What is ERMI testing?

ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It is a standardized, highly sensitive DNA-based ranking tool developed by the EPA to evaluate indoor air quality by analyzing settled dust samples. [1, 2, 3]

How many mold species does an ERMI test detect?

The test specifically identifies and quantifies 36 distinct species of indoor molds that are known to produce Mycotoxins. [1, 2]

What is the difference between an ERMI test and a standard mold test?

Unlike basic air spore traps that only capture floating spores at a single point in time, ERMI uses DNA analysis on accumulated dust to differentiate between toxic and common molds, providing a long-term look at the building's overall "moldiness". [1, 2]

Rely on Certified Indoor Air ERMI and HERSTSMI-2 Testing

The ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) is a study developed by the EPA to provide a straightforward, objective, sensitive, and standardized way to assess mold and indoor air quality. Because the analysis includes especiation of the molds found, Health providers can use that information to draw a dotted line to their patients' symptoms.

The Environmental Protection Administration developed the ERMI as a ranking tool based on dust samples collected. Approximately 1,100 homes were tested (both water-damaged and non-water-damaged) to identify 36 mold species that were most present within those homes. From this, an index scoring system has been developed. The HERTSMI-2 scoring system is derived from the ERMI test results, so there is no need for additional sampling. The difference is that the HERTSMI-2 only uses a panel of 5 of the most dangerous mold species.

Why Choose ERMI and HERTSMI-2 Testing?

ERMI and HERTSMI-2 testing can be a useful tool to identify specific species and provide a quantitive measure of mold in an indoor environment. These tests can give a more complete picture of the comparative moldiness of an indoor environment. They will help discover specific types of mold that may lead to potential health risks for occupants.

Certified Indoor Air Inc Testing Procedure and Process

Our testing uses DNA sequencing to verify molds at the species level. Knowing the species is crucial because it determines the opportunistic nature of what the molds can do.

Samples are collected from settled dust in/on the ventilation, heating systems, ductwork, contents, and specific rooms.
Once in the laboratory, DNA is extracted from the dust and then analyzed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to identify the presence of mold species.
Based on the results of the PCR analysis, an ERMI score is calculated. The ERMI score is a relative index of the mold amount and types in the tested environment. Scores range from -10 to 20, with higher scores indicating a greater relative amount of mold.
The dispersion samples (ERMI & Mycotoxin) test for the various bi-products dispersed throughout a home during the mold's life cycle.

Our report will provide a calculated score that we will interpret so you understand any possible health risks. Our professional team will also recommend the next steps and suggest remediation if necessary.

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ERMI — Raleigh, NC — Certified Indoor Air

🔍 Understanding ERMI Testing

What is ERMI testing?
ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It is a standardized, highly sensitive DNA-based ranking tool developed by the EPA to evaluate indoor air quality by analyzing settled dust samples. [1, 2, 3]
How many mold species does an ERMI test detect?
The test specifically identifies and quantifies 36 distinct species of indoor molds that are known to produce Mycotoxins. [1, 2]
What is the difference between an ERMI test and a standard mold test?
Unlike basic air spore traps that only capture floating spores at a single point in time, ERMI uses DNA analysis on accumulated dust to differentiate between toxic and common molds, providing a long-term look at the building's overall "moldiness". [1, 2]

🩺 Health & Clinical Applications

How can my healthcare provider use my ERMI test results?
Because the analysis includes speciation (identifying the exact types of mold present), doctors and health providers can use the specific data to draw a direct line to a patient's symptoms or conditions like Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). [1, 2]
Does Certified Indoor Air offer other health-related testing alongside ERMI?
Yes. In addition to ERMI, they offer HERTSMI-2 testing (a focused mold index), Mycotoxin testing, Endotoxin testing and Actinomycete testing, all ot which detect the existence of toxic chemical residue left behind after water events. [1, 2, 3]
Why does my Doctor recommend an ERMI test?
Since the ERMI analysis proves the existence of bio-toxins in the indoor environment, the Healthcare provider can determine whether or not your home environment is contributing to your symptoms.

⚙️ How the Service Works

Where does Certified Indoor Air collect dust samples for the test?
Samples are typically collected from settled dust within the property, often targeting areas like the living room and master bedroom where occupants spend the most time.
Who analyzes the samples?
All collected dust and surface samples are sent to a leading, accredited third-party microbiology laboratory to ensure accurate, complete, and legally defensible data.
Does Certified Indoor Air fix the mold if the ERMI score is high?
No. To avoid a conflict of interest, the company handles environmental consulting, inspections, and testing only. If mold remediation is required, they will provide a comprehensive report and remediation protocol suggestions for you to give to a separate remediation contractor. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]