IAQ Testing Laboratory

Cinnaminson, NJ,  June 4^th , 2019

Spending time in a residential, commercial or institutional property that has an unpleasant odor is not the type of situation that people want to live or work in. The source of many of these indoor odor issues can often be attributed to the presence of sewer gas.

Sewer gas is a mixture of toxic and nontoxic gases that can be present at varying levels depending upon the source and other factors. It is formed during the decay of household and industrial waste. Highly toxic components of sewer gas include hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. Sewer gas also contains methane, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxides. Fumes from chlorine bleaches, industrial solvents, gasoline and other chemicals in the sewer or sewer lines may also be contributing to any offensive odors.

“Exposure to sewer gas can not only be distressing, its presence could reduce property values and employee productivity, increase absenteeism and complaints, and lead to health concerns for some building occupants,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Even being exposed to low levels of hydrogen sulfide and some other sewer gases can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, higher concentrations can lead to additional issues.”

To identify indoor air quality issues due to sewer gas or other sources of mystery odors, EMSL Analytical Inc. offers comprehensive testing services, sampling supplies and air monitoring instruments. Air testing and monitoring can often help to pinpoint the cause of an odor by analyzing its chemical composition. Test results can then be instrumental for developing corrective action plans to eliminate the problem so building occupants can breathe easier.

EMSL has recently sponsored an educational video about sewer gas along with tips to prevent it from entering a property that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/GT0mDIvlzlU.

To learn more about testing for sewer gas or other indoor air quality, environmental and building science issues or for access to air monitoring instruments and testing supplies, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.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.