Page:Mold Web Course.pdf/46

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Books and papers

3

Full



Use professional judgement, consider potential for remediator exposure and size of contaminated area

Full



Use professional judgement, consider potential for remediator/occupant exposure and size of contaminated area

Carpet and backing

1, 3, 4

Concrete or cinder block

1, 3

Hard surface, porous flooring (linoleum, ceramic tile, vinyl)

1, 2, 3, 4

Non-porous, hard surfaces (plastics, metals)

1, 2, 3

Upholstered furniture & drapes

1, 3, 4

Wallboard (drywall and gypsum board)

3, 4

Wood surfaces

1, 2, 3, 4

Table 1 continued

*Use professional judgment to determine prudent levels of Personal Protective Equipment and containment for each situation, particularly as the remediation site size increases and the potential for exposure and health effects rises. Assess the need for increased Personal Protective Equipment, if, during the remediation, more extensive contamination is encountered than was expected. Consult Table 1 if materials have been wet for less than 48 hours, and mold growth is not apparent.

These guidelines are for damage caused by clean water. If you know or suspect that the water source is contaminated with sewage, or chemical or biological pollutants, then the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires PPE and containment. An experienced professional should be consulted if you and/or your remediators do not have expertise in remediating contaminated water situations.

†Select method most appropriate to situation. Since molds gradually destroy the things they grow on, if mold growth is not addressed promptly, some items may be damaged such that cleaning will not restore their original appearance. If mold growth is heavy and items are valuable or important, you may wish to consult a restoration/water damage/remediation expert. Please note that these are guidelines; other cleaning methods may be preferred by some professionals.

Cleanup Methods

  • Method 1: Wet vacuum (in the case of porous materials, some mold spores/fragments will remain in the material but will not grow if the material is completely dried). Steam cleaning may be an alternative for carpets and some upholstered furniture.
  • Method 2: Damp-wipe surfaces with plain water or with water and detergent solution (except wood -use wood floor cleaner); scrub as needed.
  • Method 3: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum after the material has been thoroughly dried. Dispose of the contents of the HEPA vacuum in well-sealed plastic bags.
  • Method 4: Discard - remove water-damaged materials and seal in plastic bags while inside of containment, if present. Dispose of as normal waste. HEPA vacuum area after it is dried.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Minimum: Gloves, N-95 respirator, goggles/eye protection