Exposure Risks to Algae Under the Spotlight in Multiple States

The potential dangers associated with exposure to algae made headlines this summer after multiple dog fatalities occurred following an event where the dogs were playing and swimming in contaminated water with toxic algae. Cases were reported from places like Texas, Georgia and North Carolina.

Harmful algal blooms, also referred to as HABs, are overgrowths of algae in water that can occur almost anywhere. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that HABs are a major environmental problem in all 50 states and warns that algal blooms can be toxic to people and pets. Both should stay away from water that is green, scummy or smells bad.

A harmful algal bloom can occur in both fresh and marine waters. Red tides, blue-green algae and cyanobacteria are examples of HABs that can have a severe impact on the health of humans and pets, aquatic ecosystems and the economy. In addition to potentially producing extremely dangerous toxins that can sicken or kill, harmful algal blooms create dead zones by depleting oxygen in the water, raise treatment costs for drinking water and hurt a wide range of industries that depend on clean water.

To address human exposure concerns in recreational waters, the EPA released “Recommended Human Health Recreational Ambient Water Quality Criteria or Swimming Advisories for Microcystins and Cylindrospermopsin” in May of this year. Microcystins and cylindrospermopsin are two types of toxins produced by cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as blue-green algae. The recommended magnitude for microcystins is 8 µg/L and 15 µg/L for cylindrospermopsin.

The scientists at EMSL Analytical, Inc. work with the industry, utilities, environmental agencies and the public to test for toxins, algae and other microbial contaminants. They offer testing for algae, bacteria, fungi, yeasts and various microbial toxins.

To learn more about this or other aquatic and microbial testing services provided by EMSL 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 46 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