Indoor environmental quality testing is necessary for most buildings, educational facilities and manufacturing units. The area is inspected to keep the indoor environment healthy and free from harmful contaminants.
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Contaminants include:
- Mold and mildew
- Bacteria and other pathogens
- Smoke
- Foul odors
- Dirt and grime
- Fungus
- Chemical exposure
- Insects and rodents
A workplace or a residence must have clean air for people working and living in that environment. This is mandatory in retail spaces or a manufacturing facility. It applies to office buildings of all sizes. Hospitals and medical facilities must be spotless.
Contaminant sources that Affect Indoor Environmental Quality Testing
Foul odors can come from kitchens, smoke, chemicals, business machines, oils, gasses, carpets and drapes. The odors may come from another building in the vicinity. Finding the source of harmful chemical and organic odors is a major part of indoor air quality testing.
Building materials with lead or asbestos are harmful if particles become airborne even though they are odorless. Remediation is often recommended in many older buildings for the safety of employees or residents. Remediation specialists wear hazmat protection to remove old lead paint and asbestos flooring from buildings.
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Indoor temperatures and relative humidity are major factors that must be measured when indoor environmental quality is evaluated. High humidity leads to the growth of pathogens, including mold, mildew and fungus.
Dampness from leaking pipes or rainwater is one of the first items researched in environmental testing. Humidity levels are measured in walls and flooring to find potential problems. A broken pipe in a basement or wall can lead to mold and mildew growth. Fungi will also grow in a moist, dark environment. Mold and mildew will grow on most surfaces while a fungus feeds on wood. This can lead to wood rot in walls and attics.
HVAC systems and Indoor Environmental Quality Testing
Heating and air conditioning ventilation ducts are closely inspected for mold and other pathogens that cause allergic reactions in people working or living in the building. The HVAC system must work efficiently to circulate clean air and control humidity. Insects and small rodents, including mice, can nest in ductwork if they have access to broken piping.
The HVAC filters are always inspected. Filters absorb the dust and pollen in the air that is sucked in with the air conditioner or heater. Filters that are full of particulates will not function efficiently. A new, clean filter is often necessary, based on the location of the buildings and the type of filters used in the HVAC system.
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Filters should be changed frequently, especially during the spring and summer. Pollen can find its way into a building through people and merchandise. Open windows and doors allow airborne pollen and dust to enter any facility. The filters should be checked before employees start sneezing and coughing.
Indoor Environmental Quality Testing and Green Cleaning
All buildings from homes to schools and offices must be cleaned routinely. Non-toxic environmentally preferable products (EPP) that do not leave harmful odors or residue on surfaces are recommended. An indoor environmental quality study will also focus on the cleaning products used throughout a building.
Schools and child care facilities are encouraged to use EEP cleaning materials to protect the environment. White vinegar and borax are two safe cleaners that are used in place of more toxic substances such as bleach.
An indoor environmental quality inspection will improve your residence or business. This results in a more pleasant and safer place to live and work.
For over 20 years, we have been helping people who are working on improving indoor air quality by providing high quality workmanship with unparalleled customer service to both residential and commercial customers. Our staff of professionals are dedicated to serving your specific needs from the moment you contact us until the completion of your remediation project. Visit our website or contact us today for more information or to schedule your mold remediation consultation.
