Serpentinite, a dark greenish natural stone with characteristic spots and whitish bands, is mainly used as a decorative stone. Serpentinite is still used today for flooring, cladding and other decorative products. However, serpentinite can release harmful asbestos fibers under certain conditions. These dangers exist above all when serpentinite is worked or broken .
PCBs in old capacitors
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were until the 90s as insulating agents in old capacitors, fluorescent lamps, household appliances, paints, plastics and plasticizers. They continue to pose a health risk today. In many cases, old devices such as fluorescent tubes with PCB-contaminated small capacitors are still in use. The harmful PCB-contaminated insulating fluid can leak out of these.
Building Energy Act – energy-efficient refurbishment and new construction obligations
The new Building Energy Act (GEG) – “Act on Energy Saving and the Use of Renewable Energies for Heating and Cooling in Buildings” came into force on November 1, 2020 and merged the previous laws and ordinances (EnEG, EnEV and EEWärmeG).
Hazardous substances in clinics and medical practices
The incorrect handling of hazardous substances often poses a potential health risk to employees and patients in hospitals and in everyday medical practices. Especially in these areas where sick people are treated, comprehensive hygiene precautions are required. The disinfectants and cleaning agents used for this purpose, as well as medical products and substances for treatments, often contain chemicals that can cause irritation, skin burns, allergies and other health problems.
Indoor guide values – indoor air test with GSA measuring devices
Indoor guide values are an important measuring factor for assessing indoor air. The indoor climate is of crucial importance for people’s well-being and health. Indoor air tests with specially designed GSA measuring devices are therefore a suitable solution if pollutants are suspected in indoor spaces.
Information system for hazardous substances (IGS-public)
The Information System for Hazardous Substances (IGS-public), an online portal of the State Agency for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection of North Rhine-Westphalia (LANUV), provides consumers with free information on substance characteristics and legislation on chemical and biological substances. The database with around 250,000 entries on substances contains important information on health protection and the handling of hazardous substances.
Measure toner dust with Gravikon PM4-2
Reports of health risks caused by toner dust from laser printers and copiers are worrying many consumers. The fine dust particles can get into the air we breathe and contaminate indoor air. People come into contact with toner dust from printers, copiers and multifunctional devices at the workplace in particular.
Kale – bioindicator for pollutants
Kale is considered a superfood and is a bioindicator for air pollutants and contaminated soils. Active biomonitoring, with biologically standardized measurement methods, can be used to determine and assess the effects of air pollution and other stresses on the environment and humans.
Avoid pollutants from building materials in new buildings
Pollutants from building materials can cause considerable damage to the environment. Rainwater from parts of the building can enter the surface water from the new building. A recent study commissioned by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) found high levels of pollutants in two new development areas. proven. However, these can be avoided during new construction. It was also investigated how the release of pollutants into the environment can be reduced.
Blauer Engel – more environmentally friendly products and services
“Blauer Engel” is a well-known eco-label that is now visible on around 20,000 products from around 1,600 companies. It is the environmental label of the German government. The “Blauer Engel” is based solely on environmental criteria. It is intended to guarantee high standards of environmental and health protection.