Pollutants Consulting

Use-related exposure to pollutants and odours

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Are you planning to repurpose a former industrial building and would like to carefully clarify the use-related exposure to pollutants and odours?

Would you like to find out whether a potentially contaminated building component is suitable for re-use?

 

In industrial and commercial buildings, in addition to known building pollutants such as asbestos and PCBs, there may also be use-related pollutants in the building fabric. These are caused by chemicals such as hydrocarbons that have been used in operational processes and are deposited in floors, walls, building components and ceilings. Pollutants or odours can continue to outgas from these deposits of varying depths for years.

 

Conversion of contaminated buildings

In the case of a change of use, the question often arises as to whether there is a health risk for the subsequent use. Especially when converting into office, residential or catering space, the requirements for indoor air are particularly high. Here, unpleasant odours caused by residues in the building fabric can also become problematic.
If a chemical or industrial site is to be dismantled, the use-related pollutants can also be relevant for disposal.

We investigate use-related pollutant and odour pollution as early as the planning phase. Depending on the pollution and planned use, we also analyse the emissions from the polluted surfaces before and after the implementation of suitable barrier or reduction measures. These measures can prevent expensive surprises during the conversion or after a change of use.

 

Re-use of contaminated building components

The reuse of building components can make an important contribution to the sustainability of the construction industry. Components from industrial use in particular often have a special, aesthetic character and are therefore often put to a new use. However, depending on their past use, such materials may be contaminated with pollutants and/or odours. We can advise you on the clarification of potential contamination and support you in finding a solution.