News / Health & Wellness
Northeast Flood Waters Leave Behind Sewage and Toxin Pollutants
The receding flood waters are tainted with sewage and other toxins
More than 100, 000 people were served evacuation orders in the Northeast flood zone (Virginia to New York). At least 11 deaths are reported in this recent tragedy. Continuous rain and remnants of tropical storm Lee of 2011 hurricane season has severely affected rescue and rehabilitation. As a result of which local, state and federal government has declared a public emergency in these areas.
The receding flood waters are tainted with sewage and other toxins. Flood water is toxic and may contain a number of harmful microorganisms such as viruses, mycoplasma, bacteria, protozoa, molds and other detrimental remains of biological and a-biological pollutants.
Environmental air, bulk, surface, and liquid samples may be collected from the flooded area for bacterial and mold analysis. Result would be helpful in determining the microbial propagation as well as in decision making for remedial measure, if any. In the first phase, an economical Do It Yourself (DIY) method is appropriate to collect the samples for screening the microorganisms from the flooded environment. These samples can be tested by using culture or non-culture based methods. If you have elevated levels, consult with an indoor environmental professional.
Dr. Rajiv Sahay, CIAQP, FIAS
Laboratory Director
EDLab at Pure Air Control Services
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About Environmental Diagnostics laboratory (EDLab):
Alan Wozniak founded Pure Air Control Services, Inc. in 1984 as a small mechanical contracting firm and has since set the industry standard for indoor environmental quality diagnosis, environmental laboratory and remediation. Pure Air Control Services has serviced more than 600 million square feet of indoor environments in over 10,000 facilities.
The Environmental Diagnostics Laboratory (EDLab) (established in 1992) at Pure Air Control Services (PACS) is an AIHA accredited environmental lab offering complete and comprehensive indoor environmental microbiology laboratory services. They include: microbiology, aerobiology, chemistry, allergen assays and microscopy designed to meet all your indoor air needs. EDLab supports IAQ investigations by assisting with strategic sampling plan development and supplying media collection equipment while performing a wide range of environmental analyses.
