Mold Testing Laboratory

Plymouth Meeting, PA, February 3, 2017

This month, KDKA-TV News broadcasted a story about a mold outbreak at a hospital in the state of Pennsylvania. Following a recent development in the case, it was reported that the company hired to launder the hospital’s linens had the same type of mold at their facilities as the mold that led to the deaths of five infected patients.

Mold is known to produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances known as mycotoxins. In those allergic to mold, touching and inhaling it can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of mold allergic reactions include headaches, sneezing, runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes.

“Allergies are the most common health effect from mold but in people with weakened immune systems, it can become a serious problem causing opportunistic infections,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “In this situation, the contact with mold made the patients much sicker, since those admitted to the hospital already likely had some type of immunosuppression.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc.’s Microbiology Department is comprised of experienced and knowledgeable scientists. EMSL offers mold testing from culturable air samples, spore traps as well as direct examination including tape, bulk, swab and water samples. In addition, PCR and DNA analysis are also available to identify mold and much more.

EMSL provides environmental testing services and supplies to identify mold and other microbial pollutants. To learn more about indoor air quality and environmental testing for mold and other microorganisms, please visit www.EMSL.com, www.EMSLTestKits.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 40 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.