxic fumes. You can end up a casualty yourself. In this case, wait for those with specialized equipment to help any stranded employees.

    Evacuate Employees and Block Access to the Area of the Spill

    Evacuate all employees from the building and block off access to all but emergency and clean-up personnel. Take a head count and know who is there and who is missing. Make sure they are not sitting at home enjoying a day off, and you are worried about nothing.

    Let the Professionals Do Their Job Upon Arrival

    You can begin to relax a little as the professionals begin to arrive to take the help in this situation. Stand back and let these individuals do their jobs. Have all of the information handy about the type of chemical, what happened, how many people were involved, and possible injuries. If none of your Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, or Riverside County employees were injured, it was a good day.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Call us at Tri Span and find out about our environmental clean-up services that are available for any business in the Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino County areas.[/su_note]

  • Why You Need to Make Tri Span Part of Your Emergency Disaster Recovery Plan

    Why You Need to Make Tri Span Part of Your Emergency Disaster Recovery Plan

    Quick action is necessary following an emergency or disaster situation causing damage to your home, business, and personal property. Professionals at Tri Span are trained to minimize damage, salvage as much personal property as possible, and help completely restore your home or business to pre-disaster condition.

    Preparing for and Expecting the Unexpected

    Unexpected events that can cause serious damage to your home or business can leave you scrambling to secure your property and salvage your belongings. Damage and loss can occur from:

    • Water leaks and floods
    • Fire and smoke
    • Earthquake
    • Vehicle damage
    • Wind and hail
    • Explosion

    Some of these possibilities might be far and few between events in Orange, San Bernardino, Los Angeles and Riverside Counties, but they can and do happen. Developing an effective emergency plan to salvage your home and belongings is a smart way to stay ahead of any situation.

    Weather Events

    The weather has become an unpredictable force. Hail, high winds, lightning, flooding rains, mudslides, and tornadoes can happen at any moment. At times there is little warning. You need emergency assistance to preserve your property and belongings that are local to the Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange County area. Tri Span will dispatch quickly to give you needed help.

    Earthquakes

    Southern California, especially Los Angeles County, and Orange County are no stranger to earthquakes. Thankfully, most tend to be mild and barely felt. The opportunity always exists for a massive earthquake that can do some significant property damage. Include the services of Tri Span to assist in cleaning up the damage and getting your house or business back up and running.

    Fires and Floods

    The incidences of wildfires, unpredictable flooding, and mudslides seem to be on the rise. It is good to prepare for these major types of cataclysmic natural disasters, but a small fire in your home or business and flooding due to a severe water leak can prove devastating to the property. Cleaning these types of messes is the only way to avoid further damage. You will need help retrieving personal items.

    Contact Tri Span, your resident experts in emergency disaster cleanup and restoration today! We serve the entire Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside County area.

  • Deconstructing for Reuse & Recycling

    Deconstructing for Reuse & Recycling

    When a building is demolished making way for a new structure, many of the old building materials can be reused or recycled. This deconstruction process saves resources, energy, and landfill space. This same materials conservation practice can be used during remodeling when only part of a building is being demolished.

    Recycling and reusing old building materials can be done on any type of job site including, residential, commercial, and industrial locations.

    Deconstruction Before Demolition

    In some demolition situations, state and federal laws regulate which materials or fixtures can be taken out for reuse. Knowing these regulations is the first step when deconstructing a building and salvaging useful items.

    The next step in recycling parts of an old building is identifying any hazardous substances present at the location. This is important because the materials being removed for reuse must be free from any contamination, or they must be properly decontaminated before they are recycled.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]When a building is slated for demolition, rapid assessment of salvageable materials is important for preventing theft or vandalism of salvageable items. Unfortunately, there is a thriving market for stolen building materials and valuable metals found in old buildings.[/su_note]

    There are many building materials and appurtenances which can be reused and recycled from an old building. Some of the materials which can be reused include:

    • Dimensional framing lumber,
    • Wood flooring,
    • Fixtures such as sinks, faucets, bathtubs, and toilets,
    • Doors and window glass,
    • Bricks and stone,
    • Appliances such as air conditioners, furnaces, and water heaters,
    • Marble and other countertops and fireplace mantels,
    • Doorknobs and latches,
    • Cabinets and built-in bookcases and shelves,
    • Light fixtures.

    Wood trim around doors and windows, moldings, and doors from older buildings are often made with wood and architectural styles no longer available. These items hold special historical and architectural value, and they can demand a high price at resale.

    Copper pipe and other metals found in buildings also have a high value at the scrap yard and are worth salvaging.

    Salvaging and recycling useful, historical, and valuable materials from a building help preserve natural and cultural resources in a community. When you deconstruct for reuse and recycling before demolition, you are playing a role in community conservation.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Tri Span Inc. is a general contracting company with extensive knowledge and experience in properly deconstructing a building before demolition or remodeling begins. Contact TriSpan for more information on preserving valuable construction materials in old buildings in the Los Angeles area.[/su_note]

  • Inspecting and Assessing for Lead Paint Hazards

    Inspecting and Assessing for Lead Paint Hazards

    Inspection and assessment of lead risks at a property site are not the same things. Inspection for lead hazards is the first step in knowing whether a hazard exists, and assessment is a second step for determining how dangerous the hazard is and what can be done to mitigate the problem.

    Inspecting for a Lead Hazard

    Inspection for the presence of lead in paint, dust, and the soil surrounding a building must be done by a professional with California State certification and training, according to State law.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]During an inspection for lead hazards, a lead hazard inspector examines all of the surfaces inside and outside the building and performs tests as needed to find out if lead-based paints are present. Paints containing lead were routinely used until 1978 in the U.S., and in many situations, lead-based paints are lurking below the surface of newer coats of paint which do not contain lead.[/su_note]

    This hidden lead becomes a health hazard when there is remodeling or demolition of the building and also if the paint begins to peel or chip with age. Inspecting for the presence of lead-based paints is especially important when purchasing or renting a building where children live and in child-care sites.

    Inspection for lead hazards also involves examination of the soil surrounding the building. Often, old paint has been scraped away from the exterior of the building, leaving dust in the surrounding soil. This soil then poses a health hazard for anyone who works in the soil, and it is hazardous for children who play outside the building.

    Assessing Lead Hazards

    Once an inspection for lead is completed, a certified lead assessment specialist goes further in determining the exact source of the hazard and then developing a plan for lead abatement.

    A lead assessment specialist works with the property owner in understanding the level of hazard posed by lead in their building and then in choosing the most cost-effective strategy for solving the problem.

    [su_note note_color=”#f1f1f1″]Tri Span, Inc. is a Southern California licensed contractor specializing in all types of hazardous materials inspection, assessment, and abatement, including lead hazards. Tri Span is California state certified for inspection and assessment of lead-based paint hazards in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties and is ready to assist you in determining the level of lead hazard at your property and then doing the work to remove lead hazards.[/su_note]