Identifying and Mitigating Exposure Risks to Indoor Particulate Matter

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently shared information about common sources of indoor particulate matter (PM). The agency reports it is especially concerned about tiny particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller as they can be inhaled deep into the lungs where they can cause serious health effects, including decreased lung function and other adverse health conditions.

PM found indoors includes particles that come from outdoor air and particles that are generated indoors. Indoors, the particulate matter may be generated by a number of activities, including cooking, cleaning, construction, combustion, and chemical reactions to name a few. PM often settles as dust, but can be easily aerosolized once again if disturbed. EPA shares that this dust may include:

• Outdoor soil and dust that has been blown or tracked indoors;
• Biological particles, also known as biological contaminants, including pollen, mold spores, pet dander, dust mites, and human skin flakes and hair;
• Particles from human activities;
• Particles from consumer and personal care products;
• Plastics, flame retardant, and pesticides; and
• Sometimes industrial chemicals and heavy metals, such as lead.

“The EPA’s list only touches the surface of what could be in the air and dust,” said Frank Selamie, President of CTSI. “Exposure to indoor PM can certainly have a negative impact on not only people’s comfort and productivity, but also their health. Fortunately, there are ways to measure the amount of PM indoors and identify its composition. With this information, steps can be taken to improve the indoor air quality and mitigate any exposure concerns. CTSI’s building scientists and industrial hygienists are proud to offer these testing, monitoring, and consulting services to protect building occupants and optimize indoor conditions.”

CTSI also recently sponsored an educational video about common sources of indoor particulate matter that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/v3FEI5WNjCI

To learn more about this or other industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, environmental, health, and safety services, please visit www.ctsiweb.com, email contactus@ctsiweb.com, or call (212) 971-7016.

About CTSI
Established in 1992, Consulting & Testing Services, Inc. (CTSI) was founded on one strong commitment: to provide efficient and expert services to clients based on professionalism, innovation, and cost-effective expert solutions. This commitment has been furthered with CTSI’s reputation in fostering client relationships in all sectors of the Environmental, Health, Safety, and Construction industries. CTSI prides itself in utilizing a high quality service based on its diverse team of staff and professionals’ concise recommendations and solutions to the most pressing dilemmas. The company operates offices in New York and Florida that service clients across the United States.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail