:: Microbial Growth and Exposure Assessments ::

HygieneTech conducts microbial growth assessment surveys during which building areas are inspected and moisture content readings are recorded in varying building materials.  Typically, tapelift samples are collected from surfaces on which suspect microbial growth is observed, and air samples are collected within ceiling, wall, and crawlspace cavities.  All such samples are analyzed for total (viable and non-viable) fungi (yeasts and molds).  If appropriate, swab samples are also collected from surfaces for analysis of viable fungi and bacteria.  The analytical data, along with moisture content readings, observations, and other survey findings, are used to evaluate microbiological growth potentials, causation of the growth, preventive maintenance activities, and to establish abatement protocols if consequential microbial or bacterial growth is found.

In order to evaluate exposure potentials, ambient air samples are collected for determination of viable bacteria and viable and non-viable fungi and total fungi.  When appropriate, bulk samples are collected of food, drinking water, soil, and other matrices in order to determine concentrations of microbial, bacterial, or protozoan contamination.  Target biologicals have included Stachybotrys chartarum (species formerly known as atra) and Chaetomium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium mold species; Cryptococcus neoformans, an encapsulated yeast; Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Legionella pneumophila bacteria; and Entamoeba histolytica.

Reports are prepared describing possible health effects, exposure potentials, medical conditions or other factors that may predispose some exposed persons to become targets for infection, and abatement protocols.