Undertaking the task of mold remediation is not as simple as it may seem. Some persons have the perception of just cleaning off mold with household items like bleach, vinegar and peroxide, while the commercial entities look at harsher methods like the application of antifungal solutions, antibacterial and fumigation techniques. According to the Approved American National Standards (ANSI) and the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in their ANSI/IICRC S520-2015 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation, the attempts to kill, encapsulate or inhibit mold growth is not adequate (IICRC, 2015).
The ANSI/IICRC S520-2015 posits that applying the principles of mold remediation requires a multi-disciplinary approach involving professionals from several fields of expertise (IICRC, 2015). This would include Indoor Environmentalist, Industrial Hygienist, laboratory analysts in fungal identification, and mold remediation technicians, just to name a few. These experts will look towards the:
1. Safety and health of workers and occupants of the affected space.
2. documentation of conditions and the work processes, which includes
a. Assessments
b. Documentation during remediation
c. Post remediation documentation
3. control, removal and prevention of cross contamination
Efforts must be made to get the right company for a mold remediation job. A mold remediation company must have, not just the certification, but the knowledge, training, experience, equipment, tools and materials to undertake a successful remediation job (SERVPRO, 2017). The success of a job can be seen by a visual inspection, olfactory inspection or by a bio aerosol (air) sampling. It is highly recommended to use air sampling to truly know the success of the remediation job. The air sampling should indicate that the fungal spore count levels are below the previously recorded counts before remediation and also below the outside counts.
Mold remediation are for professionals. Companies that are not professionals can only exacerbate the problem, agitating and spreading mold spores even more.
Be mindful. Be aware. Be smart. Your health can be at risk. If you own, lease or rent a commercial space, call H&L Environmental Services Ltd today for a free consultation. 1 (758) 452-059]
Written by:
Millines Herman
For FREE Indoor Air Quality Consultation in your business, call H&L Environmental Services Ltd TODAY!!! 1-758-452-0594 or email info@hnles.com.
References
IICRC. (2015). Standard for Professional Mold Remediation. Las Vegas, NV. Retrieved September 17, 2018
SERVPRO. (2017, June 20). How to choose a Mold Removal and Remediation Company. Retrieved September 17, 2018, from SERVPRO.com: http://www.servproenglewoodeastlittleton.com/blog/post/46332/mold-removal-remediation/-how-to-choose-a-mold-removal-and-remediation-company