Mold
Mold growth can result from water and wastewater releases into building materials and subsurfaces due to leaks, overflows, and blocked drains or pipes. Mold may also develop in other water systems, such as refrigeration or HVAC systems and water features. Mold exposure may pose health hazards to building occupants, including severe respiratory issues and systemic toxicity, and can absorb into building materials and create cleanup liability.
Asbestos
Older buildings may contain asbestos. Asbestos-containing material (ACM) may be present in duct insulation, piping, furnaces, boilers, tanks, and fireproofing insulation. ACM may also be present in ceilings, walls, flooring tile, and mastic. Tort claims may result from accidental disturbance or alleged exposure during repair work, renovation, construction, or interior remodeling.
Sterilization Chemicals
Disinfection chemicals such as glutaraldehyde and chlorine-based disinfectants are used to sterilize dental tools and surfaces. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality can pose environmental risks in buildings. “Sick Building Syndrome” refers to a situation where building inhabitants suffer from health problems that occur and are aggravated while in a building. Sick Building Syndrome is often attributed to poor design, maintenance, or a faulty ventilation system. Asbestos, lead, mold, and bacteria can contribute to an unhealthy indoor environment.
Waste Management
Improper disposal of dental waste, including amalgam fillings, sharp instruments, and other hazardous materials, can contribute to environmental pollution. If not managed properly, it can lead to contamination of water supplies or landfills. In addition, dental offices generate significant amounts of plastic waste, such as gloves, disposable instruments, and packaging. Over time, this can contribute to plastic pollution.
Mercury Vapor
Amalgam fillings, which contain mercury, can release vapor during placement, removal, or polishing. High levels of mercury exposure can be harmful to both dental professionals and patients.
Ionizing Radiation
Although not a form of traditional pollution, dental offices commonly use X-rays, which can emit ionizing radiation. While modern equipment reduces exposure, improper use or safety practices can lead to excessive radiation for both patients and dental staff.
Legionella
Legionella is a bacterium that causes a form of potentially fatal pneumonia. Legionella can thrive in water-containing systems like air conditioning, heating and cooling systems, and water features. It can accumulate in warm, stagnant, pooled, or infrequently- drained water. Poorly maintained systems and inadequate corrosion control or sanitization can result in Legionella growth and airborne dispersal. Exposure to third parties can result in Legionnaires’ disease, Pontiac Fever, or severe complications of existing respiratory diseases.
Environmental Liability Insurance Can Provide Coverage For
On-site cleanup of new and pre-existing pollution conditions
Off-site cleanup of new and pre-existing pollution conditions
Third-party claims for bodily injury and property damage
Third-party claims for cleanup
Both sudden and gradual pollution conditions
Aboveground and underground storage tanks
Business interruption resulting from pollution conditions
First and third-party transportation pollution liability
Mold, bacteria, viruses, legionella, and more
Loading and unloading
Defense of third-party claims
Civil fines and penalties
Illicit abandonment
Non-owned disposal sites
Claims Scenarios & Examples
