Otherwise known as Stachybotrys, “black mold” or “toxic black mold” is the species of mold most frequently associated with poor indoor air quality. This mold commonly arises after water damage to buildings and structures. There are severe risks associated with exposure to this type of mold. Risks increase during clean-up as mold spores become active and airborne.
Mold FAQ’s
- Mold grows actively in warm, damp, and humid conditions
- Mold spreads and reproduce by multiplying spores
- Mold spore particles as part of our everyday lives
- There are approximately 100,000 species of mold
- Very few species of mold are capable of producing disease or toxins
What does black mold look like?
Is black mold harmful?
Young children, the elderly, allergy sufferers and persons with existing lung disorders can have severe reactions to mold exposure. According to the CDC, symptoms may include but are not limited to nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, asthmatic like symptoms or skin irritation.
How do you get rid of mold?
When it comes to remediating mold it’s always best to hire a professional mold removal or remediation service. These include trained experienced mold removal technicians that are certified in this process.
Bleach, borax, vinegar, and ammonia are commonly used chemicals in mold removal. When removing mold the following steps should taken;
- Although air movers are standard equipment in during water mitigation, they should not be utilized when mold is present for fear of spreading the mold spores. Should air movers be necessary when mold is present, containment must be established.
- Use of respiratory equipment must be utilized. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has guidelines to follow for such a device. Additionally, PPE (personal protective eye wear) should be used
- Protective suits that seal at the ankle and wrists should be worn.
- An approved HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration system must be used for vacuuming. It’s not sufficient to use a HEPA filter; rather a HEPA vacuuming device is needed.
- Do not eat, drink, or use tobacco when mold remediation is occurring.
Trust Padgett’s to safely and effectively remove mold from your home or office. For more information click here; http://trustpadgetts.com/cleaning-restoration/damage-fire-smoke-water-flood-mold.php#mold
Filed under: Education, General, Health, Industry, Prevention, Projects, Restoration Industry Tagged: black mold, eradication, mold, Padgett's, remediation, restoration, Stachybotrys, toxic
