INDOOR AIR QUALITY / MOLD

Questions regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) can arise following a water intrusion event (eg: visible signs of staining or mold cause concern) or from odors that are hard to identify within a building envelope.  In the event of IAQ questions, ETM's recognized expertise in this area can assist in identifying the potential source(s) of concern.  In order to arrive at the root of the problem, ETM can employ a variety of tools to evaluate a building envelope:

 Investigation: ETM works to identify and address the source of water intrusion prior to development and implementation of a remediation project.  Problems may involve the HVAC system, leaks around doors, windows or roofs, improper grading, or another source.  If the root cause of water intrusion is not identified and addressed prior to remediation, water may continue to encroach into areas, potentially leading to mold re-growth.

Biological Sampling: ETM conducts air monitoring where necessary for the presence of mold, fungi or other bacterial contamination.  Facilities may be currently occupied or may not have been occupied for many years.  Occupants may be currently experiencing symptoms associated with exposure, or may suspect that mold is present based upon the presence of an odor.  In addition to biological sampling, ETM quantifies any moisture and humidity issues within the building that contribute to an environment conducive to mold growth. 

Chemical Sampling: not all IAQ complaints involve mold; some are based upon unknown odors present in an area or a general consensus of poor IAQ or air movement.  The indoor environment is subject to multiple sources of odors: ammonia from copy machines, carbon dioxide from combustion products, formaldehdye from material off-gassing, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from a variety of sources and more.  ETM industrial hygienists will work with you to identify potential contaminants and sources contributing to poor indoor air quality.  

Project Design and Management: following an investigation for water intrusion/mold or other IAQ concerns within a building, ETM will compile a report of findings and recommendations.  Upon consultation with the client, ETM then prepares a remediation plan to remove biological growth and prevent future re-growth, or prepare a plan to mitigate other sources of poor indoor air quality.

Litigation Support: ETM provides litigation support involving mold growth and subsequent adverse health effects to building occupants, as well as water damage to building components and personal belongings.  In addition to being a Certified Industrial Hygienist, Andrew Schauder is also certified as an expert witness in both federal court and multiple state courts, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Louisiana.