Where you can see visible growth or smell musty odors, then there is a good chance that you have a mold problem. Mold needs moisture and organic materials to grow indoors, and once established on surfaces it can release airborne spores that travel through ventilation systems. Mold can also affect one’s health, producing toxins, pathogens, allergens and irritants which can result in strong reactions such as lesions, infections, headaches, rhinitis, skin rash, and asthma attacks.

 

Mold testing involves collecting bulk and air samples as well as performing an inspection for visible mold and the presence of elevated moisture. Samples are typically collected from suspect areas, adjacent areas, adjoining floors and the outdoor air. Comparing sample results from various locations (especially between indoor and outdoor) forms the basis for determining if there is an airborne mold issue. 

 

In general, indoor mold levels are considered normal if they are similar in species and are 25-30% of outdoor concentrations (or lower); however, it should be noted that there are currently no safe levels established by regulatory agencies for airborne mold.  

 

Inspection and testing services are the first steps in attempting to manage indoor microbial problems. Once these problems have been identified, plans to address them on an individual or collective basis may be drawn up, including quantifications of material, cost estimates for remediation options and plans to eliminate moisture sources.

 

Mold sampling is performed in accordance with EPA standards. All ARS inspectors are trained microbial investigators with current accreditation. All laboratories utilized by ARS are AIHA (American Industrial Hygiene Association) Environmental Microbiology Accredited laboratories for mold analysis.

 

Call us today to discuss your mold project!