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- Avoid breathing in mold or mold spores.
In order to limit your exposure to airborne mold, you may want to wear an
N-95 respirator, available at many hardware stores and from companies that
advertise on the Internet. (They cost about $12 to $25.) Some N-95
respirators resemble a paper dust mask with a nozzle on the front, others
are made primarily of plastic or rubber and have removable cartridges that
trap most of the mold spores from entering. In order to be effective, the
respirator or mask must fit properly, so carefully follow the instructions
supplied with the respirator. Please note that the Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that respirators fit properly
(fit testing) when used in an occupational setting; consult OSHA for more
information (800-321-OSHA or
osha.gov/ .
- Wear gloves. Long
gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm are recommended. When
working with water and a mild detergent, ordinary household rubber gloves
may be used. If you are using a disinfectant, a biocide such as chlorine
bleach, or a strong cleaning solution, you should select gloves made from
natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane, or PVC (see
Cleanup and Biocides). Avoid touching mold or moldy items with your
bare hands.
- Wear goggles. Goggles that do not have
ventilation holes are recommended. Avoid getting mold or mold spores in
your eyes.
How Do I Know When the Remediation or Cleanup is Finished?
You must have completely fixed the water or moisture problem before the
cleanup or remediation can be considered finished.
- You should have completed mold removal. Visible mold and moldy odors
should not be present. Please note that mold may cause staining and
cosmetic damage.
- You should have revisited the site(s) shortly after cleanup and it
should show no signs of water damage or mold growth.
- People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without
health complaints or physical symptoms.
- Ultimately, this is a judgment call; there is no easy answer. If you
have concerns or questions call the EPA Indoor Air Quality Information
Clearinghouse at (800) 438-4318.
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