Safe Spray Foam and Intelligent Insulation Workshop To Be Held In Massachusetts

STOW, MA – November 25, 2013 – Representatives of the State of Massachusetts have put together a free half-day workshop event to provide information about spray polyurethane foam installation safety and training, as well as to highlight other building insulation options.

The event, which was organized by the Office of Technical Assistance and Technology (OTA) of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, will take place on December 11, 2013 at the Firefighting Academy in Stow, Massachusetts.

"The purpose of hosting this event is to help educate those who are applying spray polyurethane foam insulation to understand the essentials of safe application, and how they can obtain training and training certifications," said Rick Reibstein, the event's organizer. "It is also to educate those who might hire them, or design the work, or influence how the work is performed. Ensuring the safety of workers, occupants, neighbors and the environment is a critical part of using these materials, as they present significant hazards that can be avoided with sufficient knowledge and care."

The workshop will be divided into two sessions. Session A will cover SPF essentials and training. During this session, experts will discuss the essential elements of environmental, health and safety practices,as well as available training certifications, including SPFA certification. Topics will include SPF hazards, how to prevent them, and OSHA requirements. Among the organizations presenting information about SPF are OSHA & OSHA Consultation Service, the ACC Center for Polyurethanes Industry, and the Building Performance Institute.

During Session B, a panel of experts will discuss other insulation materials and practices from a variety of perspectives. Reibstein notes that it is important for professionals to understand both the variety of insulation options available and the factors that impact insulation performance.

"We want to ensure that the energy efficiency options are clear and best practice concerning other methods are communicated," said Reibstein. " One important aspect is ventilation. As we tighten up our building envelopes, we should be attentive to the risk that we may create indoor air problems, and should understand how important it is to remove indoor sources of concern, and to ensure adequate ventilation."

Following Session B, there will be an open discussion between presenters and attendees. For more information on the event, including registration, please use the contact information and links provided below.

About OTA: Since its establishment in 1990, the Office of Technical Assistance and Technology (OTA) has provided a host of non-regulatory, strictly confidential services that have helped more than 1,400 Massachusetts facilities use less toxic processes and boost their economic performance. OTA has been instrumental in reducing the use of millions of pounds of toxic chemicals and saving companies millions of dollars in operating costs. As part of the Commonwealth's Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, OTA has maintained a focus on toxics use reduction as it has expanded its service offerings. OTA's legislative mandate now calls for a direct focus on sustainability practices. As a result, OTA has accelerated its promotion of management strategies, systems and technologies that prevent pollution and conserve resources, specifically energy and water.