Mold Remediation Guidelines

The original mold remediation guidelines were developed because of mold growth problems in the buildings in the early 1990's. Updated mold remediation guidelines revises and expands the original guidelines to include all mold (fungi). Updated mold remediation guidelines is based both on a review of the literature regarding fungi and on comments obtained by a review panel consisting of experts in the fields of microbiology and health sciences.

Building materials supporting fungal growth must be remediated as rapidly as possible in order to ensure a healthy environment. Repair of the defects that led to water accumulation (or elevated humidity) should be conducted in conjunction with or prior to fungal remediation (Teflex). Specific methods of assessing and remediating mold contamination should be based on the extent of visible contamination and underlying damage (Mold Busters). The simplest and most expedient remediation that is reasonable, and properly and safely removes fungal contamination, should be used (Teflex). Remediation and assessment methods are described in this document.

The use of respiratory protection, gloves, and eye protection is recommended. Extensive contamination, particularly if heating, ventilating, air conditioning (HVAC) systems or large occupied spaces are involved, should be assessed by an experienced health and safety professional (Mold Busters) and remediated by personnel with training and experience handling environmentally contaminated materials. Lesser areas of contamination can usually be assessed and remediated by building maintenance personnel (Mold Remediation Kit). In order to prevent contamination from recurring, underlying defects causing moisture buildup and water damage must be addressed. Effective communication with building occupants is an essential component of all remedial efforts.

Mold in buildings may cause or exacerbate symptoms of allergies (such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, nasal congestion, and eye irritation), especially in persons who have a history of allergic diseases (such as asthma and rhinitis). Individuals with persistent health problems that appear to be related to mold or other bioaerosols exposure should see their physicians for a referral to practitioners who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties (Mold Busters) and are knowledgeable about these types of exposures. Decisions about removing individuals from an affected area must be based on the results of such medical evaluation, and be made on a case-by-case basis. Except in cases of widespread fungal contamination that are linked to illnesses throughout a building, building-wide evacuation is not indicated.

In summary, prompt remediation of contaminated material and infrastructure repair is the primary response to fungal contamination in buildings. Emphasis should be placed on preventing contamination through proper building and HVAC system maintenance (Teflex) and prompt repair of water damage (Neoguard).