Meet the BSK Staff: David Tsubota Regional Manager

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Meet the BSK Staff: David Tsubota, a dedicated member of the BSK team for 33 years. Born and raised in Walnut Creek, California, David began his academic journey at Ygnacio Valley High School and Diablo Valley College, ultimately earning his chemistry degree from Fresno State University in 1991. Throughout his tenure at BSK, David has contributed his expertise to various departments and now works in Technical Services, where he collaborates with analysts to resolve lab issues. Known for his problem-solving skills and teamwork, David continues to be a vital asset to the BSK family.

Meet the BSK StaffInterviewer: Hi David! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

David: I was born and raised in Walnut Creek, California where I attended Ygnacio Valley High School then Diablo Valley College. I received my chemistry degree from Fresno State University in 1991.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

David: I’ve worked for BSK for 33 years. During this time, I’ve been fortunate to have worked in Organics Semivolatiles & Volatiles lab, Wet Chem, Metals department, and Microbiology. Today I work in Technical Services where I work with the analyst to figure out issues that arise in the lab.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

David: Each day brings unique challenges and I enjoy solving these problems with the staff.

Interviewer: Can you tell us your favorite on the job story?

David: Preparing for the move to our new facility was very difficult and we went through some very challenging times. When the move happened, I was amazed to see how all the lab personnel came together and worked as a team. I was proud to see the staff work cohesively and execute the moving plans and problem solve issues along the way. Adversity brought us together and we are a stronger team because we persevered together.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

David: Fishing is an escape for me and recently I’ve been introduced to bass fishing from a float tube. The best bass fishing is when it’s very hot so now I look forward to the heat of Fresno. What I do for “excitement” is to give my oldest daughter driving lessons. I can now appreciate what my dad had to endure teaching all eight of his kids how to drive. No wonder why he had high blood pressure!

Meet the Staff

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UCMR5 Testing

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UCMR5 Testing

 

What is UCMR5?

The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) represents a significant step by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in safeguarding our drinking water. This initiative involves monitoring a set of contaminants that, while not currently regulated, could pose potential health risks. The data collected through UCMR5 helps to maintain the integrity of our water supply and ensures that we’re proactive in addressing any emerging threats to public health.

Why UCMR5 Matters

UCMR5 is more than just a regulatory measure; it’s a crucial tool in the ongoing battle to protect our most vital resource—water. By identifying and understanding the presence of emerging contaminants, we can take informed steps to mitigate their impact and preserve the health of our communities.

Key Insights into UCMR5

Publication Date: The EPA released UCMR5 on December 27, 2021.

Contaminants: The rule mandates sampling for 30 chemical contaminants, with a focus on PFAS and lithium, from 2023 to 2025.

Health Impact: The collected data will inform future regulations to protect public health.

Environmental Justice: The rule assesses the impact of contaminants on vulnerable communities.

Current Findings: As of January 11, 2024, the EPA has published data on 29 PFAS and lithium, representing about 24% of the expected results by 2026.

Research and Development: Efforts are ongoing to refine measurement techniques for these contaminants. For a deeper dive into UCMR5, refer to the EPA’s comprehensive UCMR 5 Program Overview Fact Sheet and the Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water for insights into the results and associated health risks.

Addition of Lithium

Lithium, a naturally occurring metal in the Earth’s crust, is often found at higher concentrations in groundwater sources in arid regions of the Western U.S. This versatile element is used in various commercial applications, including pharmaceuticals, industrial chemical catalysts, and as a sanitizing agent. Additionally, lithium is increasingly used in batteries. While it may be present in foods like cereal grains, leafy vegetables, and root crops, the significance of these dietary sources is not yet clear, and there is no recommended dietary allowance for lithium in the U.S.

In the context of the EPA’s Fifth Contaminant Candidate List (CCL 5), which identifies contaminants that may require future regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), lithium was selected for inclusion in the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5 (UCMR 5). This decision was based on its expected or known occurrence in drinking water and the need for more health effects information. The monitoring data from UCMR 5 will help determine if lithium in drinking water poses health risks and inform future regulatory decisions.

It’s important to note that the EPA currently does not have a health advisory specifically for lithium in drinking water. However, a health reference level (HRL) has been derived for screening purposes based on available toxicity data. This level is not a final determination of the safe level of lithium in drinking water but is used to guide further research and assessment.

For more information on lithium in drinking water, including the EPA’s provisional peer-reviewed toxicity value (PPRTV) assessment and treatment information, refer to the Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water and the UCMR 5 Data Summary provided by the EPA. The science on lithium’s health effects and safe levels in drinking water is still evolving, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and research in this area.

UCMR5 Monitoring Requirements

UCMR 5 mandates monitoring by specific public water systems (PWSs) for 29 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lithium in drinking water between 2023 and 2025.

Here’s how it applies to different community water systems:

  • More than 10,000 people: Must monitor during a single 12-month timeframe within the three years of monitoring.
  • Between 3,300 and 10,000 people: Subject to availability of appropriations and sufficient laboratory capacity.
  • Fewer than 3,300 people: A representative sample is required for monitoring.

Choosing BSK Associates for UCMR5 Testing

BSK Associates stands at the forefront of UCMR5 testing. Our state-of-the-art services are tailored to deliver precise and dependable results, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and the safety of your water supply.

BSK Associates was one of the first labs to become certified for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, (PFAS). PFAS testing in the state of California. As a leader in PFAS testing our technical experts are here to assist you with your PFAS projects. We follow strict Quality Assurance / Quality Control guidelines. We are accredited by the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, (NELAP) and the California Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, (CA ELAP) for all PFAS compounds in drinking water by EPA’s 533 and 537.1 methodologies.

Our laboratory has performed PFAS analyses for more than 10 years now. During that time, our laboratory has analyzed thousands of EPA method 537 samples while participating in EPA’s UCMR3 monitoring program as well as drinking water by EPA method 537.1.

BSK’s Commitment to Customer Service

At BSK Associates, we’re not just about testing; we’re about people. Our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of the UCMR5 testing process, providing expert guidance and personalized care. Providing you with accurate and defensible results is our top priority, and we’re committed to excellence in service.

Stay Updated

UCMR 5 Data Finder:  UCMR 5 Data Finder is an invaluable resource that allows users to:

  • Search: Access and summarize analytical results from UCMR 5.
  • Filter: Refine results using various criteria, such as Public Water System (PWS), state, contaminant, source water type, and detection levels.
  • Health Risk Identification: Highlight results that exceed health-based reference concentrations.

The EPA will regularly update the UCMR 5 Data Finder quarterly until 2026. The next data release, addressing results received as of April 2024, is anticipated by early May 2024. Keep an eye on this tool for the latest information on unregulated contaminants in your area.

The data represented in the UCMR 5 Data Finder is up to date as of January 11, 2024, and will continue to be updated until the completion of data reporting in 2026.

Resources:

EPA News Release: 

UCMR5 Rules and Regulations:

The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) Data Summary: January 2024 (epa.gov)

 

EPA Will Take New Action Against PFAS

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The administration has launched a plan to combat PFAS pollution. This plan includes new regulatory actions and commitments from federal agencies to address PFAS contamination in water, soil, and air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched a PFAS Roadmap comprehensive strategy that outlines the strategy for the next three years to controlling PFAS at its sources, hold polluters accountable, ensure science-based decision making, and address the impacts on disadvantaged communities. The administration aims to limit PFAS discharges into the environment, protect public health, and ensure clean water for communities across the United States. Click here for more information on regulation changes.

 

 

Lead and Copper Rule Explained

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Lead and Copper Rule Explained

The Lead and Copper Rule is an EPA regulation established as a tool to protect public drinking water. The rule sets a maximum contaminant level goal of zero. Additionally, it requires public water systems to employ a treatment technique that reduces corrosion of plumbing materials that contain lead and copper. Lastly, this rule regulates the amount of lead and copper allowed in public drinking water at the tap.

What Makes the Rule so Important?

Lead and copper in our drinking water can lead to significant health problems. These health problems range from a simple stomachache to significant brain damage. Furthermore, prevention is tricky as copper and lead contamination in our drinking water is caused by corrosion in our piping. Thus, this contaminant can easily become a major concern.

Why Should You Use BSK For Your Lead and Copper Testing?

BSK Associates has served as a trusted source for copper and lead testing since 1991, when introduced by the EPA. Since the copper and lead rule infancy BSK has offered our clients competitive pricing, convenient locations all along the west coast, and help with field testing if needed. BSK is your one stop shop for copper and lead testing. Give us a call today and let us make sure you are at compliant lead and copper levels!

Lead and Copper Rule Explained

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BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!

EPAs new plan to combat PFAS

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EPAs new plan to combat PFAS

EPAs new plan to combat PFAS

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced new plans to combat per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The EPA released four new drinking water health advisories to aid in America’s plan to furnish clean drinking water. Additionally, the EPA announced fresh fiscal opportunities to combat PFAS pollution through a $1 billion grant.

“Today’s actions highlight EPA’s commitment to use the best available science to tackle PFAS pollution, protect public health, and provide critical information quickly and transparently,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox.

These updated health advisories are based on the newest science regarding PFOAS and PFOS. Further, the new advisories will replace those for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) issued in 2016. Moreover, EPA is issuing final health advisories for perfluorobutane sulfonic acid and its potassium salt (PFBS) and for hexafluoropropylene oxide (HFPO) dimer acid and its ammonium salt (“GenX” chemicals). This will be the first time the EPA has issued these health advisories.

$1 billion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grant

In further action, the EPA is encouraging states and communities to apply for a $1 billion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grant.  This grant is designed to be used to address PFAS and other contaminants especially in disadvantaged communities.

Follow the links for more information on the EPAs new plan to combat PFAS or the PFAS Roadmap 2021-2024.

 

EPAs new plan to combat PFAS

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Looking for a Great Places to Work? Because, you’ve found it! We are proud to be Great Place to Work certified. Moreover, don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

 

Construction of New BSK Lab

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Construction of New BSK Lab

BSK is excited to give our clients and business partners the ability to watch the construction of our new BSK lab come together. The new Analytical Lab in Fresno is coming along great! It is on the corner of Laverne and Armstrong, with close access to two major freeways, making for easier access for all of our customers.

 

Concept Behind the Construction of New BSK Lab.

In the summer BSK Associates began the process of finding and securing a new location for our Fresno Analytical Lab. The concept was to obtain a safe and convenient location for our clients and employees. Additionally, we wanted to accommodate future growth in a single, state of the art facility, designed specifically for environmental lab operations.

Our new analytical lab will feature an open floorplan. The floorplan has been designed for ideal flow of our processes, communication, and collaboration. It will facilitate and encourage cross training by providing training and collaboration spaces. The 25,600 square feet of open space allows for up to 30% more analytical testing capacity. Furthermore, the new lab will allow for more growth and flexibility to address future analytical needs. With these key features in place, BSK will be able to continue to invest in and serve our community and clients at the highest of standards.

“Having the opportunity to design our space has been very rewarding. Every lab department was consulted in the design of their new space in the new building so the final floor plan is a compilation of great ideas on the part of BSK staff. The process went through several iterations until we all felt we had the perfect lab.”-Belinda Vega, BSK Associates COO of Laboratories.

 

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Looking for a Great Places to Work? Because, you’ve found it! We are proud to be Great Place to Work certified. Moreover, don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BSK approved for UCMR5

BSK approved for UCMR5

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BSK approved for UCMR5

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We are proud to announce that we have received our approval from the EPA to participate in UCMR5 which is scheduled to start in 2023! The approval was based on our successful results on the performance testing samples.

The EPA uses the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) to look for contaminants that are suspected to be present in drinking water.

We are proud to be helping to keep our drinking water safe!  

 

 

For more information about UCMR5 and information provided by the EPA please click HERE. If you or someone you know is in need of UCMR5 testing or other water testing needs do not hesitate to call BSK today!

 

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Looking for a Great Places to Work? Because, you’ve found it! We are proud to be Great Place to Work certified. Moreover, don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

 

Renea Rangell to Become BSK Associates Next CEO

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Renea Rangell to Become BSK Associates Next CEO

Renea Rangell to Become BSK Associates Next CEO

The BSK Associates’ Board of Directors is pleased to announce today that   Renea Rangell will be the firm’s next CEO effective January 1, 2022.   Ms. Rangell, a seasoned and successful member of BSK’s leadership team for over 8 years, will succeed CEO Rich Johnson who is stepping down from the position after his many years of valued executive leadership.

“After 16 years at the helm of BSK, it is time that I turn executive leadership of this incredible company over to Renea and her energetic and very capable team,” says Johnson. “Her vision, her inclusive style, and her drive make her the perfect choice to drive BSK to even greater success.”

Board Chairman Kurt Fraese shares that “The selection of Renea represents the most significant milestone in a well-executed and ongoing leadership transition process. BSK is poised to take its next transformative leap forward with Renea’s ability to leverage the firm’s exceptional service and commitment to growth.”

“I am excited for the opportunity to lead this truly unique company with an amazing team who is poised for growth and new challenges” says Rangell.  “I believe building upon our commitment to quality service and employee development will provide an exceptional client experience and foster a passion for innovative solutions to positively contribute to the industries and communities we serve.  I’m looking forward to engaging our clients through industry organizations, news and educational communications as well as community and philanthropic event participation.  Amidst these difficult times, it’s more important than ever that we stay connected and find the opportunities to be successful.”

Chairman Fraese adds “We thank Rich for his tremendous dedication and leadership in securing BSK’s position as a premiere employer, consulting engineering and analytical testing firm.  We look forward to his continued engagement in new capacities for the firm as we welcome Renea and the next generation of BSK leadership talent.”

Follow Us and Like Us

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Looking for a Great Places to Work? Because, you’ve found it! We are proud to be Great Place to Work certified. Moreover, Don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

BSK APPROVED FOR UCMR5

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BSK approved for UCMR5

 

We are proud to announce that we have received our approval from the EPA to participate in UCMR5 which is scheduled to start in 2023! The approval was based on our successful results on the performance testing samples, for Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) by EPA 537.1 and EPA 533, as well as Lithium by EPA 200.7.

The EPA uses the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) to look for contaminants that are suspected to be present in drinking water.

We are proud to be helping to keep our drinking water safe!  

For more information about UCMR5 and information provided by the EPA please click HERE. If you or someone you know is in need of UCMR5 testing or other water testing needs do not hesitate to call BSK today for a price quote, at 559-262-7036 or fill click on the blue ribbon above to fill out a contact form.

 

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Looking for a Great Places to Work? Because, you’ve found it! We are proud to be Great Place to Work certified. Moreover, don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

BSK Associates Laboratory

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BSK Associates’ Laboratory was recently tapped by Battelle Memorial Institute (Battelle) to perform analytical testing for the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow, California. Services include testing and reporting of numerous analytical constituents in drinking water and groundwater matrices to support the installation’s compliance programs. The contract is in place through October 2022. We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to working with Battelle on this project.