Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) has been cited by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as the number one environmental concern facing our country today. They estimate that the average citizen spends, at a minimum, 70% of their time in an indoor environment. The concern develops when the indoor air becomes contaminated.
Mold/Microbial problems usually stem from water infiltration/high humidity. Mold growths usually begin to develop with 24-48 hours if the water source is causing moisture to accumulate on a food source for mold. The most common food source for microbial growths would be any cellulose based material.
If the water saturation is continuous then hydrophilic fungi can develop. This group of fungi contain some of the most toxic species of fungi such as Stachybotrys Chartum.
Mesophilic and Xerophilic fungi can develop in areas where there is high humidity (60% or greater) for an extended period of time. These fungi are the more common types of fungi such as Cladosporium, Aspergillus and Penicillium. These fungi tend to give off less Mycotoxins then the hydrophilic fungi.
The most common causes of water infiltration that can cause mold/microbial growths are roof leaks, high humidity in attic and basements, foundation leaks into basements, broken or leaking water lines, humidifiers on HVAC systems, ground water infiltration and broken or improperly installed sump pumps.
Environmental Testing Consultants, LLC (ETC) has the experience and expertise to conduct microbial evaluations throughout the Tri-State Area. ETC has worked with numerous School Districts, Government and Private clients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. ETC offers a staff of trained and competent professionals available on a 24 hour a day basis to meet the demands of emergency and routine assignments. ETC offers readily available equipment including infrared thermal scanners, moisture meters, fiber optic boroscopes, thermal hygrometer (for temperature and relative humidity readings), pumps for both viable sampling procedures (Anderson Impactor) and for non-viable sampling (high flows). In addition, ETC also maintains a supply of all sampling media (swabs, tape lifts, Air-o-cells, etc) necessary to complete any sampling requirement that may arise. All samples are analyzed by a third party independent laboratory certified by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
During the inspection, Temperature and Relative Himidity readings may be taken in the areasunder evaluation by utilizing a thermohygrometer to assist comfort conditions. Temperature and Relative Humidity readings may also be taken on the exterior of the building for comparative study.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 55, “Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy” recommends a temperature between 68̊F and 75.5̊F with a relative humidity between 30% and 60% for interior comfort. It also recommends a relative humidity below 50% in order to deter microbial growth.
A moisture meter is used during the investigation to help pin point areas of hidden elevated areas of moisture in walls, ceilings, etc. that may have an impact on microbial growths and that may not be visible during the inspection.
A Infrared Thermal Scanner may be utilized during the investigation to detect areas of moisture water infiltration in walls, ceilings, slabs, etc. that may have an impact on microbial growths and that may not be visible during the inspection.
In short, ETC offers the client complete mold/microbial consulting service from temperature and humidity evaluations to studies of legionella in water and mist, and complex assessment of bacteria and fungal contamination.