| Materials used in building construction and conditions resulting from property damage, or even poor maintenance and upkeep, can result in indoor air pollution that could jeopardize a person's health. Many of the sources of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) problems (i.e. formaldehyde, mold, radon, etc.) can be easily prevented and corrected by simple measures. Therefore, to help homeowners and business owners recognize and correct problems they may be experiencing, the following sources have been pulled together for easy access to useful information and answers to solve indoor air pollution. The information consists of guidance on most IAQ issues, links to home testing kits, and associations of professional consultants should these services be desired or needed. Authorization and resources do not allow the MDEQ to visit homes and businesses to test for indoor pollution, but the agency is striving to be of assistance through the information it is making available here. mold mold mold mold mold mold mold mold mold. |
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 Information on Pollutants & Their Sources
Information on Pollutants & Their Sources
 Asbestos
Asthma & Allergies
Biological contaminants
Household Cleaning Chemicals and Sprays
Safe household cleaners
http://www.informinc.org/
http://www.informinc.org/summaries_chem.php
- Green Seal recommended products
http://www.greenseal.org/
http://www.greenseal.org/findaproduct/index.cfm
http://www.greenseal.org/findaproduct/cleaners.cfm
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Formaldehyde
Lead
Insulation
Symptoms from Fiberglass will typically go away after being removed or encapsulated. Fiberglass is not regulated and is widely used, but should not be breathed. There are some alternatives to fiberglass insulation (such as polyester and sheet foam). One technical paper concluded that wet spray-applied cellulose insulation (typically 30-40% water), when used in the walls of indoor environments, can become very moldy and result in unacceptable risk to occupants. It is recommended that fiberglass insulation be kept neatly contained (not hanging out) and use proper personal protective equipment to avoid exposure during installation or maintenance activities. Replace ceiling panels and repair disconnected ventilation ducts if needed.
Mold
Air Ducts
Pesticides
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/index.html#insidestory
Radon
U.S. Surgeon General Health Advisory
"Indoor radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and breathing it over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk to families all over the country. It's important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected with a simple test and fixed through well-established venting techniques." January 2005 |
A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html
"Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon"
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/hmbyguid.html
One may also call the Radon hotline number at the National Safety Council
(800) SOS-RADON or (800) 55-RADON
Compared to other states, most of Mississippi has a low predictive indoor radon screening. Radon levels in Alcorn, Union, Pontotoc, Lee, Chickasaw, Clay, Lowndes, and Noxubee have a medium predictive level. Visit the following site to view radon maps of any state: http://www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap/mississippi.htm
Discounted radon test kits are available from the National Safety Council - 1-800-SOS-RADON ;
Read the section in "A Citizen's Guide to Radon" listed above for a discussion on how to get reliable radon test results.
Schools: The Indoor Radon Program in Mississippi provides free screening for schools in participating areas. Call 1-800-626-7739 or (601) 987-6893.
Smoke (Tobacco Smoke and Second hand smoke)
Air Cleaners
Ozone Generators
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/ozonegen.html.
Vapor Intrusion
Toxic Vapors can migrate into your home from the ground through cracks in foundations or utility spaces.
Fireplaces, Wood stoves, Wood heaters, Wood boilers
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| General IAQ Resources & Organizations |
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Consultants and Laboratories
- Environmental Solutions Association (ESA)
http://www.esaassociation.com/
http://www.esaassociation.com/?q=node/15
- American Council for Accredited Certification (former IAQ Council) list of certified consultants.
http://www.acac.org
- American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) certified Consultant services:
http://www.aiha.org Select: "Locate an Industrial Hygienist (IH)"
Businesses
Laboratories
Bonner Analytical Testing CO
2703 Oak Grove Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
(601) 264-2854
http://www.batco.com/
This company has many certifications and ability to analyze a wide range of pollutants from VOC’s, ultra low mercury, and pesticides. Visit their website for more information.
Micro-Methods Incorporated
6500 Sunplex Dr.
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
(228) 875-6420
http://www.micromethodslab.com/
This company specializes in asbestos, lead, water, and mold sampling. An inspector will take samples from your site (or home) and get it analyzed at this lab (or through an associate lab); then send a detailed report
EMSL Analytical, Inc.
http://www.emsl.com/
http://www.emsl.com/index.cfm?nav=Services&action=list&ServiceCategoryID=4
http://www.emsl.com/Index.cfm?nav=Contact_Us
There are no EMLS laboratories in Mississippi. The preferred way to contact them is through their contact page on their website. You can order canisters and do-it-yourself testing with sample devices that can be ordered. EMSL is sometimes often used by inspectors or other labs for about anything you need to analyze in your indoor environment.
Legal Matters
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| Related IAQ Topics |
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For More Information Contact Bryan Williams 601.961.5799
Or IAQ Staff |
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601-961-5799
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