The air quality testing experts at AirMD are often asked about the advisability of burning candles in the home – especially this time of year. That’s because the warm glow of a burning candle is something many people associate with the holidays, whether the candles are set in a menorah or are the centerpiece of a Christmas dinner table.

From a personal perspective, we love the charm of candlelight as much as anyone, but as a science-based environmental testing company, we know there is more to the issue than charm. 

So, should you be concerned about burning candles this holiday season? Probably not, but let’s address two of the biggest possible hazards. 

Lead Wicks

If you have read alarming reports about candles with lead wicks releasing harmful toxins into the air, don’t worry. Unless you have been hoarding candles made before Neil Armstrong landed on the moon, lead wicks shouldn’t be a concern. 

“Most candle manufacturers stopped using lead in their candles in the 1970s. Due to concerns that fumes could cause lead poisoning, especially in children, lead-containing candles were removed from the market,” Healthline reports.

Any lingering questions were put to rest in 2003, when the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the sale of metal cored candlewicks containing lead and candles with such wicks.

Petroleum-Based Wax

“Most modern candles are made from paraffin wax. This type of wax is made from petroleum as a by-product of making gasoline,” Healthline says. 

Does burning paraffin wax release chemicals into the air that could be harmful? The evidence is inconclusive. If you want to err on the side of caution, look for candles made from natural substances like beeswax or soy. 

Even if our holiday gatherings are a little smaller this year due to the pandemic, you can be sure that candles will be burning on holiday tables across the country – and we don’t think that’s a problem. 

There are enough challenges to our merry making this year, and if lighting a candle in the dark of a winter night brings you comfort and peace or conjures a memory of a happier time, we say go for it! 

All of us at AirMD, one of the most respected indoor air quality testing companies, wish you and yours a happy and healthy holiday.

The post Are Holiday Candles Harmful to Indoor Air Quality? appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

It’s always nice to be able to share the joys of the holidays with friends and family – including the four-legged members of your family. But what are you going to do if one of your friends or a family has pet allergies? Air MD’s specialists can provide a thorough environmental testing, but when it comes to testing for allergens in your home your guests’ noses may provide an adequate indoor air test!

Thanks to the folks at Realtor.com, we have some advice that may be helpful in preparing your house for a visit from people with pet allergies.

Of course, if you’d rather not set a place at the table for Cousin Ralph who is allergic to your lovely cats and who always talks about his prostate – loudly, please feel free to ignore this advice from your friends at AirMD, an air quality testing and mold testing company in Boca Raton with more than 10 years of experience in environmental testing – and with large families of our own.

Cleaning Tips If You Have Pets

If you have allergy-prone guests coming this holiday season, you’ll definitely want to get out the vacuum, dust cloth and sanitizer and give your house a good cleaning. According to Realtor.com you may also want to try these tips to make sure your guests will be comfortable:

• Give Fido a Bath Bathing your pet can reduce that amount of allergens – but only temporarily. You would have to be giving your dog – or if you’re very brave, your cat – a bath every 2 or 3 days to keep things under control in the long term.
• Chill Out! Close the windows and turn on the a/c. You may think that the open windows will help clear the air, but they will also raise the humidity levels in your house – especially if you live in South Florida. Andrew S. Kim, medical director of Allergy & Asthma Centers in Virginia told Realtor.com, “Higher numbers of airborne allergens are found in homes with high humidity.”

If there’s anything that the indoor air quality experts at AirMD can do to help make your holidays happier, please contact us.

The post Offer Holiday Guests a Healthy Welcome with these Tips to Help You Pass the Home Allergen Test appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

Temperature and humidity are two important parameters that affect thermal comfort, which in turn may cause potential problems to your indoor air quality.

Relative humidity levels below 25% are associated with increased discomfort and drying of the mucous membranes and skin. On the other end of the spectrum, high humidity levels (>60%) may result in condensation within the building structure and on interior or exterior surfaces. This may lead to the subsequent development of mold.

ASHRAE Standard 55-2009, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, presents guidelines that are intended to achieve thermal conditions that at least 80% of the occupants would find acceptable or comfortable. ASHRAE specifies a range between 25% and 60% as ideal.

Managing the relationship between temperature and humidity will control thermal comfort within the space and reduce the potential for the presence of biological contaminants including mold. Finding the right balance between the two is important. Mold contamination can cause health issues including respiratory problems, allergies, eye, nose and throat irritations. Indoor mold contamination in your home or workplace may be undetected until symptoms appear.

AirMD’s team of environmental consultants are equipped to assess whether or not your temperature and humidity levels are in harmony with each other for a healthier indoor quality environment.

On site, AirMD consultants will:

Determine if moisture is present in building materials;

Check for any evidence of high or low temperatures;

Check for local sources of heating or cooling;

Ensure that there is a balanced air distribution network;

Look for any obstruction of air circulation, among other key pieces of evidence.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please explore our website here at www.airmd.com

The post BALANCING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

The widespread use of asbestos started because of its excellent insulation capabilities. It is found in many products, including sprayed-on fire proofing and insulation in buildings, insulation for pipes and boilers, wall and ceiling insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, putties, caulks, cements, roofing shingles, brake linings and clutch pads.

If left undisturbed, asbestos does not pose a danger. It becomes hazardous when we breathe in the asbestos fibers that are released in the air. These fibers get trapped in the mucous membranes of the nose and throat where they can be removed. However, if they pass deep into the lungs, or swallowed, into the digestive tract, health problems may arise. Asbestos fibers are very difficult to destroy. Once these fibers get stuck in the lung or body tissues, the human body cannot break them down.

Asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma are the three primary diseases associated with asbestos. Children are more likely prone to developing mesothelioma whey they inhale asbestos. Schools over the years have taken possible exposure to asbestos seriously and implemented measures to prevent children from being affected.

The main concern relating to materials that contain asbestos is friability. When asbestos becomes friable, the likelihood for an exposure increases. When materials in the home, office, or any other building begin to degrade or any renovations, demolition or construction is to occur, an asbestos survey must be conducted to ensure no material that contains asbestos is disturbed. Asbestos regulation is implemented and enforced at both Federal and State levels. In fact, a current asbestos survey is required prior to any demolition or renovation made to a commercial or multi-unit residential property in every state as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is crucial to seek out certified and trained professionals like AirMD to test for asbestos.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please explore our website here at www.airmd.com

The post Asbestos 101 appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

The hospital experienced interior damage due to record rainfall where the roof system failed. AirMD was retained to identify the damage present and to develop a remediation protocol to correct the issues. Concerns for patient care, ICU, and the operating rooms were key factors considered in the project. AirMD produced a report of findings and a remediation protocol to the hospital’s CEO, Board of Directors, and state officials.

Throughout the United States, a current asbestos survey is required by the EPA prior to the demolition or renovation of any commercial or multi-unit residential property. Before the remediation work commenced at the hospital, AirMD conducted a hazard assessment of the building by doing an asbestos survey of the building materials that would be disturbed during remediation. Asbestos was detected in the building and an abatement protocol to remove the contents from the building was initiated.

This specific project is ongoing. Once the remediation work is completed, AirMD will conduct post remediation clearance testing to ensure all issues have been properly resolved.

AirMD’s highly-qualified team of microbiologists, industrial hygienists, bacteriologists, mycologists, aerobiologists, environmental scientists and toxicologists have seen it all. No case is too straightforward or complex for our experienced team.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please explore our website here at www.airmd.com

The post Case Study: South Carolina Hospital appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

The results of poor indoor air quality not only cause health issues, but may adversely affect worker productivity. Furthermore, in some extreme cases, the threat of potential litigation from occupants and employees is a major concern for companies.

To create a healthier and more productive working environment for employees, we urge companies to integrate a system for continuous indoor air quality monitoring. At AirMD, our team of certified scientists has formulated a detailed IAQ Environmental Management System to educate business owners, building owners, and management about indoor environmental conditions and to reduce potential liability in commercial office spaces.

The benefits of implementing AirMD’s IAQ Environmental Management System include:

• Reduced likelihood of lawsuits
• Reduced potential for OSHA complaints
• Lower workmen’s compensation costs
• Reduced potential litigation costs
• Potential increase in property values
• Reduced absenteeism
• Increased worker productivity

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please explore our website right here at www.airmd.com

The post Proactive Vs. Reactive appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

We’ve selected our TOP 10 quick and natural tips that you can easily start implementing. Turn these tips into good habits because being consistent is a must for improved and long-term good quality indoor air. Better yet, our tips are cost-effective so you don’t have to break the bank making your home environment safer and cleaner.

Besides these helpful tips, we recommend you get a detailed assessment of your current indoor living environment. Knowing the status of your environment will enable you to take the appropriate measures to improve your family’s health and quality of life. AirMD provides environmental consulting services and offers a Residential Evaluation to assess the overall condition of your indoor home environment. Testing can include measuring moisture levels, airborne particles, volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), and much more. Our Residential Evaluation is a comprehensive first step toward creating a cleaner healthier home for your family. Upon completion of the analysis, AirMD’s team of scientists and experts will issue a written report enclosed with the test findings and recommendations.

Be INFORMED and PROACTIVE. Don’t wait, get started with our TOP 10 tips!

Tip 1: No smoking indoors. Tobacco smoke contains a plethora of indoor pollutants at high levels of concentration, so keep those cigarettes outside at all times.

Tip 2: Add greenery. 
Plants take the three most harmful indoor toxins and produce clean air. Some plants are natural purifiers, including Bamboo, Aloe Vera, Boston Fern, the English Ivy, and Garden Mums to name a few.This is a great solution for both at home and the office.

Tip 3: Clean your AC and dehumidifier frequently. Easy to forget, but these filters do need maintenance and upkeep. Also, make sure you are monitoring the humidity level on your dehumidifier so that it reads below 50% at all times. 

Tip 4: Remove carpets. They may add style to your interior living spaces, but carpets trap unhealthy particles.  If you can’t let go of your carpets, then vacuum often to keep them as pollutant-free as possible.

Tip 5: Get comfy and go barefoot. Shoes capture dust and dirt so take them off before entering your home. Plus, you’ll be more comfortable in your own home.

Tip 6: Wash your bedding in scorching water at least once a week. In doing so, you are reducing the exposure to allergens, including dust mites. It’s scary to think what could be creeping in our bedrooms, so use that washing machine and dryer as much as you can.

Tip 7: Air out your dry-cleaning. Dry-cleaning solvents are strong, hence toxic. To avoid bringing in the toxicity, let your clothes dry outside for a bit before hanging them up in your closet.

Tip 8: Look for products with “low VOCs.” Volatile organic compounds are found in many daily items we use, including cleaning and hair products, candles, and art supplies to name a few. Select low-emitting products with a third-party certified organization.

Tip 9: Cook with an open kitchen window. It’s always a good idea to have some natural ventilation flowing by opening windows to let the air in. Get into this habit by always cooking with an open kitchen window. 

Tip 10: Ventilate the bathroom. After you shower, ventilate the bathroom because the fans help reduce moisture.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please explore our website right here at www.airmd.com

The post Natural + Easy Tips for Improved Indoor Air Quality appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

Apart from visibly damaging your interior living and working spaces, various reports have arisen in recent years linking the potential threat mold has on human health. Simply said, mold produces harmful toxic substances. These substances may be harmful to everyone, regardless of health status.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stated that symptoms may even occur in people with no mold allergies or other allergic tendencies. Symptoms include blocked nose, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy throat, and sneezing. Individuals with asthma will have their existing respiratory issues exacerbated and those with specific blood disorders could even experience fatal complications by breathing in moldy air.

Another big concern is our children. They are considered a sensitive group if exposed to mold inhalation as this could lead to the development of asthma and other respiratory problems.

AirMD, along with the EPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), call for immediate action in remediating the mold that is found in any indoor space. To insure the containment and prevention of mold growth in emergency situations, testing and remediation procedures should be activated within 48 hours of the cause. However, if you are not even aware of any water damage, but suspect mold growth due to a musty odor, you need to have mold testing and inspection completed as a first step to rectify the problem for improved indoor air quality.

AirMD provides comprehensive testing and consulting services customized for each and every case to determine the most effective solutions. An AirMD certified report identifying any mold related issues, the laboratory results and a detailed remediation protocol is sent within 3 business days.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting nationwide.

Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, please browse our website right here at www.airmd.com

The post Conquer Mold to Avoid Health Issues appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

It is imperative to rapidly take measures to ensure our children are healthy and that their growth is not negatively impacted, leading to near and long term issues.

Chemicals in the air, water, foods, and household products we intake daily are major causes for concern. The average American spends between 80 to 90 percent of their time indoors. However, most of us never think of what’s actually floating in the air that we breathe day in and day out. These toxic chemicals are invisible, making them easy to forget, but they are always lurking if nothing is done to mitigate them. Project TENDR has singled out specific pesticides, flame retardants, lead, phthalates, and combustion-related air pollutants.

AirMD provides environmental consulting services and offers a Residential Evaluation to assess the overall condition of your indoor home environment. Testing can include measuring moisture levels, airborne particles, volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), and much more. Our Residential Evaluation is a comprehensive first step toward creating a cleaner healthier home for your family.  Upon completion of the analysis, AirMD’s team of scientists and experts will issue a written report enclosed with the test findings and recommendations on the effective methods to take to make sure your indoor quality environment is an ideal one for your children to thrive and be healthy. It’s time for us all to be INFORMED and PROACTIVE.

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AirMD provides comprehensive environmental consulting services nationwide. Call us at 1-888-GO AIRMD with any of your indoor environmental questions and concerns, or to schedule an appointment with one of our consultants

For more information, we invite you to please explore our website right here at www.airmd.com

The post Parents, Be Aware of the Invisible Dangers Lurking in Your Home appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

Many are unaware of the role the household can play in an asthma flare-up. That is why having professional, indoor air quality testing is an intelligent decision that will benefit the entire family, especially children who have difficulty in asthmatic situations.

Allergens
Your home may appear modern and beautiful inside, but there could be potential hidden probems. Every home needs good indoor air quality, and these common allergens can all provoke asthma issues:

• Pet Dander
• Pollen
• Dust Particles
• Dust mites
• Cockroach allergens
• Rodent allergens

Mold
Mold is considered another common household problem that can cause severe asthma symptoms. Many people are allergic to mold spores and fungi that travel through the air, settling in damp areas of a room like the bathroom, kitchen and basement. People inhale the spores, and they can lodge in the lungs.

Experts who are skilled in indoor air quality testing can investigate the moldy areas through several methods:

• Visual Inspection
• Air and Surface Sampling
• Moisture Measurements
• Testing Air Ducts and Filters

Pesticides
Whenever there are common pesticides used indoors or outdoors to control insects, the chemicals can pose a serious health concern, especially for those with breathing problems like asthma and bronchitis.

These chemicals can contaminate the HVAC system and then spread through the interior of the home, settling on furniture, rugs, clothing and more.

A professional environmental testing company can determine the hazardous level of these pesticides and plan a course of action.

Everyone wants to enjoy living in their home in the most healthy manner, and indoor air quality testing is the only way to be sure. AirMD is a national leader in creating healthy indoor environments. Call them today, and let them help you breathe easier.

To ask an AirMD scientist a question please Click Here or to schedule an appointment call 1-888-462-4763 or 1-888-GO-AIRMD

The post Asthma Triggers appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.