Mould and Air Quality Testing

JHE offer a service of diagnosing the causes of condensation, which can lead to mould, combining a full diagnostic process with a plan for action, along with a programme of Mould Removal & Remediation to eradicate the mould problem.  Insurers, homeowners, landlords and tenants can all benefit from the comprehensive service offered across the UK.

Mould is classed as a category (1) risk to health, as assessed under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System 2000, which is the same class as asbestos. The Environmental Protection Act (1990) classifies mould as a statutory nuisance that must be treated.

 

Air Quality Testing Services

We can provide the following:

      • AIHA Accredited Laboratory testing and Analysis
      • Protein swab testing
      • Air monitoring/sampling
      • Colony forming unit count
      • Bulk samples
      • Tape lift sampling.

Testing is carried out in an ISO17025 certified, AIHA accredited laboratory by a team of analytical chemists, comprising exclusively of highly trained, degree level analysts.

green mold formation petri dish abstract microbiological texture formation green mold petri dish abstract 146501798

UK-based support is also provided by degree level analysts with, an in-depth understanding of the analytical techniques used for the IAQ Home and Commercial Survey tests.

While Mould is unsightly, it is also a recognised health hazard which the World Health Organisation state may trigger asthma and cause skin (Eczema) and respiratory sanitisation and/or immune system system responses including respiratory infections and rarely hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic alveolitis, chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic fungal sinusitis.  Severe reactions are rare but possible.

A person’s reaction to mould depends on their sensitivity and other health conditions, the amount of mould present, length of exposure and the type of mould.  The moulds also produce mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals.  The term “toxic mould” refers to the production of mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum. Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and in some cases death.

Aspergillus various species but some can produce Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin and these are carcinogens.

Penicillium can produce Ochratoxin and is linked specifically to damage of kidneys and liver and depleting the immune system.

Stachybotrys and Fusarium can produce Trichothecenes which are known to be used in weapons of mass destruction.

The extent of mould growth can generally be categorised into 3 levels:

Level  I (Small Scale) Less than 1 square metre
Level  II (Medium Scale) between 1-10 square metres
Level III (large Scale) greater than 10 square metres

Consideration is to be given regarding the position of the mould in the building and appropriate measures and precautions are established regarding the controlled removal method, to prevent the dispersion of mould to other areas within the building and the Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning System (HVCA)

Air is sampled from a central position in a house or building and a single test can cover an area of up to 200 square metres.

For a VOC test (VOCs & hidden mould) sample collection takes 2 hours and for a Formaldehyde test, 20-30 minutes.

Once the air sample has been collected, the sample tube is capped off and returned for analysis in the laboratory – results are typically available within 7-10 business days.

We can also offer a home DIY sampling settle plate test which is returned to a laboratory for analysis.

We can provide the following:

  • UKAS registered Laboratory testing and Analysis
  • Protein swab testing
  • Air monitoring/sampling
  • Sampling of Air Conditioning ducting surfaces
  • Reassurance air testing
  • Tape lift sampling.

damp and mould
air sampling report
A2 IAQCSI Wav Sample Report v2 TMVOC pg only 01

If you are worried about mould & air quality or would like us to test your damp & condensation issues please fill out the form below:

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    Don’t wait for damp, mould, or condensation to take hold of your property. Contact JHE Environmental today for professional advice, detailed surveys, and effective solutions. Our team is here to help you create a healthier, safer space for your family or colleagues.