Mission Critical

Common facility problems and risks often begin with the formation of biofilm, which accumulates in cooling towers, water piping, and HVAC components. This buildup promotes microbial growth (including bacteria and fungi), posing serious health hazards and causing mechanical blockages. Over time, biofilm presence may lead to corrosion and reduced equipment efficiency. (Reference: ASHRAE Standard 188, which provides guidance on Legionellosis risk management.)

Microbial contamination—from mold, bacteria, and viruses—further contributes to degraded indoor air quality (IAQ) and heightened infection risks. In addition to the direct health implications, facilities face potential operational downtime when illnesses affect personnel or sensitive equipment. (Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on mold and IAQ.)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present another concern, emerging from microbial metabolism or off-gassing from contaminated surfaces. These compounds can compromise IAQ, cause respiratory irritation, and reduce occupant comfort. (Reference: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Indoor Air Quality resources.)

Energy efficiency and cost management also suffer when equipment such as heat exchangers becomes blocked or contaminated, as the resulting inefficiencies drive up energy consumption and operating expenses. (Reference: U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).)

Finally, reliability—or uptime—remains critical in mission-critical operations (e.g., data centers and healthcare facilities). Microbial fouling or contamination-driven system outages can lead to significant repair costs and threaten operational continuity, underscoring the importance of proactive monitoring and mitigation efforts.