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For our for more
specific information regarding AMS testing, see our
IAQ page
Microbially contaminated buildings exist, most often because water
has intruded into the interior of a building. Bacterial
contamination of a building generally requires the most water. If
bacteria are in high concentrations in a building, it usually means
that water has saturated materials such as carpet, wallboard, or
other porous materials.
Ceiling leaks are a major source of water intrusion into a building.
Flat roofed buildings can have water intrusion anywhere and may not
be noticed for long periods of time. Inspection of all perimeter and
interior walls for dampness and all ceiling tiles is the best
starting point.
Pipe leaks from water lines, fire suppression systems, and sewage
lines are also likely candidates. These lines can be anywhere in the
building and are generally contained within interior walls or
ceiling spaces. Major leaks can actually deform walls causing them
to sag or ripple. The exterior surfaces of these walls may take on a
dusty or speckled appearance. Again, in major leaks whole areas of
the wall may be covered with mold giving it a mottled appearance
(some may have a ‘carpet’ of mold). Can these walls have a normal
appearance and still be contaminated? The answer is yes. Depending
on the wall materials the interior surfaces may have extensive
contamination and show no external contamination. In these cases,
mold spore can escape into the room environment from openings in the
walls. Air samples from the room can demonstrate this type of
problem.
Condensation in Air ducts can also be a source of microbial
contamination. Out of control humidifiers can be the source of this
type of problem. Generally, this type of contamination is more
disseminated throughout a building than pipe leaks.
Floors can be another source of microbial contamination. Concrete
pads can weep water from a high water table in the soil, from broken
irrigation pipes or over-irrigation, or from broken pipes within the
pad itself.
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