Mold Remediation (Continued)
Structural mold results from high ambient humidity that can be caused by faulty water damage restoration techniques, poor air ventilation, or actual water intrusion. There are thousands of species of mold. Determination of the type and quantity of mold present is critical for a successful remediation process. When dealing with sewage damage or other highly contaminating causative factors bacteria may also be present. JW technicians work under the direction of a trained JW Mold Supervisor who will complete a thorough assessment of the situation. The Supervisor has been certified through ”the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification”.
JW Mold Remediation Service
has an Emergency 24 Hour Hot Line
877-349-3566
Molds grow rapidly after direct water damage or other sources of excessively high humidity. Ambient air or surface temperature elevation greatly increases the mold population rate. Mold can begin to generate after just forty-eight hours in a highly humid environment and they proliferate very rapidly.
Our technicians use specialized equipment in assessment of the damage. This may include the use of a Moisture Probe, a very efficient tool used in determining the exact perimeter of damage to carpet and pad and even the damage to walls The use of our state of the art Thermal Imaging Camera can help target hidden moist areas- probable mold incubation sites.
If the assessment suggests that the present mold poses a health problem the Lead Technician or Supervisor may recommend that the resident/s evacuate and remain out until it is deemed safe for their return.
Types of mold commonly seen in high humidity situations include Apsergillus, Penicillium, and Stachyborys. Other molds can occur.
Bacteria seen when contamination has occurred from sewage water are Escheichia coli (E coli), Salmonella, and Campylobacer.
One of the first steps in the remediation process is to assess the contaminated area and determine a protocol for Mold Remediation. Typically a third party will be used to do this.
In general the process follows these guidlines protect adjacent areas from mold encroachment, containment. The containment measures to be used are based on the nature of the identified type of mold and on the extent of the mold and possible bacterial contamination. To accomplish containment, technicians use polyethylene sheeting. A filtered HEPA fan may be used to create negative pressure to further inhibit the draw of mold into the clean area.
If the mold is of a toxic nature the technician may also include the use of personal protective equipment such as goggles, face masks, respirators, gloves, boots, and disposable overalls.
High ambient humidity (air moisture content) and resultant mold in structural building materials can threaten structural integrity and even more importantly can pose major health hazards.
Some types of mold are not a threat to either health or structural integrity but many types are. Individual mold spores are not visible. By the time you can see mold it has colonized.
Types of pathogenic mold that are most commonly seen in areas affected by high moisture concentration include aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and chartuarum. There are other molds that can present as well. Pathogenic bacteria often seen in water damaged areas involving sewage may also be present including Escherichia coli (E. coli), salmonella, and camplyobacer.
Structural wood, concrete, and even steel integrity can be altered by mold.
Mold growth in buildings can lead to a wide variety of health issues. Mold spores are airborne they can be breathed, ingested, or spread by contact. They are common in work place and household dust. When present, large quantities of mold colonies can cause allergic reactions, asthma, headaches, sore throats, and other respiratory problems. Children, the elderly and immunocompromised people are particularly susceptible to the effects of mold. All people regardless of health status are subject to sensitization from prolonged exposure to excessive mold. If the mold colonies are of the type that produces mycotoxins they are major health risks. These molds are known as black or toxic molds and can cause devastating neurological problems and even death.
Basic Steps in the remediation process include:
- Investigation
- Assessment
- Draft of the specific procedure for that situation
- Determination of the protective equipment to use
- Disposal of grossly contaminated items will be handled following a specific separate procedure. Clean and salvageable items will be separated and care will be specific per separate procedures
- Containment –protection of uninvolved areas
- Demolition –with as little disruption of the contaminated area as possible
- Packaging of contaminated materials in the area
- HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) vacuuming-thorough source removal is the critical key to effective remediation. Vacuuming is a much more efficient and environmentally friendly method of decontamination.
- Damp wiping-using a detergent solution
- Follow-up HEPA vacuuming
- Reconstruction as indicated
- On completion of remediation the area will be tested by a third party to determine that the area is clear of mold and test results issued.
