OVERVIEW AT A GLANCE
The Organization
The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), a prestigious maritime academy, plays a critical role in maritime education and national security, making its compliance with environmental and safety standards essential.
The Problem
USMMA faced challenges in meeting various environmental and safety regulations, with outdated asbestos surveys, potential lead and mold hazards, and air quality issues in its residential and commercial buildings.
The Solution
ETC provided a multifaceted approach including updated asbestos and lead sampling, mold assessments, air quality investigations, and abatement oversight, ensuring USMMA's reattainment of compliance with stringent federal regulations.
Scope of work
Environmental Testing & Consulting (ETC) worked with the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) to address key environmental and safety issues across its campus. The project involved updating outdated asbestos surveys to meet current standards, conducting lead sampling in residential and commercial buildings, assessing mold risks, and evaluating indoor air quality. These steps were essential for identifying hazards, closing compliance gaps, and reinforcing the academy’s commitment to health and safety.
With thorough assessments and clear recommendations, ETC equipped the USMMA with practical insights and a roadmap to maintain compliance with changing regulations. This partnership not only safeguarded the academy’s students and staff but also set a higher standard for environmental responsibility in educational settings.
ETC's Role:
Our approach addressed the academy’s range of environmental challenges. We corrected inaccuracies in previous asbestos and lead surveys, ensuring data aligned with current safety standards and was accessible through a user-friendly database. For lead hazards, we prepared compliant inspection reports and conducted OSHA-aligned sampling in non-residential buildings to identify and mitigate potential risks. In handling mold and indoor air quality issues, we performed assessments and provided recommendations that support the academy’s health standards.
Beyond these evaluations, we managed the safe removal of identified hazards and offered guidance on critical issues like COVID-19 protocols, confined space safety, and specification development. Additionally, we trained the academy’s Department of Public Works and maintenance teams, strengthening campus safety practices and raising compliance standards
Results and Impact
Our work with the United States Merchant Marine Academy has improved the academy's compliance with federal environmental and safety regulations, particularly in asbestos management, lead safety, and air quality. Through these efforts, the academy now operates with greater awareness and adherence to essential safety measures, reducing environmental risks on campus.
This ongoing partnership supports the academy in meeting regulatory requirements while promoting a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors. By establishing a proactive approach to environmental safety, we are helping the academy maintain and strengthen these standards, protecting the well-being of the USMMA community for the future.