ANALYTICAL SERVICES

J&M Environmental Control Group, analytical laboratory has the experience and instrumentation to provide its customers with analysis of asbestos lead and mold samples using state of the art procedures, including:

- Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) Air Sample Collection Protocol
- Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) SOP for PLM
- Atomic Absorption Spectrometry by Flame (AAS) NIOSH 7082 Lead Sample Analysis QA/QC
- X-ray Fluorescent Spectrum Analyzer (XRF)

Our laboratory participates in the AIHA Proficiency Analytical Testing (PAT) program, AIHA Environmental Lead Proficiency Analytical Testing (ELPAT) program, AIHA Bulk Asbestos Proficiency Analytical Testing program (BAQA), AIHA Environmental Microbiology Proficiency Analytical Testing (EMPAT) and each of our industrial hygienists is experienced in air and bulk sampling for asbestos, lead and mold, regulatory compliance and on-site analysis by phase contrast microscopy (PCM).

All J&M Environmental Control Group personnel who perform on-site analysis are rigorously trained in the sampling and analysis of asbestos in a training course equivalent to the NIOSH 582 course. Each person must demonstrate proficiency through the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) proficiency analytical testing program. In addition, we monitor in-house quality through our own Quality Assurance Department.

Phase Contrast Microscopy is used for the assessment of workers exposure to airborne fibers greater than or equal to five micrometers in length, as required by the OSHA Asbestos Standards 29 CFR 1926.1101 and 8CCR Section 1529. The methods employed for PCM are the NIOSH 7400 Method and the OSHA Reference Method (ORM). Internal Quality Assurance includes 10 % recounts on all samples and 95 % upper confidence limit.

Polarized Light Microscopy is used for the analysis of bulk samples for asbestos content as recommended by the EPA and required by the EPA Final Rule under AHERA. The method used for analysis is the EPA "Interim Method for Determination of Asbestos in Bulk Insulation Samples" (EPA-600/M4-82-020, Dec. 1982).

Samples are analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry by Flame and involves aspiration of the sample into an
air-acetylene flame. Guidelines and analytical method used are (lead-Based Paint: Interim Guidelines for Hazard Identification and Abatement in Public and Indian Housing, September 1990.) We have experience with sampling and analysis of lead in air (dust and wipe), soil and determining the lead content of paint. The methods used for analysis of air and wipe samples is NIOSH 7082, and in soil and paint samples is EPA SW-846-3051 & EPA SW-846-7420.

J&M Environmental Control Group personnel who perform on-site assessment for lead use Niton XRF fluorescent spectrum analyzer model XL-309. They are accredited and certified by Niton company representative using accredited course in order to comply with model feature, equipment performance and they are rigorously trained in sampling as per HUD guidelines. Each person must demonstrate ability to performer lead surveys through in-house Quality Assurance Department.

We test air and bulk samples taken from buildings and homes for mold, fungus, and other pollutants. Sample slide is scanned initially and individual spores and particulates are identified and estimation is made to indicate amount of spores and the percent coverage. Fields are analyzed in entire focal depth and examined in other planes. Identification of spores is based on spore morphology, characteristics, appearance, color, pores, scars, points of attachment and pegs. Some fungi cannot be seen under the light microscope. Our clients range from professional environmental and industrial hygiene consulting companies to concerned individuals seeking quick, inexpensive mold identification.