Laboratory service

Microbiology Testing

IOM provides specialist testing and practical advice to identify mould, bacteria and bioaerosols, explain the findings and help you protect the people using your buildings.

Speak to an expert View Laboratory Services

Service overview

Identify biological hazards and manage the risk

Mould, bacteria and bioaerosols can affect the health of people using your buildings. Without reliable testing, it can be difficult to identify what is present, understand the risk or decide what action to take.

IOM provides specialist microbiology testing and practical advice. We help you identify biological hazards, understand the results and put appropriate controls in place.

When this service may be needed

Mould growth, damp or microbial contamination is suspected
Air or surface cleanliness needs to be evaluated
A tailored workplace or environmental microbiology package is required

Understand the risk

Poor ventilation, limited air circulation and high humidity can create conditions where mould, bacteria and bioaerosols become a concern.

Exposure may contribute to:

Asthma attacks
Irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat
Respiratory infections
Headaches
Fatigue

Children, older people and those with weakened immune systems may be particularly vulnerable.

Practical support

How IOM can help

Our microbiologists and occupational hygienists work together to provide:

Mould testing and identification across a range of species
Thermophilic Aspergillus testing
Bioaerosol testing, including filter supply
Total Viable Count testing and identification
Clear laboratory reports with reliable results
Advice on remediation and practical control measures

We talk you through the findings, explain what they mean and help you decide what to do next.

Technical assurance

Support your legal responsibilities

In England, Awaab’s Law requires social landlords to investigate and address significant damp and mould hazards within set timescales. Similar requirements will apply to social and private landlords in Scotland from 6 October 2026.

Employers also have wider duties to protect their workforce. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 may apply where employees could be exposed to hazardous biological agents.

IOM’s testing and expert interpretation help you understand the hazard, decide what action is needed and demonstrate how you are managing the risk.

From evidence to action

Turn results into action

Laboratory results are only one part of managing risk. Our specialists help you use the findings to inform risk assessments, investigate possible sources and improve your controls.

This gives you the evidence needed to protect building users, address problems early and maintain healthier indoor environments.

What the service includes

Identify mould across a range of relevant species.

Provide mould and Total Viable Count analysis.

Explain the findings and their significance.

Support risk assessment, source investigation and practical controls.

What you receive

Clear evidence and usable next steps

Microbiological test results and identification where applicable
Clear laboratory report
Interpretation of the findings and likely significance
Advice on remediation and practical control measures

Get practical advice for your organisation.

Discuss your requirements

Tell us what you need to achieve and your enquiry will be directed to the most appropriate team.

Speak to an expert