Air Quality Investigation
The importance of air quality in buildings should not be overlooked. Our homes and workplaces contain many substances that could be harmful to our health. Indoor air pollutants range from minor irritants, such as dust and animal dander, to more dangerous irritants, such as mold and chemical vapors emitted by building materials.
Our field of activity allows us to :
- Conduct inspections of residential, commercial, institutional and industrial buildings;
- Detect mold and bacteria, lead, radon, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and respirable particles such as asbestos;
- Analyze the samples in the laboratory;
- Write decontamination protocols;
- Follow up on the work;
- Issue the certificate of compliance upon completion of the work.
Analysis of the quality of indoor environments in the context of LEED certification
Each project towards LEED certification is unique. However, the majority of contractors choose to conduct an indoor environmental quality analysis to meet requirements for the reduction and elimination of indoor pollutants. This analysis, easily accessible, allows you to get more points and possibly reach the targeted certification level (silver, gold or platinum).
Our experts can perform an air quality analysis based on your project type and its specific needs for LEED certification for all levels.
CONTAMINANTS |
Formaldehyde |
Particulate Matter (PM10) |
Total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) |
4 – Phenucyclohexane (4-PC) * |
Carbon monoxide (CO) |
*This test is only required if carpets and fabrics with styrene-butadiene (SB) latex backing are installed in the base building.
The different sampling methods
Surface sampling
Surface sampling is used when mold is visible and in sufficient quantity for the investigator to quantify it. The sample is then taken to the laboratory for microscopic identification. Once the mold is identified, the investigator is able to issue a finding and specific recommendations for each case.
Dust collection
The mold hidden inside the walls has chosen as a means of reproduction to launch spores (tiny particles) into the air.
These spores are heavier than air and, consequently, end up falling and settling on horizontal surfaces (tops of cabinets, furniture, frames, etc.). The spores are therefore mixed with the dust normally found in a house. Following a culture in the laboratory, an analysis protocol of this dust allows us to identify and count each type of mold. This operation allows us to obtain a health index qualifying the quality of the air in the residence.
Direct air sampling
Unlike dust sampling, where the spores collected may have been present for several weeks, air sampling gives us a direct reading in real time. This means that the spores collected will reflect the conditions present during the investigation. This type of sampling is most often used in areas where there is little or no dust, such as office buildings, specialized clinics, etc. The protocols require a minimum of two samples to be taken, one inside and one outside the building to allow for a geographical comparison.