ADA - IAQ Analysis

Biological air pollutants are found to some degree in every home, school and workplace. A number of factors allow biological agents to grow and be released into the air. Biological agents in the indoor air are known to cause three types of human disease; infections, where pathogens invade human tissue; hypersensitivity diseases, where specific activation of the immune system causes disease; and toxicoses, where biologically produced chemical toxins cause direct toxic effects.

If occupants of a building are experiencing headaches, sore eyes, fatigue, rash, nausea, or irritation of the upper respiratory tract which seem to aggravated in the workplace and diminish when they leave the workplace, then you should have an indoor air quality investigation performed.

If you are considering sampling, first understand that microbial contamination may not be visible to the naked eye; however, may be severely elevated (remember, these microorganisms are microscopic). The objective is to identify potential contamination at areas that have the greatest potential for growth. This analysis should not only assist in establishing the extent of contamination and remediation efforts, but also serve as a tool to assess the effectiveness of any remediation activities.

The presence of mold, water damage or musty odors should be addressed immediately. In all instances, the source(s) of water must be stopped and the extent of water damage determined; failure to address the underlying cause of microbial contamination will result in growth reoccurring.

Each investigation is tailored to meet the specific needs of our customers. A turnaround time of seven to fourteen days for microbial samples is standard to provide accurate sampling results; for an additional fee, accelerated turnaround times are available.

Air Duct Aseptics utilizes the proper tools to properly assess the indoor environment and the HVAC system. Microbial sampling should be viewed as a tool, much like a physician uses to diagnose problems. As the HVAC system is a know amplifier for microbial agents, strong emphasis is placed on the HVAC system during an investigation.

Air Duct Aseptics has performed investigations in industrial manufacturing facilities with over 100,000 square feet; hospitals with over 500 beds; hotels with over 1,000 rooms and residences from mansions to studio size apartments.

There are currently no governmental regulations in place for acceptable microbial levels; however, guidelines and protocols do exist from independent organizations within the United States

Indoor ambient air conditions are typically obtained in the indoor environment by direct reading instrumentation or datalogging equipment. If relative humidity levels are outside the acceptable ranges of operative temperature and humidity levels specified by ASHRAE Standard 55-1992, microbial activity can self support.

Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of human existence. When we exhale, we exhale carbon dioxide. When build ups occur, the ventilation rate is not adequate for the occupancy load. Carbon dioxide readings are obtained by the use of colormetric indicator tubes or direct reading instrumentation.

The hiring of a microbial consultant is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, request information concerning qualifications, experience and board certification by the
American Indoor Air Quality Council.