Caltex International Ltd. Mold Remediation Training Effects of Mold Differences Between Biocides, Cleaners, Encapsulants, Cleaners, and Cal-Brite Site Inspection How to Perform Sampling Setting Up the Work Site PPE Remediation Mold Remediation Training Post Remediation Testing Disposal and Discarding of Items Pricing and Marketing Summary What Are Some Problems Mold Can Cause? Mold destroys the surface it grows on. Remember, mold is an organism whose job it is to cause decay. Mold can be multi-colored, wet and mushy, furry looking, and smelly. Exposure to mold spores can cause respiratory distress, illness, and allergic reactions of various severities based on the individual, length of exposure, and the amount of exposure. In areas of mold infestation there is often a strong musty odor and dank air quality. All About Mold Mold can be found virtually everywhere. They can grow on almost any organic substance as long as moisture and oxygen are present. Many types of mold grow on wood, paper, carpet, food, and insulation. When excess moisture is present in a building or its associated structures, mold growth will often occur, especially if the problem causing the mold is not corrected. While, eliminating all mold spores in the indoor environment is not realistic, it can be controlled indoors by controlling the moisture levels and removing already present mold. All About Mold Mold spores reproduce by creating spores that are generally not visible to the naked eye. Mold spores float through the air on a regular basis. When the spores land on a wet spot indoors or outdoors, they begin growing and eating whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds over time destroy what they grow on because their food is many of your household materials that contain cellulose. All About Mold Mold requires water to grow in. This may take the form of a puddle, flowing leak, or even very slight dampness. Therefore, it is important to prevent moisture problems in building. Moisture problems can have multiple causes such as uncontrolled humidity, leaks etc. Other moisture problems have been linked to changes in building construction practices over the last several decades. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly closed. They often do not have sufficient ventilation. In many instances this has led to moisture and mold problems. Moisture problems can include roof leaks, landscaping problems such as insufficient grading, and leaking gutter problems, pipe condensation, cracked foundations, and unvented combustion appliances. Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in buildings. What Are the Major Types of Mold? Stachybotrys (stack-ee-BOT-ris) is member of the mold family. This particular member is known to produce airborne toxins. Some of the symptoms that Stachybotris produces are breathing problems, faintness, memory loss, hearing loss, and flulike symptoms. Two other commonly found mold types are Cladosporium and Penicillium. These molds can grow quickly and produce enough spores and intensity to cause allergic reactions. These reaction include asthma, breathing problems, sinus infections, headaches, coughing, and eye and throat irritation. There are two types of mold, Memnoniella and Aspergillus versicolor, which are known for producing airborne toxins. Airborne toxins are technically termed mycotoxins. These can cause much more severe problems among which are chronic fatigue, loss of balance and memory, irritability and difficulty speaking. Adverse Symptoms of Mold Exposure Asthma Eye irritation Rhinitis Coughing Chest Congestion Flu Like Symptoms Lung Damage Memory Loss Fever More Mold, mildew, and algae can be found in the following places: HUD buildings Schools Trailers Garages Restaurants Retail Establishments Residences Institutions Out buildings All types of both commercial and residential facilities. There are a myriad of types of mold that possess different characteristics but the basic modus operandi of mold is the same. Mold requires a food source: cellulose, found in building materials such as wood, drywall, wallboard, wallpaper, paper. and others. Mold processes oxygen and needs it to live. Mold cannot grow and reproduce without access to a water source whether it is a leak or pool of water. The only means of eliminating a mold problem is to address the source of the leak or moisture problem. However, keep in mind that not all mold spores (like seeds) can be eliminated post remediation. Mold Facts Molds can be found almost anywhere. They can grow on most surfaces where moisture is found. Molds can grow on papers, wallpaper, wallboard, carpets, woods, food and other surfaces. Be sure to reduce indoor humidity to 30-60% to reduce mold growth. This can be done by using dehumidifiers, using exhaust fans, air conditions, and fans in cooking, laundry, and bathing areas. Fix the source of the moisture problem or mold will continue to recur. Mold causes health issues such as allergic reactions, asthma, and many respiratory problems. Mold Facts All mold cannot be eliminated so it is essential to control moisture by eliminating moisture problems and leaks. Be sure to thoroughly dry any wet or even damp building materials within no more than 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Prevent condensation on cold surfaces such as windows, pipes, exterior walls, roofs, and floors by installing insulation wherever possible. Clean mold off the surfaces using the Caltex System but be aware that if the surface is absorbent and the mold infestation is severe, you may have to replace part or all of the surface. Mold Facts Do not install carpet in areas where there have been moisture problems or where moisture is present such as bathroom, near drinking fountains, sections of piping, or sinks. This removes a food source and ensures easier cleanup. It also prevents potential destruction of materials. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. How Can I Prevent Mold From Growing? Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building ASAP Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix the moisture source ASAP. Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air. To increase the surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if air outside is cold and dry) or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid). Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed. How Can I Prevent Mold From Growing? Vent moisture generating appliances such as dryers to the outside where possible. Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity, ideally 30-50%, if possible. Perform regular HVAC building inspections and maintenance as scheduled. Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours. Do not let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope ground away from the foundation. Fix foundation cracks and waterproof basements. Ensuring proper external grading is also crucial. How Can I Control Moisture to Prevent Mold? You must fix leaks. If moisture is coming into the home from outside, for example seeping into the basement, you could landscape and ensure that the ground slopes away from the house or perform basement excavation and waterproofing. water problems in the basement can result from no gutter or poorly installed gutters or water flowing toward the home and basement. Pipe leaks create a place for mold to grow. Often leaks from pipes drip onto wooden surfaces such as joists where the mold can then grow and seriously compromise the structure Suggestions for Reducing Mold Growth Vent showers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside. This reduces internal humidity. Change filters in furnaces and ventilation systems regularly. Use air conditioners and de-humidifiers. Be sure they are in proper working condition. Provide adequate ventilation to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-60%. Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning in food service areas. Clean exhaust fans regularly so that there is not buildup that could cause a mold problem. Suggestions for Reducing Mold Growth Inspect the building for signs of mold, moisture, leaks, or spills Check for moldy odors. Look for water stains or discoloration on the ceiling, walls, floors, and window sills. Often this is a reddish brown color. Look around and under sinks for standing water, water stains, or mold . .Inspect bathrooms for standing water, water stains, or mold. .Do not let water stand in air conditioning or refrigerator drip pans. Suggestions for Reducing Mold Growth Be alert for musty smells and track them to their source when you smell them. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours of occurrence to prevent mold growth. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Suggestions for Reducing Mold Growth Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced Check the mechanical room and roof for unsanitary conditions, leaks, or spills. Prevent moisture condensation. Pipes are a popular place for this to occur. Inspect pipes and fix leaks immediately. Clean and disinfect under sinks regularly. Signs of Mold Moist carpeting or stained ceiling tiles may signal a leak. The source will have to be determined. Musty odors. These often signal mold growth. Recently installed wallboard and other coverups. Replacing ceiling tiles or painting stained wallboards can cover a moisture problem, such as a leaky roof or cracked foundation. Signs of Mold High humidity can indicate poor ventilation and a moisture problem. vents installed on the external siding are another indicator of a home moisture problem. Keep a temperature- humidity gauge in the classroom or your living room. Relative humidity should be consistently below 60%. Heat or air conditioning being shut down for long periods such as summer vacation, vacation, or in vacation or second homes. This is especially relevant in humid areas such as the Southeastern United States Signs of Mold Wall units or other such large items placed near external walls in humid climates such as the Southeastern United States. This can impair the potential for drying and promote condensation. Indoor plants are just another source of moisture that can raise the moisture level if they are allowed to leak onto furniture or wooden surfaces where mold can grow. Always place a catch bowl beneath plants and clean it regularly The primary step is to commence an inspection for mold. This will entail looking under and above many parts of a house/building. Do not to disturb or remove any building materials such as wallpaper, wood, carpeting, drywall, wallboard and more in areas that possess mold because the spores can become airborne, be breathed in, and cause a host of health problems and/or spread the mold. A boroscope, to look in spaces within ductwork and other hidden spots can also be used. A moisture meter to determine the level of moisture in the air can be used to help determine areas of leaks and moist mold growth locations. How to Perform Sampling Where to Send Samples How to Interpret Test Results Why Perform Mold Testing? It is essential to have mold testing and sampling performed because: Mold spores are too small to be seen and conclusively identified as a particular species of mold. The extent of contamination cannot be determined without sampling and testing. Species of mold have varying health ramifications. It is essential to have a pre-remediation air sampling to compare to the post remediation air testing (also compared to outdoor air quality). To educate the customer particularly if they are mold sensitive and to take appropriate action to protect the customer and your staff members. Why Perform Mold Testing? It is essential to have mold testing and sampling performed because: Mold spores are too small to be seen and conclusively identified as a particular species of mold. The extent of contamination cannot be determined without sampling and testing. Species of mold have varying health ramifications. It is essential to have a pre-remediation air sampling to compare to the post remediation air testing (also compared to outdoor air quality). To educate the customer particularly if they are mold sensitive and to take appropriate action to protect the customer and your staff members. 2 Main Types of Sampling Surface sampling entails taking physical samples of mold growth from growth locations. A tape sample can be taken by placing the tape on the mold covered surface. The mold then adheres to the tape. The tape is put onto a slide and the analyzed by the laboratory which generates a report documenting the type of mold. Tape sample results only reflect the type of mold. To determine the extent of mold contamination, air sampling will have to be performed. We will discuss this later in this section. Swab Sampling Another method of gaining surface samples for testing is to perform a swab test. A swab is wiped across the moldy surface section and then placed on an agar plate (this plate then grows the mold into viable colonies). The mold testing laboratory identifies the type of mold. Air Sampling It is also essential to perform pre-remediation air sampling. This will determine the levels of spores in the air. Since mold releases spores into the air and spores travel on air currents, you will know the extent of the contamination by taking air samples from various areas in the structure. It is essential to use both bulk sampling (taking physical samples of the mold form the growth source) and air sampling because NOT all types of mold go airborne easily (refer to section on types of mold). Air Sampling Involves the use of 1 of the Methods listed Below Basically air sampling involves selection and use of one of the following methods: Hole impaction Sieve impaction Centrifugal Filtration Gravity based Material settlement Multiple hole impaction Liquid impingement Culture Method A culture methodology has the air flow impacting upon a culture disk. the viable spores are grown into colonies, the type of mold(s) identified, and based on the air flow the amount of mold colonies per cubic meter of air can be mathematically determined. This method is helpful because the contactor gets a definitive answer as to what type of mold he or she is dealing with. Air Sampling-Sticky Impaction Air sampling using a sticky source, allows the laboratory to take an exact count of spores in the air per cubic meter of air. This provides an accurate answer to the quality of air in the structure. This is helpful if homeowner’s have complained about not feeling well and respiratory problems. Either way, air sampling is essential to perform pre-remediation and postremediation combing with mold remediation and repair of the source of the moisture problem to ensure a job well done. Charges and Getting Test Results The samples are sent to the laboratory for testing. Swab and culture sampling typically take several more days to get results because the mold must have time to grow into colonies. Air impact on sticky substrate provides a mold count and takes less time to get results. The customer should have a basic time frame as to when results will come in. Charges for mold sampling usually range from $120.00-$125.00+ based on the complexity of the project and the number and type of samples taken. This average price also takes into account communicating the results with the customer and the cost and labor of 2 visits. How To Interpret Air Sampling Results? Air sampling devices have different flow rates. Different air samplers have different rates of efficiency. It is important to use the same exact type of air samplers. It is essential to compare apples to apples. Never compare results from different air sampling equipment types and never take samples for different durations of time and compare results. How To Interpret Air Sampling Results? Several common types of air sampling devices are as follows: Spore traps: Air-O-Cell cassettes MCE filter cassettes Allergeno samplers Burkhard samplers These types of air samples collect spores on a receiver or membrane. How To Interpret Air Sampling Results? When this type of sample is submitted to a laboratory for testing, all of the mold and fungus parts are counted and identified. The accuracy of total spore count results is very similar to that of the culture plate method. Culture plates usually result in less mold/fungal collection than a spore trap method. Why is this? Collection via culture plate only grows viable spores. Therefore, non-viable or dormant spores cannot grow into colonies on the plate. The advantage of using a culture plate methodology is that the types of mold/fungus can be properly identified. How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Follow the steps herein. The contractor may not need to use all of the steps. If a step is not applicable to your case, go on to the next step. If there is a large sampling of airborne spores from the total spore counting method, you might be able to define what is considered a low, moderate or high level to screen your results. This type of data should only be used for performance evaluation and cannot be used as criteria for a health evaluation. How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Compare total concentrations from outdoor, indoor, areas without apparent issue, and areas with mold/spore issues. Indoor mold/spores levels should be less than outdoor air quality. However, remember that building with many open windows/door especially in the summer and better weather seasons or locations without can have spore levels that are higher than outside air levels. Locations without spore growth should generally have lower spore counts than areas with actual/suspected spore growth. Compare spore type and species, indoor versus outdoor air quality, and involved versus non-involved area. Large indoor spaces may not always reflect the same spore/mold types as outdoors because of the large space over which the spores may be spread. How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Compare the data from involved locations to assess what spores are consistently found. If the samples from all involved areas indicate that a consistent level of spores is found, then the mold source is probably nearby. Look for fungal spores that are usually associated with water damage. Common spores associated with water damage are: Chaetomium, Stachybotrys, Menoniella, Ulocladium. and Eurotium. Reproductive structures of spores such as ascus, conidophores, and ascomata can indicate active mold growth due to water damage, condensation, or high humidity levels. Eurotium, for example, often indicates high humidity, condensation problems, and poor ventilation. Aspegillus and Penicillium types of spores are common both indoor and outdoors. However, if they are found in higher levels indoors, this is indicative of a water damaged environment. How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Low levels of spores in winter indoors do not indicate a healthy indoor air quality environment. In winter, water freezes and temperatures drop thereby putting mold and its spores into dormancy and a non-reproductive state. This can significantly change in spring and summer when temperatures are warm and leaks have unfrozen. Ex: A leaky moldy basement does not actively leak at 10 degrees F or appear as smell and moldy until the spring thaws hit. If Stachybotrys spores are detected consult the “Guidelines on Assessment and remediation of Stachybotrys atra in Indoor Environments” by the NYC Department of Health. This can be found at www.ci.nyc.us/html/doh/epi/moldrpt1.html How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Be sure to correlate customer complaints, site inspection, and lab results to determine if there is mold/fungal growth. If there is mold/fungal growth, there is a moisture/water problem nearby. The source of this moisture problem must be fixed so that it does not recur. Understand the background of the type(s) of spores found and identified in the laboratory results. Some spores such as Eurotium are xerophobic and grow where there is low water activity. Others such as Chaetomium, Memnoniella, Stachybotrys, and Ulocladium grow where there is a great deal of water present. Bulk Sampling Technique Bulk sampling can be performed on the following materials (but not limited to): Carpet Fibers Drywall Materials HVAC System Liners/materials Sheetrock Bulk Sampling Technique Use a knife to cut out the section to be sent out bulk sampling. Be sure to wear health care type of gloves for personal protection and to protect the sample. Always alcohols swab your cutting tool both before and after taking the bulk sample. Cut a 1-4 square inch sample and put this in a zip lock bag. Be sure to be gentle when cutting out the sample so that you do not disturb the spores/mold/fungus source. Label the sample and record it on the sample sheet. Record site, sample location, sample size, time and date. Send the samples to the laboratory ASAP. If the bulk samples are damp or moist ship them in ice by overnight courier. Contact the laboratory and inform then that wet samples are on their way and to get them tested immediately. Verify that you send all samples with the data sheet and chain of custody to the lab. How to Perform Spore Trapping Samples? Attach the exit end of the cassette to the tube and air pump. Be sure to record the location and all required chain of custody information. Out the cassette and pump down on a stable surface in the location of where the air sampling is to be done. Do not disturb the area while the sampling is taking place. Set the sampling time (all samples should be set for the same time period for apples to apples comparison) When the sampling is completed, re seal the sample inlet slit and remove the sample from the pump mechanism. Send the sample to the laboratory with the chain of custody documentation (keep copy for your records). How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? How Are Airborne Mold/Fungus Spores Results Arrived at From the Spore Counting Method? Your initial site investigation and visual observations are essential to this process. The contractor should be mapping out the locations of water damage, extent of damage, types of materials damaged, humidity issues, building history, and more. Via this means, the contractor can correlate the mold testing results with the location issues where the samples derived. This can be used in the process of making remediation recommendations. Wipe and Swab Sampling To perform wipe/swab sampling do the following: Follow the directions on your wipe/swap kit but first moisten the swab. Take the sample by wiping the surface. Wipe 1 square or 4 square inches. If the surface looks significantly dirty, double the surface swabbing area. Properly label the samples. This should include the size of each area sampled. Send a copy of the data sheet with the samples. Send the samples to the lab via overnight courier. Ice packs may be used and are often helpful is retaining a viable sample. The laboratory will analyze the samples and send you the results as soon as they are available. Mold Testing Laboratories Mold testing laboratories can be found in the Yellow Pages of your local phone book. Galson Laboratories at 888-432-5527 provides kits . Galson requires that microbiological samples be shipped via overnight courier in a cooler with blue ice. The utilize potato dextrose agar (PDA) for fungal cultures and Trypticase Soy agar (TSA) for bacteria testing. Please refer to the Galson Laboratories Handouts. These handouts document how to take a sample using different sampling devices, how to send in samples, equipment rentals, and much more! SKC at www.skcinc.com also rents equipment and provides a full range of testing services. There is Mold-Now What? What structural repairs are involved? How will this be done? Who will do this? Where is hidden mold located? Is the structure compromised? What materials must be removed to get at he hidden mold? How many rooms are involved? How will I seal the remediation zone(s) How many cleaning stations will need to be set up? What materials can be cleaned and dried? What materials must be discarded? How much time and how may staff members will this project require? What are my overhead costs-materials, time labor, wages and benefits, insurance costs etc.? The contractor must plan for all of the issues above and more in planning to prepare a quote to discuss with the customer. Communicating Test Results When the report comes back from the laboratory, the contractor must communicate the type of mold that is present and from the air sampling the amount of spores per cubic meter of air. The contractor should compare the indoor air quality to what normal outdoor air quality conditions in terms of the number of spores per cubic meter of air are. It is essential for the homeowner to know how their indoor air quality compares to normal outdoor air quality (this is the post remediation test-to have the post remediation indoor air quality test the same or better than normal outdoor air quality). Safety Tips for Evaluating and Investigating Mold Problems Do not touch mold or moldy items with bare hands. Be sure to have plastic gloves on for sampling/remediating. Do not get mold or mold spores in your eyes. use safety goggles with side shields that fit snugly around your eyes and face. Do not breathe in mold or mold spores. Be sure to have your respirator on at all times while within the containment zone. Follow the PPE and containment guidelines as contained in this manual When addressing mold the minimum PPE is an N-95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection. Mold Remediation Steps Select a remediation manager Assess the size of the mold problem and note the type of mold damaged items Communicate with the all people involved in the project throughout the process as appropriate to the situations. Identify the source of the moisture problem Plan the remeditation to fit the scope and type of remediation situation Mold Remediation Steps Select the PPE Select containment equipment Select remediation staff Remediate using either in house or out of house personnel Clean and dry moldy materials Mold Remediation Steps Discard moldy items that can’t be cleaned Dry non moldy items within 48 hours Check for return of the mold and moisture problem. If hidden mold is discovered, reevaluate your remediation plan, and recommunicate to all parties involved the revised remediation plan. Before Remediation Are there already existing moisture problems in the building? Have building materials been wet more that 48 hours? Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high (high enough to cause condensation)? Are people reporting musty or moldy odors? Where in particular? Are people reporting health problems or sneezing a lot with runny noses? What ar they? Before Remediation Are the building materials or furnishings visibly damaged? Is mold readily apparent? Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan changed? Has the building been recently remodeled or changed? Look at the plans? Is consultation with health professional indicated? Have there been grading problems or streams/springs nearby? How Do I Determine What Type of Mold It Is and How It Should Be Treated? Laboratory testing to determine the type of mold is often needed in case a person is or does become ill from mold. A doctor will ask what it is prior to prescribing treatment. Mold sampling is needed to ascertain the proper remediation procedures. An environmental professional who is specifically trained for this task should perform mold testing and sampling. Samples are sent to an environmental laboratory where testing is conducted to determine the type and severity of contamination. Often, it will take several days to complete the lab testing. The three basic tools used to determine the relevant remediation plan are as follows: Visual inspection Photographs Laboratory analysis The written remediation plan will accomplish the following tasks: Types of personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used A level of containment that must be erected Procedures to be followed to clean and/or remove moldy building materials. Salvagable Metals Glass Ceramics Plastics Wood Concrete materials Fabrics that have only a small amount of mold and can be cleaned are a judgment call. * These materials must be structurally sound be able to be cleaned. Discard Porous materials Ceiling tiles Insulation Wallboards with more than a small area of contamination should be removed and discarded. Setting the Remediation Plan The first step is to assess the size of the mold and/or moisture problem and the type of damaged materials before planning the actual work. Select a remediation manager for large or medium sized jobs. The plan should include the steps to fix the water or moisture problem or potential reoccurrence. The plan should cover the use of appropriate PPE and include steps to carefully contain and remove mold building materials to avoid spreading the molds. A remediation plan can vary greatly based on the job size, complexity, and possible revisions to the plan. People First The most important factor is to protect the health and safety of the occupants and the remediation staff. This may mean the relocation of people to an alternate location while the remediation is taking place. Remediation should be conducted during off hours because people will not be in the area. PPE As a contractor, it is essential that you ensure the safety of your staff and comply with OSHA and EPA guidelines. On a mold remediation work site, the following types of PPE are recommended: Goggles/Safety Glasses Full Body Suit with Booties and Hood Hearing Protection Work Boots Preferably Steel Toes Hard Hat (to protect from falling objects) Gloves N-100 Respirator for Organic Particulates (comply with OSHA respiratory protection standard) Communication The homeowner/building owner is often quite perturbed about the situation and the impact on the business/occupants. In addition, the insurance adjustor must understand what the written remediation plan is, and how the project is progressing. The initial report and plan are also given to the adjustor. The employees must receive a through safety training on mold, the appropriate safety gear, and how to wear it. They need to be aware of the adverse health conditions that can result if they do not comply with the required safety gear. In addition, there must be sanctions if they choose not to comply and wear the required safety gear. Be sure to communicate in a manner that does not alarm the homeowner, or create additional or unnecessary liability or cost for the insurance company/building owner. HVAC Do not run the HVAC system if you suspect that it is contaminated with mold or if mold is located near the intake to the system. If the occupants inform you that they know there if mold in the HVAC system because when they turn it on, the mold smell becomes much stronger all over, there is probably mold in the HVAC system. If the occupants have been running this system regularly, the mold spores are probably all over and air testing will have to be done with the system on. The HVAC system will also have to be remediated. and the system not run until it has been thoroughly remediated and the air tested post remediation Hidden Mold Sources Back side of dry wall, wallpaper or paneling Top of ceiling tiles Underside of carpets and pads etc. Pie chases and utility tunnels Walls behind furniture Condensate drain pans inside air handling units, porous thermal or acoustic liners inside ductwork Roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to rook leaks or insufficient insulation). Materials such as dry wall with vinyl wallpaper over it or wood paneling can act as vapor barriers which trap moisture underneath and provide a moist environment for mold. You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and building occupants are reporting health problems. Be sure to use the required PPE when investigating hidden mold sources. Removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores from mold growing on the underside of the paper. Small Mold Areas A small mold remediation area is defined as 10 square feet or less. This may be a small section of tile or wallboard, or simply that the mold problem has been caught early on before it had a chance to cover and extensive area. Remediation can be conducted by maintenance staff. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. Training is essential. You must comply with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Respiratory protection must be worn. It is important to ensure that you and all staff within the containment areas comply with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134), is recommended. Gloves and eye protection should be worn. An N 95 respirator must be worn while in the containment zone and while remediating. Small Mold Areas The work area should be unoccupied except by the remediators. Vacating people from spaces adjacent to the work area is not necessary in all cases Remove the following people from areas nearby the remediation zone: infants of less than 1 year old, persons who recently had surgery, immune suppressed people, or people with lung diseases or allergies. Containment of the work area is not always necessary . Dust and mold suppression methods, such as misting surfaces prior to remediation, should also be employed. Small Mold Areas Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed plastic bag. Moldy bagged materials can simply be placed in the regular garbage. The work area and areas used by remedial workers for egress should be cleaned with a mop and the Caltex System. This is important to prevent the spread of mold spores which may have been tracked in and out. The job site should be left, clean, dry, with no debris or obvious mold problem Medium Sized Areas A medium sized areas is defined as being 10- 30 square feet. This can include any of the surfaces commonly devoured by mold. Remediation can be conducted by maintenance staff. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. Training is essential. You must comply with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Respiratory protection must be worn. It is important to ensure that you and all staff within the containment areas comply with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134), is recommended. Gloves and eye protection should be worn. An N 95 respirator must be worn while in the containment zone and while remediating. The work area should be unoccupied except by the remediators. Vacating people from spaces adjacent to the work area is not necessary in all cases Medium Sized Areas Remove the following people from areas nearby the remediation zone: infants of less than 1 year old, persons who recently had surgery, immune suppressed people, or people with lung diseases or allergies. Containment of the work area is not always necessary . Dust and mold suppression methods, such as misting surfaces prior to remediation, should also be employed. The work area should be covered with a plastic sheet(s) and sealed with tape before remediation, to contain dust/debris. Medium Sized Areas The work area and areas used by remedial workers for egress should be HEPA vacuumed ( a vacuum equipped with a HighEfficiency Particulate Air filter) and cleaned with a damp cloth and/or mop and a detergent solution. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed plastic bag. Moldy bagged materials can simply be placed in the regular garbage. The work area and areas used by remedial workers for egress should be cleaned with a mop and the Caltex System. This is important to prevent the spread of mold spores which may have been tracked in and out. The job site should be left, clean, dry, with no debris or obvious mold problem Large Mold Areas A large mold problem is defined as being 30- 100 square feet. Microbial investigations should be performed prior to remediation activities to provide guidance. Respiratory protection must be worn. It is important to ensure that you and all staff within the containment areas comply with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134), is recommended. Gloves and eye protection should be worn. An N 95 respirator must be worn while in the containment zone and while remediating. Large Mold Areas The work area should be unoccupied except by the remediators. Vacating people from spaces adjacent to the work area is not necessary in all cases Remove the following people from areas nearby the remediation zone: infants of less than 1 year old, persons who recently had surgery, immune suppressed people, or people with lung diseases or allergies. Containment of the work area is not always necessary . Dust and mold suppression methods, such as misting surfaces prior to remediation, should also be employed. The work area should be covered with a plastic sheet(s) and sealed with tape before remediation, to contain dust/debris. Large Mold Areas The work area and areas used by remedial workers for egress should be HEPA vacuumed ( a vacuum equipped with a HighEfficiency Particulate Air filter) and cleaned with a damp cloth and/or mop and a detergent solution. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed plastic bag. Moldy bagged materials can simply be placed in the regular garbage. The work area and areas used by remedial workers for egress should be cleaned with a mop and the Caltex System. This is important to prevent the spread of mold spores which may have been tracked in and out. Large Mold Areas Seal ventilation ducts/grills in the work area and areas directly adjacent with plastic sheeting. If the remediation process will generate a lot or dust or involve a lot of scraping and surface agitation or there are blankets or mold, follow the highest remediation guidelines available. The job site should be left, clean, dry, with no debris or obvious mold problem. Extra Large Mold Site A super size mold site is defined as being over 100 square feet. Microbial investigations conducted before remediation for project guidance. A staff trained in hazardous material processes. Full-face respirators with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cartridges Disposable protective clothing covering both head and shoes. Gloves must be worn also. Containment of the remediation areas must be done by ensuring thorough isolation of containment zone from inhabited areas using plastic sheeting sealed with duct tape. Any opening into the containment zone must also be plastic sheeted and duct taped to prevent air flow out. The use of an exhaust fan with a HEPA filter to generate negative pressurization. It is important to set up a decontamination zone also. Extra Large Mold Site Remove the following people from areas nearby the remediation zone: infants of less than 1 year old, persons who recently had surgery, immune suppressed people, or people with lung diseases or allergies. The contained area and decontamination room should be HE A vacuumed and cleaned with the Caltex System. The containment zone should be clean to the naked eye. Only then should the containment barriers be removed. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed plastic bag. Moldy bagged materials can simply be placed in the regular garbage. Air monitoring should be conducted prior to occupancy to determine if the area is fit to reoccupy. Be Sure to Use These Cleaning Methods Wet vacuum. This works very well on hard materials. Be sure that they are thoroughly dried. Steam cleaning may be an alternative for carpets and some upholstered furniture Wipe surfaces down using surfactant or The Caltex System depending on what surface you are cleaning. HEPA vacuum after the material has been thoroughly dried. Dispose of the contents of the HEPA vacuum in tied plastic garbage bags. Place in regular garbage. Tear down and throw away water damaged materials and seal in plastic garbage bags. Be sure to close them tightly while inside the containment area. Cleanup Mold growth can cause significant structural damage over time. If a mold/moisture problem has not been addressed for a long time it can weaken floors, and walls. This is because mold feeds on wet wood. If you believe that mold has weakened the structural integrity of a building, consult a structural engineer or a professional with expertise in this field. Wet vacuums collect water but should not be used on porous materials because they can damage the material. Wet vacuums can spread spores if the surface being vacuumed is not sufficiently wet. The tanks, hoses, and various attachments of the vacuum should be thoroughly cleaned and dried after use because the mold and spores may remain on its surfaces. Cleanup Mold can usually be removed from non porous surfaces by wiping and scrubbing with water and The Caltex System. Dry these surfaces quickly and thoroughly after wiping to discourage further mold growth. Porous materials that are wet and have mold growing on them can be discarded. Be sure not to paint or caulk over moldy surfaces. Do not paint over moldy surfaces. HEPA vacuums are used for the final cleanup of the remediation area after the materials have been removed and the surfaces wiping and dried. Be sure that the filter is placed properly on the vacuum. This is important because all air must pass through the filter to ensure the particulate matter is removed from the surface/air. Wear the proper PPE when changing the vacuum filter to avoid exposure to the mold. The filter and HEPA bag contents must be disposed of in a well sealed plastic bag. The Advantages of Cal-Brite Versus Cleaners, Biocides, Sanitizers, and Encapsulants There are 4 basic categories that base most of the mold remediation products available today. These are as follows: Cleaners Biocides Sanitizers Encapsulants. Cleaners A cleaner by definition loosens the surface material and thus makes it easier to wipe off or “clean”. Cleaners do not kill the bacteria or mold. Biocides A biocide refers to an agent that kills bacteria and moldbiological agents. The last 4 letters of the word mean “kill/death”. Therefore, it means the death of a biological organism. There are several types of biocides. Fungicides are developed to kill mold. Virucides are created to kill viruses. True biocides are created to kill bacteria. However, different types of biocides are not effective against all molds or kinds of contamination. A virucide may have no effect against mold. Some biocides claim to be very effective but they are not necessarily as effective as a dedicated virucide or fungicide. no biocide is 100% effective against all types of mold and bacteria; a few spores may survive. Sanitizers A sanitizer can kill bacteria or mold but renders inactive the mold or bacteria and makes it much harder for mold or bacteria to regrow on the treated sanitized surface. Encapsulants An encapsulant covers the surface thereby not allowing any particles or items to escape from underneath the sealed surface. This does not kill the bacteria or mold. They are typically painted on and when they dry, the surface is sealed and hard to the touch. Therefore, nothing can penetrate up through the sealed surface. These can be used later in the remediation process with additives to deter regrowth. Encapsulants For example, zinc based encapsulants often deter the regrowth of mold. However, one must remember that the core cause of the moisture problem must be fixed (eg. structural repairs) or it will recur. Encapsulants should never be used in place of a mold remediation. An encapsulant such as drylock should never be placed over mold/fungus. Encapsulants Remember, not all encapsulants work on all surfaces. The contractor should always perform a spot test before fully applying the encapsulant. Bubbles, cracks. and peeling indicate that the encapsulant has failed. If this occurs, another encapsulant should be used or another remediation conducted. Even encapsulants that contain biocidal agents are not effective on actively growing mold. Encapsulants Neither are encapsulants (e.g. Drylock) permanent solutions. Over time encapsulants fail and then more permanent steps would have to be undertaken. This may involve structural repairs. Therefore, encapsulant coated surfaces requires regular inspection and maintenance. Some encapsulants create hazardous wastes which require proper disposal. Cal-Brite Cal-Brite is a sanitizer and when used will kill as much mold as a more chemically potent or harmful biocide. In addition, it retards the regrowth of mold. Bleach Chlorine bleach is a biocide. However, it is hazardous to people and should never be mixed with other compounds such as ammonia. Bleach leaves the surface wet or damp and slightly slimy to the touch. Since bleach does NOT retard the growth of mold like Cal-Brite does, the mold can regrow again leading to a vicious cycle of bleaching and mold growing. Eventually, the homeowner may become frustrated and ask if there if anything that does not act as a fertilizer that actually retards the regrowth of mold. Biocides are not recommended because the mold parts can still cause allergic reactions after they are dead. This is especially applicable to sensitized individuals. The Cal-Brite Solution Cal-Brite will kill the mold or bacteria AND retard its regrowth. Using Cal-Brite and following all EPA mold remediation project guidelines and cleaning steps if performed correctly by the contractor ensures that the mold and bacteria are killed and that the dead mold parts are vacuumed and removed to prevent allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. Guidelines for Response To Water Damage within 24-48 Hours To Prevent Mold Growth Books and Papers Discard Photocopy important items Discard originals Freeze or freeze dry Carpet and Backing-dry w/i 24-48 Hrs. Remove water with water extraction Vacuum Reduce ambient humidity with dehumidifier Accelerate drying process with fans Ceiling Tiles Discard and replace Cellulose Insulation Discard and replace Guidelines for Response To Water Damage within 24-48 Hours To Prevent Mold Growth Concrete or cinder block surfaces Remove water with water extraction vacuum Accelerate drying process with dehumidifiers, fans, and/or heaters Guidelines for Response To Water Damage within 24-48 Hours To Prevent Mold Growth Fiberglass insulation-Discard and replace Flooring-Vacuum or damp wipe with water and mild detergent and allow to dry; scrub if necessary Check to make sure underflooring is dry, dry underflooring if necessary Plastics, metals-Vacuum or damp wipe with water and mild detergent and allow to dry; scrub if necessary Guidelines for Response To Water Damage within 24-48 Hours To Prevent Mold Growth Upholstered furniture-Remove water with water extraction vacuum Accelerate drying process with dehumidifiers, fans, and/or heaters May be difficult to completely dry within 48 hours. if the piece is valuable, you may wish to consult a restoration water damage professional who specializes in furniture Wallboard (drywall/gypsum) May be dried in place if there is no obvious swelling and seams are intact. If not, remove, discard, and replace. Ventilate the cavity, if possible. Guidelines for Response To Water Damage within 24-48 Hours To Prevent Mold Growth Drapes-Follow laundering or cleaning instructions recommended by the manufacturer. Wood surfaces-Remove moisture immediately and use dehumidifiers, gentle heat, and fans for drying (Use caution when applying heat to hardwood floors) Treated or finished wood surfaces may be cleaned with mild detergent and clean water and allowed to dry. Wet paneling should be pried away from wall for drying.