Microbiology Identification
SanAir operates a state-of-the-art microbiological analysis laboratory. We are equipped to analyze viable and non-viable air, bulk, and direct surface samples. We can identify more than 700 contaminants including mold, fungi, bacteria, and non-microbial particulates.
Mold and bacteria can lurk in work, school, and home environments virtually without warning. Determining whether and to what extent a home, work or school environment has indoor air quality issues necessitates locating a remediation professional trained in handling viable and non-viable mold and bacteria.
SanAir’s Microbiology Analysis Laboratory is equipped to analyze viable and non-viable air, bulk, and direct surface samples. Unlike some other environmental firms, our laboratory analysts read the entire sample – not just a sample of a sample providing greater assurance of accurate and reliable results.
When needed we develop custom sampling protocols based on specific client needs, for either individual or any combination of microbiological constituents.
Health Impacts
Chronically ill health, including Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), Lyme disease, and other forms of systemic inflammation, is a frequent byproduct of unhealthy living situations.
Unhealthy living environments arise from a range of circumstances, including:
- Water from floods, leaks, and moisture in basements and bathrooms
- Asbestos contamination in attics (vermiculite insulation), old plaster, flame-retardant pipe covering, asbestos vinyl sheet flooring unearthed through remodeling
- Non-encapsulated crawl spaces (vapor intrusion)
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from carpets, paints, spray foam insulation
- Lead paint and lead pipes in older structures
- Heavy metals
Viable Air Sample Analysis
Viable Air Sample Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of fungi and bacteria using Andersen impaction or filtration air sampling techniques and viable culturing methods. Reports include identification to the genus and/or species level, calculated values representing colony forming units per cubic meter of sampled air, and visual comparison of outdoor versus indoor microbial concentrations. Contact us for help with sampling protocols.
Total Air Analysis
Total Air Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of fungal spores and environmental particles using direct light microscopy methods. Reports include identification to the genus level, calculated values representing spore and particle concentration per cubic meter of sampled air, and visual comparison of outdoor versus indoor microbial concentrations.
Direct Microscopy Analysis
Direct Microscopy Analysis includes qualitative assessment of fungi using direct light microscopy methods. Samples may include tape preps, bulk material, swabs, filter cassettes, or contact plates. Reports include identification to genus.
Viable Bulk or Swab Analysis
Viable Bulk or Swab Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of bulk material and surface swabs for fungal or bacterial content. Reports include identification to genus or if possible the species level, and calculated values representing colony forming units per gram for bulk material and colony forming units per square inch for swab samples.
Analytical Services
Viable Air Sample Analysis
Viable Air Sample Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of fungi and bacteria using Andersen impaction or filtration air sampling techniques and viable culturing methods. Reports include identification to the genus and/or species level, calculated values representing colony forming units per cubic meter of sampled air, and visual comparison of outdoor versus indoor microbial concentrations. Contact us for help with sampling protocols.
Total Air Analysis
Total Air Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of fungal spores and environmental particles using direct light microscopy methods. Reports include identification to the genus level, calculated values representing spore and particle concentration per cubic meter of sampled air, and visual comparison of outdoor versus indoor microbial concentrations.
Direct Microscopy Analysis
Direct Microscopy Analysis includes qualitative assessment of fungi using direct light microscopy methods. Samples may include tape preps, bulk material, swabs, filter cassettes, or contact plates. Reports include identification to genus.
Viable Bulk or Swab Analysis
Viable Bulk or Swab Analysis includes quantitative and qualitative assessment of bulk material and surface swabs for fungal or bacterial content. Reports include identification to genus or if possible the species level, and calculated values representing colony forming units per gram for bulk material and colony forming units per square inch for swab samples.
Analysis Types
Culture Analyses
SanAir’s culture analyses protocols include a variety of agar plates specifically suited to meet client requirements, including;
Malt Extract Agar (MEA)
One plate, or two plates for additional accuracy, for the isolation of environmental fungi while inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Plates are incubated at room temperature (~26°C)
Blood Agar (BAP)
(Tryptic Soy Agar + 5% sheep blood) for the isolation of environmental and human commensal bacteria. (Incubated at 35°C)
MacConkey Agar (MAC)
For the isolation of environmental, human commensal and coliform gram negative bacteria. (Incubated at 35°C)
Viable Analyses
Viable Air Sampling
The Viable Air Sampling Protocol utilizes several methods based on Andersen-style impaction sampling as well as Via-Cell cassettes. Sampling procedures should include a field blank and representative outdoor sample(s) for comparison with indoor samples. Multiple samples per site are recommended for representative results. Sampling protocols selected should best represent the individual needs of the client. A five to 10 day turnaround time for cultured biological specimens is standard to provide accurate identifications and results.
Viable Bulk Sampling
Bulk samples such as insulation, wallboard, textiles and carpeting are analyzed at SanAir by serial dilution culture methods. They can be tested for fungi and bacteria.
Viable Swab Surface Sampling
Swab surface samples are analyzed by serial dilution culture methods. Swab samples can be tested for fungi and bacteria. Swabs are available for purchase from SanAir.
Non-Viable Analyses
Air Cassette Sampling
SanAir analyzes non-viable impaction style cassettes by direct light microscopy methods.
Surface Direct Sampling
Adhesive tape samples and bulk material can be tested for the presence of fungi by direct microscopy. Fungi can be identified to the genus level. Clear tape or a Bio-Tape™ is necessary for tape lift sampling.
Bio-Tape™ is registered trademarks of Zefon International. For more information contact Zefon at http://www.zefon.com/