IAQ Testing Services

House dust is a part of everyday life, yet few people fully understand what it contains or how it can impact health. Far from simple dirt, it is a complex mixture of materials from indoor and outdoor environments, including soil particles, human skin cells, pet dander, textile fibers, pollen, mold spores, and microscopic organisms such as dust mites and their waste.

For many individuals, exposure to house dust can trigger allergic reactions, including sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, and skin irritation. For those with asthma, dust is a common trigger that can lead to coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or even asthma attacks.

Exposure depends on particle size and activity. Fine dust can become airborne and inhaled, while larger particles settle on surfaces and contact the skin. Hand-to-mouth contact is another pathway, especially for young children, increasing the risk of ingesting dust.

“In certain environments, especially older buildings, house dust may pose more serious health concerns,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Deteriorating lead-based paint can introduce harmful lead particles into dust, particularly dangerous for children. Likewise, damaged asbestos-containing materials can release microscopic fibers that pose long-term respiratory risks.”

EMSL Analytical offers comprehensive laboratory testing to identify what is present in house dust. Its advanced analysis can detect allergens and asthma triggers such as mold, pollen, and pet dander, along with hazardous substances including lead, asbestos fibers, and chemical contaminants. With easy-to-use sampling kits and expert support, EMSL delivers clear insights to help identify risks so that correct actions can be taken. They have even sponsored an educational video about house dust which is available at: https://youtu.be/orAieRq6vcc

To learn more about dust and other indoor environmental quality testing resources, visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com. For access to test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.