Assessment
The first step in an assessment is to determine if mold is present. This is done by visually examining
the premises. If mold is growing and visible this helps determine the level of remediation that is necessary. If mold is actively
growing and is visibly confirmed the need for sampling for specific species of mold is unnecessary.
Another assessment method is to determine if
the premise smells of mold, often described as an earthy or musty odor. However, not all molds produce the telltale mold odors.
These methods are considered to be non-intrusive and only visible and odor causing molds will be found. Sometimes
more intrusive methods are needed to assess the level of mold contamination. This would include moving furniture, lifting
or removing carpets, checking behind wallpaper or paneling, checking ventilation ductwork, opening and exposing wall cavities,
etc.
Careful detailed visual inspection and recognition of moldy odors should be used to find problems needing
correction. Efforts should focus on areas where there are signs of liquid moisture or water vapor (humidity) or where moisture
problems are suspected. The investigation goals should be to locate indoor mold growth to determine how to correct the moisture
problem and remove contamination safely and effectively.
The basic goals of any mold investigation are always twofold: 1) find the locations
of mold growth, and 2) determine the sources of the moisture.
The key to mold control is moisture control. It
is important to dry water damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Link to - Inspection Procedures/Process
Sampling /Mold Testing
When sampling is necessary it should be performed by a trained professional who
has specific experience in designing mold-sampling protocols, sampling methods, and the interpretation of findings. The sampling
and analysis should follow the recommendations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the American Industrial Hygiene Association
(AIHA). Three types of air sampling include but are not limited to:
· Air sampling: the most common form of sampling to asses the level of mold. Sampling of the
inside and outdoor air is conducted and the results to the level of mold spores inside the premises and outside are compared.
Often, air sampling will provide positive identification of the existence of non-visible mold.
·
Surface samples: sampling the amount of mold spores deposited on indoor surfaces
(swab, tape, and dust samples)
· Bulk samples: the removal of materials from the contaminated area to identify and determine the concentration
of mold in the sample.
