Pro's Corner

Mold is naturally present indoors and outdoors, but elevated growth inside a building can create exposure risks for workers and occupants. The goal of remediation is not to sterilize the space. It is to correct the moisture problem, remove contamination, and return the affected area to a clean and dry condition without spreading mold to other parts of the building.

Exposure may cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation or aggravate allergies and asthma. People with weakened immune systems can face a greater risk of serious infection and should avoid mold-contaminated buildings during remediation.

Here are seven common mistakes contractors should avoid.

1. Moving Air Before Controls Are in Place

Air movers are useful during water-damage restoration, but using them around mold before the area is properly controlled can spread spores, dust, and debris.

Assess the affected area before beginning demolition or drying. Depending on the size and severity of the project, this may include isolating the work area, covering nearby surfaces, sealing HVAC openings, and establishing HEPA-filtered negative air.

2. Using the Wrong Respiratory Protection

Respiratory protection should be selected according to the extent of contamination and the work being performed. OSHA guidance recommends greater protection for larger areas, heavy mold growth, or tasks that generate significant dust.

When respirators are required, employers must follow applicable OSHA requirements, including medical evaluations, fit testing, training, and proper respirator selection. Facial hair or anything else that interferes with the face seal can reduce protection.

3. Treating Containment as an Afterthought

Containment helps keep mold and debris from reaching unaffected areas. It should be secure enough to withstand work activity and any pressure differential created inside the space.

The level of containment should match the project. Extensive contamination may require work-area isolation, HEPA-filtered exhaust, and an airlock or decontamination area.

4. Skipping HEPA Cleaning

After contaminated materials have been removed and the area is dry, use a HEPA vacuum to collect settled dust and particles. HEPA vacuuming may also be needed on surfaces outside the immediate work area if contamination has escaped.

Check that filters are installed and maintained correctly, and contain discarded materials before removing them from the work area.

5. Using Protective Clothing Incorrectly

Gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing should be selected for the task and any chemicals being used. For extensive contamination, OSHA recommends clothing that covers the entire body, including the head and feet.

Workers should also follow proper removal procedures so contamination on the outside of their PPE is not transferred to clean areas, equipment, or clothing.

6. Eating or Drinking in the Work Area

Food, drinks, tobacco products, and cosmetics should stay outside the remediation area. Workers should use a designated decontamination space and wash thoroughly after leaving the work zone.

7. Relying on Bleach or Biocides Alone

Killing mold is not the same as removing it. Even dead mold can continue to cause allergic reactions, and biocides are not recommended as a routine substitute for source removal and cleaning.

Correct the moisture problem, remove contaminated material, and clean and dry the affected area. When a biocide is appropriate, follow the product label and safety data sheet. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other incompatible cleaners.

Plan Before the Work Begins

No two mold remediation projects are exactly alike. The size of the affected area, materials involved, level of contamination, and building conditions should all be evaluated before work begins.

Proper training, PPE, containment, HEPA filtration, and careful work practices can help protect technicians and limit cross-contamination. Contractors should also follow current industry guidance.

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