Able Environmental Inspections - Mold Testing (inspection, analyis, envornmental testing): Houston

METHODOLOGY OVERVIEW

VISUAL INSPECTION - Throughout this phase the inspector is looking for three issues: evidence of previous or current moisture intrusion, evidence of mold growth and areas with a potential for future mold infestation. Mold growth does not occur without moisture and for this reason much of the visual inspection emphasizes the search for moisture problems including a reading of the relative humidity and the utilization of a moisture meter on various surfaces, suspect areas and around plumbing. An inspection typically covers the interior living space and attic. Exterior surfaces are also examined for evidence of water damage/ intrusion and potential for future problem areas.

AIR SAMPLES - Air sampling is the most effective method for determining whether a mold infestation is potentially creating a detrimental living environment. An exterior air sample is collected for a baseline to compare the interior air samples. An air pump is utilized to draw 15 liters of air per minute. Airborne particles are impacted and retained in a sampling cassette. The sampling cassettes are sent to a laboratory where the mold spores are identified and counted. In some instances a “wallcheck” air sample is collected from the interior of a wall to ascertain if mold growth is present in suspect areas.

SURFACE SAMPLES - Surface sampling is used to identify a mold type at a specific location. This technique is also useful in ruling out possible discolorations or staining that sometimes exhibit mold like characteristics. Typically a cotton swab or plastic slide with adhesive is used to collect a small quantity of material. The swab or slide is placed in a container and sent to the same laboratory that analyzed the air samples mentioned above.

ICANN's Registrants' Benefits and Responsibilities
ICANN's Registrant Educational Information