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How Do I Collect an ERMI Sample?

What is ERMI?

ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index, developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). Download a detailed description of how to interpret ERMI results here:  ERMI Interpretation

How was ERMI developed?

The United States EPA has spent ten years developing a highly sophisticated DNA test for mold. The EPA proved their technology by testing over 1200 homes across the United States. Half of the homes were known to have extensive water damage and occupants who suffered from significant respiratory illness. The other half was from dry homes whose occupants did not experience respiratory distress or asthma.

The study showed that two major groups of molds are present in homes. Group 1 molds were found in homes with water damage and whose occupants often suffered from respiratory problems and asthma related disease. Group 2 molds were found in dry homes whose occupants lacked symptoms of respiratory distress. From this major study the EPA developed the ERMI index. ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. Each home in the study was assigned an ERMI score. Homes with Group 1 molds had high ERMI scores, whereas homes with Group 2 Molds had low ERMI scores.

An Affordable ERMI Analysis

Clean Air Labs has has entered into a a strategic partnership with Roche Diagnostics.  As a result of this partnership, Clean Air Labs uses Roche’s state-of-the-art DNA testing platform with robotic automation allowing Clean Air Labs to offer the ERMI test at a fraction of the cost of other laboratories. We have the capability to run ERMI samples faster with greater accuracy than any other lab. We then pass our cost savings onto our clients. 

It's all about handling DNA” according to Clean Air Labs’ lead Molecular Biologist James Campbell, Ph.D. No level of technician experience can match the accuracy, precision, or speed of robotics when handling small volumes of DNA.

Moreover, together with Roche Diagnostics, Clean Air Labs has standardized the ERMI protocol; Roche guarantees the quality of their reagents through a rigorous quality control system and Clean Air Labs adheres to the ISO 17025 quality system standard to insure that every ERMI score is accurate and reported in timely manner.

How do I collect a dust sample to send to the lab?

You can use any commercially available dust collector to collect a sample for analysis by the lab. Clean Air Labs has developed a proprietary collection system that provides for easy collection of 1 composite dust sample from the premises. The collection system consists of a reusable vacuum connection and a disposable dust cartridge. To view the instructional video, click here.