Sci-Tech launches new bioaerosols monitoring service

Sci-Tech has launched a new bioaerosols monitoring service, enabling occupational hygienists and waste management companies to protect their employees and customers and remain compliant.

‘Since 2009, the number of enclosed biowaste treatment facilities has risen significantly,’ said David Petrie-Dolphin, Business Development Manager at Sci-Tech. ‘This, coupled with the already established waste management companies and household waste recycling centres, has led us to identify bioaerosol monitoring as an emerging market. Our new service was designed to fulfil this increased customer demand, extending our offerings into the occupational health sector.’

Bioaerosols are airborne particles that contain living organisms such as bacteria and fungi. They are found naturally within the environment and are generated through composting, anaerobic digestion (AD), and mechanical handling of waste. Those in occupational settings involving exposure of workers to high concentrations of bioaerosols are most at risk of adverse health effects, including respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.

‘Over the next few years, our customers will have new legislation to contend with,’ continued David. ‘As part of our culture of continued innovation, Sci-Tech and our sister Cawood division, Marchwood, have readied our services to help companies benchmark early to meet these future regulations. Feedback has been fantastic so far, and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with our customers to safeguard public health and protect the environment.’

Sci-Tech’s bioaerosol screening service detects the exposure levels of thermotolerant fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus, total mesophilic bacteria, and thermophilic actinomycetes, using the latest guidance and state-of-the-art equipment for accurate and reliable results. Worker exposure levels are determined to assess the levels of bacteria and fungi present during a shift period to ensure that overall exposure is within limits. This service complements Marchwood’s comprehensive range of occupational hygiene capabilities.

‘At Cawood, we are committed to helping our customers enhance performance and establish compliance,’ said Simon Parrington, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cawood. ‘We achieve this by enabling our customers to stay ahead of upcoming legislation with innovative new services. Developing solutions like these means that we can help our customers meet new challenges while further cementing our position as the UK’s leading independent scientific group.’

For more details on our bioaerosols screening service, contact us.