Industrial Hygiene Testing Services

EMSL Analytical, Inc., a leading provider of industrial hygiene and air testing services, is reminding mining companies, industrial facilities, and safety professionals about the importance of proactive air monitoring and laboratory testing following a recent health alert from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) on ammonia exposure risks.

MSHA warns that ammonia is widely used in mining operations, including chemical processing, refrigeration systems, and neutralizing applications. Exposure can occur due to equipment failures, leaks, improper handling, or chemical mixing incidents. Although ammonia has a strong odor, MSHA cautions that smell alone is not a reliable detection method, highlighting the need for proper monitoring and safety controls.

Exposure to elevated ammonia levels can cause serious health effects, including eye and skin irritation, respiratory distress, coughing, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, life-threatening lung damage. MSHA also stresses the importance of ventilation, training, hazard communication, and appropriate personal protective equipment.

“Ammonia hazards are a serious concern not only in mining, but across many industries,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Air monitoring is a critical tool for identifying exposure risks early and helping employers protect workers and maintain compliance.”

EMSL Analytical offers comprehensive services to support safer workplaces, including:

• Industrial hygiene laboratory analysis and sampling supplies for ammonia and other airborne contaminants through a nationwide laboratory network
• Real-time air monitoring instruments and exposure assessment support
• Respirators and other personal protective equipment

MSHA notes that repeated ammonia exposure can lead to long-term respiratory conditions and other chronic health effects, reinforcing the need for consistent monitoring and preventive controls.

EMSL Analytical remains committed to helping organizations identify hazards, monitor air quality, and protect workers from ammonia and other chemical exposures. To learn more, 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 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, VOCs, 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.