environmental Strategist, between the lines: Vapor intrusion is one of the environmental hot topics we discuss with our agency network because it can impact any property owner. A few years ago ASTM, the society that establishes the guidelines for Phase I and Phase II environmental reports, came out with ASTM 2600 to address vapor intrusion because they understand just how serious an environmental exposure this is for property owners. Vapor intrusion can come from across the street or miles away. What is your property owner’s strategy if a third party causes vapor intrusion and the third party does not have the financial ability to make your insured whole? Environmental insurance policies can cover this exposure.
Buildings with Vapor Intrusion Problems May Pose a Significant Risk to Building Occupants
Vapor intrusion in any structure creates an environment that could damage structural materials and/or put the building’s occupants’ health at risk. Reactions to exposure can range from minor irritations, such as headaches or nausea, to more significant problems including chronic disease. In extreme cases it could even lead to cancer from prolonged exposure.
Vapor intrusion is defined by building consultants as a gaseous substance migrating into a structure. Gases such as radon, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), water vapor, or other gases seeps through cracks in the concrete foundations or sewer lines and enter the building.
According to the EPA, the potential health issues vary and are dependent upon the types and concentrations of the chemicals. The length of exposure to the chemicals and the overall health of those being exposed are additional factors that determine how building occupants will react.
The redevelopment of brownfield sites can also create situations for potential vapor intrusion issues for any new buildings. Brownfield developers must manage environmental risk, especially those due to potential vapor intrusion issues.