Report

IAQ Assessment Manly State School- Library, GLA 20 & Music Room

October 2010

Department of Education and Training

Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Limited ABN 80 078 004 798

Level 4, Northbank Plaza 69 Ann Street BRISBANE QLD 4000 GPO Box 2907 BRISBANE QLD 4001 Australia Telephone +61 7 3854 6200 Facsimile +61 7 3854 6500 Email [email protected]

Certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, AS/NZS 4801

A+ GRI Rating: Sustainability Report 2009 RPT005Aaw - Manly State School - IAQ assessment - Stage 3

Revision Details Date Amended By

A Original

©Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Limited (PB) [2010].

Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded in this document (the information) is the property of PB. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that for which it was supplied by PB. PB makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the information.

Author: Anthony Warwick .........................................................................

Signed: .....................................................................................................

Reviewer: Michael Shepherd ........................................................................

Signed: .....................................................................................................

Approved by: Michael Shepherd ........................................................................

Signed: .....................................................................................................

Date: September 2010 ..........................................................................

Distribution: DETA, Manly State School ..........................................................

IAQ Assessment Manly State School - Library, GLA 20 & Music Room

PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page i

Contents

Page number

Executive summary iii

1. Introduction 1

2. Glossary of terms 2

3. Methodology 4

3.1 Sampling strategy & rationale 4

3.1.1 Overview 4 3.1.2 TVOCs 5 3.1.3 Formaldehyde, Aldehydes and Ketones 6 3.1.4 Amino ethanol compounds 7

3.2 Test Methods 7

3.2.1 Methods for estimating Total Volatile Organic Compounds 7 3.2.2 Screening for the presence of aldehydes and ketones 8 3.2.3 Amino ethanol compounds 9

3.3 Odour thresholds and use of relevant standards for airborne contaminants 10

3.4 Limitations 10

4. Evaluation criteria 12

4.1 Overview of air quality standards 12

4.2 Occupational Exposure Standards (national exposure standards) 13

4.3 Airborne contaminant guidelines 14

5. Relevant legislation 17

6. Results and discussion 18

6.1 Visual inspection 18

6.2 A review of results by sampling location 18

6.2.1 Library & Computer Room 18 6.2.2 B Block GLA-20 19 6.2.3 C Block – Music room areas 20

7. Recommendations 22

8. Summary 24


PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page ii

9. References 25

Appendices

Appendix A ‐ Results tables – Chemical contaminants

Appendix B ‐ Building Product ingredients disclosed in MSDSs


PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page iii

Executive summary Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB) was commissioned by the Queensland Department of Education and Training (DETA) to undertake comprehensive screening for the presence of the airborne contaminants at Manly State School located at 63 Ernest Street, Manly.

Sampling was undertaken within the A Block Library and Computer Room, the B Block GLA 20 Class Room, and C Block Music Room upstairs. These areas were identified for testing by the school employees due to the presence of irritating odours like those in the Uniform Shop tested 31 August 2010.

Sampling was undertaken at Manly State School 15 September 2010. Laboratory analysis was undertaken at Leeder Consulting in Melbourne, a NATA accredited laboratory for the methods used.

The sampling program included screening for the following groups of materials using sample tube and laboratory techniques:

VOCs (e.g. benzene, toluene, styrene, alcohols, alkanes)

Aldehydes and ketones (e.g. formaldehyde)

Ethanolamines.

The results of the sampling and analysis showed that formaldehyde was present at levels greater than those recommended in the rescinded NHMRC publication titled, NHMRC’s Interim National Indoor Air Quality Goals and the Canadian Health publication, titled, Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air in the following locations:

B Block GLA 20

C Block Music Room (general class room).

The formaldehyde levels were also above the concentration range found in typical Australian dwellings as documented in the CSIRO study report titled, Indoor Air Project Part 1: Main Report Indoor Air in Typical Australian Dwellings, 2010.

Levels of formaldehyde above the recommended guidelines were not identified in the A Block (Library and Computer Room) or C Block, (Music Teacher’s Office).

In the class rooms the formaldehyde emission sources included MDF panel used in the manufacture of portable shelving units, student desks, pin-boards, and white boards.

The concentration levels of TVOCs and amino-ethanol compounds were found be within the range usually found in a residential dwelling or less than the concentration range found in a residential dwelling cited by the CSIRO Indoor Air Project.

It is recommended that the rooms found to be affected by formaldehyde concentrations above the recommended guidelines be subjected to off-gassing of formaldehyde by heating of the rooms to above 40 degrees C and increasing the changes of fresh make-up air. At the time this report has been completed, it is expected that this recommendation will be completed.

Long term strategies and procedural controls should be implemented to ensure low formaldehyde products are purchased such as E0 MDF panel instead of E1 MDF or higher.


PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page 1

1. Introduction Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB) was commissioned by the Queensland Department of Education and Training (DETA) to undertake comprehensive screening for the presence of the airborne contaminants at Manly State School located at 63 Ernest Street, Manly.

A third day of sampling was undertaken within the following areas on 15 September 2010:

Library including computer laboratory

Class room GLA-20 (Class 5H)

C Block upstairs, Music Class Room.

These additional areas were selected for testing by Manly State School employees due the presence of irritating odours like those found in the Uniform Shop, following after-hours discussions held on site with stakeholders in the school library in July 2010.

The following contaminants were screened for using sorbent tubes designed to collect the following groups of airborne contaminants:

VOCs (e.g. benzene, toluene, styrene, alcohols, alkanes)

Aldehydes and ketones (e.g. formaldehyde, heptanal)

Ethanolamine.

This report documents the findings of the assessment including sampling methodologies, the evaluation criteria used to assess the results, a discussion and recommendations for remediation where required.

The results of previous sampling in the Uniform Shop and ground level of C Block are provided in the report for the sampling undertaken 31 August 2010.

No one section or part of a section, of this report should be taken as giving an overall idea of this report. Each section must be read in conjunction with the whole of this report, including its appendices and attachments.



2. Glossary of terms AHU

Air handling unit

CSIRO

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation

E0 MDF

E0 MDF products are medium density formaldehyde resin particle-board with an emission rate that is less than 0.5 mg/L under AS/NZS 1859.2-2004, measured using AS/NZS 4266.16-2004.

E1 MDF

E1 MDF products are medium density formaldehyde resin particle-board with an emission rate that is less than 1.0 mg/L under AS/NZS 1859.2-2004, measured using AS/NZS 4266.16-2004.

HVAC

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning

IAQ

Indoor air quality

ISO

International Organisation for Standardisation

mg/m3

milligrams per cubic metre

µg/m3

micrograms per cubic metre

NATA

National Association of Testing Authorities

National Exposure standard

An airborne concentration of a particular substance, within the worker’s breathing zone, which according to current knowledge, should not cause adverse health effects or undue discomfort to nearly all workers. National exposure standards for the occupational environment are set by the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission.



NIOSH

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

NHMRC

National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia)

NOHSC

National Occupational Health and Safety Commission, redundant organisational name for the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (ASCC), currently called Safework Australia.

MSDS

Material Safety Data Sheet

ppb

Parts per billion

ppm

Parts per million

NES

National Exposure Standard

TWA

Time Weighted Average.

NHMRC

National Health and Medical Research Council

VOC

Volatile organic compound



3. Methodology The sampling was undertaken 15 September 2010 between 8:15 am and 4:30 pm within the school uniform shop, change room, uniform shop store room, and within C Block ground level in the open “class room” and storage areas which are all understood to be in use by the P&C Committee” for meetings and organising fund raising.

3.1 Sampling strategy & rationale

3.1.1 Overview

The sampling was undertaken with a view to conducting a comprehensive and sensitive screening process for the presence of substances identified in building products material safety data sheets provided Dickinson Constructions Pty Ltd. It is understood that the construction of the class rooms in B Block and Music Room in C Block are similar to the lower level of C Block. The following groups of chemicals were identified to be present from a review of the material safety data sheets for the products used in the school:

Volatile organic compounds, including but not limited to the following:

toluene

xylene

methylene chloride

perchloroethylene (dry cleaning fluid)

styrene

alkanes

benzene.

Aldehydes and ketones, including but not limited to the following:

formaldehyde

acetaldehyde

heptanal

acetone.

Aminoethanol compounds were also screened for due to the presence of odours in the affected areas that are similar in characteristic to these substances which are used in plastics, foams, adhesives, surface coatings, some paints and cleaning chemicals.

The groups of substances listed above are often emitted from modern building materials such as particle boards, resins, and adhesives. The substances have the potential to cause the following symptoms when present in excessive concentrations:



potential allergic reactions, sensitisation or exasperation of pre-existing asthma

central nervous system effects from exposure to elevated levels or prolonged exposures to moderate or elevated exposure levels

heath effect to the liver following prolonged and repeated exposures to the substances

cancers and leukaemia when exposed to some substances (e.g. benzene) at very high level or repeatedly over prolonged periods.

Some substances listed (e.g. formaldehyde) are suspected carcinogens believed to be capable of causing tumours or cancers in humans based on animal studies but these effects have yet to have been verified in humans.

Persons with pre-existing asthma conditions or other underlying pulmonary disease are expected to be more sensitive than other healthy persons to acute exposures to indoor air contaminants and may experience coughing and wheezing at low levels of exposure. Acceptable airborne concentrations in sensitive persons will vary on the individual. Synergism may occur between chemical cocktails of contaminants and between exposure to some contaminants and sensitivity to other unrelated contaminants such as ozone, dusts, and vulnerability to microbial organisms.

3.1.2 TVOCs

The VOC screen is intended to detect aromatic hydrocarbons (e.g. toluene, styrene, xylene, benzene), alkanes, alcohols, and ethers. The following products used in the building work were found to contain or likely to contain volatile organic compounds as significant (greater than 5%) proportions of their disclosed ingredients:

Polymer 265 vinyl floor adhesive, contains:

Between 75-95% of ingredients are trade secret ingredients including methyl methacrylate

Aliphatic petroleum solvents (e.g. hexanes)

Solvent (not disclosed)

Petroleum light solvent

Aromatic hydrocarbons (not disclosed)

Interact carpet tile adhesive

Ingredients not disclosed by manufacturer

Polymer 1718 A & B (vinyl water resistant epoxy)

Selley’s liquid nails, contains:

n-hexane (1-10%)

Naphtha (light petroleum solvent)

Bostik Roof & Gutter



2-butanone oxime (methyl ethyl ketomine)

Bostik Seal & Flex, contains:

Toluene diisocyanate (<0.5%)

Other non-hazardous ingredients

TVOCs are produced from the gassing off from hydrocarbons which can be present in solvents, glues, thinners, adhesives, paints and surface coatings in many building materials.

TVOCs are capable of causing:

the irritation of skin, eyes, respiratory tract and mucous membranes

nasal carcinomas, leukaemia

central nervous system depression effects (headaches, blurred vision, fatigue, giddiness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), impaired judgement, memory loss (over time)

cardiovascular effects, (giddiness, fatigue, damage to the heart, and aggravation of pre-existing cardiovascular disease

hepatic effects (damage to liver following prolonged or repeated exposure).

A listing of building products disclosed by Dickinson Constructions and the MSDS’s stated ingredients are provided in Appendix B of this report.

3.1.3 Formaldehyde, Aldehydes and Ketones

Formaldehyde is often used in high or medium density particle board manufacture, foam padding, melamine board, carpet underlay (not present in the school), and floor surface adhesives. Formaldehyde can off-gas from building materials for many months (up to 6-7 months) after manufacture. However, after this time, the levels quickly decline and should cease to be noticeable. The decline of formaldehyde in materials over time is not linear and is affected by many factors (density of materials, surface areas, ambient temperature, etc) making it difficult to estimate original concentration levels from those measured at this point in time.

Formaldehyde is known to be capable of causing strong irritation of the airways, eyes, skin and mucous membranes. It is possible to stimulate allergic sensitisation to formaldehyde in individuals following excessive or prolonged exposures. The formaldehyde reacts with proteins to form a hapten capable of triggering an immune response. Once an individual’s immune system is sensitised, even very low formaldehyde concentrations in air could trigger airway sensitisation or skin reactions in the sensitised persons. Formaldehyde is a suspected carcinogen believed to be capable or causing nasopharyngeal carcinomas in animals, based on toxicological tests conducted in animal subjects.

Exposure to other aldehydes compounds are expected to have an additive or synergistic effect when exposures are combined. For this reason individual concentrations for each aldehydes are referenced and where possible, the sum of the ratios of each aldehydes over their respective exposure limits are compared with unity (i.e.∑ Csample/CIAQ target 1.0). The sum of the ratios of each aldehydes to their relevant exposure guideline cannot be calculated for all mixtures of aldehydes as indoor air quality guidelines and exposure standards do not



exist for all of these substances. Many aldehydes are also not included in the List of designated hazardous substances published by the NOHSC. Heptanal has no documented occupational exposure standard or indoor air quality target for comparison.

Within B Block and C Block the class rooms a number of products were found to contain formaldehyde including the following items and materials:

Smart desk table tops manufactured by Bizfurn which contain urea formaldehyde resin and melamine urea formaldehyde resin (<26%). The smart desk table tops are found in all general learning areas.

Pin boards are manufactured from carpet laid over Customwood MDF backing boards which contain up to 40% urea formaldehyde in total as urea formaldehyde resin and melamine formaldehyde resin.

White boards are manufactured from Customwood MDF panels prepared as a sandwich of vinyl sheet glued together with adhesives.

A listing of building products relevant to the investigation are provided in Appendix B of this report.

3.1.4 Amino ethanol compounds

Monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine are amino alcohols which are used in many industrial products including manufacture of surface active compounds, emulsifiers, ammonia manufacturing, acid gas scrubbers, corrosion inhibitors, paints waxes and polishers, rubber chemicals intermediates, shellac, paints and dyes.

Monoethanolamine (MEA), Diethanolamine (DEA) and Triethanolamine (TEA) are common examples of these compounds.

Amino ethanol compounds were screened for as these are known to be present in some foam cleaning chemicals (degreasers, oven cleaners) and building product adhesives and surface coatings. The odour present in the uniform shop was similar in nature to ethanolamine (associated with foaming commercial oven cleaners).

Amino ethanol compounds are known to be capable of causing eye, skin (dermatitis) and airway irritation (sore throats). The substances can also be toxic to the kidneys, lungs, liver and central nervous system. Metallic taste in the mouth has been described in some people exposed to mists and vapours containing amino ethanol compounds.

There is no evidence that amino ethanol compounds are present from the material safety data sheets provided. However, the substance Could be within adhesives as one of the undisclosed trade secret ingredients.

3.2 Test Methods

3.2.1 Methods for estimating Total Volatile Organic Compounds

Screening for the presence of potential total volatile organic compounds was undertaken using thermal desorption molecular sieves in accordance with the methodology for sampling VOC levels at trace levels in accordance with US EPA Method TO-17, Compendium Methods for the determination of Toxic Compounds in Ambient Air, 2nd edition, Compendium method TO-17- Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Ambient Air Using Active



Sampling Onto Sorbent Tubes. This method is consistent or equivalent to NIOSH VOC Screening methodology NISOH Method #2549.

Thermal desorption tubes were obtained from Leeder Consulting, a NATA Accredited analytical laboratory located in Melbourne. The tubes were kept inside a sealed glass container with activated carbon to protect the tubes absorbing any traces of extraneous volatile organic compounds and used within two weeks of supply.

Sample pumps flow rates for VOC sampling were pre-calibrated at PB offices against a dry cell calibrator which had been calibrated against a primary bubble tube calibrator, (similar to an inverted burette).

At the testing location, the tube and sampling pumps (the sampling train) were set up and the flow rate of the complete sample train finely adjusted to run as close to 50 mL per minute as practicably possible. The sample flows for each sample train were noted for each location and the pumps run for approximately 2 hours each location to ensure a target volume of around 6.0 L was collected (optimal sample volume and flow rate before theoretical breakthrough time occurs).

At the end of each sampling period, the sample train flow rate was measured and recorded to allow the average flow rate and sample volume to be calculated later. The samples were sealed immediately, and placed in the glass storage container placed in an esky on ice. Tubes were identified for each location against the serial numbers provided by the manufacturer. Two tubes were reserved as field blanks for quality assurance purposes.

After returning from site, the samples were packaged, chain of custody form completed and sent to the laboratory overnight for analysis in accordance with US EPA Method TO-17 using thermal desorption and gas chromatography and FID. The method allows for a limit of detection close to as low as 100ng per tube, at this sample volume.

3.2.2 Screening for the presence of aldehydes and ketones

Screening for aldehydes and ketones was undertaken using NIOSH Method # 2539 “Aldehydes Screening”.

Solid sorbent tubes (XAD-2 hydroxy methyl piperidine on XAD-2 tubes) were shipped from the supplier (SKC) based in the United States using expedited shipping services.

The tubes were kept inside their sealed packagings with the glass seals left intact until the time of sampling. Tubes were stored in the refrigerator until used within two weeks of receipt of the sorbent tubes.

Sample pumps flow rates for aldehyde screening were pre-calibrated to run at approximately 50 mL per minute at PB offices against a dry cell calibrator which had been calibrated against a primary bubble tube calibrator, (similar to an inverted burette).

At the testing location, the glass tube ends were opened just prior to use and the sampling pumps (the sampling train) were set up with the flow rate of the complete sampling train finely adjusted to run as close to 50mL/minute as practicable. The sample flows for each sample train were noted for each location and the pumps run for approximately 1.5 hours each location to ensure a target volume of just less than 5.0 L was collected (optimal aldehyde screen sample volume and flow rate before theoretical breakthrough time occurs).



This sample volume (5L) should allow for a limit of detection as low as 2µg of aldehyde per sample.

At the end of each sampling period, the sample train flow rate was measured and recorded to allow the average flow rate and sample volume to be calculated later. The samples were sealed immediately using plastic end caps provided by the manufacturer, and placed in the sample bags placed in an esky on ice. Tubes were identified for each location against the serial numbers provided by the manufacturer. Two tubes were reserved as field blanks for quality assurance purposes.

After returning from site, the samples were packaged, chain of custody form completed and sent to the laboratory overnight for analysis in accordance with NIOSH Method 2539 using gas chromatography and FID.

3.2.3 Amino ethanol compounds

Screening for the presence of amino ethanol compounds was undertaken using NIOSH Method # 2007 “Amino ethanol compounds screening”.

Solid sorbent tubes (hollow glass tubes containing silica gel) were shipped from the supplier (SKC) based in the United States using expedited shipping services.

The tubes were kept inside their sealed packagings with the glass seals left intact until the time of sampling. Tubes were stored in the refrigerator until used within two weeks of receipt of the sorbent tubes.

Sample pumps flow rates for aldehyde screening were pre-calibrated to run at approximately 100mL per minute at PB offices against a dry cell calibrator which had been calibrated against a primary bubble tube calibrator, (similar to an inverted burette). For the method to be used correctly, a flow rate of between 0.01 to 0.2 L/min is acceptable.

At the testing location, the glass tube ends were opened just prior to use and the sampling pumps (the sampling train) were set up with the flow rate of the complete sampling train finely adjusted to run at approximately 100 mL/minute. The sample flows for each sample train were noted for each location and the pumps run for approximately 3.0 hours at each location to ensure a target volume between 18 L to 24 L was obtained (most practicable sample size and flow rate to minimise contaminant break through whilst obtaining a an adequate sample size to obtain a low limit of detection).

At the end of each sampling period, the sample train flow rate was measured and recorded to allow the average flow rate and sample volume to be calculated later. The samples were sealed immediately using plastic end caps provided by the manufacturer, and placed in the sample bags placed in an esky on ice. Tubes were identified for each location against the serial numbers provided by the manufacturer. Two tubes were reserved as field blanks for quality assurance purposes.

After returning from site, the samples were packaged, chain of custody form completed and sent to the laboratory overnight for analysis in accordance with NIOSH Method 2007 using gas chromatography and FID. The estimated limit of detection can be as low as 0.005mg per sample when the full sample size is obtained.



3.3 Odour thresholds and use of relevant standards for airborne contaminants

It should be noted that many substances have odour thresholds that fall well below the relevant occupational exposure standards. For example, toluene has a detectable odour threshold of between only 0.16-37 ppm whereas the 8 hour time weighted exposure standard workers may be exposed to for 40 hrs a week is 50ppm. Many substances can elicit odours that are detectable by the human olfactory senses but are at concentrations that are unlikely to result in health effects. Odour thresholds have been provided below in Table 3.3-1 (AIHA, 1997).

3.3-1 Odour thresholds for selected VOCs

Substance Odour threshold mg/m3 Odour threshold ppm

Formaldehyde 0.033--0.036 0.027-0.029

Hexane (n-hexane) 875 248

Methyl methacrylate 0.057 0.014

MEK 63-70 21-24

Napthalene 0.05-0.055 0.0095-0.0105

Styrene 43-258 10-61

Toluene 3.5-3.6 0.93-0.06

Vinyl acetate 1.4 0.40

3.4 Limitations

The assessment of indoor air contaminants was undertaken with the following limitations:

Observations and sampling results were indicative of the conditions present at the time sampling for each contaminant was undertaken and may not be representative of previous or future conditions.

Airborne contaminant levels were tested using static samplers placed within areas and are not necessarily representative of “breathing zone samples” workers or students are exposed to. The sampling strategy intended to find the highest possible levels of airborne contaminants. In all areas where sampling occurred, the rooms were sealed without HVAC systems or natural ventilation being provided, personnel were prevented from accessing the rooms and the doors and windows were kept closed. These factors are likely to over-estimate the contaminants present.

The study was limited to airborne contaminants described in the methodology. It did not address radiological materials, contaminated land, psychosocial factors or personal factors. Asbestos and particulate (dusts) were was not included in the survey.



No one section or part of a section, of this report should be taken as giving an overall idea of this report. Each section must be read in conjunction with the whole of this report, including its appendices and attachments.



4. Evaluation criteria

4.1 Overview of air quality standards

Evaluation criteria for indoor air quality assessments are nebulous in nature and few authors of publications or government agencies are willing to provide tangible reference ranges for the health and or comfort of the general community (workers and non working persons). Currently the only legislated exposure levels are provided in occupational exposure standards referenced under the Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008. Other local guidance provided by the Department of Environment and Resource Management in Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 relate to air quality goals to be achieved over time, as they pertain to extraneous airborne emissions from facilities off-site.

These goals do not relate or apply to airborne contaminants released within buildings or within a workplace but may act as a reasonable measure of what the general public are permitted to be exposed to from extraneous emissions from industry from the boundaries of a site.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) publication titled, Interim National Indoor Air Quality Goals Recommended By The National Health And Medical Research Council, 1996 was used as a valuable reference by environmental and occupational health practitioners. Regrettably, this publication has been rescinded by the NHMRC since the 19th of March 2006, with no alternative publication to replace it leaving many gaps in locally applicable air quality benchmarks requiring other publications and studies from Australia and abroad to be used as benchmarks.

In addition to the MHMRC Interim Air Quality Goals (1996), the Canadian Health publication titled, Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air has also been used in this report, as a guide to determining what formaldehyde and VOC levels should not be exceeded in areas where the general community (including sensitive individuals) may occupy on a regular basis or for extended periods. These levels would be acceptable in the home and thus should represent a stringent benchmark for a school setting.

In this survey the results have also been compared and contrasted against those contaminant concentration levels found in the “typical” Australian home as reported in the CSIRO study report titled, Indoor Air Project Part 1: Main Report Indoor Air In Typical Australian Dwellings, 2010. The study is useful as it demonstrates median, minimum and maximum mean concentration levels of contaminants found in a large cross section of sampling undertaking in residential dwellings for an extended period of time. The study report lists has mean concentration levels for TVOCs and other individual substances including xylenes, benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and formaldehyde. Typical residential concentration levels of contaminants should be a reasonable benchmark for a school environment or other area where members of the public are allowed to be present. If members of the public (i.e. parents, teachers, students) accept that these levels are present in their homes then the levels should also be acceptable within a school if they do not exceed the median concentrations.



4.2 Occupational Exposure Standards (national exposure standards)

The values published on the Worksafe Australia’s “Hazardous Substances Information System” for atmospheric contaminants in the occupational environment are provided with other indoor air quality guidelines or goals in Table 4.2-1. Substances’ exposure standards provided in the Hazardous substances Information System (HSIS) are based on updated exposure standards provided in the publication, Adopted National Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment, 1995.

Under Part 16 of the Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008, workers are not permitted to be exposed to more than the national exposure standards for any listed hazardous substances.

An exposure standard represents an airborne concentration of a particular contaminant in the worker’s breathing zone, exposure to which, according to current knowledge, should not cause adverse effects nor cause undue discomfort to nearly all workers. Exposure standards may take three forms listed:

Time weighted average (TWA).

Short term exposure limit

Peak limit.

The “peak exposure limit” means the maximum or peak airborne concentration of a particular substance determined over the shortest analytically practicable period of time which does not exceed 15 minutes. Substances with a peak airborne exposure limit do not also have a time weighted average.

The time weighted average exposure standard - time-weighted average (TWA)' means the average airborne concentration of a particular substance when calculated over a normal eight-hour working day, for a five-day working week (up to 40 hours per week).

The short term exposure limit (STEL) means a 15 minute TWA exposure which should not be exceeded at any time during a working day even if the eight-hour TWA average is within the TWA exposure standard. Exposures at the STEL should not be longer than 15 minutes and should not be repeated more than four times per day. There should be at least 60 minutes between successive exposures at the STEL.

The use of occupational exposure standards although applicable to workers employed at the school are clearly not considered suitable for areas where school children may be present continuously or for prolonged periods.

Occupational exposure standards are suitable for “nearly all workers”. However, there is likely to be a sub-set of the working population for whom the exposure standards may not be effective at preventing discomfort or work caused illness. Occupational exposure standards do not guarantee protection from exposed to formaldehyde in sensitive individuals or those who suffer chronic respiratory illness or asthma. Indoor air quality guidelines would be more suitable criteria for the protection of these persons.

In the case of formaldehyde, which is a suspected carcinogen and known respiratory sensitiser, respiratory exposure should be kept as low as reasonably achievable.



4.3 Airborne contaminant guidelines

The relevant exposure levels for airborne contaminants are stated in Table 4.3-1.

Table 4.3-1 Relevant Exposure Standards and Air Quality Guidelines

Contaminant Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 0F

1-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection - Air

Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

,mg/m3

CSIRO Indoor Air

Project – Indoor Air

in Typical Dwellings

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Total VOC

(TVOC)

n/a n/a n/a Median: 150 µg/m3

Min-max: 56-717

µg/m3

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3

ethanolamine 280 µg/m3

(1 week

TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 7.5

STEL: 15

n/a

n/a n/a

Benzene n/a 0.003 ppm,

9.57 µg/m3,

(annual

average)

TWA8hr : 3.2 Median: 0.29 ppb ,

0.93 µg/m3

Min-max:0.09-1.35

ppb, (0.29-4.3 µg/m3 )

n/a n/a

Ethyl benzene

n/a n/a TWA8hr: 432

STEL: 543

Median: 0.19 ppb,

(0.82 µg/m3)

Min-max: 0.06-1.7

ppb (0.26-7.37 µg/m3)

n/a n/a

4-isopropyl

toluene (cumene)

n/a n/a TWA8hr: 125

STEL: 375

n/a n/a n/a

Naphthalene n/a n/a TWA8hr: 52

STEL: 79

n/a n/a n/a

1 Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008, values at zero degrees Celsius.




Air quality

objectives 0F

1-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection - Air

Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

,mg/m3

CSIRO Indoor Air



NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Styrene 280 µg/m3 1

week TWA

n/a TWA8hr: 213

STEL: 426

n/a n/a n/a

Toluene 4.1 mg/m3

(24 hour

TWA)

3.77 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

TWA8hr: 377

STEL: 574

Median: 1.5 ppb,

(2.31 µg/m3)

Min-max: 0.73-36.5

ppb, (2.75-137.6

µg/m3)

n/a n/a

Xylene 1.2 mg/m3

24 hour

TWA

1.1 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

TWA8hr: 350

STEL: 655

Median: 0.97 ppb

(4.21 µg/m3 )

Min-max: 0.4-8.7 ppb,

(1.73-37.4g/m3 )

n/a n/a

1,2,4-trimethyl

benzene

n/a n/a TWA10hr: 123

(NIOSH)

n/a n/a n/a

Dichlorodifluorom

ethane

n/a n/a TWA8hr: 4950 n/a

n/a n/a

Trichlorofluoromet

hane

n/a n/a 5620 Peak

limitation

n/a n/a n/a

Tetrachloroethene

(perchloroethylene

or

tetrachloroethylen

e)

0.27mg/m3

(1 year

TWA)

n/a TWA8h: 3450

STEL:1020

n/a n/a n/a

acetaldehyde n/a n/a TWA8hr: 36

STEL: 91

n/a n/a 9000 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.




Air quality

objectives 0F

1-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection - Air

Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

,mg/m3

CSIRO Indoor Air



NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

formaldehyde 54.2 µg/m3

24 hour

TWA

49.2 µg/m 3

(0.04 ppm), 24

hr TWA)

TWA8hr: 1.2

STEL: 2.5

Median: 11.7 ppb,

(14.39 µg/m3 )

Min-max: 3.6-24.8,

(4.42-30.5 µg/m3 )

120 µg/m3 not

to be exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.



5. Relevant legislation The relevant legislation, codes of practice and industry standards applicable to this investigation are listed:

Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995.

Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008

Environmental protection (Air) Policy 2008.



6. Results and discussion

6.1 Visual inspection

The following observations were made on the 15 September 2010:

a. The library was not occupied by any staff or students at the time sampling was undertaken. The library and computer room within the library was not accessible to any members of staff of students. Windows and doors within the areas sampled were closed during sampling without any mechanical ventilation.

b. There were no obvious signs of new furniture or shelving that would give rise to formaldehyde levels in the library. Based on information provided by the Dickinson Constructions Pty Ltd the new carpet should not have contained formaldehyde or other volatile contaminants.

c. The general learning area GLA-20 used by class 5H was not used by staff or students at the time of sampling with access to persons denied. The room was closed up during the sampling period without any natural or mechanical ventilation.

d. The GLA-20 was observed to have a discernable, unpleasant odour similar to the uniform shop. The class room contained new carpets, new loose furnishings (desks made from laminated reconstituted timbers, plastic chairs, white-boards, fabric pin boards, cardboard pigeon holes, and student tidy bags on the backs of each chair).

e. The music room was not occupied at the time sampling was conducted. The music room consisted on a single, open plan class room without chairs or desks. The room contained new carpet and a variety of musical instruments (xylophone, piano, keyboard instrument, sound system, drums, etc). At the rear of the music room towards the south, a separate partitioned office was present which contained older laminated particle board desks, a bar refrigerator on the floor, sink and windows. There was no evidence of any obvious signs of VOCs or aldehyde emission sources in this area.

6.2 A review of results by sampling location

The results of airborne sampling undertaken to screen for all major peaks of volatile organic compounds, aldehydes, ketones and amino ethanol compounds are provided in Appendix A. The results are tabulated against all relevant exposure standards and indoor air quality parameters for comparison.

6.2.1 Library & Computer Room

6.2.1.1 VOC levels

The results of the VOC screen within the library and computer room located in the library demonstrated that none of VOCs or TVOC concentration levels exceeded any of their respective occupational exposure standards or IAQ guidelines cited from the other literature.

The TVOC concentration levels also fell well below the TVOC target levels recommended in the NHMRC’s Interim Ambient Air Quality Goals and the Canadian Health’s Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality. Both the individual VOC contaminant levels and the TVOC levels also were found to be within the normal concentration level range found in typical Australian dwellings as published in the CSIRO Indoor Air Project, (2010). Toluene



was slightly higher than the median value found in residential dwellings but still far less than the upper concentration limit in homes reported by CSIRO of 36.5 g/m3. The likely source of toluene is from adhesives.

6.2.1.2 Aldehydes and Ketones

The formaldehyde and other aldehyde levels (acetaldehyde and heptanal) in the library areas tested were less than the limit of detection and thus ought to have been acceptable for ensuring indoor comfort and wellbeing of occupants.

6.2.1.3 Amino ethanol compounds

The screening for amino ethanol compounds (ethanolamine) in the uniform shop did not find these substances to be present at concentration levels above the limit of detection 1F

2 (<280-290 g/m3) for the method used. It is unlikely that these compounds are present and that hypothesis that these substances may be present cannot be verified. The presence of these substances is not indicated in any of the product data sheets and levels appear consistent with this information.

6.2.2 B Block GLA-20

6.2.2.1 VOC levels

The TVOC concentration levels in B Block GLA-20 were found to be below the TVOC target levels recommended in the NHMRC’s Interim Ambient Air Quality Goals and the Canadian Health’s Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality. Both the individual VOC contaminant levels and the TVOC levels also were found to be within the lower spectrum of the respective median concentration levels found in typical Australian dwellings published in the CSIRO Indoor Air Project, (2010).

The VOC levels do not represent any cause for concern and are consistent with the concentration levels expected in the typical home and in most cases represent concentrations of contaminants that are lower than those expected in the typical home.


The aldehyde and ketone screen detected the following concentration levels of each aldehydes:

85.38 to 192 g/m3 of heptanal

102.46 to 176.11 g/m3 of formaldehyde.

These formaldehyde levels did not exceed the national exposure standard (occupational) eight hour time weighted average (NES TWA 8hr) of 1.2 mg/m3 but did exceed the following parameters:

The NHMRC’s Interim Ambient Air Quality Goals which requires that no person be exposed to a brief exposure of more than 120 g/m3

An action limit of 120 g/m3 is used by Canadian Health in their Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality publication.

2 Limit of detection varies with sample volume up to the maximum sample volume permitted.



The median (14.4 g/m3) and maximum concentration range (30.5 g/m3) of formaldehyde levels found in typical Australian dwellings published by the CSIRO from their Indoor Air Project (2010).

The Air Quality objectives for “health and well being” stated in the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 (although not applicable within a workplace where emissions are present within the workplace).

On this occasion acetaldehyde was not detected but heptaldehyde (heptanal) was identified at levels between 85-232 g/m3. There are no published indoor air quality guidelines or occupational exposure standards for heptanal. Additionally, the CSIRO (Indoor Air Project, 2010) report did not investigate the presence of this substance in dwellings. In the absence of recommended exposure standards for heptanal, toxicological information indicates that the product is a strong respiratory irritant and exposure to this substance should be

Detection of formaldehyde in class room GLA 20 was not unexpected due to the high proportion of formaldehyde containing materials in the class room from melamine-urea- formaldehyde products used in Smart Desk table tops, mobile shelving units, MDF pin boards lining the walls, and MDF backing in white boards.

The construction of the class room was undertaken using formaldehyde products compliant with E1 formaldehyde emission standards. The Customwood E1 MDF panel’s MSDS states that formaldehyde may be emitted when heated. It also claims that in a well ventilates environment, formaldehyde is unlikely to exceed the World Health Organisation standard of 0.1ppm (120g/m3) for the general environment. Emission rates are usually stated in terms of an amount of vapour emitted per square metre of materials. The larger the surface area of MDF panel placed within an unventilated room volume, then the greater the resultant concentration of formaldehyde present. Under most situations the claims in the MSDS are likely to be correct but do not apply to situations such as the testing environment in GLA 20 where the room is closed during sampling, not provided with mechanical or other ventilation during sampling, and the room contains such a relatively large surface area of MDF products together in a relatively small room volume. These factors make it likely that areas such as GLA 20 and the uniform shop (tested on 31 August 2010) will have a relatively higher formaldehyde concentrations compared with more spacious rooms (e.g. the library) where formaldehyde is likely to be emitted, but the emissions are diluted below acceptable levels by the comparatively large room volume.


The screening for amino ethanol compounds (ethanolamine) within the change room and storage room did not identify amino ethanol compounds to be present at levels above the limit of detection (<280-290 g/m3). It is unlikely that these compounds are present in detectable concentrations or levels of concern. The presence of these substances is not indicated in any of the product data sheets and the concentration levels found appear consistent with this information.

6.2.3 C Block – Music room areas

6.2.3.1 VOC levels

The results of the VOC screen within the upstairs C Block Music Class Room were consistent with typical household toluene concentrations and at the lower end of the spectrum found in homes. The total VOC levels were also found be very low and consistently less than the lower range of TVOC levels in typical residences and the



recommended target TVOC levels provided in the NHMRC’s Interim Ambient Air Quality Goals and the Canadian Health’s Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality.

Within the Music Teacher’s Office, the TVOC levels were found to be 31 g/m3, slightly higher than the levels in GLA 20. The toluene levels were also higher at 22 g/m3. However, both of these values are still consistently within typical household concentrations of between 2.75-137.6 g/m3 for toluene and 56 to 717 g/m3 for TVOCs and less than the recommended limits of the NHMRC and Canadian Health publication of 500 g/m3.

In summary, the TVOC levels do not represent any significant cause for concern and without exception are consistent with the concentration levels expected in the typical Australian home and in most cases are lower than those expected in the typical home.


The aldehyde and ketone screen undertaken in the Music Room in the upper storey of C Block was successful in detecting up to 192 g/m3 of formaldehyde in the general music class room area and up to 102 g/m3 within the separately enclosed, teacher’s office.

The music office formaldehyde concentrations are within the acceptable limits recommended by the NHMRC and Canadian Health target values and do not warrant further discussion other than to comment that the furniture in the office was not new and unlikely to emit formaldehyde.

Levels of formaldehyde in the Music Class Room were found not to exceed the eight hour, time weighted average (NES TWA 8hr) of 1.2 mg/m3 lawfully permitted under occupational health and safety legislation in Australian workplaces. However, the concentrations exceeded the following parameters:

The NHMRC’s Interim Ambient Air Quality Goals which requires that no person be exposed to a brief exposure of more than 120 g/m3.

An action limit of 120 g/m3 is used by Canadian Health in their Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality publication.

The median (14.4 g/m3) and maximum concentration range (30.5 g/m3) of formaldehyde levels found in typical Australian dwellings published by the CSIRO from their Indoor Air Project (2010).

The Air Quality objectives for “health and well being” stated in the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 (although not applicable within a workplace where emissions are present within the workplace).


The screening for amino ethanol compounds (ethanolamine) in the uniform shop did not find these substances to be present at concentration levels above the limit of detection 2F

3 (<280-290 g/m3) for the method used. It is unlikely that these compounds are present and that hypothesis that these substances may be present cannot be verified. The presence of these substances is not indicated in any of the product data sheets and levels appear consistent with this information.

3 Limit of detection varies with sample volume up to the maximum sample volume permitted.



7. Recommendations Based on the results of the survey the following recommendations are provided:

The general learning area GLA-20 in B Block and music room should be subjected to off-gassing. The following methodology is provided 3F

4:

The class room should be closed and heated to between 40 degrees C to no more than 50 degrees C, without ventilation, for not less than 4 hours duration.

Once the target temperature has equilibrated throughout the affected areas, the rooms should be vented using mechanical extraction ventilation or if this cannot be obtained, forced ventilation should be provided with windows and doors open and ceiling fans running to try to increase the number of changes of air within the affected room.

During the off-gassing heating process, personnel may be exposed to elevated levels of VOCs and aldehydes as well as heat stress. An organic vapour cartridge respirator is recommended to be worn as a general precaution when entering the rooms during heating.

Whilst venting the room, the room should be heated to maintain the temperature as far as practicable within the constraints of the electricity power supply.

During the process a fire watch should be provided to monitor any power overloads or fire.

After heating and venting the affected area should be left to vent as long as practicable before allowing occupants to re-enter.

Other general learning areas with the same fixtures and fittings as GLA 20 should be considered for remediation using the above protocols.

It should be noted that at the time Manly State School purchased its new class room desks, shelving and other materials used in the construction of the general learning areas, DETA did not have a formal standing offer in place for the purchase of furniture and building materials. E1 MDF has been used throughout the new building materials, shelving, white boards, pin boards and loose class room furniture (desks). These products have collectively contributed to formaldehyde concentrations that are greater than the concentration levels recommended in the NHMRC and other indoor air quality benchmarks used in this report.

The Department of Education, Training and the Arts (DETA) has a current standing offer arrangement that DETA schools are able to access. It is understood that the standing offer allows schools to purchase E0 MDF products such as desks and shelving from selected suppliers. It is also understood that this standing offer is available for schools to utilise but is not mandatory as schools are able to utilise their own initiative to obtain a better offer. DETA should consider making the purchasing of all E0 formaldehyde MDF products or non-MDF products (e.g. natural timber) mandatory as a purchasing policy in an effort to reduce the potential for exposure to formaldehyde in schools. The use of E0 MDF products do not guarantee that that formaldehyde levels will be less than the recommended levels suitable

4 At the time of writing this report, remediation of B Block, C Block and other general learning areas are understood to have undergone remediation prior to school returning from mid-semester recess.



for a class room or area where school children are expected to be present. The resultant formaldehyde concentrations depend of the collective surface areas of materials emitting formaldehyde, the age of the materials, the ambient temperature in the room, the size of the room and the numbers of changes of air provided to dilute any emissions. However, the use of E0 MDF products conforming to AS/NZS 1859.2-2004 provides the most stringent benchmark available for use as a purchasing control.

Based on the results of the sampling conducted at Manly State School it is evident that when large quantities of E1 MDF are used in a room together without good ventilation, that formaldehyde concentration levels can be produced that are above NHMRC Guidelines and other indoor air quality benchmarks. It is further recommended that E1 MDF not be purchased for use in new furniture, fixtures or construction materials in schools without a protocol in place to test for indoor formaldehyde air concentrations to ensure they are below 120 g/m3 prior to occupancy of personnel in that space.



8. Summary In summary, the indoor air quality assessment included screening for the following groups of materials using sorbent tubes sent for laboratory analysis:

VOCs (e.g. benzene, toluene, styrene, alcohols, and alkanes)

Aldehydes and ketones (e.g. formaldehyde)

Ethanolamines.

The sampling was conducted in the additional areas not initially identified for air sampling for the testing undertaken 31 August 2010. These areas were identified following additional people coming forward to volunteer areas they thought might be of concern.

The results of the sampling in B Block (GLA-20), and C Block, (Music Class Room) identified that formaldehyde concentrations were present in concentration levels greater than those recommended in the following guidance publications:

the rescinded NHMRC publication titled, NHMRC’s Interim National Indoor Air Quality Goals Recommended by The National Health And Medical Research Council, 1996

the Canadian Health publication, Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air.

The formaldehyde levels in these areas also were above the concentrations typically found in Australian dwellings as documented in the CSIRO study report titled, Indoor Air Project Part 1: Main Report Indoor Air in Typical Australian Dwellings, 2010.

Formaldehyde emission sources are likely to occur from multiple sources including MDF panels used in pin boards, white boards, portable shelving units, and student desks.

The levels of VOCs and amino-ethanol compounds were either within or less than acceptable levels typically found in an Australian residential dwelling.

Recommendations provided include the baking out of the formaldehyde from all student class rooms or other rooms occupied by students and known to be fitted with similar furnishings, fixtures and fittings containing MDF or particle board. At the time this report has been completed, it is expected that these recommendations will have been implemented before students return from mid semester recess.



9. References

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Committee, February 2007,

Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended Practice, 26th Edition Chapter 8,

Ventilation Aspects of Indoor Air Quality

American Industrial Hygiene Association, 1997, Odour Thresholds for Chemicals with

Established Occupational Health Standards, AIHA, Fairfax, Virginia

Australia/New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 1668.1:1998, The use of ventilation and air-

conditioning in buildings, Part 2: Ventilation design for indoor air containment control (excluding requirements for the health aspects of tobacco smoke exposure), Standards

Australia, Sydney.

Australia/New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 4266.16-2004 Reconstituted wood-based

panels-Methods of test Method 16: Formaldehyde emission- desiccators method,

Standards Australia, Sydney

Australia/New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 1859.2:2004 Reconstituted wood-based

panels-Specifications Part 2: Dry Processed fibreboard, Standards Australia, Sydney.

Australia/New Zealand Standard 1668.2-2002, The use of ventilation and air-

conditioning in buildings Part 2: Ventilation design for indoor air contaminant control (excluding requirements for the health aspects of tobacco smoke), Standards Australia,

Sydney.

CSIRO, 2010, Indoor Air Project Part 1: Main Report, Indoor Air in Typical Australian

Dwellings- A report to the Air Quality Section, Environment Standards Branch,

Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage, and the Arts. Commonwealth of

Australia, Canberra.

Health Canada, 1995, Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Quality – A Report

of the Federal-Provincial Advisory Committee on Environmental and Occupational Health, Minister of Supply and Services Canada.

Indoor Air Quality in Office Buildings: A Technical Guide, A report of the Federal-

Provincial Advisory Committee on Environmental and Occupational Health, Public

Works and Government Services Canada, 1995

Jon H Ruth, 1986, Odour thresholds and irritation levels of several chemical substances-

A review, Volume 47, American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal.

NHMRC, 1996, Interim National Indoor Air Quality Goals Recommended by the National

Health and Medical Research Council.

National Occupational Health and Safety Commission, 1995, Adopted National

Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment'

[NOHSC:1003(1995)], in Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment: Guidance Note and National Exposure Standards, Australian

Government Publishing Service, Canberra.

United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2006, Fact Sheet – Final Revisions to

the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Pollution (Particulate Matter),

Uhttp://www.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/standards/pm/s_pm_index.html U



World Health Organisation (WHO) 2005, WHO Air quality guidelines for particulate

matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide.

Appendix A Results tables – Chemical contaminants

PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page A.1

Appendix A

Results tables – Chemical contaminants



Table A-6.2-1 Airborne gas and vapour contaminants

TEST Method

Tube Serial No.

Building Location Substances at detectable levels in screen

Airborne Sample Concentration

Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

VOC SCREEN NIOSH #2549

Mi 155369 Library Centre area dichlorodifluorom

ethane

7.5 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a

trichlorofluoromet

hane

1.5 µg/m3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

toluene 2.9 µg/m3 4.1 mg/m3 (24

hour TWA)

3.77 mg/m3

(24 hour

annual

average)

150

Median:2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a

Xylenes 1.0 µg/m3 1.2 mg/m3 24

hour TWA

1.1 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

350 Median: 4.21

µg/m3

Min-max: (1.73-

37.4g/m3 )

n/a n/a

TVOC (major

peaks)

12.9 µg/m3 n/a n/a n/a Median: 150 500 µg/m3 500 µg/m3

5 Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008, values at zero degrees Celsius.



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Min-max: 56-717


Mi 155258

Library Computer lab. dichlorodifluorom

ethane

7.7 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a

Trichlorofluorome

thane

1.6 µg/m3 n/a n/a 5620 Peak

limitation

n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA

1.1 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

350 Median: 4.21

µg/m3

Min-max: (1.73-

37.4g/m3 )

n/a n/a

TVOC (major

peaks)

14.2 µg/m3 n/a n/a Median: 150

Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3


Mi 155276

Library Veranda (outside)

dichlorodifluorom

ethane

4.0 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Trichlorofluorome

thane


limitation

n/a n/a n/a

TVOC (major

peaks)

4.9 µg/m3 n/a n/a n/a Median: 150

Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3


Mi 155392 B Block GLA-20 northern aspect

dichlorodifluorom

ethane

4.9 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a

Trichlorofluorome

thane


limitation

n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA

1.1 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

350 Median: 4.21

µg/m3

Min-max: (1.73-

37.4g/m3 )

n/a n/a

Total VOC 8.7 µg/m3 n/a n/a n/a Median: 150 500 µg/m3 500 µg/m3



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Min-max: 56-717


Mi 155260 C Block Centre of main music room dichlorodifluorome

thane

7.0 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a

Trichlorofluoromet

hane


limitation

n/a n/a `n/a

Total VOC 9.2 µg/m3 n/a n/a n/a Median: 150

Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3


Mi 155274 B Block GLA-20 South side (play ground side)

dichlorodifluorome

thane

7.3 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Trichlorofluoromet

hane


limitation

n/a n/a n/a

1,2,4

trimethylbenzene

1.0 µg/m3

xylenes 4.3 µg/m3 1.2 mg/m3 24

hour TWA

1.1 mg/m3 (24

hour annual

average)

350 Median: 4.21

µg/m3

Min-max: (1.73-

37.4g/m3 )

n/a n/a


Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3


Mi 155400 C Block Music room office dichlorodifluorome

thane

8.1 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a

toluene 22 µg/m3 4.1 mg/m3 (24

hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Trichlorofluoromet

hane

1.4 µg/m3 n/a 5620 Peak

limitation

n/a n/a n/a 1.6


Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3


Mi 155266

Library Street side external background sample

dichlorodifluorom

ethane

7.6 µg/m3 n/a n/a 4950 n/a n/a n/a


hour TWA)

n/a TWA8hr: 350

Median: 2.31

Min-max: 2.75-

137.6

n/a n/a

Trichlorofluorome

thane


limitation

n/a n/a n/a


Min-max: 56-717

500 µg/m3

500 µg/m3



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)

Aldehyde Screen NIOSH 2539

3248602286 A Centre of library

formaldehyde n.d

(µg/m3)

54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.

Aldehydes Screen NIOSH 2539

3248602281 A Computer room

Formaldehyde

n.d

(µg/m3)

54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.


3248602284 B GLA 20 Northern aspect (street side)

Formaldehyde

176

(µg/m3)

54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.

Heptanal 192 (µg/m3) n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)


3248602285 B GLA-20 Southern aspect, (playground side)

formaldehyde 106 (µg/m3) 54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.

heptanal 124 (µg/m3) n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a


3248602288 C Music room, centre of room

formaldehyde 196 (µg/m3) 54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.

heptanal 232 (µg/m3) n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)


3248602283 B GLA-20 Centre of class room

Formaldehyde 85 (µg/m3) 54.2 µg/m3 24

hour TWA

49.2 µg/m3

(24 hr TWA)

1.2

Median: 14.39

Min-max:, 4.42-

30.5 µg/m3

120 µg/m3

not to be

exceeded

Action level:

120 µg/m3 not

to be

exceeded, 5

minute

measurement.

Heptanal 103 (µg/m3) n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

Amino ethanol screen NIOSH #2007

3201800283 A Library Centre Ethanolamine <0.40 (<400)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a


3201800285 A Computer room

Ethanolamine <0.3 (<300)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a


3201800286 B GLA-20 Ethanolamine <0.3(<300)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a



TEST Method

Tube Serial No.



Qld DERM

Air quality

objectives 4F

5-

for health

and well

being

National

Environment

Protection -

Air Toxics

measure

Workplace

Exposure

Standards

(8hour TWA,

mg/m3)

CSIRO Indoor

Air Project –

Indoor Air in

Typical

Dwellings mean

values, µg/m3)

NHMRC

Interim

Ambient Air

Quality

Goals

(rescinded)

Exposure

Guidelines

for

Residential

Indoor Air

Quality

(Canada)


3201800287 Ethanolamine <0.29 (<290)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a


3201800290 Ethanolamine <0.39 (<390)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a


3201800291 C Music North white board

Ethanolamine <0.39 (<390)

mg/m3

(µg/m3)

280 µg/m3 (1

week TWA)

n/a 7.5

n/a

n/a n/a

Appendix B Building Product Ingredients

PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF 2160857A-RPT005-A-aw Page B.1

Appendix B

Building Product ingredients disclosed in MSDSs



Site: Manly State School MSDS Review

Product Name Ingredients Classification Manufacturer Hazards Comments

Cleaning substances

EQ heavy duty cleaner Dipentene <10% not classified as hazardous or DG

Elite Chemicals irritant May cause sensitization by skin contact

cleaning chemical

Multipurpose cleaner Not disclosed. non hazardous not classified as hazardous or DG

Elite Chemicals May cause some irritation and some nausea. Prolonged contact may cause dermatitis.

White board cleaner MSDS file will not open Missing MSDS

Building products

Pyneboard

Particle board-softwood, urea formaldehyde resin <15%, melamine urea formaldehyde resin MUF <15%, urea/melamine/phenol/formaldehyde <10% non hazardous resin, paraffin wax <2%

not classified as hazardous or DG

Not classified as hazardous substance in finished state. MSDS claims that exposure to formaldehyde should be less than 0.1 ppm.

Small amounts of formaldehyde may be released from the finished product. Finished product contains less than 1.5 mg/L of formaldehyde.

Ceiling

Cemintel fibre cement calcium silica hydrate Crystalline silica


CSR fine dust containing silica only when cutting, abrasive action/grinding

external cladding

vinyl based plaster board

calcium carbonate 40-90% water talc mica polyvinyl acetate starch cellulose ether <2%


CSR Exposure from cutting, grinding producing dusts only

vapours not expected, patching compound





Glass wool

mineral glass wool heat cured binding agent <15% CAS#25104-55-6 mineral oil <2%


CSR Less than 0.1% of VOC of resin remain in manufactured product.

Vapour exposure unlikely if MSDS is accurate.

Plaster based cement

calcium sulphate 65-98%, calcium carbonate, mica, perlite, talc, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer <2%, polyvinyl alcohol2%


CSR Exposure from cutting, grinding producing dusts only

not expected to emit vapours

curtains

cotton and vinyl carriers not expected to emit vapours

door components

white plastic door stops plastic not classified as hazardous or DG

EMRO not expected to emit vapours

door handles, hinges, lock hardware (3 products)

metal not classified as hazardous or DG

multiple metallic, no vapours expected

Door panel customwood MDF

MDF: Wood from plantation softwood 78% urea formaldehyde resin <20% melamine urea formaldehyde resin MUF <20% Paraffin wax <2%


Customwood

Heating or machining timber may result in : - abdominal discomfort from dust - eye irritation - lung, nose, throat irritation, especially in people with respiratory sensitivity like asthma

May emit formaldehyde when heated. Exposure should be less than 0.1 ppm per MSDS. Suspect cause of emissions.





Floor coverings & adhesives

Intertac carpet tile adhesive Trade secret-not disclosed. Non hazardous.


interface

May cause irritation to nose and throat. Low vapour pressure. Mild eye irritation.

pressure adhesive

Ardex K12 floor leveller

graded sand calcium carbonate Portland cement additives

Hazardous. Non DG Ardex

From dusts: irritating to eyes & skin Possible respiratory sensitiser Possible skin sensitizer

Exposure to dust. Substances do not give rise to vapours.

Ardex A45 Portland cement 30-60% Graded sand 30-60% Calcium carbonate

Hazardous. Non DG Ardex

causes burns (cement dust) health effects from prolonged exposure (dust) Possible skin respiratory sensitiser-dust

Cementious floor leveller. Not a potential source of vapours.

Polymer 265 vinyl adhesive

additives-trade secret 76-95% medium aliphatic petroleum solvent 1-5% Petroleum solvent light aromatic 1-5%Contains acrylate monomers but these are not listed in ingredients


RLA POLYM

Product contains acrylate monomers and solvents that can cause discomfort in confined spaces or poorly ventilated areas during handling and use.

Potential source of VOCs Acrylates may be present. Vapours not likely to prevail in long term.

Polymer 903 contact adhesive

Ketones 0-50% Hexane (isomers) 0-50% Toluene 0-50% n-hexane 0-5%

Classified as hazardous. Classified as dangerous goods

RLA POLYM Harmful by inhalation irritating to skin do not breathe vapour

Large percentage of VOCs and ketones.?possible need tpo screen for ketones





Vinyl floor covering Ingredients not specified. PVC plastic. not classified as hazardous or DG

Tarkett Marley floors

These products are not either corrosive, irritants, toxic or oxidising agents. They are not reactive chemically.

PVC floor covering. Not a substance that will liberate vapours unless heated to decomposition.

Polymer 1718 A & B Sheet vinyl water resistant epoxy

MSDS not in disk folder RLA POLYM Missing MSDS

Nylon tufted carpet tile on Glasbac backing

nylon carpet fibre 30-60% polyvinyl chloride 10-29% non hazardous ingredients


interface Not a likely source of exposure or emission. No adverse health effects expected.

No evidence of harmful products capable of off-gassing.

Glazing adhesives

Bostik roof & gutter adhesive

2-butanone oxime (methyl ethyl ketoxime) CAS# 96-29-7


Bostik

releases methyl ethyl ketoxime when curing. This vapour can be irritant to mucous membranes, eyes and respiratory tract. No occupational exposure std. Skin sensitizer-on contact with liquid.

Used to affix window trims

Bostik seal & flex 1

toluene diisocyanate CAS# 584-84-9, <0.5% Balance of ingredients alleged to be non-hazardous.

Hazardous. Non DG Bostik

Harmful by inhalation irritating to skin do not breathe vapour. May cause sensitization by inhalation

Respiratory and skin sensitizer. Usually exposure is by mist or liquid as substance is not very volatile to emit vapour.

PVC Glazing gasket seal

polyvinyl chloride 50-95% stabilisers 5-50% pigments 1-5%


APN Compounding Not expected to off gas unless heated to decomposition or on combustion.

Suitable for outdoor seal for window glazing.





Painting products

307 Line Dulux professional full gloss enamel

pigments 10-60% synthetic polymers 10-60% mineral turpentine 10-60% kerosene 10-60% white spirit (Stoddard solvent) naphtha solvent - light aromatic hydrocarbons 1-10% Xylene 1-5%


Dulux

Potential source of VOCs during drying phase. May be an eye irritant. Contact with skin will result in irritation. Will have a degreasing action on the skin. Repeated or prolonged skin contact may lead to irritant contact dermatitis.Material may be irritant to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract (airways). Breathing in vapour can result in headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, and possible nausea. Breathing in high concentrations can produce central nervous system depression, which can lead to loss of co-ordination, impaired judgement and if exposure is prolonged, unconsciousness.

solvent based surface coating used on all doors

677 line Berger Gold Label Interior Low Sheen

pigments 30-60% synthetic polymers 30-60% water 30-60% non hazardous ingredients balance up to 100%


Dulux

May be an eye irritant. Contact with skin may result in irritation. In poorly ventilated areas, or elevated temperatures, vapour may cause irritation to mucous membranes or the respiratory tract, headache & nausea.

Interior paint. Ingredients not disclosed as not hazardous.





Plumbing

Plaskem PVC Cement N Blue

methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 30-60% cyclohexanone 10-30% acetone 10-30% non hazardous ingredients balance to 100%


Bostik

Vapour irritating and harmful Harmful by inhalation irritating to eyes and respiratory system vapours may cause drowsiness & giddiness

Plumbing cement for pipes. May be present in kitchen and plumbed areas.

PVC plumb-weld PVC Priming Fluid

methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 30-60% acetone 30-60%


Bostik

Vapour irritating and harmful Harmful by inhalation irritating to eyes and respiratory system vapours may cause drowsiness & giddiness

source of VOCs but likely to gas off in short term.

Roller shutters

Roller shutters barium sulfate titanium dioxide Diiron trioxide


Bunnings Not a likely source of exposure or emission. No adverse health effects expected.

Joinery adhesives

Steel Bracket Paint Duralloy

Dulux Technical data sheet MSDS not supplied

Maxbond PVA

polyinylacetate (PVA) 30-60% copolymer water nonhazardous ingredients

Hazardous. Non DG HB Fuller

Vinyl acetate monomer has TWA 10ppm EYE: Direct contact with eyes may result in irritation. SKIN: Direct contact may produce skin irritation. INHALATION: Not considered a normal route of exposure. May cause irritation to nose and throat if used in a poorly ventilated area.

Adhesive Exposure not expected to be significant. Product is non volatile.





Joinery products & laminates

Laminex Lamiwood MR

Lamiwood is available in the lower formaldehyde emission level E0 but it would appear that this product is NOT the low formaldehyde emissions material but formaldehyde E1.


Laminex Product may emit formaldehyde < 1mg/L as per test data for formaldehyde E1 specifications.

Technical data sheet only. MSDS may not exist as the panel is not a hazardous substance as such

Laminex compact laminate No information provided about potential contaminants in ingredients.




laminex veriboard No information provided about potential contaminants in ingredients.




Laminex ABS edging No information provided about potential contaminants in ingredients.



Technical data sheet only. MSDS may not exist as the panel is not a hazardous substance as such.

Whiteboards

Starstuk PB 925 N

Difluoroethane <40% Dichloromethane (methylene Chloride) 10-30% Hydrocarbon propellant <40%

Classified as hazardous. Classified as dangerous goods (Gas propellant)

Premier Bond Adhesives

Product will emit VOC vapours in drying/curing phase. This should only be a short term emission. Methylene chloride is a substance that is a confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans. However, its persistence is unlikely due to high volatility. Dichloromethane is used as both a propellant and adhesive due to its use in dissolving plastics.

Substances are in propellant spray can. Unlikely to persist if area well ventilated.





Selleys Liquid nails-solvent based glue

Kaolin 10-30% Calcium Carbonate 10-30% Synthetic polymer 10-30% n-hexane 1-10% Naphtha (petroleum hydrotreated light) CAS # 64742-49-0

Classified as hazardous. Classified as dangerous goods (flammable)

Selleys Pty Ltd Product will emit VOC vapours in drying/curing phase. This should only be a short term emission.

Adhesive used to fix pin-board to wall.

Customwood MR

Plantation softwood & eucalypt Urea Formaldehyde Resin <20% (UF)melamine urea formaldehyde resin <20% (MUF)


Customwood

MSDS indicates that formaldehyde may be released when product is heated and some other conditions. The MSDS indicates the concentration is unlikely to exceed 0.1ppm although the rational basis for this cannot be explained. When the room volume and surface areas of material used will determine the concentration in a room,

Potential source of formaldehyde. Not classified as hazardous as the product is a finished, manufactured product and not a substance. This product is covered in vinyl. With adhesives used to sandwich the products together.

Pin-boards for class room areas

MDF backing materials

Wood from plantation softwood and eucalyptus Urea formaldehyde resin (UF)<20% Melamine urea formaldehyde resin (MUF) <20%

Not classified as hazardous or DG

Customwood

MSDS indicates that formaldehyde may be released when product is heated and some other conditions. The MSDS indicates the concentration is unlikely to exceed 0.1ppm although the rational basis for this cannot be explained. When the room volume and surface areas of material used will determine the concentration in a room,

Potential source of formaldehyde. NB. Not classified as hazardous as the product is a finished, manufactured product and not a substance.





Smart Tables from Bizfurn

Decorwood table tops

Wood particles >85% Urea formaldehyde resin <13% Melamine urea formaldehyde resin <13% Paraffin wax <2%

Not classified as hazardous or DG

Laminex

MSDS alleged that the finished product contains 0.01% of free formaldehyde.

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