Press Releases at EMSL

As if the residents of South Carolina have not had enough to deal with after several feet of rain fell in areas, some rivers have yet to crest and already over 9 dams have been breached or failed as of earlier this week. All of this water has likely caused billions of dollars’ worth of damage to infrastructure, institutions, businesses and homes.

Direct flooding and roofs that could not keep up with the deluge have resulted in one property after another being damaged from water. In some cases, the destruction is obvious with floodwater lines almost up to ceilings, but in other cases where the damage was due to leaking roofs, windows and exteriors it may not be readily visible.

“When water or elevated levels of humidity reach areas of a property that are out of sight, property owners and managers may not recognize that damage has occurred that needs to be addressed,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “If left alone, mold will begin to grow in less than 48 hours on many wet or damp materials in attics, ceiling, wall cavities, basements and crawl spaces. Although the mold may not be visible, it can still create indoor air quality (IAQ) issues leading to health concerns for anyone in the home or building.”

Exposure to elevated levels of mold can cause allergies, trigger asthma attacks in some people and some types can even cause infections in those with a weakened or suppressed immune system. To help identify mold in homes, businesses and schools, EMSL Analytical, Inc. offers comprehensive laboratory services, sampling supplies and even easy-to-use test kits. For access to any of these test kits please visit www.EMSLTestKits.com. EMSL has also sponsored a video about hidden mold that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/DkCrTSVhHkM.

Residents with water damaged properties have access to EMSL’s service center in Charleston and its three laboratories in North Carolina to address any mold, bacteria, lead, asbestos, chemical, sewage or other testing needs.

To learn more about water damage, mold and indoor air quality testing or other occupational, environmental, health and safety issues, please visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com. To contact the Charleston, South Carolina service center call (888) 958-8170.