Early indications were that the Chinese Drywall problem would be the next asbestos or black mold. However, although the issue has been huge in the US with up to 100,000 homes affected, the product has only been used over a relatively short period of time in a confined geographical area and is unlikely to have the same widespread ramifications.
What is Chinese Drywall?
Drywall was imported from China into the US shortly after Hurricane Katrina. Normally, gypsum used in the manufacture of plasterboard (we might call it Gyprock) is sourced directly from open cut mines. However, it seems that the gypsum used in some Chinese plasterboard has recently come from a chemical process involving lime or limestone and gas from coal-fired power plants. Hazardous substances such as sulphur and other contaminants are supposed to have been removed as part of the process. The sulphur then reacts in warm, moist conditions to produce emissions of gases such as carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, and hydrogen sulfide.
These gases produce a foul rotten egg gas type smell and corrode metallic object including Air conditioning coils, electrical wiring and silverware. Health affect include headaches, nose bleeds and breathing difficulties and not yet thought to be long term or life threatening although it has also been reported that family pets have died.
The only solution once the product is identified is to rip it all out or in some cases, if the gases have been absorbed into timber frames, carpets and furniture, complete demolition may be the only option.
I cant find any indication that these products have been imported into Australia.
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Mesothelioma – Chinese Drywall – the new asbestos? http://www.safetyrisk.com.au/2010/07/01/mesothelioma-chinese-drywall-the-new-asbestos/
Determining that a home or structure contains defective drywall is just the beginning; the next step is to correct the issue.
The Building Envelope Science Institute (BESI) endorsed a remediation protocol back in October 2009 that more than exceeds the recommendations by the CPSC & HUD interim remediation guidance and is aligned with the court’s ruling in the MDL-2047 litigation case (and even more comprehensive).
The protocol offered through BESI provides (to-date) the most comprehensive remediation process and was developed based on proven science; nicknamed the “BESI System” because of the institute’s endorsement. The protocol for remediation of defective drywall being offered by BESI considers the following major factors: corrosion, cross-contamination of other building materials, personal belongings, IAQ monitoring program, a proposed national warranty (not an insurance policy), and removal of the stigma from having defective “corrosive” drywall.
In fact, the institute has been certifying qualified candidates for inspection and remediation of structures with defective drywall since last year. Those that have earned a designation as a remediator or consultant through the institute have attended a two-day course with a written final exam; inspectors attend a one-day course with a written final exam. There are prerequisites they have to meet, which includes being in good standing with the state if they are licensed (required for those performing remediation).
It’s good to know that if your home was remediated under this protocol that it would not require more work in order to meet the CPSC & HUD interim guidance. The Institute has a document that helps explain the protocol called, “The BESI System: Understanding the Protocols for Defective Drywall” which is posted on the website. The Institute has a “Nationwide Directory” that currently allows individuals to locate BESI certified inspectors and remediators for defective drywall.
More information about the protocols and requirements can be found at http://www.BESInstitute.org.
The Building Envelope Science Institute (BESI) will host its fifth certification seminar for inspection and remediation of defective “Chinese” drywall on July 19th & 20th at the Astor Crowne Plaza located at 739 Canal Street @ Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana.
New blog post: Mesothelioma – Chinese Drywall – t… http://www.safetyrisk.com.au/2010/07/01/mesothelioma-chinese-drywall-the-new-asbestos/