THE MBC VOICE Issue 6 | April 18th, 2022 INSIDE THIS ISSUE First quarter highlight reel Pg. 2 Mould: the uninvited tenant Pg. 6 - 10 Spotlight Series: Matthew Magnus Pg. 3 Message from our President Pg. 11 Work for MBC Group Pg. 4 What’s that acronym? APEGA Pg. 5
Highlight Reel What a start to 2022! 24 Jan We launched the new design of The MBC Voice, our company newsletter. We recapped 2021 which was a very exciting year, discussed some groundbreaking initiatives, and more. If you missed it, you can check it out here! 14 Mar We promoted Bryan Fry to General Manager of Engineering Services. Bryan joined us with the acquisition of Walker Projects Engineering and has shown great initiative and leadership. The promotion is well-earned and Bryan is already streamlining operations for our strong Engineering line of business! You can read about it here. Ross Huartt, our President and CEO, speaks with Bant Breen on his podcast, The Uncaged Show. He discusses the history of MBC, the growth over the last several years, where we are today, and the exciting places we are headed. This episode provides great insight into what MBC is all about. You can watch it here. 4 Feb We attended the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) annual convention and trade show (March 15th - 17th). 15 Mar 3 23 Feb We announced our partnership with SNC-Lavalin, to address the immediate need to identify and provide solutions that are sustainable and proactive in a time where extreme weather events are such a huge part of our reality. You can read about it here. Manuel Martineau joins the team as the Director of National Sales and Integration. You can read about it here. We announced the acquisition of assets of Strudes Engineering. Increasing our existing footprint in the East. Strudes is an 1 Mar engineering firm based out of Montreal, QC, which has won several awards over the years for its innovative and forward-thinking designs. You can read about it here. 18 Apr Our team has grown to nearly 160 people which means more and more possibilities will open up to MBC Group. One of which is MBC Eco-Claim, of which we’re almost ready to announce the results. Stay tuned for more! f ● in Apr We attended the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention and trade show (April 3rd - 6th).
Matthew Magnus started with MBC Group in October of 2021 as a General Manager. Showing great initiative in business growth and customer relations, he was quickly moved into the Director of Commercial Services role, leading the sales team in the region. He is passionate about being an extension of MBC and liaising with everyone in the industries we serve to foster new and existing relationships. There are a lot of exciting changes ahead, and Matthew is looking forward to growing with people who are just as motivated to be part electronics, so he is very passionate about “You have to of something bigger. By inspiring growth in the existing team in Ontario, he is excited to disrupt the industry on an even bigger level. On the operations side, he brings new ideologies for operations to increase efficiencies and find more direct methodologies to achieve our business goals. Matthew has observed that MBC Group is full of people with an appetite for growth – who can think outside the box and bring more than just the status quo. “MBC Group has talent, and they recognize it,” he says, “they don’t keep their staff pigeon-holed into one role just because it is what they’ve been doing. In a normal corporate structure, it’s about being effective in the role you are hired to do. But socializing and integrating is a huge part of the MBC team – making connections and creating a network, both internally and externally.” Before his career as an Environmental Consultant, Matthew went to school for computer systems and For himself, he’s reached many points in his career where he could have just sat back and collected a paycheck. But he is driven and has always felt drawn to feeling like there is more to accomplish. “A turtle can’t go anywhere without sticking its neck out,” he says, “And I don’t know where I want to stop yet. You have to understand where your opportunities are, look for new ones, and get out of your comfort zone and take risks if you want to grow.” Just like in the world of technology, personal change and growth can happen a lot faster than people think. It gets more impactful and real the more we stick our necks out to achieve what we may have thought could never happen to us. Spotlight Series Matthew Magnus Director of Commercial Services Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn >>> understand where your opportunities are, look for new ones, and get out of your comfort zone by taking risks” technology. As a kid, he was a hardcore gamer and loved writing code on his own time at his own speed. By exploring something he doesn’t live in every day, there is no limit to what he can learn. The world is changing faster than most of us can keep up with, so he enjoys trying to be one or two more steps ahead and staying up to date with what is happening - at times getting lost in the rabbit hole. Matthew is a well-spring of great advice on personal growth as well as career development. Both in life and in business, he adopts the philosophy that you get out of life and your job what you put it. If you want more out of it, you have to put more in, and a lot of the time that means you have to put yourself in the line of fire.
Cl ick to apply >>> Come work with us! As a resu l t o f rap id g rowth , we are always seeking qua l i fie d profe s s iona l s to he lp prope l MBC Group forwa rd in our visio n and missio n. MBC Gro up aims to become a fo rerun n er in innova tive s olu tio ns for the indus tri e s we serve . < < < Click to view o u r c ur r e nt j ob oppor t uni t i e s Whether you are just starting Keep in touch! f ● in out or if you want to challenge yourself in the next stages of your career, MBC Group seeks professionals who share in our vision of innovation through collaboration.
A P E G A : A s s oc i a t ion o f P r of e s s io n a l E n g in e e r s a n d Ge o sc i e n t i st s o f A l be r t a Background For this issue’s “What’s that acronym?” feature, we are looking at APEGA, the largest association of self-regulated professionals in Western Canada. With the Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act as a foundation, they act on behalf of the Government of Alberta to regulate the practices of engineering and geoscience in Alberta. The act even stipulates that one must be a member of APEGA to engage in the practices of professional engineering or professional geoscience in Alberta. The association has been around since the 1920s, shortly after the Engineering Profession Act was passed in April of 1920. It has evolved with the times, adding Geosciences to the Act in the 1970s after geology and geophysics became their own professions in the 1960s. Today, the association licenses companies and individuals who want to practice engineering and/or geoscience, and who meet their standards for ethical, professional, and technical competency, with the ultimate mission to advocate for the public welfare of Albertans. Their vision: Building a safe and resilient Alberta. Operation & Organization APEGA is governed by an elected council and an executive team. It has multiple boards and committees to tackle different areas and issues within its scope, which consist of members, public members, and professionals from various sectors of engineering and geoscience. What’s that acronym? APEGA Responsibilities As listed on their website, APEGA: • licenses professional geoscientists • sets practice standards • develops codes of conduct and ethics that govern members and permit holders • investigates and disciplines members and permit holders • investigates and takes action against individuals and organizations that practice their professions without license or permits • investigates and takes action against individuals and organizations that use their protected titles without licenses or permits. • provides services to members and permit holders to support them in their professional practices. APEGA sets long term goals to uphold standards and has implemented a strategic plan, which outlines its core values and priorities. You can read it here. Website Learn more about APEGA at their website. engineers and
Mould: the uninvited tenant Is all mould harmful? How do you tell the difference between harmful moulds and moulds that aren’t? What effects does mould have on your health and why? How do I get rid of mould? Dennis French, MBC’s Strategic Advisor for Environmental Services, gives us a deep dive into all things mould. W H A T IS M O U L D ? Moulds, from the Kingdom of Fungi, are microscopic organisms that can be found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. They are a natural part of the decay and decomposition cycle of all organic materials (materials that are or were once living) such as leaves, grass, wood, paper and foods. So what does mould look like to the average person? As it grows, mould will take on a wide variety of different colours depending on where it is in its life cycle, what material it is growing on, and what type of species of mould it is. During the early growth phases of many moulds, there is no visible colour, and it is not until later in the life cycle during the spore production phase, that the colours become present. Many resources talk about black mould as something to be very cautious about, but not all black mould is the bad kind. Stachybotrys is the one to be cautious about because it is toxinproducing. Mycotoxins The toxins generated by mould growth are known as Mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are produced by a mould colony to defend itself from other mould colonies overrunning its growth area. In Figure 1 above, you can note different circular areas along with the piece of drywall with different colours of growth. These are all individual colonies trying to protect the food (the drywall) on which they are living. The Mycotoxins are produced as an attempt to make the area unfavourable to other mould colonies. However, as humans, we are susceptible to irritation and the other effects of Figure 1: Varied colours of mould colonies on the same material, drywall Some of these moulds or fungi we know (like the kind we enjoy on our salads or steaks), but most moulds are regarded as allergens or asthma triggers in the right conditions. Some even produce toxins to protect themselves and their environments. these toxins. Toxingenerating mould is therefore something we should strive to avoid in the home. I D EA L EN V I RO NM E N T S F O R M O U L D T O G R O W I N The three key components for the development of mould are temperature, food source and moisture.
Temperature: Our homes offer a stable environment with the desired temperature that is very suitable for mould growth. Most moulds will develop between 4-45 degrees Celsius. Food Source: Since moulds break down organic matter, there are several organic materials in the home that offer the perfect environment for moulds to go to work. These materials include: • Paper materials including the front and back face of the drywall • Wood with limited processing – framing materials (2x4 or 2x6 etc.) • Wood processed – Plywood, OSB (oriented strand board) common wall and floor sheeting, Particle Board, MDF (mediumdensity fibreboard) common for furniture and cabinets • Soil in crawlspaces Moisture: Moisture is free water such as a leaks, condensation, or humidity. Condensation occurs when the air temperature is too great to hold the moisture. Within your home, this moisture is drawn toward the cold surfaces such as your windows or those cold corners that can exist in a home. Insulation can also create problematic moisture. A good way to test this out is by feeling the outside walls of your home. Then touch the inside walls (walls between rooms, etc.). Figure 2: Window frames and sills damaged from prolonged moisture exposure This is a small list of where issues can occur and serves as a reminder to look up, down and all around both the inside and outside of your home. If a leak does occur and a large amount of water is If the outside wall is cooler than the inside wall, this can produce a condensation point. Why? Typically, older homes have less exterior insulation than newer homes and this condensation can be found more often, usually in lower corners of bedrooms and in closets on outside walls, where air movement is less. The most obvious situations for mould growth we commonly think of are water leakages or back-ups. However, these are not the only causes of mould development. Some places where leaks commonly occur include (but are not limited to): • overland flooding (when your slopes toward your home) • waterline failures or leaks • sewer line back-ups introduced into your home, an important thing to consider is that mould starts to form within 24 – 48 hours after a water event. If the water from a sudden event can be dried before that 24-hour mark, the requirement for large amounts of material removal may be avoided. However, slow seepage leaks discovered later will require removal because of the extended period allowing for mould to begin growing. I N D I CA T I O N S O F M O U L D I N T HE H O M E landscape If you have discolouration on a surface, this may be an indication of a mould problem within your home. If you don’t have a visible indication but there is a musty or earthy odour, this may mean the mould is hidden, for example below a raised surface or within a wall cavity. It should be noted that just because you cannot see mould, does not mean it does not exist. Mould prefers organic materials. For example, mould on vinyl windows is usually growing on the • roof/wall/window leaks • grout and tile failures within shower areas
microscopic dirt on the window and not on the vinyl itself. In this scenario, a simple wipe down cleaning will usually solve the issue. Another example is mould growth on concrete; generally, the growth of the mould is actually on the organic material on the concrete and can be cleaned more simply. Since homes today are constructed out of a large variety of organic materials, they can become a breeding ground for mould, since removing their food source (organic material) is impossible. Because of this, it is best to control the moisture from entering the home, producing condensation, and accumulating or forming on all organic materials within the home. It is not just about water, but moisture. Mould develops and grows efficiently in highly humid areas, including bathrooms, kitchens, cool • landscape slope toward a building • groundwater leaking under foundation • soil crawlspaces • lack of weeping tile or failure of weeping tile • condensation from poor insulation • condensation from elevated humidity in a building • improper use or lack of exhaust ventilation – kitchen, bath fans • improper attic ventilation • initial construction conditions – high moisture sealed into building envelop • improper construction materials – moisture permeability, stucco HE A L T H E F F E C T S O F M O U LD damp basements, cold rooms, and prolonged humid areas (areas in which humidifiers or vaporizers are frequently used). What happens when exposed to toxins produced by mould? Everyone reacts differently to mould, so it’s not possible to identify a specific concentration resulting in negative health effects. Having said that, some of the symptoms common to mould exposure are: • flu-like symptoms • running nose • throat irritation • burning or irritated eyes • skin irritation and rash • aches and pains • irritation in the chest • allergic reactions • asthma trigger (for those who already have a diagnosis of asthma) Figure 3: Mould between layers of drywall – front surface of the wall looked normal however high moisture in the area lead to the opening of this area Sources of Moisture Moisture sources include (but are not limited to): • roof leak – shingles, membrane, flashing • domestic water line leak • sewage line leak • shower/tub surround leak • window leakage Another reason it can be tough to link these symptoms back to mould exposure is that they can be caused by a myriad of other sources, such as dust or indoor air quality exposure to selected chemicals. If flu season is highly active at the time, it will be difficult to determine whether these symptoms are early signs of the flu. If you or a member of your household is persistently feeling these flu-like symptoms, consider if there have been any leakage problems. It may be time to have a mould assessment done to determine if your symptoms are in fact caused by mould.
P R O FE S S I O N A L M O I ST U R E A SSE SSM E N T Identification of Mould Trained Environmental Consultants first determine humidity and moisture levels in affected areas. Areas exceeding 60% humidity for extended periods are ideal for mould growth. One way to detect areas of a differing temperature is through thermal image scanning, which allows consultants to detect areas that may be related to air leakage or moisture accumulation cooling, as shown in figure 4 below. mould. Air samples determine areas where further testing may be required. Spore Analysis The purpose of testing is to determine the varieties of mould present, and whether toxic mould is present. The everyday presence of spores in our lives is important to consider. Spores exist in our indoor and outdoor environments; we breathe and consume spores daily. What does this mean for the assessment of spores? This is where the specialized expertise of a professional is essential. Testing on its own is not sufficient to determine confirmation and the extent of a mould problem or the remediation requirements. Specialists are trained to analyze the lab results for determining what further action, if any, is required. They will also be able to determine if the issue can reasonably be handled by a homeowner or if it requires the use of remediation experts. M O U LD R E M E D I A T I O N Remediation is typically classified as the removal of visible mould from affected areas and Figure 4: Thermal image of a water-soaked ceiling Once areas of concern are identified, consultants utilize observational skills to search for blemishes or blisters in walls, ceilings, and flooring (however, the presence of these deficiencies is not proof of mould). Testing Methods Testing methods such as swab sampling, tape transfers, and bulk sampling are used to determine and analyze mould composition. Air sampling devices are also utilized to determine if the mould is releasing spores into the air (called sporulating). Air sampling is helpful in cases where, for example, people in an office space or building are complaining of irritation but there are no visible indicators of the disinfection of all other surfaces and the air in the affected structure. Successful remediation is determined by significant reductions in undesired varieties and the removal of specific toxic varieties identified during the sampling and assessment process. This is achieved with the successful removal of the damaged building materials and confirmation that the air has not been compromised. If the air has been compromised, then the air must also be cleaned. Remediation will only be fully effective if the source of the moisture is determined and resolved, otherwise, the building materials will be replaced, and the mould will regrow once those materials are
affected by moisture, becoming a food source once again. Remediation on the smallest level can involve a homeowner washing a wall or windowsill with a detergent and water solution to remove superficial mould. In this scenario, if the mould grows back, it may be time to remove the materials to further assess moisture sources. The use of biocide solutions, such as bleach or other specialty “mould killers” is not regarded as the best treatment but it can sometimes work. The problem is that a dead mould spore has the same allergenic or health effect as a live (viable) spore. Furthermore, exposure to biocides can pose a greater health risk and can be more harmful to your body than the spore exposure itself. Technically, an area of less than 10 SF can be remediated by a homeowner. However, this is complicated. Firstly, an area thought to be 2 to 5 SF can end up being 20 – 30 SF once the remediation begins. Secondly, it requires specialty PPE. Thirdly, for homes built before 1990, asbestos testing may be required before the removal of materials. Figure 6: High-risk containment to minimize spore release to other areas of the building W HA T MB C GR O U P C A N HE L P W I T H Our consultants are trained experts in mould and moisture and can provide guidance for your concerns, including the best course of action. We can provide: • investigation and assessment • sampling, including bulk and air sampling, tape lifts, moisture and humidity detection, and thermal imaging Figure 5: Worker wearing a protective suit, gloves, and respirator during high-risk mould remediation Trained professionals know the ins and outs of safe mould remediation. This includes the specialized PPE required to protect oneself and the expertise for site containment to reduce contamination to non• sample analysis • moisture mapping • scope of work reporting • pre-contamination and clearance testing • remediation monitoring. If you have any questions about mould, or inquiries about our services, get in touch! 1-800-547-0608 assignments@mbc-group.ca affected areas (even bags of waste are wiped down before leaving the contained area). The complexity of mould remediation is determined by the extent of the issue and expert evaluation. The use of a specialized consultant ensure the mould concern is addressed. is always recommended to being properly
A message from Ross Huartt, President and CEO On behalf of MBC’s executive leadership team "Don’t underestimate the value of having a good team! You don’t become successful on your own. You have to rely on really good people.” - Alicia Quarles As a President and CEO, there is almost nothing as good as seeing your company thrive. Except maybe seeing the people you have entrusted to represent your company thrive as well. With all the growth, changes in leadership, and with the post-pandemic re-opening, there is just a general air of a renewed drive in people. I see it on LinkedIn as well, and I must say it all inspires and motivates my own drive. It reinforces what I aim to do every day at MBC Group. When I am asked what I attribute our success to, there is no magic equation I can provide. It’s been a lot of hard work and endurance. It certainly helps to have great leaders in place and a team full of staff who are leaders in their own right. But at the end of the day, it’s been a consistent and united vision and direction that has propelled us. The pandemic provided a unique opportunity to take a step back and develop new strategies and new innovative models to diversify. Why I know MBC Group will be successful is because there is no end destination. By that I mean we don’t want to stop growing – we want to keep disrupting the market. It’s challenging work but very rewarding. With climate change in full effect, it’s been great to see companies start to come together to combine efforts to provide solutions for a better, more sustainable future. When experts really care about what they do, and don’t confine themselves to a box, the possibilities are endless – and we are seeing this effect firsthand. Change always involves multiple stakeholders at multiple levels taking action. Eco-Claim, our green initiative involving multiple companies, has been a huge success and we can’t wait to announce the results so far. Stay tuned! And if you haven’t yet, follow MBC Group on LinkedIn. As always, thank you all for your continued support on our journey! Experience you can trust, service you can count on.
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