Press Releases at EMSL

Hurricane Matthew caused destruction to Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas as it traveled up the Southeast coast earlier in October. Wind and rain caused damage to many homes and businesses along the coast. Heavy rainfall caused many waterways to flood, leading to continued devastation for those already affected by the hurricane.

“As residents return to their properties, they are finding significant property damage and environmental hazards that need to be addressed before they can begin to repair and rebuild,” said Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Flooded properties not only have to deal with water damage, but also the potential for mold growth, sewer contamination, asbestos-containing material, lead-based paints and other potentially hazardous materials that may now be exposed from the hurricane.”

Property owners should be aware that if wet materials are not properly cleaned and dried, mold can begin to grow in 24 to 48 hours. Long after the flood has receded, a musty odor signifying growth of microorganisms can remain. Other potential hazards such as lead-based paints and asbestos-containing materials may also be found in older properties. It is essential to properly remove these items to alleviate long term health effects.

EMSL has a laboratory located at 19051 NE 10^th Ave. Sky Lake Ind. Park, Bay A in North Miami Beach that is open and serving businesses and residents impacted by the floodwaters. It offers sampling supplies and testing services to identify indoor contaminants caused by flooding. EMSL Miami is accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP) for fungal direct examination through air, bulk and surface. The laboratory is also accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) for air and bulk asbestos fiber analysis. EMSL’s Miami laboratory can be reached by calling (305) 650-0577.

EMSL has also sponsored a video about flood cleanup and indoor air quality issues that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/3Q1tnHFkPF0.

To learn more about mold, asbestos, lead or other environmental testing services, please call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com. To view a complete list of EMSL’s laboratory locations, accreditations and capabilities, please visit www.EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.