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CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL RISK MANAGEMENT
Client-Centered Solutions
LIMITED MOLD/INDOOR AIR QUALITY RETESTING
BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
45 WHITEHOUSE DRIVE SW
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30314
Prepared for:
Mr. Victor Gaither
Energy & Environmental Services Manager
Atlanta Public Schools
1631 LaFrance Street
Atlanta, GA 30307
Prepared by:
Corporate Environmental Risk Management, L.L.C.
2296 Henderson Mill Road, Suite 200
Atlanta, Georgia 30345
CERM Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Prepared By:
Approved By:
Steven Donaldson
Project Manager
Jimmy Thomas, III
Environmental Project Manager
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
October 30, 2013
Via ELECTRONIC MAIL/ ([email protected])
Mr. Victor Gaither
Energy & Environmental Services Manager
Atlanta Public Schools
1631 LaFrance Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30307
RE:
Limited Mold/Indoor Air Quality Retesting
Booker T. Washington High School
45 Whitehouse Drive SW
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30314
CERM PROJECT #: 11-1232-051
Dear Mr. Gaither:
Corporate Environmental Risk Management, L.L.C. (CERM) was retained by Atlanta
Public Schools (APS) to conduct an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) study at Booker T.
Washington High School, located at 45 Whitehouse Drive, in Atlanta, Georgia. The
primary objective of the study was to assist APS with addressing potential IAQ issues
that may impede the facility’s day-to-day operations and/or expose occupants to
excessive levels of air borne pollutants. The study included sampling for airborne mold
spores, along with collecting real-time readings of volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
as well as, other air quality parameters (i.e. carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and
relative humidity) to determine whether they were present in concentrations that may
contribute to health concerns and/or physical symptoms in persons occupying the
specified areas.
This report presents the background information along with methodology and findings of
the IAQ testing conducted by CERM in the study area. CERM performed sampling for
analysis of airborne mold spores. Real-time reading instruments were used to measure
VOCs, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels in the study area. At the request of
the client, study area was determined to be Classroom B132. The study area was
inspected for visual signs of mold growth, moisture intrusion, noticeable odors and other
obvious signs of potential air quality issues. No visible signs of mold growth or staining
were observed in Classroom B132. Also, no noticeable odors were detected in
Classroom B132. The HVAC system was in operation during performance of the testing.
Approximately 50% of the ceiling tiles contained in the drop ceiling grid system were not
in place, which in turn left the plenum space above Classroom B132 exposed.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Introduction
IAQ generally refers to the quality of air in non-industrial workplaces, such as office
buildings, multifamily facilities, governmental institutions, libraries, malls, and schools.
IAQ can be a problem when any of the following occur:
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Inadequate fresh air ventilation for the building;
Painting or other remodeling is performed nearby or in the building;
Furnace malfunction;
Recent installation of flooring (i.e. carpet, tile, etc.) and furniture;
Outdoor pollutants enter the building through improper location of fresh air
intakes; and
Water leaks or condensation result in mold or other microorganisms forming
either inside the building or in the heating and ventilation system.
IAQ contaminants include chemicals, dusts, molds or fungi, bacteria, gases, and vapors.
As part of this study, air samples for biological contaminants were obtained from
specified locations. At the recommendation of the client, the study area was determined
to be Classroom B132.
Mr. Steven Donaldson, CERM Project Manager, performed the IAQ study to assess the
current conditions of the facility on October 28, 2013. The IAQ testing was conducted in
the study area described above. At the time of the inspection, weather conditions were
approximately 65 - 70 degrees Fahrenheit, overcast and cool with cloudy skies.
Mold
Molds (fungi) are part of the natural environment. Outdoor molds play a vital part in
nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees.
Indoors, however, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny
spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor
air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet.
There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water, moisture, or
food. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and
digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can
grow on wood, (such as sheetrock, ceiling tiles, or other cellulose material) paper,
carpet, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold
growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or is
not addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the
indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture,
temperature, and food sources (i.e., organic matter) through implementation of
appropriate environmental control procedures.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Health Effects
Scientific research on the relationship between mold exposures and health effects is
ongoing. This section provides a brief overview of the potential health effects related to
mold exposure.
Mold has been known to contribute to several adverse health effects. Mold can release
toxins into the air that have serious health effects on those exposed. These toxins can
damage a variety of organs and tissues in the body, including the liver, the central
nervous system, the digestive tract, and the immune system. Millions of people have
allergies, and mold is a common irritant. Mold is also a known trigger of asthma.
Symptoms of exposure to mold can be as simple as a stuffy nose or watery eyes.
Also, according to the Centers for Disease Control, some types of mold are known
carcinogens.
Common symptoms of exposure to mold include the following:
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Headache, fatigue, shortness of breath.
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Sinus congestion, coughing and sneezing.
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Eye, nose, throat and skin irritation.
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Dizziness and nausea.
Not everyone has the same sensitivity to mold so it is possible for one person to
experience discomfort while others living or working in the environment to have no
symptoms whatsoever. Individuals at the greatest risk include:
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Allergy and asthma sufferers.
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People with respiratory impairment.
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People with compromised immune systems.
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Contact lens wearers.
Regulations and Guidelines
Currently, there are no federal standards or recommended standards, (e.g., OSHA,
NIOSH, EPA) for airborne concentrations of mold or mold spores. However, the
Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to comply with hazard-specific
safety and health standards as issued and enforced by either the Federal Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or an OSHA-approved State Plan. In
addition, Section 5(a)(1), the General Duty Clause, requires employers to provide their
employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or
serious physical harm. Employers can be cited for violating the General Duty Clause if
there is such a recognized hazard and they do not take reasonable steps to prevent or
abate the hazard. However, failure to implement these guidelines is not, in itself, a
violation of the General Duty Clause. Citations can only be based on standards,
regulations, and the General Duty Clause.
Methodology and Analytical Data
All samples were collected in accordance with industry-accepted practices and shipped,
under chain of custody, to an accredited microbiological laboratory for analysis.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Airborne Mold Spore Sampling
Buck BioAire air sampling pumps, adapted with “Air-O-Cell” spore trap cassettes, were
placed in strategically selected locations within each study area to collect samples of
airborne mold spores. The flow rate of the air sampling pumps was calibrated onsite
using a calibration rotometer.
The results from analysis of airborne mold spores collected by this method are
presented as the positively identified fungal (mold) species as follows:
Table 1- Airborne Mold Spore Results
Sample ID
19908474
19908307
19908542
Sample Location
Classroom B132
Retest
Outside
Building
Classroom B132
Previous Test
(10-28-2013)
(10-28-2013)
(10-15-2013)
Result
Result
Result
(10-28-2013)
Fungal Species
Ascomycetes
Aspergillus/Penicillium
Basidiomycetes
Chaetomium
Cladosporium
Myxomycete/Smut
Total Fungi
Raw Data
Counts
3
/m
Raw
Data
Counts
3
/m
Raw
Data
Counts
3
/m
0
8
0
0
15
0
23
0
216
0
0
405
0
621
3
5
71
0
7
3
89
81
135
1,917
0
189
81
2,403
0
187
0
5
0
0
192
0
5,049
0
135
0
0
5,184
Airborne mold spore retest sampling detected two types (genera) of mold within the
study area (Classroom B132) that included: Aspergillus/Penicillium and Cladosporium.
The concentrations of these molds obtained within the study area were compared to that
of the outdoor ambient levels outside of the building. Airborne mold spore sampling
detected five types (genera) of mold on the outside of Booker T. Washington High
School that included: Ascomycetes, Aspergillus/Penicillium, Basidiomycetes,
Cladosporium and Myxomycete/Smut. The total spore counts of Aspergillus/Penicillium
and Cladosporium detected inside of Classroom B132 were slightly higher than the total
spore counts detected on the outside of the building. Retest sampling in Classroom
B132 revealed significant decreases in the concentrations of Aspergillus/Penicillium and
Chaetomium; however a low concentration of Cladosporium appeared. Cladosporium is
one of the most common mold species found in indoor and outdoor environments. It is
found growing outside in soil, plant litter and decaying plants as well as on leaves, and
also found inside growing on textiles, wood, moist window sills and tile grout. It grows
well on cellulose surfaces; ergo it can be found growing on ceiling tiles, sheetrock,
subfloor, oriented strand board (OSB) and plywood. All of the concentrations of mold
spores detected within the study area are considered low.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
The spore counts of the two samples detected within the study area are not considered
to be at concentrations that would pose a health concern. Conditions of the areas
sampled and/or the condition of Classroom B132 are subject to change from the time
that this assessment was performed. Please note that hypersensitive (i.e. allergic,
immunocompromised, etc) individuals may experience physical symptoms even at low
mold spore counts. See the laboratory analysis results in Appendix A for a detailed
listing of all the fungal species that were examined.
Volatile Organic Compounds
VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of
chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.
Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher)
than outdoors. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products numbering in the
thousands. Examples include paints and lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning supplies,
pesticides, building materials and furnishings, office equipment such as copiers and
printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper, graphics and craft materials
including glues and adhesives, permanent markers, and photographic solutions.
Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in household products. Paints,
varnishes, and wax all contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting,
cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. Fuels are made up of organic chemicals.
All of these products can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to
some degree, when they are stored.
Health Effects
Excessive exposure to VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss
of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Key signs
or symptoms associated with exposure to VOCs include conjunctival irritation, nose and
throat discomfort, headache, allergic skin reaction, dyspnea, declines in serum
cholinesterase levels, nausea, emesis, epistaxis, fatigue, dizziness.
The ability of organic chemicals to cause health effects varies greatly from those that are
highly toxic, to those with no known health effect. As with other pollutants, the extent
and nature of the health effect will depend on many factors including level of exposure
and length of time exposed. Eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness,
visual disorders, and memory impairment are among the immediate symptoms that
some people have experienced soon after exposure to some organics.
At present, not much is known about what health effects occur from the levels of
organics usually found in homes or buildings. Many organic compounds are known to
cause cancer in animals; some are suspected of causing, or are known to cause, cancer
in humans.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Regulations and Guidelines
Currently no regulatory standards have been set for VOCs in non industrial settings.
Methodology and Analytical Data
A portable Minirae Photo-Ionization Detector (PID) was utilized to obtain real-time
readings of VOC’s at selected locations within each study area. Each reading was
documented and is included in the following table:
Table 2 - VOC Readings
Location
Classroom B132
VOC reading (ppm)
0.0
ppm = parts per million
No VOC readings were detected within Classroom B132.
Carbon Monoxide/ Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, practically odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid. It
results from incomplete oxidation of carbon in combustion. Because it is impossible to
see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware of its presence.
The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age,
overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.
The sources of CO include unvented kerosene and gas space heaters; leaking chimneys
and furnaces; back-drafting from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and
fireplaces; gas stoves; generators and other gasoline powered equipment; automobile
exhaust from attached garages; and tobacco smoke. Incomplete oxidation during
combustion in gas ranges and unvented gas or kerosene heaters may cause high
concentrations of CO in indoor air.
Worn or poorly adjusted and maintained combustion devices (e.g., boilers, furnaces) can
be significant sources, or if the flue is improperly sized, blocked, disconnected, or is
leaking. Auto, truck, or bus exhaust from attached garages, nearby roads, or parking
areas can also be a source.
Carbon Dioxide
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless gas which, when inhaled at high concentrations (a
dangerous activity because of the associated asphyxiation risk), produces a sour taste in
the mouth and a stinging sensation in the nose and throat. These effects result from the
gas dissolving in the mucous membranes and saliva, forming a weak solution of
carbonic acid. Carbon dioxide levels in the blood can increase, causing shortness of
breath and sedation, resulting in carbon dioxide toxicity.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Health Effects
Carbon Monoxide
At low concentrations, CO poisoning can cause fatigue in healthy people and
chest pain in people with heart disease. At higher concentrations, CO causes
impaired vision and coordination, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and nausea.
CO can cause flu-like symptoms that clear up after leaving the source area.
Acute effects are due to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood, which
inhibits oxygen intake.
At moderate concentrations, angina, impaired vision, and reduced brain function
may result. At higher concentrations, CO exposure can be fatal.
Carbon Dioxide
At lower levels of exposure, CO2 causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu.
These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue.
Vomiting, rapid breathing, and flushing can also occur with carbon dioxide poisoning.
Severe cases of CO2 toxicity progress to confusion, convulsions, and loss of
consciousness.
Regulations and Guidelines
No standards for CO have been agreed upon for indoor air. The U.S. National Ambient
Air Quality Standards for CO in outdoor air are 9 ppm (40,000 micrograms per meter
cubed) for 8 hours, and 35 ppm for 1 hour.
(CO2) content in fresh air varies and is between 0.03% (300 ppm) to 0.06% (600 ppm),
depending on location and in exhaled air approximately 4.5%. When inhaled in high
concentrations (greater than 5% by volume), it is immediately dangerous to the life and
health of plants, humans and other animals. The current threshold limit value (TLV) or
maximum level that is considered safe for healthy adults for an 8-hour work day is 0.5%
(5000 ppm). The maximum safe level for infants, children, the elderly and individuals
with cardio-pulmonary health issues would be significantly less.
Methodology and Analytical Data
A Qtrak Indoor Air Quality Monitor was utilized to obtain direct readings of CO, CO 2,
temperature and relative humidity at specified locations. These readings were
documented and are included in the following table:
Table 3 - CO, CO2, Temperature, and Relative Humidity Results
Location
Classroom B132
CO
(ppm)
CO2
(ppm)
Temp. (°F)
0.0
549
72.1
Relative
Humidity
(%)
51.5
ppm = parts per million
The temperature reading in the sampling area was 72.1 °F. The relative humidity level
was 51.5%. Mold spores have a greater tendency to proliferate at humidity levels of
70% and higher.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that relative humidity be
maintained at levels lower than 60%, with optimum levels being 40 to 50%. The CO 2
level was 549 parts per million (ppm), which is below the thresh-hold limit value (TLV) of
5000 ppm for an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). No CO level was detected in the
sampling area tested (Classroom B132).
Conclusion/ Recommendation
Mold
Based on observations by CERM personnel during the site visit, it is concluded that, at
the time of the sampling investigation, mold spore contamination is not at significant
levels inside of Classroom B132. Approximately 50% of the ceiling tiles contained in the
drop ceiling grid system were not in place, which in turn left the plenum space above
Classroom B132 exposed. It is recommended that the missing ceilings tiles be inserted
back into the drop ceiling grid.
Significant levels of spore contamination can cause health related complications for
people who are hypersensitive to particular types of mold spores. Mold spores tend to
proliferate in environments where moisture and a nutrition source are present. Nutrition
sources are organic materials or materials containing organic matter such as drywall and
ceiling tiles. It is possible that rain events will cause moisture intrusion around leaky
windows or any other areas where the integrity of the “building envelope” is
compromised. It is worth noting that moisture intrusion can result from other sources
such as plumbing and HVAC leaks. Whatever the source, drying of the affected areas
should be the first course of action. The moisture intrusion (leaks) should be addressed
as expediently as possible. An immediate response (within 24 to 48 hours) including
thorough clean up, drying, and/or removal of water damaged materials will prevent or
limit mold growth.
Classroom B132 had a humidity level of 51.5%. It is recommended that relative humidity
be maintained at levels below 60% to inhibit mold growth.
Volatile Organic Compounds
No VOC readings were detected within the study area tested (Classroom B132).
CERM’s investigation of VOCs at the Site did not indicate that there were elevated levels
in the study area tested. Studies have found that levels of several organics average 2 to
5 times higher indoors than outdoors. During and for several hours immediately after
certain activities, such as paint stripping, levels may be 1,000 times background outdoor
levels. At the issuance of this report, CERM makes no recommendations as it pertains
to VOCs at the subject Site.
Carbon Monoxide
No CO levels were detected in the sampling area (Classroom B132) at the time the
testing was conducted. Based on the information obtained from direct readings at the
Site during the time the testing was conducted, CO is not a potential health hazard.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
Booker T. Washington – Limited IAQ Retesting
Project No. 11-1232-051
October 30, 2013
Carbon Dioxide
The CO2 level in Classroom B132 was 549 parts per million (ppm), which is below the
thresh-hold limit value (TLV) of 5000 ppm for an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).
At the issuance of this report, CERM makes no recommendations as it pertains to CO 2
toxicity at the subject Site.
2296 Henderson Mill Road | Suite 200 | Atlanta, Georgia 30345
T: 678-999-0173 | F: 678-999-0186
www.cerm.com
APPENDIX A
LABORATORY ANALYTICAL RESULTS
Analytical Environmental Services, Inc
3785 Presidential Pkwy, Atlanta, GA, 30340
Tel.: (770) 457-8177 Fax: (770) 457-8188
E-Mail: [email protected]
Client:
Corporate Environmental Risk Management, LLC.
Project Name:
11-1232-051
10/29/2013 2:21:04PM
Report Date:
Spore Trap Analysis of Fungal Spores & Other Airborne Particulates by Optical Microscopy-MB 15019 Rev.3
Client Sample ID:
19908474
Volume (L):
Sample Location:
B132, Classroom
LOD Counts/m3:
AES LabSampleID:
1310M56-001A
Date Collected:
10/28/2013
Background:
Low
Date Analyzed:
10/29/2013 12:14:00PM
Spore Types
Agrocybe/Coprinus
Alternaria
Arthrinium
Ascomycetes
Aspergillus/Penicillium
Aureobasidium
Basidiomycetes
Bipolaris
Cercospora
Chaetomium
Cladosporium
Curvularia
Epicoccum
Fusarium
Ganoderma
Myxomycete/Smut
Nigrospora
Pithomyces
Rusts
Spegazzinia
Stachybotrys
Stemphilium
Torula
Ulocladium
Zygomycetes
Raw Count
Totals Fungi
Count/m3
150.00
27
% of Total
8
216
35
15
405
65
23
621
100
Fibers
Glass-Like Fibers
Hyphal Fragments
Insect Fragments
Pollen
No discernable field blank was submitted with this group of samples, unless otherwise noted.
Samples received in a good condition unless otherwise noted.
High Levels of background particulate can obscure spores and other particulates leading to underestimation.
It is certified by the signature below that the laboratory identified is accredited by The American Industrial Hygiene Association for
the analysis of Environmental Microbiology, Laboratory ID 100671. This report must not be reproduced except in full without the
approval of Analytical Environmental Services, Inc. These tests results apply only to the samples actually tested.
Microbiology Lab Manager:
James Wallace
Page 3 of 5
Page 1 of 2
Analytical Environmental Services, Inc
3785 Presidential Pkwy, Atlanta, GA, 30340
Tel.: (770) 457-8177 Fax: (770) 457-8188
E-Mail: [email protected]
Client:
Corporate Environmental Risk Management, LLC.
Project Name:
11-1232-051
10/29/2013 2:21:04PM
Report Date:
Spore Trap Analysis of Fungal Spores & Other Airborne Particulates by Optical Microscopy-MB 15019 Rev.3
Client Sample ID:
19908307
Volume (L):
Sample Location:
Outside Bldg
LOD Counts/m3:
AES LabSampleID:
1310M56-002A
Date Collected:
10/28/2013
Background:
Medium
Date Analyzed:
10/29/2013 12:14:00PM
Spore Types
Agrocybe/Coprinus
Alternaria
Arthrinium
Ascomycetes
Aspergillus/Penicillium
Aureobasidium
Basidiomycetes
Bipolaris
Cercospora
Chaetomium
Cladosporium
Curvularia
Epicoccum
Fusarium
Ganoderma
Myxomycete/Smut
Nigrospora
Pithomyces
Rusts
Spegazzinia
Stachybotrys
Stemphilium
Torula
Ulocladium
Zygomycetes
Raw Count
Count/m3
150.00
27
% of Total
3
5
81
135
3
6
71
1,917
80
7
189
8
3
81
3
Totals Fungi
89
2,403
Fibers
Glass-Like Fibers
Hyphal Fragments
Insect Fragments
Pollen
1
100
27
No discernable field blank was submitted with this group of samples, unless otherwise noted.
Samples received in a good condition unless otherwise noted.
High Levels of background particulate can obscure spores and other particulates leading to underestimation.
It is certified by the signature below that the laboratory identified is accredited by The American Industrial Hygiene Association for
the analysis of Environmental Microbiology, Laboratory ID 100671. This report must not be reproduced except in full without the
approval of Analytical Environmental Services, Inc. These tests results apply only to the samples actually tested.
Microbiology Lab Manager:
James Wallace
Page 4 of 5
Page 2 of 2