Environmental Health and Safety

Our company and our collaborative have conducted microbial investigations at hundreds of industrial, institutional, health care, office buildings, and single- and multi-family residences over the years. Our preliminary evaluations concentrate on visual inspections and assessments to determine the source of moisture ingress, impacted materials, the presence of resultant visible fungal growth, as well as providing a wide variety of proactive IEQ services.  We generally begin a building diagnostic evaluation by reviewing the ventilation system design and operating procedures (also see Building MEP under Services tab). In addition, we review the system’s preventative maintenance program and inspect the condition of system components, including air filters, condensate drain pans, cooling coils and humidifiers. We also obtain direct-reading measurements of temperature and relative humidity, and indoor air contaminants such as respirable particulate and carbon monoxide. Diagnostic evaluation includes relative pressurization checks and air movement checks (also see Field Testing and Building Monitoring under our Services tab).

Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system deficiencies are many times associated with IEQ problems. These deficiencies can occur in the design, installation, maintenance and operation of the HVAC systems. During an HVAC inspection, we evaluate the condition and maintenance of ventilation system components, operation of the air intake system, effectiveness of the air delivery system in occupied spaces, and the effect of pollutants entrained in the outdoor air.

When an IEQ evaluation reveals active or potential indoor air pollutant sources, we can conduct subsequent air sampling and analysis to identify and quantify the indoor air pollutant.  Our team of skilled professionals can evaluate additional stressors contributing to IEQ complaints, such as noise, ergonomics and lighting levels.

When appropriate, we carefully design sampling regimens targeted to address a specific hypothesis. Sampling is conducted following the principles of nationally recognized guidance documents including those published by the ACGIH, AIHA, and WHO. We can sample for bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in air and in source (bulk) samples. We can test culturable and total propagules, secondary metabolites, and cell wall components produced by many microorganisms. We work with our clients to educate them about the usefulness and limitations of microbial sampling. We then, if needed, design sampling protocols that meets the clients’ needs.