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Wildfire Smoke Impact Assessment: Findings of Clearance Assessment
Webster Elementary School 3602 Winter Canyon Road Malibu, CA 90265 Prepared for: Tanya Hernandez ASCIP [email protected] Gary Bradbury Santa Monica/Malibu School District [email protected] Prepared By:
Michelle Rosales, MPH, CIH Forensic Analytical Consulting Services 2959 Pacific Commerce Dr. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221 310-668-5600 | [email protected] FACS Project #PJ39913
Introduction This report contains findings, conclusions and recommendations relevant to the wildfire smoke impact clearance assessment conducted at Webster Elementary School located at 3602 Winter Canyon Road in Malibu, CA. Forensic Analytical Consulting Services, Inc. (FACS) conducted the investigation on November 20, 2018. The investigation was conducted at the request and authorization of ASCIP on behalf on Santa Monica/Malibu School District. The purpose of the investigation was to assist in confirming that cleaning efforts put forth were sufficient in removing smoke related particulate due to the recent wildfire event (Woolsey). The findings contained in this report are based solely on the results of sample analysis and on-site observations from the assessment date listed. Additional sites or agents not discussed in this report are not represented. History The following history of events was developed based on discussions with various parties:
• The Woolsey Fire ignited in the region on November 8, 2018 and was fully contained on November 21, 2018. The campus was located within the fire perimeter.
• Professional cleaning began on November 16, 2018 and ended on November 18, 2018. Cleaning included HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping of all interior surfaces; power washing of the exterior; and cleaning of the HVAC system (including ducts). Air filtration devices were setup and operating in select rooms (see observations for specific locations).
• Reportedly no fire damage occurred or was observed on site. Site Characterization The subject campus is an elementary school located in a residential neighborhood in Malibu, CA. The campus includes several standalone buildings that house various classrooms, office spaces, and restrooms. The majority of rooms were equipped with their own heating ventilation and air conditioning units. Scope of Work In the course of this project, FACS conducted the following scope of work:
1. Development of a site characterization and history (see sections above). 2. A limited non-destructive visual inspection of all interior rooms on the school campus. 3. Collection of surface samples from representative surfaces for particle characterization analysis.
Samples collected in regularly occupied rooms (e.g., classrooms; office spaces). 4. Collection of total volatile organic compound (tVOC) data using a photo ionization detector (PID)
in the interior locations, in addition to outdoor control locations. 5. Collection of airborne particulate concentration levels by size (10 µm; PM10). 6. Analysis of data and report generation.
Data collection methodologies are described in Appendix C. The date collected in the course of the investigation is presented in this report as follows:
• Appendix A: Observations and Sample Results Summary • Appendix B: Photographs (depicting inspection observations) • Appendix D: Sampling Results (summary tables, laboratory reports and chain of custody forms) • Appendix E: Site Plan
Background Generally, the composition of smoke depends on the nature of the burning fuel (source) and the conditions of combustion. Some of the most common particulates produced are soot (particles of mostly carbon created during incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons) and partially burned particulates (char/carbonized material/ash). During wildfires, these particles could deposit on the exterior of nearby buildings and infiltrate into the interior of the building through openings such as doors, windows, and vents. It would be expected that there would be minimal heat due to the distance of the flames, and minimal, if any, thermal discoloration would be involved. When smoke enters the interior of a building, smoke particles can deposit on finished surfaces (e.g. flooring, walls, sills) and on the sides, tops and back surfaces of contents. Depending on the fuel sources, other indications of heavy impact may be evidence of corrosion (due to corrosive nature of potentially acidic particles), though this is not common in most cases of wildfire smoke infiltration. No standards or exposure limits exist specifically for carbonaceous material or combustion product settled on surfaces. In this assessment, these particle types are used as general indicators of potential deposition of smoke related particles and any contaminants that may be associated with them (e.g. metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, etc.), although such associations are not well studied. Evaluation Criteria FACS evaluates fire and smoke impact using the following criteria: 1) background information; 2) sensory observations (observable smoke odors, visually confirmable (as fire related) debris/staining/corrosion indicative of smoke particle deposition), 3) dust composition sample results, and 4) air monitoring results. Conclusions and recommendations are generated based on review of all parameters noted above. Further discussion of the evaluation criteria is noted below. Sensory Observations In cases of 1) distinct observable smoke odor; or 2) clearly visible fire/smoke debris (char, ash), staining, or corrosion indicative of fire related smoke particle deposition, FACS recommends cleaning and restoration of such impact. Surface Dust Composition Sampling Results – Combustion Product Specific Discrete surface dust samples were collected in representative locations in rooms identified as regularly occupied (e.g., office spaces, classrooms). Currently no standards or exposure limits exist specifically for combustion product settled on surfaces. Settled dust is composed of a variety of particles depending on a variety of factors including but not limited to organic debris, skin cells, biological materials, minerals, metals, combustion by-products and fibers. Samples are analyzed using various optical and electron microscopy by the Visual Area Estimation (VAE) Technique. VAE estimates the relative projected area (reported as a percentage) of a certain type of particulate relative to the total amount of particulate observed on the sample. There is inherent variability in estimates made using this technique. Currently this variability is unknown. Based on these considerations and review of available lab data from a variety of environments, FACS reports sampling data for combustion products in dust for consideration, as follows:
% of Combustion Product (Char+Ash+Soot)) Prevalence on Typical Surfaces
> 10% (Major)
Uncommon - Indicative of an unusual percentage of the dust composition (but may or may not contribute to corrosion potential or environmental health risk) and likely due to a large source of combustion particles (e.g. wildfire).
1 – 10 % (Minor)
Less common (but found from time to time) - Indicative of less common percentage of the dust composition; however, can be found on surfaces from time to time due to combustion sources other than wildfires.
< 1% (Trace or ND) Common - Indicative of a common background percentage of the dust composition, typical of recently cleaned surfaces or absence of a significant wildfire impact.
Air Monitoring (tVOCs & PM10) The burning of organic materials (e.g. building materials, wood) can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) into the air. Single point measurements for total VOCs were measured in the air using a handheld photoionization detector (PID). Based on project and technical considerations, results greater than 0.4 parts per million (ppm), FACS recommends cleaning and restoration of such impact. While no US standards currently exist for tVOCs, a target threshold level of 1000 ug/m3 (approximately 400 ppb; 0.4 ppm) is currently being considered by Health Canada, the Canadian department of public health. Wildfires can also cause large increases of outdoor airborne particles that could potentially migrate into interior spaces through exterior entry points. Single point measurements of particulate mass concentrations, by size PM10 (particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter) were collected in rooms to assist in determining cleaning efficacy. Results were compared to exterior controls as well as the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for PM10, 24-hour average (50 micrograms per cubic meter; 0.050 milligrams per cubic meter). Ambient air quality standards (AAQS) define clean air and are established to protect the health of the most sensitive groups in our communities. An air quality standard defines the maximum amount of a pollutant averaged over a specified period of time that can be present in outdoor air without any harmful effects on people or the environment. (Source: https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/aaqs/caaqs/caaqs.htm) Conclusions Based on assessment findings, the following conclusions and recommendations were developed:
1) All interior rooms assessed, with the exception of the restrooms and janitor closets, passed the sensory assessment criteria. No smoke odors were present in the rooms and no significant dust accumulation was identified on settled surfaces. Additionally, no smoke related particulate was identified either.
2) All interior rooms assessed, with the exception of the restrooms and janitor closets, passed the air monitoring assessment criteria. In general, interior particulate readings were below exterior controls and below the CAAQS 24-hour level of 50 micrograms per cubic meter for PM10 particulates. Additionally, total VOCs measured were less than 0.4 ppm.
3) Sensory observations and air monitoring results were indicative of smoke impact in the restrooms and janitor closets.
4) In general, the majority of surface sample results indicated trace (<1%) and no measurable levels of combustion related particulates present in the settled dust. Minor levels (1-3%) were identified in a few interior locations sampled; however still considered consistent with general background levels for human inhabited environments. Locations with Minor levels of combustion related particulates identified in the dust are as follows:
a. Room 19 – window sill b. Room #1 – door threshold c. Electrical room - fixture
Recommendations Although surface sample results indicated levels generally consistent with general background levels for human inhabited environments, for best practice, FACS recommends re-cleaning of the following locations:
1) Room 19 – adjacent to exterior entry points. 2) Room 1 – adjacent to exterior entry points
Based on sensory observations and air monitoring results, FACS also recommends cleaning of the following locations:
1) All restrooms 2) All janitor closets 3) Electrical Room
For most surfaces, this will entail vacuuming with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner and damp wiping as appropriate. To assist in filtering the air during the disturbance of dust, FACS recommends an air filtration device be set up in each room to assist in cleaning efforts. Cleaning of the electrical room should be performed by a licensed and qualified electrical professional. Limitations This investigation is limited to the conditions and practices observed and information made available to FACS. The methods, conclusions and recommendations provided are based on FACS’ judgment, expertise and the standard of practice for professional service. They are subject to the limitations and variability inherent in the methodology employed. As with all environmental investigations, this investigation is limited to the defined scope and does not purport to set forth all hazards, nor indicate that other hazards do not exist. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices at 310-668-5600 with any questions or concerns. Thank you for the opportunity to assist ASCIP and SMMSD promoting a more healthful environment. Respectfully, Reviewed by: FORENSIC ANALYTICAL FORENSIC ANALYTICAL
Classroom 21 N L N T14 0.0 0.015 Sample collected from center of room
Classroom 22 N L N T15 0.0 0.021 Sample collected from center of room
Classroom 23 N L N T16 0.0 0.049 AC was operating during site assessment
Girl’s Restroom N L N -- 0.0 0.054 adj Room 13 Boy’s Restroom N L N -- 0.0 0.060 adj Room 13
Classroom 8 N L N T17 0.0 0.049 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Classroom 9 N L N T18 0.0 0.046 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Classroom 10 N L N T19 & T20 0.0 0.046
Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point and on
in center of the room Boy’s Restroom N L N -- 0.0 0.057 Adjacent to classroom 10 Electrical room N H Y -- 0.0 -- SRP at door threshold Girl’s Restroom N L N -- 0.0 0.052 NA
Classroom 1 N L N T21 0.0 0.038 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Classroom 2 N L N T22 & T23 0.0 0.030
Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point and on
in center of the room
Classroom 3 N L N T24 & T25 0.0 0.032
Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point and on
in center of the room
Classroom 4 N L N T26 0.0 0.035 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Auditorium N L N T27 0.0 0.047 NA Break Room N L N -- 0.0 -- NA
Classroom 7 N L N T28 0.0 0.043 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Library N L N T29 & 0.0 0.043 Sample collected adjacent to
T30 an exterior entry point and on in center of the room
PTA office N L N -- 0.0 0.040 MA Electrical room N L N -- 0.0 -- adj to MPR
Front office N L N T31 0.0 0.044 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Boys and girls club N L N T32 0.0 0.039 Sample collected adjacent to an exterior entry point
Note: SRP – Smoke related particulate (e.g., char, ash) L = Light; M = Moderate; H = Heavy Adjacent to exterior entry point refers to surfaces within a 5 foot radius. Sample results provided in Appendix D Results in bold considered elevated 0.050 mg/m3 = 50 µg/m3 (CAAQS 24-hr avg for PM10)
Appendix C FACS Data Collection Method Particle Characterization: Samples may be collected using transparent adhesive tape or by vacuuming dust onto a filter (aka micro-vac). The surface dust samples are labeled with unique samples numbers and information recorded on field chain of custody forms. The samples are promptly delivered to the laboratory for analysis. In the laboratory, samples are analyzed by polarized light microscopy (PLM). The laboratory estimates the percentage of the visual area of the dust particulate composed of the various particulate types (a technique known as visual area estimation - VAE). Particulate Concentration. Airborne particle levels were collected using a TSI DustTrak Aerosol Monitor – mobile particle counter. Particulate concentrations were reported by size (10.0 µm). Results are expressed in concentration of milligram per cubic meter (mg/m3). Volatile Organic Compounds. Total Volatile Organic Compound (tVOCs) measurements were collected using a RAE Systems MiniRAE 3000, a Photoionization Detector (PID) with a range of 0 ppm to 15,000 ppm. The monitor was calibrated to isobutylene with a 10.6 ev Lamp. Measurements were expressed in parts per million (ppm).
Appendix D Sample Result Summary & Laboratory Report Sampling results are summarized in the table below. Supporting laboratory reports and chain of custody forms are attached in the pages that follow in order of laboratory report number.
Sample Location Sample
No.
Sample Visual Area Estimate1
Most Common Particle Types (%)
Soot (Opaques
consistent with Combustion
Products)
Char Ash Combustion
Products (Char+Ash+Soot)
Classroom 11 – content adj. to door T101 Epithelial cells (40%) ND <1% ND <1%
Classroom 11 – center of classroom T102 Epithelial cells (45%) ND <1% ND <1%
Classroom 13 – content adj to door T103 Cellulose (32%) ND <1% ND <1%
Classroom 13 – content center of class T104 Cellulose (35%) ND <1% ND <1%
Analytical results and reports are generated by Forensic Analytical Laboratories Inc. (FALI) at the request of and for the exclusive use of the person or entity (client) named on suchreport. Results, reports or copies of same will not be released by FALI to any third party without prior written request from client. This report applies only to the sample(s) tested.Supporting laboratory documentation is available upon request. This report must not be reproduced except in full, unless approved by FALI. The client is solely responsible for theuse and interpretation of test results and reports requested from FALI. Forensic Analytical Laboratories Inc. is not able to assess the degree of hazard resulting from materialsanalyzed. FALI reserves the right to dispose of all samples after a period of thirty (30) days, according to all state and federal guidelines, unless otherwise specified. All samples werereceived in acceptable condition unless otherwise noted.