2015/2016 were Ellis’ most successful back-to-back years since the company was formed 22 years ago. Some of our more notable accomplishments:

• Ellis assisted a large Glendale landowner in assessing possible contaminants at an adjacent property prior to purchase. The project required Ellis to assemble, coordinate and review the efforts of geologists, toxicologists, contractors and developers. In this case, potential cleanup costs were significant, and the buyer made the difficult choice to pass on the purchase.
• Ellis provided AHERA 3-year, asbestos re-inspections for Palos Verdes, Inglewood and other public school districts. After identifying the asbestos materials (ACMs), Ellis prioritized identified ACMs for removal based on their condition, damage, accessibility and “friability” (ability to become airborne).
• Ellis assisted a local/regional airport in identifying toxic substances (primarily lead and zinc) released following 3 severe hangar fires. Procured bids for and managed the subsequent hazardous materials cleanup.
• Ellis provided lead and asbestos surveys, lead surveys, and testing for lead in potable and drinking water for more than a dozen regional charter schools.
• Provided countless indoor air quality studies, testing for airborne carbon dioxide, ultra-fine particles (UFPs), carbon monoxide, volatile organics, asbestos dust, lead dust, mold, gram-positive cocci, enterococcus and a host of other contaminants.
• Ellis assisted in responding to more than 100 water intrusion events for various clients. Most of the water intrusions were rainwater, but we also responded to gray water, sewage and water supply line leaks. Ellis is the best first call here; we identify wet wallboard (and other damaged materials) and then manage their timely removal before mold has a chance to grow. For sewage-related spills, clearance enterococcus swabs are collected to insure a complete cleanup.
• Ellis assisted UCLA Housing, Loyola Marymount University, Mt. St. Mary’s, Santa Monica College, and other regional colleges and universities in procuring bids and managing the removal of moisture-damaged, asbestos-containing and/or lead-containing materials classrooms and housing facilities.

And so on. Our employees are, without exception, degreed chemists or industrial hygienists. Clients seem to appreciate and rely on the confidence, experience and professionalism those employees bring to each project. We’re thankful for each opportunity to do so.

All the best for 2017.

Duane Behrens, President.