Environmental Consulting

Service(s) performed:

This project included Preliminary Design/Budgeting, Asbestos Survey, Project Manuals (work procedures and drawings), Bidding Assistance, Project Management, Work Observations/Air Monitoring, Final Air Clearance, Fireproofing Testing, Final Report, Abatement Log Drawings and Operation and Maintenance Program.

Summary:

Our multi-disciplined team of experts was selected as the environmental consultant for a major renovation of a 50-year old 32-story office builidng in the Houston area. This project involved a total remodel, including replacement of all finishes, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. This renovation also included the abatement of the known asbestos and other environmental materials (PCBs, mercury, etc.). The project began with the preliminary design work in September 2007 and was completed within budget and on schedule in February 2012.

As the building was fully occupied, logistical issues were significant, especially when renovating the interiors and MEP systems. Significant work phasing and sequencing was required, and work occurred 24 hours/day, seven days/week, for much of the initial work. This initial work mainly included abating the asbestos-containing materials (ACM) that were in the path of the new MEP infrastructure, which had to be installed prior to the first newly renovated floor being completed for reoccupancy. Schedule deadlines were critical in order for the construction and reoccupancy program to work effectively. In order to meet the project requirements, a new fireproofing-type material was used in the data center for the building, where ceiling clearance heights were critical. Our experts were intregral in this planning and design process to ensure the safe removal of the environmental concerns in the area while the adjacent areas of the floor were occupied. We also helped design and develop the necessary work area containment process and outside monitoring as required to provide the necessary communication to the building employees.