Charlotte, NC, October 20
th, 2016
Recent flooding along much of the Southeast coast has caused continued destruction for homes and businesses that were hit by Hurricane Matthew. Residents of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas returned home to find many properties damaged by rain, wind and floodwater.
As residents return, it is important to inspect their properties for signs of water damage. Water damage commonly occurs on exterior walls, ceilings, attics, crawl spaces and around windows, doors and chimneys. Within 24 to 48 hours, wet building materials can allow mold to grow. Flood waters may also contain chemicals and microorganisms that can pose a health threat to building occupants.
“After a flood, it is imperative to dry the property out quickly to prevent microbial growth,” said Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Property owners can begin by removing wet flooring and setting up blowers to assist with drying to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Flood waters often contain hazards such as sewage and chemical contamination. Identifying any possible contaminants before repair or rebuilding can reduce exposure to harmful mold, bacteria or chemicals.”
EMSL Analytical, Inc. has a laboratory located at 376 Crompton Street in Charlotte, North Carolina that is able to assist with mold and bacterial testing needs. The laboratory is American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP) accredited for fungal analysis by air, bulk and surface direct examination.
In addition, the laboratory is AIHA Environmental Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELLAP) accredited for lead analysis in paint, soil and dust wipes and National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) accredited for air and bulk asbestos fiber analysis. EMSL’s Charlotte lab can be reached by calling (704) 525-2205.
EMSL offers easy-to-use test kits for many environmental factors that may be associated with floods. To request a free test kit for mold or other environmental needs, please visit
www.EMSLTestKits.com.
To learn more about mold, bacteria, 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.