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Mold Remediation/Cleanup and Biocides |
| The purpose of mold remediation is to remove the mold
to prevent human exposure and damage to building materials and furnishings.
It is necessary to clean up mold contamination, not just to kill the mold.
Dead mold is still allergenic, and some dead molds are potentially toxic.
The use of a biocide, such as chlorine bleach, is not recommended as a
routine practice during mold remediation, although there may be instances
where professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when
immune-compromised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not
possible or desirable to sterilize an area; a background level of mold
spores will remain in the air (roughly equivalent to or lower than the level
in outside air). These spores will not grow if the moisture problem in the
building has been resolved. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area. Outdoor air may need to be brought in with fans. When using fans, take care not to distribute mold spores throughout an unaffected area. Biocides are toxic to humans, as well as to mold. You should also use appropriate PPE and read and follow label precautions. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia; toxic fumes could be produced. Some biocides are considered pesticides, and some States require that only registered pesticide applicators apply these products in schools. Make sure anyone applying a biocide is properly licensed, if necessary. Fungicides are commonly applied to outdoor plants, soil, and grains as a dust or spray—examples include hexachlorobenzene, organomercurials, pentachlorophenol, phthalimides, and dithiocarbamates. Do not use fungicides developed for use outdoors for mold remediation or for any other indoor situation. |