Post fire and smoke testing is recommended when there is concern that fire related chemical residues may still be present inside a building.
Testing may be appropriate when:
- A structure fire has occurred and soot or smoke odor remains
- Wildfire smoke has entered the property
- Smoke odors persist after cleaning or remediation
- Clearance testing is required prior to reoccupancy
- Insurance documentation or scope verification is needed
Post fire testing helps determine whether fire related chemical residues remain in the indoor environment even when visible damage has been removed.
Fire and smoke events release a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds. Enthalpy utilizes a fire specific VOC indicator approach that targets compounds associated with combustion rather than common indoor air sources.
Fire VOC testing may include:
- Air samples for more recent fire events
- Surface wipe samples to evaluate settled contamination
- Material samples to assess long term off gassing potential
Results help determine whether fire related chemical residues remain and whether additional cleaning remediation or clearance verification may be appropriate.
Dioxins and furans are highly persistent compounds formed during combustion. Because they remain in the environment for extended periods of time they are used as indicators of fire related contamination and potential long term exposure relevance.
This analysis is typically performed on dust or surface wipe samples and may be recommended following higher impact fire events or when long term contamination concerns exist.
Depending on the fire event and conditions observed additional testing may include:
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
- Metals analysis
- Particulate matter testing
- Soot char and ash analysis
- Asbestos testing related to fire damaged materials
The appropriate testing strategy depends on the type of fire materials affected and the amount of time since the event.
Sample collection is performed by trained inspectors following laboratory guidance. Sampling methods are selected based on the age of the fire event and the specific concerns being evaluated.
- Air samples evaluate current indoor air conditions
- Surface wipe samples evaluate settled contamination
- Material samples evaluate long term emission potential
All samples are submitted directly to an accredited laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory reports identify fire specific indicator compounds that help determine whether fire or smoke residue remains. Results are evaluated collectively rather than based on a single compound.
The presence of fire related compounds does not automatically indicate a health hazard. Results are used to support decision making related to additional cleaning remediation or clearance verification.
Laboratory turnaround times vary depending on the type of analysis performed.
Expedited analysis may be available depending on laboratory availability.
Clients will be advised of expected turnaround times at the time of sampling.
Important Notice
Post fire and smoke testing is intended to identify the presence of fire related chemical residues and support informed decision making. Testing results do not constitute a medical diagnosis determination of toxicity or a guarantee of safety.
Quest provides inspection sampling and testing services only. Interpretation of results remediation planning and health related decisions should be made by qualified professionals based on the full scope of conditions present.
Related Laboratory Resources
Post Fire and Smoke Testing Overview
PDF download explaining laboratory supported post fire and wildfire smoke testing services.
Fire and Smoke VOC Testing Overview
PDF describing fire specific VOC indicator testing and its application in post fire investigations.
Dioxins and Furans Testing Overview
PDF outlining dioxins and furans testing and its role in identifying persistent fire related contamination.
These documents are provided for general informational purposes only. Laboratory reports and reference materials are intended to support testing and assessment activities and should not be interpreted as remediation guidance or health determinations.
Fire Air Quality Testing
Ensure safe, compliant air quality post-fire with our expert testing services, protecting health and guiding restoration.
Our new Fire Air Quality Testing service evaluates indoor air for harmful toxins and contaminants, including Carbon Block Testing in the Air, left behind after a fire. This critical assessment ensures the environment is safe for occupants and workers while meeting regulatory standards for cleanup and restoration. By identifying potential health risks through Post-Fire Testing and providing detailed reports, we help protect your well-being, support insurance claims, and guide effective restoration efforts.
- What We Test For:
- Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): To assess fine particles affecting respiratory health.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): A dangerous gas often present during and after fires.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Harmful chemicals released during combustion of materials.
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Potentially carcinogenic substances from incomplete burning.
- Formaldehyde: A common irritant released from burned building materials.
- Asbestos Fibers: If fire damage disturbs asbestos-containing materials.
- Mold Growth Indicators: Firefighting efforts can lead to water damage, promoting mold growth.
- Why We Test:
- To ensure safe air quality for occupants and workers post-fire.
- To identify and mitigate health risks from lingering toxins.
- To comply with regulations for cleanup and restoration projects.
- To support insurance claims and provide data for restoration plans.
Expertise You Can Trust
With years of experience in environmental testing, we provide reliable and accurate results. Our air quality testing after the fire is designed to give you peace of mind by ensuring your space is free from harmful pollutants and complies with all necessary safety standards.