Welcome to Environmental Diagnostics Corporation
(EDC). Managing indoor environments is easier
with the proper documentation from experienced
professionals. Our highly commended proactive,
reactive, and mold assessments, cutting edge
sampling methods, and interpretative tools make
EDC a leader in the industry.
What are
some analogous descriptions
of microbiological
odors?
Pleasant: fruity,
earthy
Unpleasant: musty,
mildew-like, old
paper, oily, grassy,
dirty socks, locker
rooms, old cheese
How
do mold and bacteria
cause odors?
As mold and bacteria
metabolize they
can produce mycotoxins,
endotoxins, and
microbial volatile
organic chemicals
(MVOC). The human
odor threshold for
such bioaerosols
is 1 ppm and lower.
Odor characteristics
of MVOCs range from
"earthy, musty
and mushroom-like"
to "sweet and
ester metalic-like".
Odors considered
characteristic of
certain microorganisms
can change or be
obscured when the
organisms producing
them are growing
in association with
other organisms,
on varied substrates,
or under different
moisture or temperature
conditions.
The minimal amount
of microbial growth
needed to generate
detectable odor
concentrations is
unknown nor is it
possible to use
odor intensity to
indicate the degree
of indoor microbial
growth.
How are odors
controlled?
Prevention and remediation
of the sources and
causes of odors is
a critical first step.
EDC can provide guidance
regarding odor reducing
carbon, zeolite, and
potassium permanganate.
Our detailed guidance
on air filters, professionally
applied ozone gas,
and other methods
of odor remediation
can be obtained when
EDC services are requested.
Pollutant pathways
and building pressurization
can affect distribution
of odors.
