Poor indoor air quality is a common cause of headaches, congestion and other health issues at Dallas-Fort Worth businesses. To protect employees and customers, scheduling regular indoor air quality inspections is recommended. However, knowing when it’s the right time to test won’t always be clear. So when you’re concerned about contaminants in the workplace, it’s crucial to identify the key signs that you need an inspection.
Does Your Business Need an Indoor Air Quality Inspection?
Indoor air quality inspections measure environmental conditions, contaminants, particulate matter and other parameters in the workplace. Here are the common signals that you could benefit from an assessment.
Employees Are Experiencing Health Issues
If multiple employees experience similar health symptoms that improve when away from the workplace, indoor air quality could be to blame. Common symptoms include a runny nose, persistent headaches, coughing, dizziness, fatigue and shortness of breath. Employers can ask team members to report issues, including the location and time of the symptomatic event(s).
Musty or Unusual Odors in the Workplace
When investigating workplace odors, it’s important to note the specific type of odor to identify the underlying cause. Musty or earthy smells typically indicate mold growth or water-damaged materials, while solvent or chemical odors suggest volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from paints, adhesives or cleaning products. During an indoor air quality inspection, these and other odors are mapped to locations to identify their source.
Following Renovation or Construction Work
Renovation or construction work can lead to the release or disturbance of various contaminants. New paint may release VOCs, while airborne dust can cause respiratory issues. In older buildings, renovation work could also disturb asbestos. Because poor indoor air quality impacts breathing, you should be aware of unexplained health symptoms that are exacerbated at work.
Increased Dust or Poor Ventilation
Businesses with indoor air quality issues may notice dust accumulation even with regular cleaning. Additionally, the air might feel stuffy and condensation could form on the windows. During an indoor air quality inspection, professionals evaluate ventilation, dust levels and other factors that affect the comfort of the space.
Overdue Indoor Air Quality Assessment
Offices and retail stores should complete an indoor air quality inspection every 1–3 years, with more frequent testing for factories, laboratories and other spaces with a higher risk of pollutants. Regular visits can identify issues early and establish a baseline, making it easier to spot issues in the future.
Visible Mold or Water Damage
If you identify mold or staining on walls, indoor air quality testing can help determine if there is active mold growth, as well as assess water damage from recent or older leaks. Professionals have a range of water and mold testing services, including a remote-controlled robot that can access crawlspaces where mold often grows.
Best Indoor Air Quality Inspections in Dallas-Fort Worth
If you’re worried about contaminants in your office, warehouse or commercial space, speak with the experts at Barrett Environmental. We provide reliable air quality inspections for businesses in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Call (214) 886-3108 or request an inspection now.