Services
Kanellos Consulting Inc. (KCI) specializes in building science and contaminated sites including the forensic investigation of mould growth. We have completed hundreds of mould assessment projects resulting from water ingress and from deficient Building Science design. Our services have included projects in various industrial, commercial and residential facilities including identification of hazardous building materials, project management, and implementation of remedial design.
Contaminated Sites
Drinking Water Well Quality
KCI staff have completed numerous water quality assessments throughout Ontario, adhering to the Ontario Drinking Water Standards and CCME Canadian Drinking Water Standards. KCI staff have provided recommendations leading to the successful return of drinking water to consumable levels.
Oil Spills
KCI has completed hundreds of emergency spill responses and provided supervision for site remediation of residential, commercial and industrial sites throughout Eastern Ontario. Using a combination of soil sampling, borehole drilling, monitoring well installation, and groundwater sampling, the extents of the contamination in the environment can be delineated. Our recommendations, project management, and guidance provide our clients with everything they need for successful remediation.
Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments
Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) are important tools for evaluating areas of potential environmental concern prior to property transfers, as environmental due diligence, and as part of Brownfield development. A Phase I ESA identifies environmental liabilities without any intrusive investigation including historic site uses, interviews, review of neighboring properties, etc. On sites where environmental concerns are identified, a Phase II ESA may be recommended. The Phase II ESA is and intrusive investigation into the environmental impacts to the property and may include soil, and groundwater sampling to identify and delineate contaminates in the environment.
Building Science
Forensic Mould Investigations
KCI staff are industry leaders in mould forensic investigations. Our on-site and lab teams are skilled in the forensic investigation for the cause and origin of water ingress related mould issues, as well as the design and implementation measures for mould remediation and prevention.
Designated Substance Surveys (Asbestos and Lead)
Prior to any demolition, a Designated Substance Survey (DSS) is required under Section 30 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act in order to identify and subsequently manage any hazardous materials that may be present within the project area. This includes sampling and identifying any building materials that may contain asbestos. KCI staff have completed thousands of DSSs in a multitude of residential, commercial, and institutional facilities.
Mould Assessments
Mould growth on building materials is relatively common after wetting events that are not properly dealt with or obscured from view. A mould assessment includes detailed moisture mapping, air and surface sampling for mould (both before and after project completion), and a thorough site inspection to identify any and all mould growth. A scope of work for mould abatement can then be provided with the proper recommendations for the remediation process. KCI’s risk criteria used during the assessment are based in part on the Canadian Construction Association CCA 82-04, Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) S500, and S520 to ensure successful project completion. The single most effective way to prevent mould contamination within a building is the prompt removal of any suspected contaminated material and repairing the structural components of the building and mechanical failures that lead to the water infiltration.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
With so much of our time spent indoors, indoor air quality is essential. KCI can assess a multitude of indoor air quality parameters to suit individual needs. KCI has experience sampling and evaluating common indoor air quality parameters such as particulates, Carbon dioxide, Carbon monoxide, comfort parameters, and mould spores. We also offer specialty testing services to target specific airborne contaminants when necessary, on a project specific basis. Past examples include Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PNAH), Coal Tar Pitch Volatiles (CTPV), Ethylene Glycol, and Respirable Silica.
Soot Migration Assessment
During a fire, the incomplete combustion of particles results in soot becoming airborne and subsequently depositing onto surfaces. KCI staff uses air and surface sampling to understand and visualize the extents of soot deposition to guide cleaning efforts. Additionally, laboratory analysis can differentiate between different sources of soot to avoid remedial measures associated with unrelated impacts.
Asbestos Management Plans
Asbestos Management Plans (AMPs) are developed to meet the legal obligation of property owners under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Regulation 278/05 “Designated Substance-Asbestos on Construction Projects and in Buildings and Repair Operations”. AMPs are prepared to ensure the safety and health of occupants, staff and contractors at properties. Many property management companies have trusted KCI to provide AMPs in conjunction with Designated Substance Surveys to satisfy regulatory requirements and ensure occupant and worker safety.
Bacterial Swab Sampling
When there are concerns regarding bacterial contamination, it is prudent to complete bacterial swab sampling to ensure cleaning procedures are effective. In situations where black water has been in contact with building materials such as a sewer backup, after emergency water restoration procedures have been completed, bacterial swab sampling can be completed to ensure that bacteria such as Escherichia coli are no longer present.