Indoor Air Quality Testing and Management

Good indoor air quality (IAQ) in the workplace enhances occupant health, comfort, and productivity. The sources of the symptoms are often difficult to isolate because of the many factors that can contribute to the problem, sometimes referred to as "Sick Building Syndrome." When building occupants experience discomfort in the workplace resulting from ambient air quality, complaints often include stagnant or oppressive air, headaches, fatigue, eye/nose/throat irritation, and dizziness.

In addition, we review the design, general conditions, and operating and maintenance practices of the building HVAC systems. We conduct visual inspections of internal components of the HVAC systems, including fan units, coils, filters, and humidifiers. We also examine representative internal sections of the main and secondary ductwork leaving the air handlers and collect representative microbial surface samples, if appropriate.

Our IAQ investigations include an evaluation of conditions on-site which may generate contaminants, the configurations and condition of ventilation systems, and existing controls. Our IAQ surveys are based upon procedures established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), and current industry standards. We conduct IAQ sampling under the supervision of a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

Measure parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, respirable particulate, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide using direct reading instruments.

Assess airborne concentrations of chemical contaminants, such as formaldehyde, volatile organic vapors, and other specific gases in accordance with NIOSH or OSHA sampling and analytical methods, and analyze by an AIHA accredited laboratory.

Assess bacterial and fungal contamination by air, surface wipe, bulk, and water sampling procedures to identify the total concentration of microorganisms present and the percent concentration of the predominant microorganisms present in each sample.

Contact Jeff Amy, Division Manager of Indoor Air Quality, at (703) 648-0822 or e-mail