Mold Concerns Result in the Temporary Closure of Community Center

Last month, multiple media outlets reported on the temporary closure of an important community center in Memphis, Tennessee. The activity center for the Frayser community closed its doors after reports of water damage resulting in possible mold growth became known and investigated.

Unfortunately, when water or high humidity levels are introduced into an indoor environment mold will often begin to grow in as short as 48 hours. Anytime elevated levels of mold are found indoors, the source of the moisture must be determined and repaired along with remediating the mold itself. Elevated levels of mold in the indoor air can potentially result in a myriad of health issues to the occupants. Molds produce allergens, irritants and in some cases, toxic substances known as mycotoxins. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and exposure to mold can even trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to it.

“Whenever mold is found growing indoors it’s important to identify what allowed the moisture or elevated humidity levels to occur in the building in the first place,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “If the root cause is not addressed, the mold will likely just return.”

Working to identify mold contamination are the laboratory specialists at EMSL Analytical, Inc. EMSL offers comprehensive testing services, easy-to-use test kits, air monitoring instruments and an array of inspection tools, such as moisture meters and infrared cameras, that can help to pinpoint the source of excessive moisture in a property. These services and products help to ensure the indoor environmental quality of all types of residential, commercial and institutional buildings.

To learn more about mold or other indoor air quality (IAQ) and environmental testing services and inspection equipment, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com . To view a comprehensive line of indoor environmental quality test kits, 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.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail