Soil vapor intrusion (SVI) is an environmental issue that has gained considerable attention in recent years. Awareness and education have been raised after train derailments like in East Palestine, Ohio in 2023, which brought unfortunate but crucial attention to the threat that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose when released through toxic plumes.

Soil vapor intrusion occurs when volatile chemicals in contaminated soil or groundwater migrate into indoor air spaces of buildings, posing potential health risks to occupants in residential and commercial properties.

What is Soil Vapor Intrusion?

Soil vapor intrusion refers to the process by which volatile organic compounds (VOCs), certain semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), and other hazardous gases seep from contaminated soil or groundwater through cracks in foundations, basements, or slabs into the indoor air of nearby homes or buildings. Common vapor-forming contaminants can include petroleum products, industrial solvents, pesticides, and radon. Train derailments aren’t the only potential source of these contaminants, others include gas stations, dry cleaners, industrial areas, and factories.

Health Implications

The health risks associated with soil vapor intrusion largely depend on the type and concentration of the contaminants, as well as the duration of exposure. Short-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can lead to headaches, dizziness, respiratory irritation, and eye irritation. Symptoms associated with short-term exposure are typically temporary and go away once vapors are addressed.

Long-term exposure to chemicals, especially to carcinogenic VOCs like benzene, vinyl chloride, or trichloroethylene, may pose different health risks and increase the likelihood of cancer, neurological disorders, liver and kidney damage, and reproductive effects.

Assessing Soil Vapor Intrusion

It’s critical that vapor intrusion sampling and testing be performed by knowledgeable environmental professionals familiar with TO-15 methods and protocols. SanAir’s Centek division has an extensive background in sampling and analyzing a broad range of air contaminants including volatile organic compounds. We have also worked throughout the United States conducting accredited vapor intrusion testing.

Our technical staff can modify our instrumentation according to your project’s needs to achieve low detection limits while maintaining the highest quality data for your vapor intrusion projects. We work with large conglomerates, government agencies, as well as smaller private firms and homeowners to ensure accurate, high-quality results promptly.

Assessment of soil vapor intrusion involves a multi-step process to identify potential sources of contamination. This can be conducted through historical site use analysis and examining the physical layout of the building and surrounding land or sampling and analysis by collecting soil samples.

Unlike soil samples, the surrounding soil does not need to be contaminated. The source can be off your property line, like a gas station with a leaking tank 1/10 of a mile away. An industrial plating or a dry-cleaning operation can be ½ mile away. If the solvent makes it to the water table and the table is flowing in the direction of your facility, gas vapors can settle under the sub-slab and migrate into your facility.

Indoor air samples, and sometimes groundwater samples are collected to analyze the types and concentrations of contaminants present as well. This allows for evaluation of the potential health risks based on the levels of contaminants found and the likelihood of exposure.

Independent Third-Party Soil Vapor Intrusion Testing

Soil vapor intrusion is a complex environmental issue that requires careful assessment and management to protect public health. Understanding the mechanisms of SVI and recognizing potential risks are critical steps in addressing this challenge. Property owners, environmental professionals, and regulatory agencies must collaborate to monitor and manage soil vapor intrusion, ensuring safe indoor air quality for all occupants.

Environmental professionals who need cost-effective independent third-party testing that enables agile sampling in the field and delivers stringent detection limit results can contact us at 1-888-895-1177 to discuss indoor air quality and vapor intrusion identification needs.

Any contamination of a water source is a serious health threat, with lead exposure in tap water being one of the most concerning contaminants. Fortunately, the use of lead pipes, fixtures, and soldering materials was put to a cease in 1986, but there are existing service lines and plumbing fixtures in older homes that contain lead.

Why Was Lead Used?

Lead is easy to work with and is a durable metal making it a popular material for a range of plumbing uses. It was used in almost every major US city in 1900 for plumbing and service lines. By the 1930s copper became more common as the preferred piping material but it took another 50 years for lead to be banned in 1986.

It’s widely known that lead is harmful and has resulted in health crises making national headlines. The 2016 Flint, Michigan water crisis made headlines around the world as it was revealed that blood-lead levels in children (in areas where lead in water had increased) had nearly doubled since the city started pumping in drinking water from a new source without properly testing or treating it. The inadequate treatment and testing of the water resulted in a series of major water quality and health issues for Flint residents.

How Does Lead Get Into Water?

A common way lead enters water supplies is through existing lead plumbing materials, including faucets, fixtures, and solder. In some cities, older pipes still exist that have never been replaced.

Common sources of lead in plumbing include:

• Service lines that contain lead. The service lines are the pipes that connect homes to the water main in the street.
• Solder joints that contain lead. Solder is a metal alloy that securely connects pipes in household plumbing.
• Faucets and valves containing lead. As recently as 2014 regulations allowed manufacturers to use significant amounts of lead in the construction of faucets, valves, and other plumbing fixtures.

Corrosion of Lead Plumbing

Corrosion of the lead plumbing components is a chemical reaction that occurs between water and the lead fixtures. As the pipes corrode, small pieces flake off and contaminate the water source. Water that has high acidity and certain minerals can increase the likelihood of corrosion.

Other factors that can exacerbate lead contamination include water temperature, age and wear of the plumbing fixtures, and the length of time water sits stagnant in the pipes.

How Lead Exposure Affects Health

Lead is a naturally occurring metal that has been found to cause permanent, disabling health effects when it enters the body. Exposure can happen from eating lead chips, ingesting contaminated food or water, or breathing in lead dust.

Lead exposure can be serious and life-threatening to anyone. Adults with lead poisoning can experience high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, difficulty with memory or concentration, and harm to reproductive health. When children are exposed, symptoms can include irritability, weight loss, abdominal pain, fatigue, vomiting, and seizures.

It doesn’t take high levels of exposure to cause serious health concerns. Low exposure to lead can cause brain development issues over time. High levels can cause nervous system and kidney damage in adults and children.

Trusted and Accurate Environmental Testing

Our state-of-the-art labs ensure accurate tests are conducted expeditiously. For quick shipment of materials and reliable results, contact SanAir Technologies Laboratory at 1-888-895-1177 or fill out our online customer order form. Our experts have two decades of experience and will be happy to walk you through the process.

The effects of indoor air quality and the importance of LEED air quality testing have emerged as crucial players in ensuring healthier living and working spaces. LEED testing is also an important element of responsible business practices since buildings have a direct impact on the environment. During construction, occupancy, and renovation, buildings use energy, water, and materials, and all of the waste products can impact the indoor environment.

LEED-certified buildings are a crucial part of addressing climate change and meeting environmental goals, enhancing resilience, and supporting more equitable communities. LEED is a holistic system that doesn’t just focus on a singular building element, such as energy, water, or health. Instead, it looks at the entire picture, factoring in all critical elements that work together to be as sustainable as possible.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has emerged as a key component in an era where environmental consciousness takes center stage. It is a globally recognized symbol representing sustainable, forward-thinking building practices.

Personal and environmental effects of air quality

Air quality in buildings can be negatively affected by factors such as poor ventilation, aging building materials, renovation projects, and improper maintenance of systems. When poor indoor air quality is present, it can lead to a slew of health issues, from respiratory problems to fatigue and decreased productivity.

LEED air quality testing is essential for healthier air and establishes better indoor air quality through the use of environmentally friendly materials and efficient ventilation systems. This protects the health of occupants and enhances the overall comfort and productivity of the space.

Businesses and organizations increasingly recognize the long-term benefits of investing in LEED certification including the well-being of all occupants. There are various versions of LEED testing, the most recent addition being LEED v4.

The new requirements are conducted after construction and before occupancy, with the ventilation conditions expected during occupancy. The testing is conducted using baseline IAQ protocols consistent with established methods that we have available on our website.

Industries that will benefit from LEED

Any organization or building owner that wants to ensure sustainable, environmentally responsible conditions would be an ideal candidate for indoor air quality testing and certification. LEED-certified buildings are designed and constructed with a focus on energy savings, water efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and ultimately, improved indoor air quality.

LEED IAQ testing gives building owners proven baseline data for pre-occupancy conditions that can be used to take steps to measure and enhance indoor air quality. This identifies potential contaminants such as particulates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and allows for proper precautions and action to be taken to mitigate any risks.

The industry benefits of LEED certification cannot be overstated. They include being amongst the leaders in innovation and responsible practices and increased value of property along with decreased operating costs. When considering risk mitigation, IAQ documentation, and environmental factors, these advantages benefit virtually any building pursuing LEED testing.

Our cost-effective sustainable air quality testing program

When should you assess air quality, after the construction process or during occupancy? The answer is best left to the professionals. SanAir Laboratories Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to an accurate, dependable process with fast results. Call us at 1-888-895-1177 or contact us online to speak to an expert about your environmental testing needs. Qualified customers can receive expedited materials with free shipping.

Asbestos was once hailed for its fireproofing and insulating properties until it emerged that it poses significant health risks. Its fibers, when disturbed and inhaled, can lead to severe respiratory issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Despite regulations and awareness, asbestos remains a concern in the United States as it’s still found in older homes and buildings, and used in certain industries like manufacturing.

While the use of asbestos has significantly declined in the US since its peak in the 1970s, the mineral is still used today. It lingers in older buildings, infrastructure, and various products manufactured before its regulations. Renovation or demolition of these structures can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing a risk to workers and inhabitants.

How common is asbestos today?

Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals, was widely utilized in the mid-20th century in various building materials due to its fire-resistant and insulating ability. When it was discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to severe health issues such as mesothelioma, regulatory action was taken. Since the early 1970s, asbestos use has declined and mining for it has ceased in the United States as of 2002.

The presence of asbestos in older buildings built before the material was banned poses an ongoing challenge. Often, these structures contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, and other building materials, presenting a danger to those within the premises.

Asbestos is no longer produced in significant quantities in the US. However, certain products that are imported might still contain traces of asbestos, such as brake pads, gaskets, roofing materials, cement pipes, and insulation.

Take action to lessen the risk of exposure to asbestos

This is why testing is critical along with knowing the areas or products it can be found in, and what to do if exposed. Mitigating the risks associated with asbestos involves various strategies. Regular inspections and assessments to identify asbestos are crucial. Encapsulation and proper maintenance of asbestos-containing materials, when removal is not feasible, can prevent the release of harmful fibers.

The ultimate goal is the complete eradication of asbestos from structures to safeguard the health of present and future generations. This requires ongoing advocacy for stricter regulations and comprehensive, transparent communication regarding the presence and management of asbestos.

Concerns involving asbestos

The battle against asbestos-related health risks continues. Advocacy groups push for stricter regulations and complete bans on asbestos, while scientists and medical professionals work on improved detection methods and treatments for asbestos-related diseases.

Though the use of asbestos has greatly reduced in the US, its presence in older buildings and certain products persists as a concern. The potential health risks associated with exposure to asbestos fibers remain a valid worry, highlighting the necessity for continued vigilance, stringent regulations, and heightened awareness to protect individuals from its detrimental effects.

Asbestos might not be at the forefront of discussions as it once was, but it still demands ongoing attention and proactive measures to ensure a safer environment for all.

Accredited Laboratory Testing

If you require testing and have any questions about the process, we are here to help. Our professional staff will ensure you receive the customer care you and your family deserve as well as reliable test results. Call us at 1-888-895-1177 to speak to an expert about your air quality testing needs or visit us online.