Basic IAQ Services

On-site investigations will often begin by doing a visual inspection of the affected area(s).  If permitted, the investigator will question those individuals expressing complaints to further identify their symptoms and the frequency of on-set.  Since building ventilation (or lack thereof) is often a leading cause of indoor air complaints, the items to be reviewed focus on....

• Observation of potential sources of airborne chemical contamination (e.g., engines, chemical processes, neighboring facilities, garbage and debris)
• Inspection of the layout and distribution of  air supplies to the spaces.
• Inspection of the condition of the HVAC system and accessible components, namely filters, condensate drip pans, cooling & heating coils, air intakes, air supply and return grills, and the type of ductwork.
• Observation for evidence of water infiltration, excessive moisture or microbial growth.
• Contaminant sources near HVAC air intakes and returns.

• Carbon Dioxide (as an indicator of fresh air supply)
• Temperature
• Relative Humidity
• Carbon Monoxide
• Total & Respirable Particulates
• Total Volatile Organics (w/ PID)

Further Air Testing

If potential sources of chemical or microbial contamination are suspected, EHSI may recommend that further testing be done to identify these substances or eliminate possibilities.  EHSI utilizes the latest direct-reading instruments and government-approved laboratory test methods when performing measurements.  Examples of routine tests for chemical contaminants include:
 

• Total Volatile Organics using Summa canisters and EPA methods
• Building Material Moisture
• Building Diagnosis using Infrared Thermography
• Formaldehyde
• Asbestos or Fiberglass
• Lead
• Pesticides

Mold, Bacteria and Bioaerosol Testing

EHSI offers comprehensive services in the investigation and remediation of mold and other microbial growth.  The testing we offer includes:

• Mold
  • air - viable spores, total spores, PCR
  • bulk material
  • surface wipes and tape lift samples
• Bacteria
• Endotoxins
• Legionnella in water
• Allergens - e.g., cat, dog, cockroach, dust mites, mice
• Full Particle Identification - looks for fibers, animal & insect parts, minerals and unusual materials when standard testing is not conclusive

All lab samples are forwarded immediately to highly-qualified and accredited third party microbiological laboratories.

What You Can Expect to Receive

Upon receipt of lab results, a comprehensive report will be issued outlining the results of testing.  The report will include a description of the observations made, sampling methodologies used, means of interpreting the data, a description of results, and recommendations for follow-up action (if any).  Chemical and basic air quality results will most often be compared to prevailing occupational exposure limits and other industry consensus standard, such as those from the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning  Engineers (ASHRAE), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).

Professional Follow-up Services

Periodic follow-up testing is offered to confirm consistently good air quality in your facility, and proactively satisfy employee concerns in advance of problems.  If needed, EHSI's professional staff can discuss findings with your safety committee, company physician or school board.  Certified Environmental Trainers and public health specialists can train your staff on diagnosing and resolving IAQ complaints before they become employee relations problems.  Certified Industrial Hygienists are also experienced at providing expert testimony services in support of IAQ matters in the event of civil litigation.

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