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VERIFICATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF DECONTAMINATION TECHNOLOGIES IN EPA'S SAFE BUILDINGS PROGRAM
Citation:
Kelly, T. J., D. Janke, K. B. Riggs, AND J.C S. Chang*. VERIFICATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF DECONTAMINATION TECHNOLOGIES IN EPA'S SAFE BUILDINGS PROGRAM. Presented at Indoor Air Quality Problems and Engineering Solutions Symposium, RTP, NC, 21-23 July 2003.
Description:
The paper describes initial progress in identifying and testing technologies applicable for decontaminating workplaces and other buildings that may be subject to chemical or biological attack. The EPA is using the process established in its Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Program as the framework for this building decontamination test program so building and facility managers, first responders, groups conducting building decontamination, and other technology buyers and users can make informed purchase and application decisions. The ETV process, which has verified the performance of over 200 environmental technologies since 1995, includes developing a test/quality assurance (QA) plan with input from stakeholders and vendors; conducting high-quality test procedures according to that plan; and preparing separate performance reports for each technology verified. An information search and a consultation with stakeholders identified three fumigants?hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) vapor, chlorine dioxide (ClO2) gas, and formaldehyde (HCHO) vapor?as high priority technology categories. A test/QA plan has been developed for hydrogen peroxide vapor technologies that focuses on efficacy testing with three chemical agents (VX, thickened GD, and HD) and surrogates; anthrax spores (Bacillus anthracis, Ames strain) and two anthrax surrogates; and a commercial spore strip used previously in decontaminating U.S. Postal Service facilities. Seven common indoor surface materials will be used as test surfaces.