Experience allows us to evaluate Businesses, Homes, Apartments, and Condominiums by using guidelines put forth by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). AMS tests air for mold, bacteria, and yeast.

AMS is able to analyze viable or non-viable samples. Spore “trap” samples such as Versa-trap or Air-O-Cell cassettes can be submitted for the characterization of the mold spores present, without culturing. Besides spores, pollen and other items associated with air quality can be quantified from these samples as well.

The ACGIH has indicated that 10,000 microbial contaminants per cubic meter of air should not to be tolerated. Experience indicates that viable mold counts above 1,000 tend to be a good indication of impending problems. Outside air usually has living mold in the range of 200 to 800 CFU/M3. Healthy indoor levels are most often at or below those of nearby outdoor levels.

Microbial 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. Depending on the materials, the interior surfaces may have extensive growth and show no external contamination. Generally, this type of contamination is more disseminated throughout a building than that caused by pipe leaks. Air samples from various rooms can demonstrate this type of problem for both bacteria and fungus

Although there is no definitive moisture content necessary to cause growth, molds need the least amount of water. Something as simple as repetitive moisture condensation on wallboard can be enough to sustain the growth process. Condensation in air ducts or out of control humidifiers can be a source of microbial contamination as well. See our mold page for more information on these organisms and how they grow.

We at AMS are not health professionals, so please consult a medical doctor for all matters relating to health, illness, or disease. Any information contained on this website, or on AMS analytical reports or literature, should only be considered in consultations with appropriate health professionals.