Unlike asbestos or lead-based paint, there are currently no federal regulations specifically
addressing microbial remediation (nor the qualifications of those firms and individuals
claiming to be experts in the field). In fact, microbial remediation techniques are put forth
in a variety of publications. Some of these originate at the federal level (EPA's ''Mold
Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings'' for example) and some originate out of
industry specific standards (IICRC's ''S500 - Standard Reference Guide for Professional Water
Damage Restoration'').
Microbial remediation focuses on such biological entities as mold, mildew, fungi, bacteria,
etc. There are literally thousands of different types of molds, and some of these have been
shown to cause adverse health effects, ranging from allergic reactions to possibly more serious
effects. It is not possible to reduce mold levels in the inside environment to a zero
concentration as molds occur naturally in our environment. However, once mold spores are
indoors and encounter a hospitable environment, they can grow out of control, making their
presence known by allergy-type symptoms, unpleasant odors, or visible surface growth.
All molds must have water and some type of substrate upon which to feed. As there are a variety
of molds capable of feeding on almost any substrate, the number one key to preventing mold growth
inside is to control water. Water sources include standing water from a leak, excess moisture
build-up in a poorly ventilated area, or excess humidity. Since control of moisture is key, one
of the first questions we ask clients phoning our office for guidance is ''have you identified the
source of your water intrusion?''
The EPA has put together an excellent brochure, entitled ''A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your
Home''. This brochure is available at EPA's website (www.epa.gov/mold). In addition, the American
Industrial Hygiene Association has put two brochures available for review on their website
(www.aiha.org), ''The Facts About Mold'' and ''Is Air Quality A Problem in My Home?''. Each of these
sources contain useful facts and tips and techniques which home owners can review in considering
mold growth in the home. Chief among them is to control moisture (i.e.: fix any roof leaks,
plumbing leaks, grading problems, humidity problems, etc), remove contaminated items from the
affected area for cleaning (if possible), conduct a clean-up of the affected area itself, ensuring
the area is properly remediated and dry prior to placing items back into the area. It is important
to act quickly as mold growth can quickly reproduce and unchecked can cause damage to the surfaces
upon which it is growing.
Should you need professional assistance in cleaning mold contamination which has ''blossomed'' out
of control, the professionals at PAS are trained and equipped with the proper protective equipment,
tools and materials to conduct mold remediation. PAS is a member of the Indoor Air Quality
Association and has individuals on staff who have been trained as Certified Mold Remediators at the
Indoor Air Quality Training Institute. PAS has conducted mold remediation projects in schools,
universities, hospitals, commercial establishments and residences.
Copyright Professional Abatement Services, Inc.