Posts in category: Media

Asbestos removal is an essential task that needs to be performed in a safe and controlled manner to prevent harm to human health and the environment. However, the task of asbestos removal can become more challenging in winter due to the colder temperatures and weather conditions. In this blog, we will explore some of the challenges of asbestos removal in winter and how to mitigate them.

Temperature – One of the most significant challenges of asbestos removal in winter is the temperature. Asbestos removal requires the use of water to wet the asbestos-containing materials and prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. However, in winter, water can freeze, making the work more difficult and time-consuming. Workers must also be appropriately dressed for the cold temperatures to prevent hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses.

Moisture – Winter weather also brings increased moisture, which can make the removal process more challenging. Moisture can make asbestos-containing materials more challenging to handle and remove, increasing the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. Wet surfaces can also become slippery, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.

Daylight hours – During winter, the days are shorter, and daylight hours are limited. This can make it more challenging for workers to complete the task of asbestos removal within a reasonable timeframe. With limited daylight hours, workers may have to work in the dark, making it more challenging to identify asbestos-containing materials and take the necessary precautions.

Despite these challenges, asbestos removal can be safely and effectively performed in winter with proper planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help mitigate the challenges of asbestos removal in winter.

• Plan ahead Before starting asbestos removal work, it is essential to plan ahead and take into account the weather conditions. Work schedules should be adjusted to ensure that tasks are completed during daylight hours. The work area should be kept dry and covered to prevent water from freezing and increasing the risk of accidents. 
• Provide appropriate clothing and equipment Workers should be appropriately dressed for the cold temperatures and provided with adequate protective clothing and equipment, including gloves, face masks, and respirators. Protective clothing should be waterproof to prevent exposure to moisture.
• Use appropriate heating The work area should be heated appropriately to prevent water from freezing and ensure that workers are comfortable and warm. Portable heaters can be used to heat the work area, but they should be used with caution and monitored closely to prevent fires and accidents.

In conclusion, asbestos removal in winter can be challenging, but with proper planning, preparation, and safety measures in place, it can be performed safely and effectively. At Consultex Environmental, we have the necessary expertise and experience to project asbestos removal in all weather conditions. Contact us today for a consultation and to learn more about our asbestos removal services.

0508 292 292 or [email protected]

Why You Should Use a Competent Trained Mould Assessor in New Zealand Who is a Member of the Australian Society of Building Biologists

When it comes to indoor air quality, mould is a common problem that can cause serious health issues for building occupants. In New Zealand, there are regulations in place to ensure that mould is properly identified and remediated to protect the health of the public. However, not all mould assessors are created equal, and it’s important to choose a competent and trained professional who is a member of the Australian Society of Building Biologists (ASBB).

Consultex Environmental is a leading provider of mould assessment services in New Zealand. Our team of professionals is trained and certified to identify and remediate mould in commercial, residential, and industrial properties. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Consultex for your mould assessment needs:

Competent and Trained Professionals

All of our mould assessors are competent and trained professionals with years of experience in the industry. We use the latest techniques and equipment to identify and assess mould in buildings. Our team members are constantly updating their knowledge and skills through ongoing training and education.

ASBB Membership

Consultex is proud to have membership with the Australian Society of Building Biologists. This membership gives us access to a wealth of resources and knowledge about mould and other indoor air quality issues. We stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry and use this knowledge to provide our clients with the best possible service.

Fast and Accurate Results

We understand that time is of the essence when it comes to mould assessment and remediation. That’s why we offer a fast turnaround time for mould sampling and analysis. Our laboratory partners are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that provides accurate results in a timely manner.

Additional Services

In addition to mould assessment and remediation, Consultex Environmental offers a range of other services to improve indoor air quality. These services include asbestos testing and removal, lead testing and removal, indoor air quality testing, and water damage restoration. Our comprehensive approach to indoor air quality ensures that our clients have a safe and healthy environment in which to live and work.

Conclusion

When it comes to mould assessment and remediation, it’s important to choose a competent and trained professional who is a member of the Australian Society of Building Biologists. At Consultex Environmental, we have the experience, knowledge, and resources to provide you with fast and accurate results for all your mould assessment needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you improve your indoor air quality.

0508 292 292 or [email protected]

This week, Consultex is trying something new and conducting a review of one of the most commonly used pieces of equipment in the industry, Air Sampling Pumps. In addition to our plethora of pumps, we have managed to get our hands on a majority of the most commonly used brands and models in New Zealand’s industry and put them to the test. As with every review, the goal is to be as comprehensive as possible, however there are the following notable exclusions:

Gilian Gil-air

SKC Flite 3

Buck Libra

SKC Touch

If anyone has any experience with these models, feel free to share your experience’s below!

Please note these are Consultex’s review’s and opinions based on personal experiences with each unit in real life application. These views or primarily based on asbestos monitoring and consultancy. Different pumps may suit certain service lines and applications better. If anyone has positive or negative experiences with their air sampling pumps, feel free to drop a comment below.

Low Flow

Asbestos survey reports can be a daunting and confusing document, especially with the multitude of off-the-shelf software options and local developers who can produce a capable system in a matter of days. So, what makes a good asbestos survey report in today’s market? Consultex Environmental has the answer.

Comprehensive, but not Overcomplicated

Consultex believes that survey reports should be comprehensive, but not overcomplicated. The reports should add value to the client by avoiding an immense amount of copy and paste jargon at the beginning and throughout the document. While caveats and limitations should be listed to protect both the company and the client, extensive example reports, scenarios, risk matrixes, and repetitive executive summary tables are unnecessary.

Colour is King (or Queen)

In a visual learning industry, colour and detailed site maps are king. Consultex uses colours such as red (positive or strongly presumed), green (negative), and orange (presumed) clearly and unsparingly throughout the report. Additionally, they label site maps with the appropriate colour, type of material, and extent, so clients can quickly understand the information. Pictures are also an essential part of the report, and Consultex provides high-definition images for all survey items.

Accuracy and Detail – Can I Quote Off This?

Consultex’s goal is to provide a report that an asbestos removal contractor can quote from in the office. They achieve this by offering more value. Their consultants carry measuring lasers, tapes, and wheels to ensure accurate extents, and they provide detailed information about the presence and state of the building paper, insulation, and roofing or ceiling materials. The report includes whether the roof is fixed with screws or flat nails, if it is corrugated asbestos fiber cement, and if the ceiling is textured plasterboard, fibrous gib, or lath and plaster.

Recommendations

Finally, a good asbestos survey report should include tailored recommendations that the end user can easily understand and apply to their project or asbestos management. Consultex evaluates and considers the end user of the report and tailors the recommendations accordingly.

If you need a comprehensive asbestos survey report, Consultex Environmental can provide one. Contact them via their website or the details below to speak to one of their surveyors.

0508 292 292 or [email protected]

With experienced Hygienists’ and asbestos consultants high in demand in New Zealand. I thought I would touch base on what defines a good hazardous material consultant and what is desirable within the market. The following blog has been separated into different sections below for discussion.

So what makes a good Hazmat Consultant / Hygienist?:

Safe Working During Site Work: With the correct certification, ongoing training, an experienced hygienist or hazmat consultant should be able to complete and have a understanding of:

• Risk assessment identifying any risks or hazards prior to work
• What is required within a scope of works
• The site works without causing harm to anyone around them
• All sampled material should be left safe and in good condition
• Re-instating the area safely in line with the scope of works provided by the contractor or the client.

Taking the time with a methodical approach in line with the legislation is mandatory for delivering good consultancy, an experienced Hazmat consultant is systematic and takes their time when on a job.

Money tends to be a priority within the consultancy business, and everyone wants everything now. This creates more issues down the line and can cause extra costs for the client due to return visits on site. These return visits tend to revolve around.

• Missing of hazardous materials which require sampling
• Misidentification of hazardous materials,
• Lack of clarity around the risk of a site
• Poor development of reporting (Missing photos)

As part of life, the human factor will always be there, but experienced consultants should be providing consistency within there approach, which will give clients the product they require.

Qualitative Data, Good Reporting and Easy to Read are critical aspects when issuing reports. The best Hygienists / Consultants provide reports which are easy to read and to the point. Reporting is an essential component for a business owner of the homeowner as it can dictate the actions taken. If the report is presenting misinformation, the business can incur huge costs, and the wrong actions can be made in line with the risks. As mentioned above, reporting can be dictated by the approach taken on-site and the quality of work.

Communication is a massive part of hazmat consultancy prior/during and after works. Within the Hazardous material industry, a consultant/hygienist must deliver a recommendation in line with the HSWA 2015 and Approve Code of Practice 2016 (For asbestos). When communicating with clients, a consultant must focus on:

• Whether there are an immediate health risk and removal is required
• Whether the risk can be dealt with quickly and practically (In line with the guidelines)
• Whether the risk can be maintained over a period
• Whether the client is required to meet their requirements under the (HSWA 2015)

All these points can lead to a business incurring high costs which can create an emotional environment. As a consultant/hygienist, it is your job to reassure your clients through the process and give out the best consultancy possible in line with the issue presented. It is also a Consultant / Hygienists job to be independent in their communication with there being no other agenda’s.

Working Together to Provide a Positive Outcome is fundamentally the goal of all parties is providing the client with a positive service with an excellent outcome. Experienced Hygienist’s / Consultants work together with the contractors to provide the best outcome for their clients. Meaning the contractor and consultant are aligned with good communication during the job. If there is no cohesion, the following issues start to develop:

• Deviation from the scope of works without the communications provided to the client
• Costs are incurred on the client without knowledge,
• Lack of practicality on-site with a toxic environment developing
• Quality of outcome Is not provided and potential change of contractor and consultant during works

Therefore, everybody loses, and the job fails to meet the positive outcome required. So, working together is a significant part of the Hazardous material industry.

Concerning my comments above, I would love to hear the thoughts of hygienist’s/consultant’s from all aspects of experience junior to seniors; all are welcome to comment. The blog is written from my perspective, and please challenge me on any of the points, as I am interested in other people’s views!!!

As companies struggle for survival due to the coronavirus pandemic, bold entrepreneurs in New Zealand has decided to start a new business regardless of the current climate. Ben Alford, William Morris-Whyte, Jake Davenport and Chris McNoe have worked in the hazardous material (Hazmat) industry for combined three decades and are aware of the pressing need to keep building sites across New Zealand safe. So, despite lockdown, the group started Consultex Environmental.

The four partners have a dream to use our expertise to revolutionise the Hazmat industry in innovative ways and by using the latest, cutting-edge software. Consultex Environmental will act as an independent Hazmat consultant, specialising in asbestos surveying and removal services and occupational hygiene. Also, Consultex Environmental has just concluded negotiations with Flow Software solutions in the North East of England to offer their superfast surveying software.

The Flow Mobile Surveying App is the brainchild of Paul and David King of Flow Software Solutions, another start-up that opened its doors just a year ago. The two brothers also have 10 years of hi-tech experience and their software has featured in PC Mag; BBC Webscape; lifehacker.com and Tech Crunch Europe. The Flow Mobile Surveying App will now be available through Consultex Environmental.

Speaking about his new business Ben says, “I know it’s not the best time to start a company however we have to be brave and I believe Consultex Environmental will make a huge difference in these hard times. I am also pleased to be able to promote the Flow Solutions mobile app. I love the way it immediately updates our desktop surveys, and I think it will do very well in New Zealand.” Together, Consultex Environmental and Flow Software Solutions have refused to let lockdown affect their partnership deal. “Negotiations between the two companies had to be done from home using webcams and working from home helped facilitate the process with an 11-hour time difference,” says Paul King. “New Zealand is a growing market for the asbestos surveying industry and is a good opportunity to make the Flow Mobile Surveying App available internationally, despite lockdown.” While many start-ups may be struggling, Consultex Environmental, Paul and David King show that it is possible to thrive in the worst economic climate, and that is inspirational. Now, as Consultex extends Flow Software Solutions to New Zealand all seven are expectant, the app will deliver for many new customers.

“Individually we are good at what we do, but together we have more clout,” says David. “When you start a business, there is an inherent risk, but you have to believe that what you are doing is going to work. I believe that as partners, we can achieve anything.”

The Flow Mobile Surveying App Flow came out of a desire to find a solution to a significant problem, Asbestos, which is still responsible for many of today’s cancers. The carcinogenic substance is banned, and surveys are required before any building work is done on the majority of properties. The Flow surveying software app records the presence of hazardous materials in the fastest way possible and allows for seamless updates from mobile to laptop.

Consultex Environmental now offers independent, trusted and client-focused advice on Hazmat-related issues across New Zealand as well as the software needed to help combat harmful materials. For more information, visit
https://www.consultexnz.com.