MOULD ASSESSMENT | MOULD REMEDIATION | CONSULTING

There are several groups or government agencies that have published guidelines on mould removal.  They are:

• American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists
• American Industrial Hygiene Association
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Canadian Construction Association
• Health Canada
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• New York City Department of Health

These organizations agree almost unanimously on the following points:

Interior mould is the result of water intrusion or high humidity

Rapid drying of water intrusion is recommended to prevent mould growth (48 hours)

Fungal contamination of interior surfaces is unacceptable from a health/hygiene standpoint

Fungal contamination can cause allergic, infectious, and poisonous health effects

A single heavy exposure may cause serious health problems

Area/building evacuation may be necessary before/during mould remediation particularly if high risk occupants are present

Mould remediation should begin promptly upon discovery

Interior fungal growth should be physically removed

All mould growth indoors should be remediated properly, not just Stachybotrys

Porous materials colonized by mould should be disposed of

Remediation work should be conducted in unoccupied areas

Respirators and other personal protective equipment should be used during all remediation projects

Work practices and engineering controls should be used to minimize dust generation during remediation

Specialized cleaning procedures should be employed for dust with potential spore contamination