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Press Release: EPA Bans 2 Cancer-Causing Chemicals

December 9, 2024 the US EPA bans PCE and TCE

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned two carcinogenic chemicals, trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE or perc), commonly used in cleaning products and household goods. These chemicals, linked to cancers and damage to the nervous, immune, kidney, and liver systems, persist in the environment, contaminating soil, water, and air.

TCE is found in products like degreasers, paint strippers, and adhesives, posing risks to workers and nearby residents due to contamination of soil and groundwater. Perc, mainly used in dry cleaning, affects the respiratory system and may cause neurological and reproductive issues. Both chemicals are linked to long-term health risks, including Parkinson’s disease and various cancers.

The bans will take effect over the next 1–10 years, depending on the application. In the meantime, consumers are advised to check labels, choose “green” dry cleaners, and use activated carbon filters to reduce exposure.

Fremont Safety is proud to be able to offer testing for both of these now banned chemicals, right here in the state of Wyoming! Contact us here.

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EPA Regulation Alert: Lead

EPA Regulation Alert: Lead

The EPA enforces strict lead paint laws under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule to prevent lead poisoning, especially in children. Renovators working on pre-1978 properties must be certified and follow lead-safe practices, with violations leading to heavy fines or jail time.

Key cases highlight violations, such as improper work practices by Bitner Brothers Construction and disclosure failures by realtors, emphasizing the risks of non-compliance. Prominent settlements, including Magnolia Homes and NYC Public Housing Authority, underscore the importance of adherence to lead-based paint regulations.

Stay compliant: Update certifications, follow safety standards, and ensure proper disclosures to protect health and avoid penalties. Learn more at www.epa.gov/lead.

For testing and mitigation, contact Fremont Safety.

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Winterizing Your Commercial Property: A Guide from Your Trusted Building Inspectors

Winterizing Your Commercial Property: A Guide from Your Trusted Building Inspectors

As fall settles in, it’s crucial for commercial property owners and managers to prepare for winter. Proper winterization not only protects your investment but also ensures the safety and comfort of your tenants and employees. Here are essential steps to take this season.

1. Conduct a Roof Inspection

Autumn is the ideal time to assess your commercial roof for potential issues. Look for damaged or missing shingles and check for debris that can cause water pooling. Schedule a professional inspection to identify and address any vulnerabilities before snow and ice arrive.

2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams during winter. Ensure that all gutters and downspouts are cleared of leaves and debris. Installing gutter guards can provide added protection and minimize maintenance throughout the season.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafts from windows and doors can lead to increased heating costs and uncomfortable conditions inside your building. Inspect all entry points for gaps and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. This simple measure enhances energy efficiency and improves tenant comfort.

4. Service Your Heating System

Before the colder months, arrange for a comprehensive inspection of your heating system. Replace filters, clean ducts, and ensure all components are functioning properly. If your building has a boiler or other heating systems, schedule professional maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

5. Insulate Pipes

Prevent frozen and burst pipes by insulating any exposed pipes, particularly in unheated areas like basements and utility rooms. Pipe insulation is a cost-effective way to safeguard your plumbing and minimize the risk of water damage.

6. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

Don’t overlook your exterior spaces. Drain and store hoses, clear sidewalks of debris, and secure outdoor furniture. If your property has a landscape, ensure that plants are winterized and that any irrigation systems are properly drained.

7. Inspect the Building’s Foundation

Examine the foundation for cracks or gaps that could allow cold air or moisture to enter. Sealing these openings can help maintain energy efficiency and protect the integrity of your building.

8. Plan for Winter Emergencies

Winter can bring unpredictable weather, so it’s wise to prepare for emergencies. Stock up on essential supplies such as salt for ice management, snow shovels, and a basic first aid kit. Ensure that your building’s emergency plan is updated and communicated to staff.

Conclusion

Taking the time to winterize your commercial property this fall can save you from costly repairs and ensure a safe environment for your tenants and employees. At Fremont Safety, we are committed to helping you protect your investment. If you need assistance with inspections or winterization services, please reach out. Let’s work together to ensure your property is ready for the winter ahead!

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Fall is Here! Time to Prep for the Cooler Months Ahead

Fall is Here! Time to Prep for the Cooler Months Ahead

As we enjoy the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall, it’s also a reminder that cooler weather is on the horizon. While we’re not quite ready to winterize, now is the perfect time to plan ahead and ensure your building is in top shape for the months to come.

Here are a few key steps to consider this season:

  1. Roof and Gutter Inspection: Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters, leading to water damage. An inspection now can prevent costly repairs later.
  2. HVAC Check-Up: Before you switch to heating, make sure your HVAC system is running efficiently. A well-maintained system will keep you warm and save on energy bills.
  3. Seal and Insulate: Drafts can creep in as temperatures drop. Checking seals around windows and doors now will help maintain a comfortable indoor environment when the cold sets in.
  4. Outdoor Maintenance: Clear any debris from around your building, especially near foundations and drainage areas. This will help prevent moisture buildup and potential issues as we head into the rainy season.
  5. Safety First: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure fire extinguishers are up to date. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Planning now means fewer surprises later. Contact us to schedule a fall inspection, and let’s make sure your building is ready for whatever winter has in store!

Fremont Safety – Protecting Your Investment, Season After Season 🍁

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Comprehensive Commercial Building Inspection Services

Building Inspection Services

3D Building Mapping

Our 3D Building Mapping service utilizes advanced technology to create detailed, interactive models of your commercial property. This allows for precise planning, analysis, and management of building spaces. Whether you’re renovating, expanding, or simply need an accurate representation of your building, our 3D maps provide the clarity you need.

Building Inspection

Our thorough Building Inspection services cover all aspects of your property. We inspect structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and more to identify any potential issues. Our detailed reports help you make informed decisions about maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, ensuring your building remains safe and functional.

Asbestos Consulting and Testing

Asbestos can pose serious health risks if not properly managed. Our Asbestos Consulting and Testing services are designed to identify and mitigate these risks. We conduct thorough inspections and provide expert advice on asbestos management and abatement, ensuring compliance with all regulations and safeguarding the health of building occupants.

Mold Inspection

Mold can lead to significant health problems and structural damage. Our Mold Inspection services detect and assess mold growth in your building. We identify the source of moisture, provide remediation recommendations, and help prevent future mold issues, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for your tenants and employees.

Radon Testing

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause lung cancer. Our Radon Testing services measure radon levels in your building and recommend actions to reduce high levels. Protect the health of your building’s occupants with our reliable and accurate radon testing solutions.

Air Quality and Clearance Testing

Indoor air quality is crucial for the health and comfort of your building’s occupants. Our Air Quality and Clearance Testing services assess the presence of pollutants, allergens, and other harmful substances in the air. We provide actionable recommendations to improve air quality, ensuring a safe and healthy indoor environment.

Infrared and Thermography

Our Infrared and Thermography services utilize cutting-edge technology to detect hidden issues in your building. This non-invasive method helps identify problems such as electrical faults, water leaks, and insulation deficiencies. By catching these issues early, you can prevent costly repairs and improve energy efficiency.

Environmental Testing

We offer a comprehensive range of Environmental Testing services to identify and manage environmental hazards in your building. From soil and water testing to assessing chemical contaminants, we help you ensure compliance with environmental regulations and protect the health of your building’s occupants.

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Building Inspection Infrared and Thermography Services

Legionella Water Testing ASSE 12080 certified services

Legionella Water Testing

What is Legionnaires?

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by bacteria that can be found in fresh water. Symptoms include severe pneumonia and in some cases the infection can be deadly. The infection is not spread from person to person. Instead, you get it by inhaling bacteria that’s been aerosolized.

At this time, Fremont Safety is proud to be the only Wyoming business to offer ASSE 12080 certified Legionella Water Testing services!

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Clearing the Air: Why Environmental Testing is Essential for Commercial Building Health

Clearing the Air: Why Environmental Testing is Essential for Commercial Building Health

In today’s fast-paced world, where people spend a significant portion of their time indoors, ensuring a healthy indoor environment is paramount. Commercial buildings, in particular, serve as hubs of activity, accommodating employees, customers, and visitors alike. However, what many overlook is the invisible threat lurking within the confines of these structures: indoor air pollution. From allergens to toxic chemicals, the air we breathe indoors can have a profound impact on our health and well-being. This underscores the critical need for businesses to prioritize the maintenance of clean and safe indoor air quality within their premises.

Among the myriad pollutants and contaminants that can compromise indoor air quality, mold, asbestos, lead, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) stand out as significant culprits. Mold growth, often triggered by moisture infiltration, can lead to respiratory issues and allergic reactions among building occupants. Similarly, asbestos, commonly found in older buildings, poses severe health risks when disturbed, releasing microscopic fibers that can cause lung disease and cancer. Lead, present in paint and plumbing fixtures, is particularly hazardous, especially to young children and pregnant women. Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), emitted by various building materials and household products, contribute to indoor air pollution, leading to headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation.

The health implications of indoor air pollution are far-reaching and can manifest in various forms, ranging from minor irritations to severe respiratory conditions and long-term health effects. Exposure to mold spores can exacerbate allergies and asthma symptoms, while prolonged contact with asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Lead exposure is particularly concerning, as it can lead to developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and organ damage, with children being especially vulnerable. Similarly, VOC exposure has been linked to headaches, nausea, and even neurological disorders. Moreover, prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory infections, and other serious health conditions.

Environmental testing serves as a proactive approach to safeguarding the health and well-being of building occupants by identifying and mitigating indoor air quality issues before they escalate into major health hazards. By conducting comprehensive assessments and sampling indoor air and surfaces for pollutants, environmental testing professionals can pinpoint potential sources of contamination and assess the extent of exposure risks. This enables businesses to implement targeted remediation strategies, such as mold removal, asbestos abatement, lead paint encapsulation, and VOC mitigation, to restore indoor air quality to safe levels. Additionally, ongoing monitoring and periodic testing ensure that indoor environments remain healthy and compliant with regulatory standards, providing peace of mind to occupants and stakeholders alike.

Environmental testing has the power to uncover hidden hazards lurking within commercial buildings, ranging from hidden mold growth behind walls to asbestos insulation hidden within ceiling tiles. By conducting thorough assessments and utilizing advanced testing techniques, such as air sampling, surface swabs, and moisture meters, environmental testing professionals can identify and quantify indoor air quality issues with precision. Armed with this knowledge, businesses can take proactive steps to address these hazards and create safer, healthier workspaces for their employees and customers. Whether it’s remediation efforts to remove mold and asbestos or implementing ventilation improvements to reduce VOC concentrations, environmental testing plays a crucial role in enhancing indoor air quality and promoting occupant well-being.

In conclusion, the health and well-being of building occupants should be a top priority for businesses across all industries. By prioritizing environmental testing as part of their building maintenance and safety protocols, businesses can take proactive steps to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy indoor environment for employees and customers. Whether it’s identifying and mitigating mold, asbestos, lead, or VOCs, environmental testing provides invaluable insights into indoor air quality issues and empowers businesses to make informed decisions to protect occupant health. Therefore, I urge businesses to partner with reputable environmental testing professionals and invest in regular testing and monitoring to safeguard the health and well-being of all who enter their premises. Together, we can create healthier, happier, and more productive indoor environments for everyone.

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The Importance of Regular Building Inspections: Safety and Savings

The Importance of Regular Building Inspections
Safety and Savings

As a responsible property owner, you want to ensure the safety and longevity of your building—whether it’s a commercial business or your own home. One powerful tool at your disposal is regular building inspections.

Ensuring Safety

1. Identifying Hidden Issues

Regular inspections allow professionals to uncover hidden problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. From structural weaknesses to electrical hazards, these issues can compromise the safety of occupants. By catching them early, you prevent accidents, injuries, and potential legal liabilities.

2. Compliance with Regulations

Building codes and regulations evolve over time. What was acceptable a decade ago may no longer meet current safety standards. Inspections ensure that your property complies with the latest codes, reducing the risk of fines or shutdowns due to non-compliance.

3. Early Detection of Maintenance Needs

Think of inspections as preventive health check-ups for your building. Just as regular doctor visits catch health issues before they escalate, inspections catch maintenance needs before they become major repairs. Addressing minor issues promptly prevents them from snowballing into costly emergencies.

Saving Money Through Proactive Maintenance

1. Avoiding Costly Repairs

Imagine a leaking roof left unattended. Over time, that small drip can lead to water damage, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity. Regular inspections allow you to fix minor leaks, cracks, and wear-and-tear before they escalate. The cost of preventive maintenance pales in comparison to major repairs.

2. Extending Lifespan

A well-maintained building lasts longer. Regular inspections help identify areas that need attention—whether it’s repainting, sealing, or replacing worn-out components. By extending the lifespan of your property, you save money on premature replacements.

3. Enhancing Energy Efficiency

Inspections also focus on energy-related aspects. Detecting insulation gaps, inefficient HVAC systems, or drafty windows allows you to make targeted improvements. Energy-efficient buildings not only save you money on utility bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

In summary, regular building inspections are a win-win: they enhance safety and save you money. Whether you’re a business owner or a homeowner, investing in inspections is an investment in peace of mind and long-term financial stability. So, don’t wait—schedule that inspection today and safeguard your property for years to come!

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Exploring Riverton, Wyoming: The Rendezvous City

Exploring Riverton, Wyoming: The Rendezvous City

Nestled in the heart of Wyoming lies a hidden gem, Riverton, affectionately known as “The Rendezvous City.” With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant community spirit, Riverton offers an experience like no other. Let’s embark on a journey to discover what makes Riverton a must-visit destination.

A Historical Tapestry

Riverton’s story is woven with threads of Native American culture, pioneering spirit, and the allure of the Old West. Originally inhabited by the Shoshone and Arapaho tribes, the area later became a vital stop on the Oregon Trail and the Pony Express route. The city’s name itself reflects its history as a gathering place for trappers and traders during the annual Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in the early 19th century.

Visitors can delve into Riverton’s past at the Riverton Museum, where exhibits showcase artifacts and tales from the region’s Native American heritage, fur trading era, and railroad expansion. The Wind River Heritage Center offers further insights into the area’s cultural tapestry, celebrating both its indigenous roots and frontier history.

Natural Splendor

Surrounded by the majestic Wind River Range and the vast expanse of the high plains, Riverton is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Nature enthusiasts flock to nearby destinations such as Sinks Canyon State Park, where the Popo Agie River disappears into a limestone cavern, creating a geological marvel known as “The Sinks.” Hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities abound in the park’s pristine wilderness.

For a taste of the untamed West, visitors can embark on a scenic drive along the Wind River Indian Reservation, where sweeping vistas and sacred sites provide a glimpse into Native American life and heritage. Meanwhile, the nearby Boysen State Park offers boating, camping, and picnicking amidst the rugged beauty of Boysen Reservoir and its surrounding cliffs.

Community and Culture

Riverton’s warm hospitality and tight-knit community make every visitor feel like a part of the family. The city hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Riverton Rendezvous, an homage to its fur-trading past featuring parades, rodeos, and traditional mountain man competitions.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate Riverton’s burgeoning arts scene, with galleries showcasing works by local artists and craftsmen. The Robert A. Peck Arts Center at Central Wyoming College is a hub for creativity, offering exhibitions, workshops, and performances that celebrate the region’s cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Riverton, Wyoming, invites travelers to step back in time and immerse themselves in the spirit of the Old West while embracing the beauty of its natural surroundings. Whether exploring its rich history, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the warmth of its community, Riverton offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the American West. So pack your bags and set out for The Rendezvous City – an adventure awaits!

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Cluck Yeah! Wyoming Food Freedom Act

Cluck Yeah! Wyoming Food Freedom Act

In a world where regulations often ruffle our feathers, Wyoming decided to take a different route. Enter the Wyoming Food Freedom Act, a piece of legislation that liberates local producers, allowing them to spread their wings and, of course, beak into the market.

With the Food Freedom Act in play, Wyomingites can now dive headfirst into the world of poultry entrepreneurship. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own egg-centric business or opening a feathered-fantastic fried chicken joint, the possibilities are as endless as a chicken’s desire to cross the road.

The act allows local farmers and producers to sell their eggs directly to consumers without the bureaucratic scramble. No more eggshell-walking around regulations – now, it’s a sunny-side-up kind of day in Wyoming!

The Wyoming Food Freedom Act is a beacon of freedom for poultry producers and a cause for celebration for food enthusiasts across the state.

So, whether you’re a chicken aficionado, an egg enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, Wyoming’s culinary landscape is ready for you. Cluck yeah to the Food Freedom Act – because in the Cowboy State, culinary freedom is no longer a coop-out!