Athenica Advocate – June 2021

Dust which accumulates from lead based paint is a major source of lead poisoning in children. Lead dust hazards are identified by performing a risk assessment to quantify lead concentrations and identify potential exposures to lead. After proper abatement of lead hazards, a final dust wipe sampling program is conducted to confirm the reduction of lead dust.

New standards for lead dust hazard were issued by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for projects in New York City where dust wipe samples are required to verify acceptable removal of lead dust. These new standards became effective on June 1, 2021, and, mainly apply to renovation or repair projects that disturb more than 2 square feet of paint, in buildings constructed prior to 1960 where a child under six years of age resides. The new standards are listed below, and represent the maximum levels that are allowed to pass an inspection; of particular note is the standard for floors, which decreased from 10 micrograms per square foot (mcg/ft²) to 5 mcg/ft².

If your project includes disturbance of potential lead-based paint, then we can assist you with sampling and developing mitigation/abatement measures to facilitate completion of the work. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact our Lead Project Manager, Juraj Bardiovsky.

We are happy to report that our Lead Team within our IH Department continues to expand, with the addition of three new employees! Priyanthi Karrupiah is an Assistant Project Manager, with a Master of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the New York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Anna University, India. She is responsible for managing numerous projects for several large clients, including the New York City Department of Education (DOE), and is conducting, scheduling, and preparing reports for XRF inspections and lead-based paint abatement monitoring projects. Beyond lead paint projects, Ms. Karrupiah’s past experience includes conducting Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments, scheduling and QA/QC for DOE lead in water sampling programs, and report writing. Additionally, Ms. Priyanthi has experience in designing and implementing remedial action programs, and preparing and reviewing remediation and spill reports for E-Designated sites throughout New York City.

Diana Polonska and Miralem Desic are both Environmental Scientists, and each has recently graduated from CUNY Hunter College with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. As Environmental Scientists with Athenica, they are responsible for assisting project managers with implementation and oversight of lead based paint projects, and collection of samples of environmental media. In addition, they assist with data analysis, report preparation, and oversight and coordination of field personnel on NYCHA projects.

Please join us in welcoming them to the Athenica Team!