Since the energy crisis in the 1970’s, energy efficient buildings have been designed to prevent central air and heat from escaping. These airtight buildings save energy but lacking sufficient ventilation, may sacrifice the indoor air quality (IAQ) in an office environment.

IAQ problems can be cause by a variety of factors such as faulty or malfunctioning ventilation systems, ventilation systems that are being operated in a manner that is inconsistent with its original design, overcrowding or microbial contamination from substances like mold, chemicals in carpeting and treated wood, dust mites, and toxins from painted walls.

In some cases, buildings have such high levels of indoor contaminants that long-term exposure can cause health problems, known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).

Indoor Air Quality Services

FOH professionals, including Certified Industrial Hygienists and Professional Engineers, are available to conduct a diagnostic evaluation of your office environment. An evaluation of an IAQ issue may involve the following:

• A walk through audit and assessment of your facility.
• Monitoring of the facility’s heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit - to determine airflow, temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide levels.
• Air and surface samples can be collected to determine if suspected contaminants are present.
• Sample analysis conducted “in house” at our state-of-the-art, fully accredited, microbial laboratory in Philadelphia, PA., one of FOH Environmental reference laboratories
• An employee IAQ questionnaire implemented to identify statistical trends. Medical testing, physical exams and employee interviews conducted by and Occupational Physician. All registered health complaints are evaluated in strict confidence.
• Clinical and epidemiological data analysis
• Tenant briefings
• Written report of findings and recommendations

• Remediation of fungal growth
• Cleanup of affected areas or furniture
• Suggestions for the proper operation of the HVAC system
• Suggestions for work practices aimed at reducing outdoor air pollutants that may be infiltrating the building
• Post evaluation and monitoring to assure good indoor air quality is maintained