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Protection from health hazards for building residents and employees in the workplace is crucial to maintaining
high productivity and morale, and to limit potential landlord and employer liability. Health hazards can result from indoor air chemical contaminants or microbial pathogens, or a mixture of both. Potential
indoor chemical pollutants might include those from combustion sources such as gas and kerosene; pesticides; household cleaning products and solvents; building materials and furnishings; carpeting or
pressed-wood product adhesives; radon; and smoke. Biological contaminants include bacteria, molds
(article), mildew, viruses, animal dander, dust mites, and pollen. Of course, new serious concerns have arisen regarding potential terrorist attacks utilizing pathogenic bacteria such as
Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) or Clostridium botulinum
toxin (botulism). Under certain conditions, many of these contaminants can cause serious illness or death, and most can cause irritation or perhaps trigger an asthma attack in a susceptible individual.
 Western Technologies' environmental staff has years
of experience in assessments of indoor air quality issues
for residences, schools, major and small office buildings,
and healthcare facilities. Each project starts with data
quality objectives that result in a unique and legally
defensible sampling strategy. We maintain close working
relationships with state-of-the-art analytical laboratories
which meet our strict quality assurance and quality control
requirements. Our experienced industrial hygienists,
environmental scientists and toxicologists are able to
interpret the data, assess the extent of the air quality
problem, and suggest remediation solutions if applicable.
Some of Western Technologies' many services
in this area include:
•
Monitoring for airborne and waterborne fungal and
bacterial species;
• Monitoring levels of chemical air contaminants and gases
such as carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S);
•
Design specifications and provide oversight for remediation
of microbial growth and resulting damage;
• Provide follow-up monitoring and verification after remediation;
• Provide awareness training and education for tenants, employees and employers
regarding chemical and biological contaminants and their health effects;
• Provide litigation support and expert witness regarding mold contamination hazards;
•
Provide healthcare facility infection control (IC) assessments and consulting. |
