Big Changes to PCB Regulation Coming Soon
(and we are THRILLED!)
ARA was very excited to hear from EPA this month about upcoming changes to PCB regulation, particularly the approval for the quicker, easier, greener, and less expensive microwave extraction method for PCB samples. Many in our network already know the benefits of this change will be far reaching, as our team has been advocating the need for these changes for years.
Brief summary of PCB Regulation Changes from the Federal Register notice:
“EPA is revising the list of extraction and determinative methods in the PCB regulations (40 CFR part 761); amending the performance-based cleanup option for PCB remediation waste under § 761.61(b); removing the provision allowing PCB bulk product waste to be disposed of as roadbed material; adding more flexible provisions for cleaning up spills that occur during emergency situations; harmonizing the general disposal requirements for PCB remediation waste; and other amendments.” Read more in the Federal Register.
Project Managers with a steady flow of PCB samples can expect:
- decreased field costs
- increased sample capacity
- quicker TAT from the lab
- shortened project timelines
- cost savings (sometimes dramatic; ask us about our million dollar example!)
As excited as we are to see the positive impacts these changes will mean here at our own lab, we are equally thrilled to see the benefits to our clients and Mother Earth! Let us know if you have questions about how these changes will affect your PCB projects.
NHDES Employees Visit ARA
We love it when customers get curious about chemistry! These field samplers wanted to know more about lab sampling requirements and what exactly happens between sample drop-off and lab report receipt. ARA COO Aaron DeWees arranged a site visit, provided a tour of the lab, and answered lots of great questions from these NHDES employees about what we do, how we do it, and why. If your team would like a tour, or if you have questions about how and why we do what we do here at ARA, please let us know.
ARA Welcomes New Employees
Team ARA is busy and growing! You may see a few new faces at our office, in the field, or at an upcoming conference. A hearty ARA welcome goes out to:
- Jean Capello Laboratory Technician
- Abbey Tannatt Extractions Technician
- Ashlee Nowell Login Technician
- Tristan Petig PFAS Technician
- Nick Laprocina Laboratory Technician
- Marie Aichele Login Technician
ARA Awarded Contracts with MEDEP, NHDES & the State of NH
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (MEDEP) has awarded ARA a contract for testing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Groundwater, Stormwater and Residential Drinking Water samples throughout the state. Additionally, the State of New Hampshire has awarded ARA a five-year contract, also for PFAS testing services. And in a separate two-year contract with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Wastewater Engineering and Hazardous Waste Remediation Bureaus, ARA will be performing a wide range of laboratory analytical services including metals, VOCs, SVOCs, pesticides, PCBs, PFAS, hazardous waste characteristics, inorganic constituents, and bacteria. This contract has the potential for two one-year extensions.
ARA is honored and excited to perform this important work which ultimately impacts the health and well being of our neighbors and communities. #CleanerWaterCleanerAirCleanerEarth
Help BSB Spread Kindness!
There’s a few days left! Join Team ARA as we help Bangor Savings Bank spread kindness with their Peanut Butter & Jelly Drive! Through the end of September, you can drop PB&J donations off at any BSB branch, which will be matched jar for jar and distributed to local food insecurity programs across Northern New England (food pantries, backpack programs, local shelters, etc.) Peanut butter alternatives are also encouraged, to help those with nut allergies. And as you can see, someone at ARA thought a big jar of fluff would help spread some additional cheer. 🙂 Deadline is 9/30/2023 and you can find more information on the Bangor Savings website.
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