EMLab P&K Prepares Mold and Bacteria Testing Capacity to Assist Flooded Areas in Eastern U.S. After Hurricane Irene

SAN BRUNO, CA, August 31, 2011 (Press-News.org) Hurricane Irene brought gale force winds, surging seas and torrential rain, including as much as 15 inches falling in some areas. Hurricane Irene was unusual with its large size and slow speed, which created problems with winds and rains that reached far inland and for long durations.

Severe storms and coastal flooding battered states along the Eastern Seaboard from North Carolina to Massachusetts, including: Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Many residents evacuated areas in Hurricane Irene's path. In the storm's aftermath, residents may struggle with sewage back-ups and flooded basements.

In response to the storms that Hurricane Irene brings, EMLab P&K is adding local and overall mold testing and bacteria testing capacity, including weekend and emergency staffing, to support the increased need for environmental testing. As the nation's leading environmental testing laboratory, EMLab P&K maintains a strong presence in the East Coast with AIHA accredited labs at Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Fairfax, Virginia. Through TestAmerica's network of laboratories, EMLab P&K also has sample drop-off locations in Shelton, CT, Edison, NJ, King of Prussia, PA, Pittsburgh, PA, and Mt. Laurel, NJ (near South Jersey).

As property owners return to their homes and businesses, the buildings may appear to be irreparable, but some buildings may be salvageable through remediation. In addition to losing personal possessions, property owners must deal with the potential for bacterial contamination, mold growth, sewage contamination and other environmental health concerns caused by flooding and water damage. After remediation is completed, property owners should have a qualified IAQ professional perform mold testing and bacteria testing to confirm the remediation was successful. Property owners who need a qualified IAQ professional can contact EMLab P&K for a referral.

"EMLab P&K continues to stay informed about Hurricane Irene and its impact on the Eastern United States. We have also teamed up with TestAmerica to offer a wide range of environmental testing lab services to help the states address emerging health concerns quickly," said Belinda Vega, EMLab P&K's President. "During the recovery process after Hurricane Irene passes, our proactive approach has an immediate and positive impact with the lab services we are able to provide. As always, clients can expect and trust the quality and accuracy of our lab analysis."

Environmental professionals who plan to assist property owners and government agencies in areas affected by flooding should have proper equipment and sampling supplies. EMLab P&K's Products Division offers the professional testing equipment, sampling supplies for mold and bacteria testing, and personal protective equipment.

About EMLab P&K
EMLab P&K, a TestAmerica company, is one of the leading commercial indoor air quality laboratories in North America with over 60 service and drop-off locations throughout the United States. EMLab P&K specializes in analyzing air and surface samples to identify mold, bacteria, fungi, asbestos, and allergens. EMLab P&K also offers USP 797 testing, PCR testing, radon analysis, and materials testing. EMLab P&K has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations and government agencies including: AIHA, NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CA-ELAP, NY-ELAP, Texas DSHS, and other accrediting programs. For more information, visit the official website at http://www.emlabpk.com or call 866-888-6653.