Storm & Flood Damage Testing Services

Recently, catastrophic flash floods have struck several parts of South-Central Texas, resulting in more than 130 deaths. The worst of the damage took place in “Flash Flood Alley”, which has a long history of flooding due to the region’s steep slopes, rocky ground, and narrow riverbeds that react quickly in heavy rainfall. The flooding continued throughout the month as the floodwater followed the river south. Officials believe the flooding is not over, as more downstream communities could be put in harm’s way.

Once the floodwaters finally recede, area residents will have the daunting task of cleaning and drying out their properties.  People are being warned that standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms such as endotoxin, viruses, bacteria and mold. Flooding can also introduce chemical pollutants into the home. Many of these contaminants can become airborne during cleanup and rebuilding efforts.  If inhaled, they could cause disease or trigger asthma and allergic reactions in some people.

“It’s vital for Texas residents to begin drying out their properties as soon as it is safe to do so,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “The process can take time and the growth of microorganisms will continue as long as there is moisture or high humidity levels in the property.  If the building is not dried out properly, a musty odor, signifying growth of microorganisms can remain long after the flood.  During the cleanup process, people also need to be aware of other potential hazards such as lead-based paints and asbestos that can be found in some older properties”.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. operates industrial hygiene and environmental, health, and safety (EHS) laboratories across North America. The company offers laboratory testing services, sampling supplies, user-friendly test kits, monitoring instruments, inspection tools, personal protective equipment, and other resources designed to help organizations identify chemical, microbial, radiological, and physical hazards. These tools enable employers and safety professionals to evaluate workplace conditions, mitigate exposure risks, and help create safer work environments.

EMSL has a laboratory located in Houston that is open, serving businesses and residents impacted by the floodwaters.  It offers asbestos, mold, water, lead, and other analytical services associated with water damage remediation. EMSL’s Houston laboratory can be reached at 1-866-318-3920.  EMSL has also sponsored a video about flood cleanup and indoor air quality issues that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/3Q1tnHFkPF0.

 

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.