Mold Testing and Environmental IAQ

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Name: Mold Testing and Environmental IAQ
Company: Mold Testing Service
E-mail: Contact Mold Testing and Environmental IAQ (Mold Testing Service)
Website: http://www.Mold-Testing-Services.com
Office Phone: (305) 571-2280
Cell Phone: (305) 571-2292
Alt. Phone: (866) 654-6653
Fax: (305) 571-2285
Address: Miami Beach, FL, 3139
Description: Mold Inspectors, Mold Testing Company, Certified Mold Inspection, Mold Detection Services, Mold Consulting Services, Indoor Air Qualtity, Environmental Services, South Florida Mold Experts, I A Q

About Us:

After a complete and thorough inspection and indoor air quality testing, we provide our clients with a detailed final report.

The Final Report contains the following:

1. Observations made on the day/time of the inspection: · Certified Mold Inspector Visual Observations

· Humidity Readings

· Temperature Readings

· Moisture Readings

· Laser Particle Counter Readings

· Certified MoldDogs^TM Alerts (If necessary)

· Boroscope Observations (if necessary)

· Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera Scan & Pictures

2. Detailed test results

· Identify the type of mold/spore present

· Count the number of spores in the air

· Describe the mold and any possible health effects

· Assess whether an unusual mold condition exists

3. Digital photos of visible mold with detailed desriptions

4. Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera Pictures

Kitchen Ceiling Leak from AC unit above

Mold Detection Services, Inc. of South Florida, will test or sample for mold in homes, apartments, workplaces, commercial properties, boats, and anywhere else mold grows. Indoor Air Quality, Bulk, Swab, Bio Tape and Environmental Sample results are generated with in 24 - 48 hours.

A certified Indoor Environmentalist, utilizing the best equipment available in the industry (Infrared Cameras, Laser Particle Counters, Etc.), will carry out every inspection. We use only digital calibrated, custom made indoor air quality testing pumps to insure you receive only accurate results. Consequently, our clients will receive the highest quality service.

Our inspection services include a thorough inspection (utilizing Infared Thermal Imaging, Laser Particle Counts, Visual Observations) and follow-up testing (air samples, bulk, swabs and glass slides), accompanied by an extensive report. In addition, we will be working with a nationally accredited laboratory, dedicated to the production of accurate data, via high-quality equipment, and staffed with professionals specialized in this field.

We will not be involved in the remediation of any mold problems, since this would be a CONFLICT OF INTEREST. We do offer Mold Consulting Services to help you through the remediation process and to protect your interests. We offer Post Remediation Inspection and Testing to confirm the job has been done correctly.

Mold Detection Services will protect your interest.

Call the South Florida Mold Company You Can Trust!

305-571-2280 or 866-654-MOLD(6653)

Laser Particle Counter

What Is Mold?

Commonly called mildew, molds (sometimes referred to as "black mold") are a subset of fungi that produce fluffy or powdery growth on surfaces. Molds grow on any porous and semi-porous surface, which include but are not limited to: concrete, wallpaper, metal, cloth, carpet, leather, wood, sheetrock, and insulation (including growth on human foods) when moist conditions exist.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification.

Mold spores flow through indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

Molds usually grow in damp places, behind walls, under floors, above ceiling tiles, and behind shower walls. Water is the key -- without it, molds cannot grow, much less spread. When water is left to sit for even 24 hours, mold infestation begins. If water continues to sit and areas become completely saturated, the ideal environment is created for toxic molds to grow, such as Stachybotrys.

What Causes Mold?

Molds may grow at high levels indoors in a home or building, if the right environmental conditions exist. Factors that influence mold growth include: moisture sources, improperly ventilated bathrooms, high humidity levels, broken pipes and washing machine hoses, floods, leaking roofs, leaking exterior siding products, and leaking windows and doors.

Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungus that has become notorious as a mycotoxin producer that can cause animal and human mycotoxicosis. Indeed, over the past 15 years in North America, evidence has accumulated implicating this fungus as a serious problem in homes and buildings and one of the causes of the "sick building syndrome."

Be aware of any noxious odors. When a mold colony is growing, it can give off distinctive odors that are the by-product of its metabolism.

Air Sampling - Indoor Air Quality Testing

Indoor Air Samples are usually performed in order to test for nonviable (dead) mold spores. Testing for nonviable mold is done by microscopic examination of the sample to identify fungal and non-fungal particles that may be allergenic to individuals. Other particles such as: fiberglass, insect fragments, rusts, dirts, and more are also detected during non-viable testing. This is the quickest way to test for airborne mold spores and other harmful particles.

Testing for viable (living) mold is done by placing the sample onto agar culture medium that supports the growth of the organism(s) in question and allows identification of the species and level of contamination. This takes more time and is more costly.

When colonization occurs one mold has overtaken your entire home. Colonization is the formation of compact population groups of the same type of mold species.

· Bulk Sampling: Bulk samples include, but are not limited to, chunks of carpet, insulation, and wallboards. Bulk samples are collected from visibly moldy surfaces by scraping or cutting materials with a clean tool and placing the sample into a petri dish for testing.

· Surface Sampling: Surface samples are collected by wiping a measured area with a sterile swab or by lifting a sample with bio tape. The surface sample is cultured and then placed into a petri dish. Surface samples are collected by wiping a measured area with a sterile swab or by lifting a sample with bio tape. The surface sample is cultured and then placed into a petri dish. The petri dish is inspected by a lab technician under a microscope so that the fungi can be removed and identified by species.

BACTERIAL TESTING SERVICES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE Same Day Test Results Available- Standard is 24 - 48 hours

Certified Mold Testing, Inspection, Detection and Consulting

Clearance Testing & Post Remediation Inspections

Boca Raton Mold Testing & Consulting

Indoor Air Quality and Environmental Tests

Mold Detection Services, Inc.

Florida Mold Testing Companies

Miami Dade Mold Testing Services

We are certified mold remediation consultants that will monitor the remediation process from start to finish. We start with a full inspection to pinpoint all of the problem areas, monitor the remediation process and then perform post remediation clearance inspection and testing.

· Certified Visual Inspections • Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera Scans • Protimeter Readings for Moisture

· ARTI Laser Particle Readings • Fiber Optic Boroscope Exams • Hygrometer Readings- Temp & Humidity

· Certified Mold Dog Alerts • Digital Photographs Detailing Problems

(Pictured Below) Infrared Camera, Laser Hygrometer, Boroscope (Fiber Optics) and Protimeter

We offer Post Remediation Testing and Clearance Samples. Before you pay your remediation company and release them from the job, make sure you have us perform a proper post remediation inspection and testing. We have NO ethical conflicts of Interest. Let us protect you! We will make sure your Indoor Air Quality and Environment is healthy.

TESTING METHODS

Bulk/Surface Sampling. A certified inspector, trained in appropriate sampling methodology, performs bulk or surface sampling. Bulk/Surface sampling should be performed if the building inhabitants are suffering from health problems, which are or may be associated with fungal exposure. Bulk/Surface sampling should also be performed to identify the presence or absence of mold if a visual inspection is equivocal (e.g. discoloration, and staining). Bulk samples are collected from visibly moldy surfaces by scraping or cutting materials with a clean tool into a clean plastic bag. Surface samples are collected by wiping a measured area with a sterile swab or by stripping the suspect surface with "Bio Tape lift".

Carpet cassettes are designed for the collection of fibers and particulate from carpets and other dusty areas. Carpet testing will give you historical data off previous mold contamination Cassettes use a 1" piece of tubing with a 45 degree bevel fitted to the inlet port, and come preloaded with .45µ & 5.0µ MCE filter and support pad. Cassettes use a 3-piece styrene housing and helps prevent overloading.

Bio-Tape provides a simple, standardized method to sample for common bioaerosols such as mold and fungi. It consists of a flexible plastic microscope slide with a pre-defined 1" x 1" adhesive area. Each slide is provided with a unique serial number for traceability. Air Monitoring. A certified inspector, trained in appropriate sampling methodology, performs air monitoring. Air samples can be collected in various ways.

Anderson Style Bioaerosol Sampler imparts viable spores on petri dishes placed in the apparatus at a rate of 28.3 cubic liters of air per minute. Results are provided in colony forming units per cubic meter of air.

Air-O-Cell Cassettes are used for the rapid collection and analysis of a wide range of airborne aerosols including mold spores, pollen, insect parts, fibers, fiberglass, and skin fragments. This sampling device is useful in providing rapid analysis of airborne contaminants. Test is performed at 15 liters per minute.

The Zefon 5 Cell is capable of both personal and conventional air sampling. The Z 5 is proven to have an exceptionally uniform collection trace and is virtually 100% accurate for the entire fungal spore range. (d50 is less than 1 micron!) The Z 5 truly represents the next generation. Test is performed at 5 liters per minute. This cassette collects a wide range of airborne aerosols including mold spores, pollen, insect fragments, fibers, fiber glass and skin fragments.

A Laser Particle Counter is used to assess indoor air quality and cleanliness of rooms. The handheld device monitors environments to test for airborne particles. This device will help track down particle source problems. Its intelligent design and overall utility is invaluable in mold detection and making workplace environments safer and healthier.

The purpose of such air monitoring is to assess the extent of contamination throughout the building. Sampling should be conducted while ventilation systems are operating. Air monitoring should be performed if the presence of mold is suspected in a particular area of the structure (e.g. a microbial volatile odor is detected) but cannot be identified through a visual inspection. The purpose of such air monitoring is to determine the location and/or extent of mold contamination. Air monitoring should also be performed if the building inhabitants are suffering from health problems, which are or may be associated with fungal exposure. If air monitoring should also be performed, for comparative purposes, outdoor air samples should be collected concurrently at an air intake, if possible, and at a location representative of outdoor air. The outdoor control air test is very helpful in evaluating whether there is an internally generated mold problem. Such a problem may exist if indoor mold tests report mold levels that are either (a) higher than the outdoor control air test or (b) present indoors but absent from the outdoor control air test.

CALL: (305) 571-2280    or     (866) 654-MOLD(6653)

Mold Testing Services by Mold Detection Services of South Florida - Insured & Certified

Health and Mold

Molds can cause a wide variety of adverse responses in people depending on the type and quantity present. However, these are not the only factors when considering the health effects of mold exposure. Since human responses can be highly individualistic, the sensitivity of the person exposed is also an important consideration. For example, infants and young children, the immune-compromised, and the elderly are at an increased risk for experiencing adverse health effects related to mold exposure.

There are many methods of exposure to molds including dermal contact, ingestion, and inhalation. The health risks associated with mold exposure include, but are not limited to:
· Infections
· Inflammation associated with volatile organic compounds
· Allergic reaction

Infections

Infections can be caused by molds found in indoor air. At extreme levels, hypersensitive pneumonitis may develop. Individuals with compromised immune systems or aggravated health conditions can be especially susceptible to invasive mold infections. Mold blamed for breathing problems

Inflammation Associated with VOC's (volatile organic compounds)

Toxin-induced inflammation is caused by repeated or high levels of exposure to airborne Mycotoxins. These Mycotoxins irritate the mucous membranes associated with the eyes, nose, and throat. If spores are inhaled and reach the lung alveoli, they may induce inflammatory reactions and cause toxic pneumonitis. The musty odor associated with airborne molds may cause headaches, dizziness, dermatitis, diarrhea, and impaired immune function.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions may be the most common health problem of mold exposure. Typical symptoms reported (alone or in combination) include:

· Respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing

· Nasal and sinus congestion

· Eyes-burning, watery, reddened, blurry vision, light sensitivity

· Dry, hacking cough

· Sore throat

· Nose and throat irritation

· Shortness of breath

· Skin irritation

· Central nervous system problems

· Constant headaches

· Memory problems

· Mood changes

· Aches and pains

· Possible fever

Mold Facts

Indoor mold spores indicate mold growth, which indicates mycotoxin production. Currently, we can measure and identify spores, but it is difficult to measure mycotoxins. Stachybotrys produces at least 170 known mycotoxins.

"About 38 percent of homes have mold and fungus growth due to elevated moisture." (The American Society of Home Inspectors)

Exposure to mold occurs when people inhale mold spores. A 1994 Harvard University School of Public Health study of 10,000 homes in the United States and Canada found half had "conditions of water damage and mold associated with a 50 to 100% increase in respiratory symptoms."

According to a recent U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) report, 20 percent of schools have indoor air quality problems, with many of the schools found in poorer school districts.

A 1999 Mayo Clinic Study attributed nearly all the chronic sinus infections afflicting 37 million Americans to molds.

A new medical study attributes nearly 100% of chronic sinus infections to mold. A 300% increase in the asthma rate over the past 20 years has been linked to molds," as reported in USA WEEKEND, Dec. 3-5, 1999.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that the humidity levels in homes be kept below 50% to avoid the potential growth of mold.

305.571.2292 305.571.2280 866.654.6653

Helpful Mold Links and Information

Testimonials

MOLD DETECTION SERVICES, INC., IS FULLY INSURED AND CERTIFIED

305.571.2280 or 866.654.6653

Certifications and Professional Associations

The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) AIHA promotes, protects, and enhances industrial hygienists and other occupational health, safety and environmental professionals in their efforts to improve the health and well being of workers, the community, and the environment.

Florida Canine Academy, Inc. As Florida Canine Academy certified inspectors, we have successfully completed over 1000 hours of canine and handler training in mold detection. Learn more about our Certified MoldDogs^TM.

Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) The Indoor Air Quality Association is a nonprofit, multi-disciplined organization, dedicated to promoting the exchange of indoor environmental information, through education and research, for the safety and well being of the general public. Certified Indoor Environmental Consultants and Certified Mold Inspectors.

Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO) As the indoor air quality (IAQ) industry continues to evolve, businesses that are responsible for managing IAQ issues are adapting to meet the demands of the industry. The Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO) was established in 2002 to assist these businesses.

National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP) As NAMP certified inspectors, we adhere to the highest standards for conduct and ethics in dealing with you, the client. These standards are our guideline for conducting a mold inspection and outline the various components and procedures of a professional mold inspection. These standards address the purpose, scope and limitations of the inspection process.

Professional Laboratories, Inc. (PRO-LAB^TM) Staffed with over 70 professionals, including Certified Indoor Air Quality Professionals, Ph.D. Mycologists, Board Certified Physicians, Registered Clinical Laboratory Technicians, PRO-LAB has the necessary experience to assist in any environmental investigation.

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) promotes a high standard of professionalism, business ethics and inspection procedures. NACHI members subscribe to the following Code of Ethics in the course of their business

Certified Mold Consulting, Mold Testing and Environmental Services

Mold Detection Services, Inc. of South Florida, will test or sample for mold in homes, apartments, workplaces, commercial properties, boats, and anywhere else mold grows. Indoor Air Quality, Bulk, Swab, Bio Tape and Environmental Sample results are generated with in 24 - 48 hours.

A certified Indoor Environmentalist, utilizing the best equipment available in the industry (Infrared Cameras, Laser Particle Counters, Etc.), will carry out every inspection. We use only digital calibrated, custom made indoor air quality testing pumps to insure you receive only accurate results. Consequently, our clients will receive the highest quality service.

Our inspection services include a thorough inspection (utilizing Infared Thermal Imaging, Laser Particle Counts, Visual Observations) and follow-up testing (air samples, bulk, swabs and glass slides), accompanied by an extensive report. In addition, we will be working with a nationally accredited laboratory, dedicated to the production of accurate data, via high-quality equipment, and staffed with professionals specialized in this field.

We will not be involved in the remediation of any mold problems, since this would be a CONFLICT OF INTEREST. We do offer Mold Consulting Services to help you through the remediation process and to protect your interests. We offer Post Remediation Inspection and Testing to confirm the job has been done correctly.

Mold Detection Services will protect your interest.

Call the South Florida Mold Company You Can Trust!

305-571-2280 or 866-654-MOLD(6653)

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