VOCs and Odor Identification Services

Huntington Beach, California, April 15, 2025

Last month, several media outlets reported on worker complaints of a mystery odor at a medical center in Riverside County. The articles describe health concerns expressed by staff and the temporary closure of parts of the facility for plumbing repairs. It was also reported that the local fire department was involved in conducting air tests at the facility.

Mystery odors in buildings of all types are quite common, especially when construction or remodeling activities are taking place. Another very common source of mystery odors is due to sewer gas, which is a complex mixture of toxic and nontoxic gases that can be present at varying levels depending upon the source. It is formed during the decay of household and industrial waste. Highly toxic components of sewer gas include hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. Sewer gas also contains methane, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrous oxides. In addition, chlorine bleaches, industrial solvents, and gasoline are frequently present in municipal and privately owned sewage treatment systems.

“These types of mystery odor events can occur indoors or outdoors, and it can be a true challenge identifying the source in many instances,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “While sewer gas is a common culprit, it’s just one of countless possibilities. Quite often, these odors are a nuisance, but in some cases, they could potentially put people at risk. Fortunately, advanced air testing methods can often provide the information needed to identify the root cause of a mystery odor. With that information, a strategy to eliminate or mitigate the odor can be put in place.”

In California, LA Testing offers a wide range of outdoor and indoor air quality tests to identify mystery odors. With multiple laboratories statewide, they also provide sampling supplies and monitoring instruments to measure various gases and other airborne pollutants.

To learn more about odor, air, or other environmental testing services and sampling resources, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com, or call (800) 755-1794.

 

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for environmental and indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, bacteria, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC ELITE, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro and San Diego.