IAQ Testing Methods – 3 Common Assays

Indoor air quality is a top concern of building managers. In fact, it’s a concern of all stakeholders as it involves the health and safety of building occupants as well as the company’s bottom line. Poor IAQ, resulting from ventilation issues or water intrusion, poses a threat. Virus transmission is another cause for concern, however, IAQ testing methods determine the levels of contaminants as well as their source. After identifying risk, remediation follows.

Three leading sample collection procedures exist to test for indoor contaminants. These methods identify mold but also organic and manmade particles and allergens too.

IAQ Testing Methods 

There are several methods for collecting samples to test for indoor contaminants, but three leading sample collection procedures are:

Bioaerosol Sampling

Of the IAQ testing methods, the practice known as bioaerosol sampling is a procedure that involves air collection. These air samples taken from the indoor environment undergo analysis for pollutants. In this process, air sampling pumps draw air through filters or sorbent materials. Afterward, the filters or sorbent materials get analyzed for pollutants such as particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemicals. Air sampling is useful for identifying sources of indoor air pollution and determining the extent of indoor air contamination.

Surface Sampling

Surface sampling is also one of the IAQ testing methods. This method involves collecting samples from surfaces in the indoor environment, such as walls, floors, and furniture. Swabs and wipes, as well as tape, collect samples of dust or other particulate matter. The samples can then undergo analysis for pollutants such as lead, asbestos, and other chemicals. Surface sampling is useful for identifying sources of contamination and determining the extent of contamination on surfaces.

Bulk Sampling

Bulk sampling is a method of IAQ testing that collects samples of dust from indoor environments. A vacuum cleaner with a special filter accomplishes this task, however, wiping surfaces with a special cloth gets results as well. The samples can then undergo examination for pollutants such as lead, asbestos, and other chemicals. Dust sampling is useful for identifying sources of contamination and determining the extent of contamination on surfaces.

Which IAQ Testing Method is Best?

It’s worth noting that the choice of sampling method may depend on the specific indoor contaminants being tested for. As well, the nature of the indoor environment being sampled is a consideration. Professional sampling and analysis services are available to help building owners and facilities managers assess and address indoor air quality concerns.

These are brief explanations of just a few common IAQ testing methods. Rest assured, our Building Sciences team follows comprehensive guidelines as outlined by leading NGOs and agencies like the EPA.

WTI – Pure Air Building Sciences

It is the duty of building owners, facility managers, and other professionals to ensure to provide a safe and healthy environment. This is true for office buildings and schools as well as medical facilities and gyms. At WTI – Pure Air, we resolve potentially expensive IAQ issues successfully and affordably. Doing so requires timely information. Also, attention to detail and a team member who respects your facility as is also needed. That means you need a firm that specializes in IAQ testing methods too.

Our Building Sciences suite of services provides expert advice in conducting building evaluations, and forensic investigations, consulting on indoor air quality, IAQ testing methods, and providing expert witness testimony regarding the safety and energy efficiency of occupied spaces.

The Building Sciences staff have the technical consulting basis to implement affordable diagnostic and remedial techniques. This is thanks to our 25+ years of expertise in environmental consulting, project management, and IAQ testing methods.

As a part of these services, we provide a Building Health Check. This method evaluates the indoor environment based on HVAC zones. Our HVAC Conditions Assessment identifies the effect your HVAC system has on IAQ and the financial health of your facility.

Learn More About IAQ Testing Methods

To learn more about how WTI | Pure Air Control Services helps facilities managers test IAQ in their facilities, contact us today.