Consumer Products Testing Services

Cinnaminson, New Jersey, February 7, 2024

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes pesticides as chemicals that are used to kill or control pests. In addition to insects and rodents, these pests can include bacteria, fungi and other organisms.

With regards to pesticide use and indoor air quality (IAQ), EPA shares information from a study that found 75% of U.S. households used at least one pesticide product indoors during the past year. Products used most often include insecticides and disinfectants. Another study EPA mentions suggests that 80% of most people's exposure occurs indoors and that measurable levels of up to a dozen pesticides have been found in the air inside homes.

Pesticide exposure can indeed occur from their use indoors, but it can also occur when contaminated soil or dust floats, or is tracked in, from the outside. In addition, exposure can come from pesticide containers stored indoors, from household surfaces that collect and then release the pesticides, and even from foods and products with pesticides on them that are brought indoors.

Potential health effects due to pesticide exposure can vary widely. According to the EPA, exposure to pesticides may result in:

• Irritation to the eyes, nose and throat
• Damage to the central nervous system and kidney
• Increased risk of cancer

Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscular weakness
• Nausea

Chronic exposure to some pesticides can result in damage to the:

• Liver
• Kidneys
• Endocrine and nervous systems

“Fortunately, there are a number of steps people can take to mitigate pesticide exposure risks indoors,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “There are always ways to test the indoor air and surfaces for the presence of pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals. At EMSL, our scientists are dedicated to identifying indoor pollutants to protect building occupants. To achieve this, we have laboratories located across North America that provide environmental testing services and sampling supplies.”

EMSL also recently sponsored an educational video about pesticides and indoor air quality that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/aE1jrPa95y4

To learn more about testing for pesticides or other IAQ testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.