Lab Services
ISO-Certified Laboratory Services - Accurate Results You Can Trust
Biological Health Services operates an ISO-certified laboratory facility providing comprehensive analysis of air and surface samples for mould, bacteria, and other indoor air quality contaminants. Our laboratory services meet international standards for accuracy, reliability, and quality assurance, ensuring that your test results provide the definitive answers you need for important decisions about your property and health. Our laboratory capabilities include both non-intrusive assessment methods and destructive testing when required, providing flexibility to meet the specific needs of each situation. Whether you need routine air quality assessment or detailed analysis for legal proceedings, our laboratory services provide the scientific foundation for informed decision-making.
Comprehensive Testing Capabilities
Air Quality Analysis: Our laboratory analyzes air samples collected using spore traps, viable sampling methods, and specialized collection techniques designed to identify and quantify airborne contaminants. Air sampling provides information about the types and concentrations of mould spores, bacteria, and other particles present in your indoor environment. Spore trap analysis identifies the types and concentrations of mould spores present in air samples, providing information about both viable and non-viable particles. This analysis is particularly valuable for identifying hidden mould sources and assessing the effectiveness of remediation efforts. Viable air sampling using specialized collection media allows for the cultivation and identification of living mould and bacteria present in your indoor environment. This testing method provides detailed information about the specific species present and their potential health implications.
Surface Analysis: Surface sampling using tape lifts, swab samples, and bulk material analysis provides detailed information about mould growth on building materials, furnishings, and other surfaces. Surface analysis is essential for identifying the extent of contamination and determining appropriate remediation strategies. Tape lift analysis provides immediate visual identification of mould growth patterns and species present on surfaces. This method is particularly effective for documenting the extent of visible mould growth and identifying species that may not be detected through air sampling alone. Swab sampling allows for the collection and analysis of mould growth from irregular surfaces or areas where tape lift sampling is not practical. Swab samples can be analyzed using both direct microscopy and cultivation methods to provide comprehensive information about surface contamination.
Bulk Material Testing: When building materials are suspected of harboring hidden mould growth, bulk material analysis provides definitive information about contamination levels and species present. This testing is particularly important for materials that will be disturbed during renovation or remediation activities.
We offer onsite inspections and sampling of building interiors using the following methods. These inspections are generally performed before remediation or restoration works. We also do post-remediation verification testing (after restoration) but before building reinstatement works. We can also, of course, do periodic site inspections during works if required to guide the remediation efforts.
Specialized Testing Services
Pre-Remediation Assessment: Before beginning mould remediation work, comprehensive testing establishes baseline conditions and identifies the extent of contamination. This information is essential for developing effective remediation strategies and establishing success criteria for post-remediation verification. Pre-remediation testing includes both air and surface sampling to document existing conditions and identify all affected areas. This comprehensive assessment ensures that remediation efforts address all contaminated materials and areas, preventing incomplete remediation that could lead to recurring problems.
During-Remediation Monitoring: For complex remediation projects, ongoing monitoring (interim testing) ensures that containment measures are effective and that remediation work is proceeding according to established protocols. This monitoring protects both workers and occupants from exposure to disturbed contaminants. Monitoring during remediation includes air sampling in work areas and adjacent spaces to verify that containment measures are preventing the spread of contamination. This real-time monitoring allows for immediate corrective action if containment failures occur.
Post-Remediation Verification (PRV): After remediation work is completed, verification testing provides independent confirmation that the work was successful and that the property is safe for reoccupancy. Our PRV services meet industry standards and insurance company requirements for clearance documentation. Post-remediation verification includes comprehensive air sampling to confirm that airborne contaminant levels have returned to acceptable ranges. Visual inspection and limited surface sampling verify that all affected materials have been properly removed or treated.
Our labs and technical methods have achieved certification and compliance against ISO 9001:2015, ISO 17025:2017, and ISO 15189:2012.
Contract Laboratory Services
In addition to our direct inspection services, we provide contract laboratory analysis for samples collected by other professionals including occupational hygienists, building biologists, and indoor environmental professionals. Our contract services extend our expertise to support other professionals serving the indoor air quality industry. Contract laboratory services include rapid turnaround times for urgent situations and detailed reporting that meets the specific requirements of referring professionals. We work closely with other professionals to ensure that our laboratory results support their client service objectives. Quality assurance protocols ensure that all contract laboratory work meets the same high standards as our direct client services. Chain of custody procedures, quality control samples, and detailed documentation provide confidence in the accuracy and reliability of all results.
Quality Assurance and Certifications
ISO Certifications: Our laboratory maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management systems, ensuring that all laboratory operations follow established procedures for accuracy and reliability. ISO 17025:2017 certification for testing and calibration laboratories confirms that our technical competence meets international standards. ISO 15189:2012 certification for medical laboratories ensures that our testing capabilities meet the highest standards for accuracy and clinical relevance. These certifications are maintained through regular audits and continuous improvement processes.
Equipment Calibration: All laboratory equipment is regularly calibrated using traceable standards to ensure accuracy and reliability of results. Calibration records are maintained for all equipment and are available for review by clients requiring documentation of measurement accuracy.
Proficiency Testing: Our laboratory participates in external proficiency testing programs to verify the accuracy of our analytical methods and to benchmark our performance against other qualified laboratories. Proficiency testing results demonstrate our ongoing competence in mould and bacteria identification and quantification.
Reporting and Documentation
Comprehensive Reports: All laboratory results are provided in detailed reports that include sample collection information, analytical methods used, results with appropriate units and detection limits, and interpretation of results in the context of established guidelines and standards. Reports include photographic documentation of significant findings and detailed explanations of analytical methods used. This comprehensive documentation ensures that results can be properly interpreted and used for decision-making about remediation, health protection, or legal proceedings.
Expert Interpretation: All laboratory results include expert interpretation by qualified professionals with extensive experience in indoor air quality assessment. This interpretation helps clients understand the significance of results and provides guidance for appropriate response actions.
Legal Documentation: When laboratory results will be used for legal proceedings or insurance claims, we provide additional documentation including chain of custody records, quality assurance data, and detailed methodology descriptions that meet legal standards for scientific evidence.
Need reliable laboratory analysis for your mould or air quality concerns?
Our ISO-certified laboratory services provide the accurate, defensible results you need for important decisions about your property and health. Whether you need routine assessment or detailed analysis for legal proceedings, our expertise ensures reliable results you can trust.
Schedule Laboratory Services: - Call 1300 132 350 to discuss your testing needs - Online sample submission for contract laboratory services - Rush analysis available for urgent situations - Expert consultation included with all services. We also processes samples sent to us by other restorers, assessors and occupational hygienists and IEP's.
Please use a Chain Of Custody Form to accompany ALL submissions.
Professional Services Available: - Direct inspection and sampling services - Contract laboratory analysis for other professionals - Expert witness services for legal proceedings - Consultation on remediation and prevention strategies.
