A majority of us spend a large part of our day indoors: in homes, offices, schools, healthcare facilities, or other private and public buildings. The quality of air we breathe in those buildings has a profound effect on our health and well-being. Unfortunately, we are constantly in danger of being exposed to harmful elements such as airborne bacteria, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other extraneous particulates. Inadequate management and control of indoor air quality can create a considerable health risk.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Soil contamination results when hazardous substances are either spilled or buried directly in the soil or migrate to the soil from a spill that has occurred elsewhere. Contaminants in the soil can adversely impact the health of animals and humans when they ingest, inhale, or touch contaminated soil, or when they eat plants or animals that have themselves been affected by soil contamination.”

Lead contaminants are rarely found in source water, but they can enter tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water. Buildings constructed before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures, and solder, however, the same health risks have been identified in newer facilities as well.