At Taylor Research Group (TRG), we often use the tagline: “Why search when we research?” This is to emphasize how we transcend basic document retrieval and surface level online searches. In previous blog posts, we have highlighted how our knowledge of local, state, and federal archival repositories has helped our clients crack their product liability cases, go beyond the phase I environmental site assessment, and reconstruct the ownership history of a contaminated site. A recent research experience by our team underscores yet another value of historical research: unearthing unknown leads that can help win a client’s legal case.
Just the Beginning: EPA’s MCL Announcement for PFAS Indicates that Additional Regulatory Action is Imminent
We are once again eager to share our takeaways from the Environmental Law Institute’s (ELI) monthly PFAS webinar. This month’s speakers provided an in-depth discussion on the EPA’s recent announcement that established Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for six PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, and HFPO-DA, as well as mixtures containing two or more of PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS. This very informative session went beyond the immediate effects of this designation and, instead, largely focused on what is still in store for PFAS regulatory action. The theme that resonated most with us is that this decision is just the beginning.
Be Prepared: EPA’s PFOA and PFOS CERCLA Designation Is Imminent
Taylor Research Group (TRG) recently attended the Environmental Law Institute’s (ELI) monthly PFAS webinar briefing, and we are eager to share our key takeaways from a very timely and informative panel session. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will designate Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS) as CERCLA hazardous substances any day now, so the panelists focused on the policy implications of this forthcoming designation. The theme that resonated most for TRG is that industrial firms (and their in-house or outside legal counsel) should prepare now to limit their potential liability costs.
Going Beyond the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) reports provide historical overviews of contaminated sites and are often key resources in environmental and toxic tort litigation. However, despite the requirement that they meet set standards, in reality, ESAs often have certain limitations when it comes to historical analysis. Historical research, a required component of ESAs, is often extremely basic and sometimes conducted by personnel without extensive training in historical research methodology. In our experience, ESAs typically check all of the required boxes for historical research but seldom go deeper, consequently leaving out critical historical information. This has proven especially true for properties active prior to the 1970s, or with complicated owner/operator histories. From minor errors in dates and names to misidentification or omission of potentially responsive parties (PRPs), there are possible risks in relying on the incomplete picture typically provided by an ESA.
The Legacy of Lead Based Paint
On January 13, 1971, Congress passed the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Act, which prohibited the use of lead-based paints (“LBPs”) in residences constructed or renovated by the federal government or using federal assistance. Fifty years later, we are still seeing the health impact of LBPs and other leaded products. But why was lead used in the first place? In this blog, TRG explores the history and health effects of leaded products and shares how companies can use our services to address lead contamination.
TRG Announces Historic Property Research Services
Every house has a story. Unraveling it requires tracking down its paper trail, which can be time-consuming and daunting if one doesn’t know where to look. In-depth knowledge of archival resources can help maximize the historical details for individual homeowners as well as for business owners and real estate brokers. TRG has assisted property owners in compiling complex house histories throughout the Washington, DC area. Our familiarity with local, state, and federal agencies, not to mention local historical societies and libraries, has allowed us to uncover records on behalf of property owners that are typically strewn about various archival collections and online databases.
TRG's 2023 Holiday Gift Guide
It’s the most wonderful time of the year…gift giving season! TRG’s annual gift guide is here to help you shop for your history-loving friends and family. If you need more inspiration, check out our 2022 gift guide.
Meet the Team Tuesday: Ama Ansah
Today’s post in our Meet the Team series features Research Associate Ama Ansah, who holds a BA in History and MA in Public History. Her background extends from conducting historical and environmental research on behalf of government agencies to managing repository visits and digitizing documents. Along with her enthusiasm and expertise in history that she brings to TRG, Ama also provides support on TRG’s communication front, by writing for our blog and newsletters. To learn more about Ama, read her Q&A below.
Four Ways Archives Have Changed Since the COVID-19 Pandemic
Every industry has undergone major changes since the COVID-19 pandemic and archives and related repositories are no exception. As historical researchers, we had a unique perspective as we watched these institutions adjust in real-time. Since 2020, we at TRG have discussed internally the changes we’ve seen at local and national repositories. After all, what happens in the archival world impacts us directly and therefore impacts our clients. From abrupt lockdown to cautious reopening to new normal, here are some of the most significant changes we have seen: