Hazardous Waste Characterizations

Without detailed knowledge of wastes it is impossible to properly dispose of potentially hazardous materials. Paradigm employs EPA-established test procedures to assess wastes for Ignitability, Reactivity, Corrosivity, and release of toxic contaminants through the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). We assess wastes quickly and accurately, allowing you to complete waste profiles with confidence and arrange for proper disposal well ahead of regulatory deadlines.

Vapor Intrusion Monitoring

It is possible that complaints of odors at home or in the workplace or frequent headaches or nausea may have their root cause in vapor intrusion of airborne compounds. The best way to sample the widest range of compounds with the greatest of ease is EPA Method TO-15 (PDF file), which Paradigm offers as a service.

The new offering features enhanced quality control and calibration and a longer list of target compounds than the (Toxic Organic) TO-14 method that was developed more than 10 years ago. With the advances made in instrumentation design and sensitivity, this analytical tool has emerged which provides the best and easiest way to determine the concentration and identity of as many organic compounds with a simple and easy sampling technique.

For details on Paradigm’s use of this method, please view our presentation, “Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Air” (PDF file). In particular, Paradigm offers:

• Standard 1 week turnaround.
• One price for everything, no hidden rental charges or fees.
• Local laboratory, save on expensive shipping.
• 1.0 and 1.4 liter canisters, which are much less cumbersome to handle.

Industrial Wastewaters

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and the New York equivalent, State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) were established to regulate the discharge of pollutants to all U.S. navigable waters. These programs encompass direct dischargers, those that discharge indirectly through municipal pretreatment systems, and stormwater runoff. Paradigm offers a long list of analyses covering EPA’s Priority Pollutant and Conventional Pollutant lists. We also provide on-site automated sampling.

Our clients are often required to monitor their discharges on a regular basis with strict deadlines for reporting. Paradigm’s standard one-week turnaround allows our clients to complete their monitoring well ahead of schedule, allowing them time to evaluate data, investigate problem areas, and make adjustments.

Site Investigation Support

One of the unfortunate legacies of industrial success is widespread contamination of properties, including manufacturing facilities, dry cleaners, gas stations, railroad yards, truck depots, etc. Cleanups can be costly and often involve drawn out litigation, creating a huge backlog of impaired properties. Many of these are eventually abandoned and, as a result, site investigations have become standard practice prior to the transfer of ownership.

Paradigm provides valuable analytical support to consultants and industrial site managers in site assessments, remedial investigations, and implementation of remedial measures. We employ the latest in high-tech chromatographic and spectrometric procedures to assess soils and ground waters for contaminants. Analyses include Volatile Organics, Semi-Volatile Organics, Pesticides, PCB’s, Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Heavy Metals, and more.

Environmental samples, particularly those contaminated with hazardous waste, frequently involve difficult matrices and complex interferences. Additional cleanup procedures and repeat analyses are often required to generate useful data. Paradigm is committed to providing data of the highest quality. We do whatever it takes, usually at no extra cost, to provide data that is both valid and usable.

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Petroleum Assessments

Petroleum spills and leaks are common, and only in the last 15 years has the backlog of sites needing cleanup been addressed. New York State has a well-developed program entitled “Spill Technology and Remediation Series,” or STARS, which provides guidance on remediation of petroleum contaminated soil. Paradigm routinely provides analytical support to consultants and contractors involved with the cleanup of petroleum sites. Our analytical services include the STARS List Volatiles and Base/Neutrals, Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Ignitability, Total Lead and more. All STARS analyses are performed using powerful GC/MS technology, eliminating the false positives associated with GC only work. Our expert chemistry staff can assist you with data interpretation, allowing you to gain valuable insight into product identification and contaminant sources.

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Industrial Hygiene

Many companies are taking a more proactive approach to detecting and preventing occupational exposures. This not only helps to protect worker health and safety, but also improves productivity, reduces absenteeism, and lowers workers compensation premiums. Paradigm provides valuable assistance to facility managers and building owners to address these issues.

Poorly designed or poorly maintained air management systems have led to serious indoor air quality problems, leading to the “Sick Building Syndrome,” and Paradigm can help. We have sophisticated monitoring instruments and sampling devices to quickly assess conditions, and provide data for comparison to regulatory or project specific limits.

Paradigm can also help facility managers diagnose worker exposures associated with specific activities. Even in today’s manufacturing operations, workers can be exposed to dust, fumes, or chemical agents above OSHA required limits. We work with your EH&S staff to assess these exposures and give you accurate data in a timely manner, helping you to protect your personnel and remain in compliance.

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Field Sampling

According to the EPA, field sampling can be one of the largest single sources of error in any investigation or monitoring program. Obtaining representative samples requires attention to detail and a commitment to quality, and Paradigm provides both. We offer field-sampling services covering a wide variety of sample types, including wastewaters, industrial wastes, soils, storage tanks, ground waters, and ambient airs. Samples of the highest integrity are obtained using established procedures derived directly from federal and state guidance. Sampling activities are carefully documented for each sample taken, and strict sample custody procedures followed. In addition, our technicians are trained to recognize site conditions with the potential to adversely affect sample quality and to advise our clients immediately.

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Hazardous Waste Vapor Intrusion Monitoring Industrial Wastewaters Site Investigation Support Petroleum Assessments Industrial Hygiene Field Sampling