Phase 2: ​​Building 10 E-Wing Decommissioning Surveys
National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland​

Project Overview

Location: National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
Scope: Extensive renovation survey covering 350,000 square feet
Duration: June 2017 - January 2019
Service Provider: 3D Enviro

As part of the preparation for a major renovation within NIH's Building 10, 3D Enviro conducted comprehensive hazardous material surveys across 14 floors of laboratories, offices, and patient care spaces. This crucial initial step was aimed at ensuring the safety and compliance of the renovation process.

Challenge: Comprehensive Identification of Hazardous Materials

The scope of the project required a detailed assessment of a wide range of hazardous materials to facilitate safe demolition and renovation. Key challenges included:

• Identifying research-related hazardous chemicals, lead-based paints, and asbestos-containing components in an active research hospital.
• Ensuring all hazardous materials were accurately mapped to prevent health risks to construction workers and NIH staff during renovations.

Approach: Thorough Survey with Advanced Detection Technology

3D Enviro's approach combined expert knowledge with advanced technology to address the challenges effectively:

• Advanced Detection Equipment: The Ohio Lumex, a highly sensitive portable unit capable of detecting mercury vapor at extremely low concentrations, was used to identify legacy mercury spill areas.
• Systematic Surveying: Conducted as areas were vacated, allowing for detailed, unobstructed assessments of the spaces.

Legacy Mercury Detection

A significant focus was placed on detecting legacy mercury, a prevalent issue in older laboratory settings:

• Sensitive Measurements: The Ohio Lumex's capability to detect minute quantities of mercury vapor ensured that all potential mercury contamination was identified before any demolition began.
• Preventative Measures: Early detection allowed for specific remediation strategies to handle mercury safely and prevent exposure during subsequent construction activities.

Results: Detailed Reporting and Safe Project Continuation

The completion of the hazardous materials survey provided NIH with critical data to proceed with renovations safely:

• Detailed Reports: Each surveyed area was documented in reports that included findings, figures, and photos, outlining the extent and locations of hazardous materials.
• Blueprint for Remediation: These reports served as blueprints for the necessary remediation and abatement efforts, ensuring all hazardous materials were addressed before demolition.

Conclusion

The Building 10 E-Wing decommissioning surveys exemplify 3D Enviro’s capability to conduct thorough and effective hazardous material assessments in complex environments. Our meticulous approach and use of cutting-edge technology ensured that the NIH could safely proceed with its renovations and comply with environmental regulations.

Planning a renovation in a sensitive environment? Contact 3D Enviro for comprehensive hazardous material surveys that ensure safety and compliance from start to finish.

Inspector employing an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF) to nondestructively detect the concentration of lead in a wall paint.

An investigator sweeps the floor testing for mercury on the floor in a laboratory. Areas of dirt build-up are frequently locations where mercury is found.