Soil: SVOCs

 

This soil test detects semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), such as pentachlorophenol, nitrobenzene, dioxins and many more. These toxic compounds get their name due to their larger molecular weight, and higher boiling points than volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

 

Throughout the years agricultural products have been increasing the number of organic chemicals they use. Although the short term result may be beneficial, the pollution it caused has the potential for disastrous environmental damage. Along with this, organic compounds can contaminate our soil through the following ways:

• Effluent from septic systems
• Emissions - vehicle, factory, etc.
• Waste incineration/dumping
• Coal burning

Soil is essentially the "drain" for these organic compounds, most of the time they end up here. They can sometimes be smelt, similar in odor to nail polish remover. However, if you can smell the organic matter you have a serious problem.

Long exposure can result in the following symptoms:

• Chronic headaches
• Fatigue
• Endocrine/thyroid disruption
• Birth defects

Unfortunately, the list doesn't end there. Increased exposure can lead to several different cancers and even death. These effects are much more pronounced in children, and can have a life long impact. 

If it is, one of our certified sample technicians will come directly to your home to retrieve a sample. From there, it will be delivered to the lab for various testing following EPA Method 8270D.

Laboratory equipment will include the Gas Chromatograph coupled with a Mass Spectrometer. This instrument will accurately detect these harmful pollutants at the lowest possible detection levels.

This analysis, along with all of our soil tests, can be grouped together for a discounted rate in our Full Package NYC Part 375 analysis. Please check to see if that test is better suited for you!