The evaluation of indoor air quality requires a combination of several assessment tools. The inspector considers the effects of:
1. Chemical emission sources
2. Moisture and humidity control issues
3. Biological contaminants (mold, bacteria)
4. Fresh air ventilation
5. Thermal comfort
A thorough inspection by an experienced professional is essential to the assessment. A key aspect of our air quality consulting service is the use of information to establish focus for the survey. Without information to the contrary, all five elements noted above must be considered suspect and are evaluated. Our Standard Operating Procedures for air quality investigations delineate the need for building systems inspection, identification of chemical and biological emission sources, evaluation of thermal and air ventilation conditions, and the development of an exposure hypothesis.
Air testing is conducted as required to demonstrate and confirm the hypothesis. Air contaminant testing may include mold testing and bacterial agents, chemical contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOC), formaldehyde and pesticides, and various particulate parameters such as asbestos, fiberglass and silica. The use of established sampling procedures allows for a definitive and documented conclusion.
