Environmental Testing Lab

Cinnaminson, NJ,  November 27^th , 2018

Not long ago, the El Paso Times published an article about a local museum and study center that had to be temporarily closed. The closure was the result of a backed-up sewer line that caused water damage and sewage contamination issues in multiple parts of the museum. It was even reported that staff coming to work found liquid flowing out of the front door.

Water damage due to clean water can cause extensive damage that can quickly turn into a mold problem. Add sewage to the mix, and the problems and safety concerns immediately become an even bigger issue. This is due to the fact that in addition to the unpleasant nature of sewage contamination, it can also expose people to a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and parasites. Standing water and wet materials allow many of these organisms to multiply and the introduced moisture can result in the rapid growth of mold indoors. In some circumstances, there could even be hazardous chemicals mixed in with the sewage.

“Whenever water damage contains sewage it creates immediate health concerns for anyone that comes in contact with it indoors or outdoors,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Sewage dramatically increases the chances of there being microbial pathogens that could be an issue due to direct contact, ingestion or inhalation. Anyone exposed to sewage could be at risk, but health concerns for those with a weakened or suppressed immune system are especially high. Remediation efforts in damaged properties need to be handled properly to prevent issues for workers and any future building occupants or visitors.”

Working to identify microbial pathogens from all types of environmental samples are the professionals at EMSL Analytical, Inc. EMSL, with laboratories located across North America, offers all of the sampling supplies necessary, easy-to-use test kits and a comprehensive range of testing services to identify microbial pathogens, fecal indicator organisms and chemical contaminants. Information from testing can be vital for not only protecting building occupants and workers, but also for filing an insurance claim and ensuring the property is properly remediated. EMSL has even sponsored an educational video about sewage contamination, property damage and exposure concerns that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/XBRUJEwnVMo.

For more information about water damage, sewage, mold or other indoor environmental quality (IEQ), health and safety testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675. For access to IEQ test kits, please visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 45 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.