AIHA Releases Corrosive Drywall White Paper

Nov. 3, 2010
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) recently released a white paper in an effort to identify the problems posed by corrosive drywall as well as the role of science in understanding the resulting safety and health issues.

Corrosive drywall (CDW) was installed in tens of thousands of individual homes, as well as larger buildings, as early as 2001. Most of these structures are located in, but not limited to, Florida, Louisiana and Virginia. While some builders have remediated CDW by replacing all drywall in homes, many homeowners and builders are waiting for funding and verification of more efficient repair methods.

Medical studies evaluating the health of persons residing in CDW homes are limited. The physicians considered study findings preliminary and recommended further research. No studies currently are underway to evaluate this significant public concern.

To address the concerns regarding the use and handling of CDW, AIHA is urging immediate scientific research to address the following areas of uncertainty:

  • Etiologic mechanisms for the release of sulfide gases;
  • Emission rates and duration;
  • Characterization of specific chemicals in emissions and their potential contribution to corrosion, odor and irritation;
  • How emissions change over time and under varying environmental conditions;
  • Occupant health risks;
  • Operational implications of electrical and mechanical components with and without blackening; and
  • Worker exposure during CDW demolition and cleanup.

The white paper was developed by the Corrosive Drywall Project Team comprising members of the Construction and Indoor Environmental Quality Committees and is additionally sponsored by AIHA’s Biosafety and Environmental Microbiology Committee. It can be downloaded as a PDF at http://www.aiha.org/news-pubs/govtaffairs/Documents/W-Corrosive%20Drywall-10-10-10.pdf.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

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