There are several groups or government agencies that have published guidelines on mold removal. They are:
- American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists
- American Industrial Hygiene Association
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Health Canada
- Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration
- New York City Department of Health
These organizations agree almost unanimously on the following
points:
- Interior mold is the result of water intrusion or high humidity
- Rapid drying of water intrusion is recommended to prevent mold growth (48 hours)
- Fungal contamination of interior surfaces is unacceptable from a health/hygiene standpoint
- Fungal contamination can cause allergic, infectious, and poisonous health effects
- A single heavy exposure may cause serious health problems
- Area/building evacuation may be necessary before/during mold remediation particularly if high risk occupants are present
- Mold remediation should begin promptly upon discovery
- Interior fungal growth should be physically removed
- All mold growth indoors should be remediated properly, not just Stachybotrys
- Porous materials colonized by mold should be disposed of
- Remediation work should be conducted in unoccupied areas
- Respirators and other personal protective equipment should be used during all remediation projects
- Work practices and engineering controls should be used to minimize dust generation during remediation
- Specialized cleaning procedures should be employed for dust with potential spore contamination