VOC Testing — Air, Soil & Water
VOC testing depends on the matrix and purpose: EPA TO-15 concerns ambient air collected in canisters, while EPA 8260 addresses suitable solid/waste and water matrices using GC-MS with appropriate preparation. Do not substitute a water method for an indoor-air assessment.
Agree target compounds, collection duration, container, reporting limits, blanks and holding requirements with the laboratory. A handheld total-VOC reading is screening, not compound-specific confirmation or proof of a hazardous health exposure.
Indoor-air investigations should consider ventilation, sources, outdoor background and occupancy. A qualified professional can define sampling and interpret limitations; moisture/mold inspection remains a separate scope.