"Sick Building Syndrome" is a term that is used to describe when somebody experiences health or personal comfort effects that seem to be linked to the amount of time spent in a particular building, but they are unable to positively identify a specific cause or health condition responsible for these effects.
These effects may only be felt when in one particular room or area of a building, or they may be experienced throughout the facility. Also, they may be limited to one individual or can affect a large number of building occupants.
The complaints differ and can include many symptoms such as headaches; dry, itching, red or watery eyes; sensitivity to odors; coughing; dry or itchy patches or skin including rashes; dizziness; nausea; or fatigue.
Two things that do seem to be consistent with Sick Building Syndrome are the fact that an immediate cause of the symptoms is not known and that people who are suffering report a relief from these symptoms once they are away from the building.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the following factors are often responsible for causing or contributing to complaints of Sick Building Syndrome:
1. Biological Contaminants
This includes mold, mildew, bacteria, pollens, and insect or bird droppings. These contaminants may breed in stagnant water that has collected around building leaks or in ducts, drain pans, or humidifiers.
2. Indoor Chemical Contaminants
Adhesives, carpeting, upholstery (including fabric cubicle walls), manufactured wood products (particularly press board), copy machines, pesticides, cigarette smoke, and cleaning products may all emit volatile organic compounds (VOC's), including formaldehyde.
3. Outdoor Chemical Contaminants
The outdoor air that enters a building, particularly through poorly positioned air intake vents, doors or windows can also be a source of chemical pollution. Common contaminants may include motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, kitchen fumes, or bathroom exhausts.
4. Inadequate Ventilation
Energy conservation measures and construction methods have resulted in buildings today being more tightly sealed than ever before. As a result, there has been a decrease in the outdoor air exchange. Inadequate ventilation may also occur when the HVAC system is not properly sized, balanced or maintained for the square footage and type of occupancy intended and is unable to effectively distribute conditioned air to the occupants of the building.
A professional indoor air quality investigation is one tool to help identify potential risk factors that may be contributing to symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome.
For more information on Sick Building Syndrome, check out this document available from the EPA: www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/sbs.html.
Air Matters LLC has performed mold testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee D. Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. You may contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221 or info@AirMattersMoldTesting.com.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Resolve to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality in 2010!
So, we are a little half way through January. How are those New Year's resolutions going? Eating right, exercising more, getting enough sleep every night. . . you know these things are good for you. That doesn't make them easy. Breathing -- now that's easy. But what about monitoring what you are breathing into your body each day? That's a little tougher!
The toxins that you breathe in every day (air quality) often go unnoticed simply because they are invisible. Things that are invisible (unlike smoking cigarettes, really bad for you foods, and toxic friends) are easy to overlook. The Kingston Whig Standard offers these tips for improving your personal air quality today:
1. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoke contains known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) and a host of chemicals. If you can't quit just yet, be sure to smoke outdoors. (NOTE: In North Carolina restaurants and bars, you have no choice but to smoke outdoors. Yeah!!)
2.Change furnace filters monthly. Reduce the dust and allergens in the air by changing your furnace or air conditioning system filters on a monthly basis. Also vacuum intake vents. You can consider having ductwork cleaned by a professional service, too. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends you review the following document published by the Environmental Protection Agency prior to having your ducts cleaned. http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html)
3. Fill the house with plants. Plants naturally filter the air and give off fresh oxygen. Plus, they're nice to look at!
4. Avoid pressboard furniture. Many composite wood products contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. These can sneak into the air over time.
5. Use all-natural cleaners. Chemical-laden cleaners don't simply smell strongly, they can actually be very harmful if breathed in. Also, never mix cleaning products (such as bleach and ammonia). It can produce a toxic gas. Lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and other all-natural items can be used as very effective cleaners.
6. Vacuum carpets regularly. Carpets and fabrics can harbor dust and other allergens. Some newer carpets are created to reduce allergens, but most carpets should be cleaned two to three times a week, primarily in high-traffic areas and in homes with pets. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends that you invest in a HEPA-vacuum.)
7. Eliminate leaks. Drippy faucets or a damp basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. While many types of these fungi are harmless, there are some that are very harmful if breathed in. If you have a mold or mildew problem, call in a professional for a threat assessment and advice on proper cleaning. (NOTE: If you want to confirm the presence and identity of fungal species, that would be Air Matters LLC. . .)
8. Test for hidden dangers. Radon, carbon monoxide, and asbestos could be lurking in your home. Testing eliminates threats and can safeguard your family.
9. Call in a cleaning crew. Regular cleaning can limit the amount of particles floating around in the air. Keeping the house spic-and-span is a way to clean the air as well. Having a regular cleaning service come in can be a way to fit a thorough cleaning into your busy schedule.
10. Dial down the humidity. Run the exhaust fans in bathrooms and invest in a dehumidifier. Mold and mildew, as well as dust mites, thrive in moist conditions.
11. Launder sheets and pillowcases every 10 days. Buy machine- washable pillows and bed linens.
12. Kick out pests. Allergens from roaches are a major cause of asthma, and airborne protein from dried rodent urine is a potent allergen.
13. Air it out. On low-particulate days, throw open the windows and let the fresh air in.
14. Check the venting. All appliances should be properly vented. Make sure vents are free of obstructions. Appliances should be serviced according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule to avoid combustion byproduct buildup and reduce dust and particulate accumulation.
Resolve to improve the indoor air quality in your home, and you can breathe easier in 2010!
Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections and testing services in the Raleigh, NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.
The toxins that you breathe in every day (air quality) often go unnoticed simply because they are invisible. Things that are invisible (unlike smoking cigarettes, really bad for you foods, and toxic friends) are easy to overlook. The Kingston Whig Standard offers these tips for improving your personal air quality today:
1. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoke contains known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) and a host of chemicals. If you can't quit just yet, be sure to smoke outdoors. (NOTE: In North Carolina restaurants and bars, you have no choice but to smoke outdoors. Yeah!!)
2.Change furnace filters monthly. Reduce the dust and allergens in the air by changing your furnace or air conditioning system filters on a monthly basis. Also vacuum intake vents. You can consider having ductwork cleaned by a professional service, too. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends you review the following document published by the Environmental Protection Agency prior to having your ducts cleaned. http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html)
3. Fill the house with plants. Plants naturally filter the air and give off fresh oxygen. Plus, they're nice to look at!
4. Avoid pressboard furniture. Many composite wood products contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. These can sneak into the air over time.
5. Use all-natural cleaners. Chemical-laden cleaners don't simply smell strongly, they can actually be very harmful if breathed in. Also, never mix cleaning products (such as bleach and ammonia). It can produce a toxic gas. Lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and other all-natural items can be used as very effective cleaners.
6. Vacuum carpets regularly. Carpets and fabrics can harbor dust and other allergens. Some newer carpets are created to reduce allergens, but most carpets should be cleaned two to three times a week, primarily in high-traffic areas and in homes with pets. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends that you invest in a HEPA-vacuum.)
7. Eliminate leaks. Drippy faucets or a damp basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. While many types of these fungi are harmless, there are some that are very harmful if breathed in. If you have a mold or mildew problem, call in a professional for a threat assessment and advice on proper cleaning. (NOTE: If you want to confirm the presence and identity of fungal species, that would be Air Matters LLC. . .)
8. Test for hidden dangers. Radon, carbon monoxide, and asbestos could be lurking in your home. Testing eliminates threats and can safeguard your family.
9. Call in a cleaning crew. Regular cleaning can limit the amount of particles floating around in the air. Keeping the house spic-and-span is a way to clean the air as well. Having a regular cleaning service come in can be a way to fit a thorough cleaning into your busy schedule.
10. Dial down the humidity. Run the exhaust fans in bathrooms and invest in a dehumidifier. Mold and mildew, as well as dust mites, thrive in moist conditions.
11. Launder sheets and pillowcases every 10 days. Buy machine- washable pillows and bed linens.
12. Kick out pests. Allergens from roaches are a major cause of asthma, and airborne protein from dried rodent urine is a potent allergen.
13. Air it out. On low-particulate days, throw open the windows and let the fresh air in.
14. Check the venting. All appliances should be properly vented. Make sure vents are free of obstructions. Appliances should be serviced according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule to avoid combustion byproduct buildup and reduce dust and particulate accumulation.
Resolve to improve the indoor air quality in your home, and you can breathe easier in 2010!
Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections and testing services in the Raleigh, NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Check for Mold Before Buying Foreclosures
The American economy is still reeling from the recession, and the housing market remains one of the hardest hit areas. As foreclosures continue to mount, many of those who do have cash to spare are looking to invest in bargain real estate.
However, bargain hunters need to beware of potential unseen problems that could quickly drain their profits -- including hidden mold. Home owners who were foreclosed upon likely did not have the money to perform routine repairs and maintenance, which may have grown into larger problems. In addition, foreclosed properties may have been vacant for some time and many issues may have gone unnoticed.
RIS Media, a well-known source for news and information in the real estate industry, offers these 10 trouble spots to consider when purchasing a foreclosed home:
These 10 Signs May Indicate That Trouble is Around the Corner
1. Unheated house in winter months. If the home has been properly winterized, there's no need for heat. But if the home has not been properly winterized, pipes will burst and cause water damage.
2. Missing sinks, toilets and other fixtures. Make sure they've been properly removed and not ripped from walls and floors.
3. Peeling, bubbling, and discolored paint; swelling in walls or ceilings (especially around kitchens and bathrooms) or a musty odor all indicate water damage and, potentially the presence of moisture and mold.
4. Fungus growth inside cabinets, behind drawers and built-ins. Fungus could mean that there has been water damage. Since water falls down, look for a source above the mold.
5. Blocked drains or pipes will cause future problems and may have already created sewage backups.
6. Black cobwebs, greasy gray residue on walls and/or a strong oily odor. This could point to potential soot damage or a malfunctioning furnace.
7. An older home with extensive renovations. Check with the city for pulled permits in order to get remodeling details. If asbestos is present and has been disturbed, be sure it's been remediated by a certified specialist.
8. Excessive painting of every nook, cranny, door and floor may mean that the seller is covering up mold.
9. Discolored sub flooring. From the basement, check the sub flooring above for stains and small holes, both caused by mold.
10. Air Quality. The air quality within a home tells a lot about the home's condition. Be sure to include air an surface testing in your home inspection. It's a few hundred dollars well spent!
Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections and testing services in the Raleigh, NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.
However, bargain hunters need to beware of potential unseen problems that could quickly drain their profits -- including hidden mold. Home owners who were foreclosed upon likely did not have the money to perform routine repairs and maintenance, which may have grown into larger problems. In addition, foreclosed properties may have been vacant for some time and many issues may have gone unnoticed.
RIS Media, a well-known source for news and information in the real estate industry, offers these 10 trouble spots to consider when purchasing a foreclosed home:
These 10 Signs May Indicate That Trouble is Around the Corner
1. Unheated house in winter months. If the home has been properly winterized, there's no need for heat. But if the home has not been properly winterized, pipes will burst and cause water damage.
2. Missing sinks, toilets and other fixtures. Make sure they've been properly removed and not ripped from walls and floors.
3. Peeling, bubbling, and discolored paint; swelling in walls or ceilings (especially around kitchens and bathrooms) or a musty odor all indicate water damage and, potentially the presence of moisture and mold.
4. Fungus growth inside cabinets, behind drawers and built-ins. Fungus could mean that there has been water damage. Since water falls down, look for a source above the mold.
5. Blocked drains or pipes will cause future problems and may have already created sewage backups.
6. Black cobwebs, greasy gray residue on walls and/or a strong oily odor. This could point to potential soot damage or a malfunctioning furnace.
7. An older home with extensive renovations. Check with the city for pulled permits in order to get remodeling details. If asbestos is present and has been disturbed, be sure it's been remediated by a certified specialist.
8. Excessive painting of every nook, cranny, door and floor may mean that the seller is covering up mold.
9. Discolored sub flooring. From the basement, check the sub flooring above for stains and small holes, both caused by mold.
10. Air Quality. The air quality within a home tells a lot about the home's condition. Be sure to include air an surface testing in your home inspection. It's a few hundred dollars well spent!
Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections and testing services in the Raleigh, NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.
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