Microbiology Laboratory Testing Services

Toronto, ON, July 28^th, 2020

As millions of people return to businesses, schools and other institutions that are reopening their doors, health professionals caution about the potential risks in building water systems that have been stagnant for weeks (or even months) due to COVID-19 closures. Stagnant water in building pipes, equipment and water storage tanks is known to cause plumbing issues and concerns related to water quality and appearance.

After months of inactivity, standing water can pose potential health risks due to the accumulation of harmful microbiological and chemical contaminants in the water supply. The Canada Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) noted that it is the responsibility of each property owner to ensure it maintains the safety of the water within their building(s). The CWWA stated that prior to reopening or fully reoccupying a building, building managers need to flush stagnant water, clean taps and fixtures as well as test the water in their building to be sure it is safe. Click here to visit the CWWA’s website with more information.

The Region of Peel provides additional information about water testing for larger buildings. The website states that testing for chlorine residual should be performed by qualified personnel and that microbial parameters should be carried out by an accredited laboratory for a building or facility that is:

• Complex.
• Serves vulnerable populations.
• Has a history of contamination (i.e., Legionella, which is often related to water in HVAC systems).

 

“It is important to flush the water system and test for potential bacteria, including Legionella, to safeguard everyone that will be entering the building,” said Christopher Goulah, Ph.D., EMSL’s Legionella Program Director. “Our network of laboratories throughout Canada and the United States provide environmental testing services and sampling supplies to detect Legionella and many other potential indoor environmental quality concerns, including mold, sewer gas, asbestos, lead and radon.”

EMSL provides comprehensive microbial testing services. To learn more about Legionella or other building science, environmental, health and safety testing services and monitoring instruments, please visit www.emslcanada.ca, call (289) 997-4602 or email info@EMSL.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with 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-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC 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.