EPA Delays Release of Final Vapor Intrusion Guidance

Cinnaminson, NJ, January 2, 2013
 
The release of the Final Vapor Intrusion Guidance document from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been delayed until 2013.  The highly anticipated document is undergoing review and when released, will replace the EPA’s previous draft document on vapor intrusion.

Vapor intrusion is the process by which chemicals migrate to the indoor air of a structure above a contaminated site.  Vapor intrusion generally occurs when there is movement of volatile chemicals from contaminated groundwater or soil into an overlying building.

These chemicals can emit vapors that may migrate through subsurface soils and into indoor air spaces of buildings in ways similar to how radon gas makes its way into a home. In extreme cases, the vapors may accumulate in dwellings or occupied buildings to levels that may pose immediate safety hazards, acute health effects, or strong odors. More often, the chemical concentration levels are low or may not be present at easily detectable concentrations.

“In homes, schools, and businesses with low concentrations of volatile chemicals, a major concern relates to potential chronic health effects due to long-term exposure,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical.   “Complicating the evaluation of potential risk from vapor intrusion is the potential presence of some of the same chemicals from sources in the building, which may also pose a human health risk.  Due to these potential complications, it’s important that highly seasoned scientists, such as the vapor intrusion experts at EMSL Analytical, help identify contaminants due to vapor intrusion issues.”

EMSL Analytical has sponsored an online educational video about the dangers associated with vapor intrusion.  It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TLCXmehOwE
 
To learn more about testing for vapor intrusion, mold or other indoor air quality (IAQ) services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com