Vapor Intrusion Mitigation
Vapor intrusion (VI) began to be researched and focused on around the same time as radon gas. Vapor intrusion occurs when chemicals such as VOCs, TVOC, CVOC, and many others produce potentially harmful vapor that rise from the soil and begin to enter whatever buildings are blocking their path. Similar to radon gas, vapor intrusion requires immediate attention to avoid any potential long term health effects for the occupants inside.
Any building can be susceptible to VI but, most commonly buildings that were used as dry cleaners, gas stations and some forms of manufacturing are at the highest risk for vapor intrusion issues. Once a building has been determined to have a vapor intrusion issue, steps need to be made to mitigate vapors that are rising into the structure.
What Does Vapor Mitigation Involve?
Vapor intrusion systems use negative pressure to draw the rising vapors out before they can enter the building. There are two main types of vapor mitigation systems which include sub-slab depressurization systems (SSD) and sub-membrane depressurization systems (SMD). The type of system used for each particular vapor mitigation project is largely dictated by the test results, and the construction of the building itself. Aesthetically, these systems look very similar on the exterior as a radon mitigation system does.
Vapor mitigation systems are comprised of PVC, a specially designed in-line fan, and system monitoring equipment to measure the pressure. Pressure field extension (PFE) testing must be done at each property to ensure that we properly cover the entire footprint of the building to keep the harmful vapors from entering.
Our team of commercial vapor intrusion specialists brings years of expertise in identifying and resolving hazardous air quality issues. We employ advanced barrier and venting techniques to ensure effective, long-term solutions.
Vapor Intrusion Risks
Once a building has undergone vapor intrusion sampling to determine if there is an issue, you may be wondering what type of health risks are associated with chemical vapors being present inside of the structure. Health effects from vapor intrusion vary depending on what types of chemicals are producing the vapor.
Most chemical vapors that make it into a structure won’t cause immediate health effects, but over time you may get sick and develop terminal diseases. Certain groups of people are much more susceptible to getting sick or suffering from complications of breathing in chemical vapors. These groups include: pregnant women, children, the elderly, and people who are living with chronic disease or a compromised immune system.
It is important to have your building sampled for vapor intrusion and mitigated if necessary by a professional. Give us a call today to discuss the options you have for your specific property and we will guide you through the process!
Sub-Slab Depressurization Systems
Sub-slab depressurization is the most common and effective method for vapor mitigation. It works by creating negative pressure beneath the building’s slab to redirect harmful soil gases away from the structure. This involves coring a hole, creating a collection point, and installing a sealed pipe that vents gases safely above the roofline using an in-line fan. Larger or complex structures may require multiple systems for optimal results.
At Lifetime Environmental Solutions, we design and install systems according to EPA, state guidelines, and AARST/NRPP standards, ensuring professional and compliant solutions.
Sub-Membrane Depressurization Systems
Sub-membrane depressurization systems are utilized for properties that have and open dirt or gravel crawlspace, or a structure that includes rooms that are open directly to the soil. SMDS systems are installed with an air tight vapor mat that is placed over the foundation.
Once that vapor mat is tightly sealed as to not allow any rising vapor through, a pipe is sealed to the mat to allow all of the trapped gases underneath to be vented. The rest of the system is similar to the sub-slab depressurization system as the piping simply extends up and out of the building where a fan is installed to vent the vapor above the roofline.
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For A Safe & Healthy Environment
Trust a certified and licensed radon mitigation expert to keep your commercial property safe. Our specialists ensure clean air, protect occupants, and reduce liability risks. Contact us for professional radon testing and mitigation to get a free quote for your business.