Monitoring and Testing Services in the Fight Against COVID-19

 

As we continue to learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 virus and how the disease is spread, it has now been recognized and acknowledged by the CDC that aerosol transmission in poorly ventilated indoor environments may play a significant role. Aerosols are respiratory droplets (<5 µm) generated by evaporation of larger droplets and through normal breathing, talking, sneezing, coughing or simply flushing a toilet. If aerosols contain the virus in sufficient quantity, a susceptible person could inhale them and become infected. 

Ambipar Response EMS is on the forefront of performing quantitative surface and air analysis for SARS-CoV-2. The quantification of virus particles is crucial for a meaningful monitoring program to assess the risk of potential exposure and transmission. Other factors are exposure time, susceptibility of the individual and the (hitherto unknown) infectious dose. As more data about infectious dose becomes available the monitoring of indoor environments by quantitative analysis will be an important tool to provide feedback for risk assessments of indoor environments.

Wastewater Testing

Wastewater testing is used to determine if any building occupants are shedding the COVID-19 virus.  Effective for buildings with up to 1,000 occupants, we utilize automated composite 24-hr samplers to collect twice weekly samples. By utilizing 24-hour turn around services, it is possible to ascertain virus detection 3-4 days in advance of symptoms.  Positive results indicate the need for more testing to identify current symptomatic or asymptomatic cases and take appropriate action.

Bulk Face Mask Testing 

Disposable face masks accumulate nasal secretions.  At the end of the day we composite five (5) masks for analysis. If a group of masks test negative, invasive individual tests can be avoided.  This type of bulk mask testing is recommended for employees, living groups and sports teams. Results can be available in as few as 24-hours.  

Testing of Common Touch Surfaces 

Viruses can live on surfaces for days and be transferred by touch or can become re-aerosolized as moisture evaporates.  Swab testing of common touch surfaces (elevator buttons, door handles, railings, keyboards, TV remotes, tables, etc.) is used to determine virus presence and/or confirm disinfection effectiveness.

HVAC Sampling

Swab testing of return air plenums and filters is conducted to determine if an HVAC system is circulating the SARS-CoV-2 virus.  Indoor air can be re-conditioned and circulated multiple times. Testing can be used to indicate when disinfection is necessary.

Indoor Air Monitoring

High traffic or large gathering areas such as cafeterias, auditoriums and gymnasiums may benefit from aerosol testing for COVID-19 to re-assure customers and audiences. Aerosol testing does not address transmission caused by direct contact or when in close proximity to an infected individual. It does, however, enable us to address aerosol transmission and air quality as it relates to SARS-CoV-2.

Why Choose EMS?

Three key factors make Ambipar Response EMS uniquely qualified to deliver meaningful results in a safe and effective manner.

1. Experience

Our team at EMS has been conducting testing for hazardous chemicals and materials for over 32 years. We are well versed in sampling and testing procedures for a wide range of organic, inorganic and biological contaminants.

2. Employee Training and Medical Monitoring

All technical employees receive initial and recurrent hazmat training in accordance with OSHA standard 1910. OSHA requires all employers whose employees are required to use or are permitted voluntary use of respiratory protection, including filtering (N95) and air purifying respirators, manage their respiratory protection programs (RPPs) in accordance with the OSHA regulatory protection standard (OSHA 1910.134).  This standard requires such employers to develop and implement written RPPs with worksite-specific procedures.  Components of the RPP must include:

• Hazard Assessment and Communication
• Worksite Specific Procedures
• Respirator Fit Testing
• Medical Evaluation
• Record Keeping

3. Third Party Verified Health & Safety Program 

All of our written health and safety procedures have been audited and approved by ISNetworld. ISN’s Review and Verification Services (RAVS) Team reviews health and safety information against regulatory and client requirements.

 

Schedule your free consultation to determine which services are right for your organization.