Safely Remove Mold-Infested Material
It is critical to be cautious and smart when removing mold-infested material in a home. Follow this process in order to safely remove mold-infested material during a mitigation project.
This is an example template process. By importing this process, whether you customize it or not, you acknowledge that KnowHow is not liable for the content contained, implementation or use of this example process.
Step 1: Follow the provided Mold Protocol
Follow the provided Mold Protocol:
1. Familiarize yourself with the mold protocol provided for the removal process. This protocol contains specific guidelines and steps to ensure the safe removal of mold-infested material.
2. Ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment required to follow the mold protocol effectively. This may include personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator, as well as any specialized tools mentioned in the protocol.
3. Review the mold protocol thoroughly to understand the recommended techniques for identifying and removing mold-infested material. The protocol may include instructions on how to assess the extent of mold growth, identify the source of the mold damage, and determine the appropriate removal method.
4. Begin the removal process by carefully inspecting the affected area for signs of mold growth. Follow the protocol's instructions to identify areas where mold may be present, such as behind walls, under carpets, or in other hidden spaces.
5. Use the recommended technique mentioned in the protocol to pull back a section of carpet and examine the padding and material underneath for any visible signs of mold growth. Take note of any areas that require further investigation or removal.
6. If necessary, create a three-sided hole cut in the wall cavity as instructed in the mold protocol. This will allow you to visually inspect the inside of the wall for any mold growth that may be present. Make sure to follow the recommended safety precautions while performing this step.
7. Before proceeding with the removal process, set up a containment area to prevent the spread of mold spores to other parts of the home. The mold protocol should provide specific guidelines on how to effectively create a containment, which may include using plastic sheeting and sealing off the area with tape.
8. Set up a negative air machine with ducting that leads outside. This will help to ensure that any airborne mold spores are directed out of the containment area and safely expelled from the home.
9. Put on the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as recommended by the mold protocol. This may include gloves, goggles, a respirator, and protective clothing to minimize your exposure to mold spores during the removal process.
10. Carefully remove all items from the affected area, following the mold protocol's instructions. Take care to avoid spreading mold spores to unaffected areas of the home.
11. Bag all removed materials within the containment area, properly sealing the bags to prevent any further contamination.
Step 2: Find and fix the source of the Mold damage
Inspect the area for any signs of water leaks or moisture that may have caused the mold growth.
This could include checking for roof leaks, plumbing leaks, or any other potential sources of water intrusion.
Once the source of the mold damage has been identified, take the necessary steps to fix the issue.
This may involve repairing a leaky pipe, replacing a damaged roof, or addressing any other underlying issues that are contributing to the moisture problem.
It is crucial to resolve the source of the mold damage to prevent future mold growth and ensure the effectiveness of the mold removal process.
If you remove the moldy material without finding the source of the water that is causing mold to grow, the mold will re-grow.
Step 3: Pull back a section of carpet to look at the padding and material underneath, assessing for mold growth
To assess for mold growth, carefully pull back a section of the carpet to reveal the underlying padding and material.
Take a close look at the exposed area to identify any signs of mold infestation.
Inspect the padding and material thoroughly, paying attention to any discoloration, musty odor, or visible mold growth.
Inspect the tack strip and the baseboards.
Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself from exposure to mold spores during this process.
Step 4: Inspect the wall cavity to look for mold growth by using a three-sided hole cut
Using a three-sided hole cut, carefully inspect the wall cavity for any signs of mold growth.
Take your time to thoroughly examine the area, paying close attention to any discolored patches, musty odors, or visible mold growth.
If you notice any mold, document its location and extent for further remediation.
It is crucial to be meticulous during this inspection process to ensure that all mold-infested areas are identified and addressed appropriately.
Step 5: Put up a containment in order to protect the occupants of the home from Mold Cross Contamination
To protect the occupants of the home from mold cross contamination, it is necessary to put up a containment. A containment is a physical barrier that prevents the spread of mold spores to unaffected areas. Follow these steps to properly put up a containment:
1. Gather the necessary materials: You will need 6 mil plastic , preservation tape, zippers access door, and a utility knife.
2. Prepare the area: Ensure that the area where the containment will be set up is clean and free of any debris or mold-infested materials.
3. Start by covering the floor: Lay down plastic sheets on the floor within the designated containment area. Overlap the sheets and secure them in place with duct tape.
4. Seal off walls and ceilings: Attach plastic to the walls and ceilings of the containment area using preservation tape. Make sure the plastic is tightly secured and completely cover the surfaces.
5. Create an entrance: Cut an opening in the containment wall or ceiling to create an entrance. Attach a zipper access door to this opening, following the manufacturer's instructions. This will allow easy access in and out of the containment.
6. Seal all seams and joints: Use preservation tape to seal all the seams and joints where the plastic sheets meet. This will ensure a tight seal and prevent any mold spores from escaping.
7. Inspect the containment: Once the containment is set up, carefully inspect it to ensure that there are no gaps or openings. Any potential areas of leakage should be sealed with additional tape.
8. Communicate the presence of the containment: Place appropriate signage outside the containment area to indicate the presence of mold and the need for caution.
Ensure to cover any AC or heating vents
By putting up a proper containment, you can effectively prevent mold cross contamination and protect the occupants of the home during the removal process.
Step 6: Set up your negative air machine with the ducting going outside
Set up your negative air machine with the ducting going outside by following these detailed steps:
1. Position the negative air machine in a central location within the affected area. Ensure that it is easily accessible and does not obstruct any pathways.
2. Connect the ducting to the discharge port of the negative air machine. Ensure a secure and tight connection to prevent any air leaks.
3. Locate a suitable exit point outside the building where the ducting can be directed. This can be a window, door, or any other opening that allows for the proper ventilation of air.
4. Attach the other end of the ducting to the exit point, ensuring a secure and tight connection. Use tape or clamps to secure the ducting in place and prevent any air leakage.
5. Check the airflow direction indicator on the negative air machine to ensure that it is set to exhaust air outside. Adjust the settings if necessary.
6. Plug in the negative air machine and switch it on. Verify that the machine is running smoothly and generating the desired airflow.
7. Regularly monitor the negative air machine to ensure that it operates effectively throughout the mold removal process. Check for any signs of malfunction or decreased airflow.
By setting up your negative air machine with the ducting going outside, you create a controlled airflow system that helps to remove airborne mold spores and prevent their spread to other areas of the home. This step is crucial in maintaining a safe and contained environment during the mold removal process.
Step 7: Don proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
See KnowHow process in the link below on how to don PPE.
Step 8: Remove all items from the affected area
Carefully remove all items from the area that has been affected by mold.
This includes furniture, personal belongings, and any other items that may be present.
Take extra care to prevent any mold spores from spreading to unaffected areas of the home.
Use caution when handling the items to avoid further contamination.
Place the items in a safe location away from the affected area, ensuring they are properly sealed or covered to prevent any cross-contamination.
Step 9: Bag all mold affected materials within the containment area, properly sealing the bags, and remove from the area
Bagging and removing mold-affected materials:
1. Within the containment area, gather all materials that have been affected by mold growth.
2. Ensure that the bags used for removal are sturdy and capable of securely containing the mold-infested materials.
3. Carefully place the mold-affected materials into the bags, taking care not to spread any mold spores.
4. Seal the bags tightly to prevent any leakage or release of mold spores during transportation.
5. Once the bags are securely sealed, remove them from the area.
6. Properly dispose of the sealed bags according to local regulations and guidelines for handling mold-contaminated materials.
7. Take necessary precautions to minimize any potential cross-contamination while removing the bags from the containment area.
8. Ensure that the area is left clean and free from any debris or mold residue after the removal of the bags.
Step 10: Hepa-vacuum the entire area including concrete, wall cavities and anywhere dust could have settled during removal of materials
Hepa-vacuuming the entire area is an important step in safely removing mold-infested material.
This step involves using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum to thoroughly clean the affected area, including concrete surfaces, wall cavities, and any other areas where dust may have settled during the removal of materials.
The HEPA vacuum is specifically designed to capture tiny particles and allergens, including mold spores, ensuring that they are effectively removed from the environment.
It is crucial to vacuum all surfaces to eliminate any remaining mold debris and prevent further contamination.
Start by carefully operating the HEPA vacuum, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Use the vacuum attachment appropriate for the surface you are cleaning, such as a brush or crevice tool, to ensure thorough cleaning.
Begin by vacuuming the concrete surfaces, paying close attention to any visible mold or dust buildup.
Move the vacuum slowly and methodically, ensuring that all areas are covered.
Be sure to reach corners, edges, and any cracks or crevices where mold or dust may have accumulated.
Next, move on to the wall cavities. These areas may have hidden mold growth, so it is essential to vacuum them thoroughly.
Use the appropriate attachment to reach inside the cavities, carefully vacuuming all surfaces.
Take extra care to clean around electrical outlets, pipes, and any other obstructions.
Additionally, it is important to vacuum any other areas where dust could have settled during the removal of materials.
This includes nearby furniture, appliances, fixtures, and other surfaces in the vicinity of the mold-infested area.
Pay attention to details and clean even hard-to-reach spots to ensure a comprehensive cleaning.
By hepa-vacuuming the entire area, including concrete, wall cavities, and all potential dust settlement areas, you are taking proactive steps to remove any remaining mold particles and minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
This thorough cleaning process helps create a safe and healthy environment after the removal of mold-infested material.
Step 11: Clean wood framing with a mild detergent using a wire brush or cloth, scrubbing until it appears visibly clean
Clean the wood framing by using a wire brush or cloth and scrubbing it with a mild detergent until it becomes visibly clean.
This step is crucial to remove any mold or contaminants present on the wood surface.
Ensure that you thoroughly clean all areas of the wood framing, paying close attention to any visible dirt, stains, or mold growth.
Scrubbing the wood framing will help eliminate any remaining mold spores and ensure a clean and safe environment.
You can sand wood if needed down 1/8 of an inch to remove the damaged area.
Step 12: Damp wipe all areas within the mold containment
Thoroughly clean all surfaces within the mold containment area using a damp cloth or sponge.
Pay close attention to every nook and cranny, ensuring that all visible mold and residues are removed.
Wipe down walls, floors, ceilings, and any other affected surfaces, making sure to cover the entire area within the containment.
Use gentle but firm pressure to effectively remove any remaining mold particles or debris.
Take extra care to address hidden or hard-to-reach areas where mold growth may be present.
Dispose of the used cloths or sponges properly to prevent cross-contamination. This step is crucial in eliminating mold and ensuring a clean and safe environment.
Step 13: Dry out the wall cavities and other affected areas using a dehumidifier
Using a dehumidifier, dry out the wall cavities and other affected areas to remove excess moisture and prevent further mold growth.
Ensure that the dehumidifier is set to the appropriate settings for optimal drying.
Leave the dehumidifier running for a sufficient amount of time until the wall cavities and affected areas are completely dry.
This step is crucial in creating a dry and inhospitable environment for mold to thrive.
Step 14: Preform a second pass with the Hepa-vacuum
Perform a second pass with the HEPA vacuum in the area to thoroughly remove any remaining construction debris.
This step is crucial to ensure a clean and safe environment free from any potential sources of mold contamination.
Start by carefully maneuvering the HEPA vacuum across all surfaces, including concrete, wall cavities, and any other areas where dust or debris may have accumulated during the removal of materials.
Take your time to thoroughly vacuum every corner and crevice, ensuring that no residue is left behind.
This meticulous process will help eliminate any lingering particles that could potentially contribute to mold growth or cross-contamination.
Step 15: Remove the negative air and leave the Air scrubber in the containment for at least 48 hours before post testing
Leave the Air scrubber running inside the containment area and disconnect the negative air tubing.
Allow the Air scrubber to continue operating for a minimum of 48 hours before conducting post testing.
This extended period ensures that any remaining mold spores or contaminants are filtered out and the air quality within the containment is thoroughly improved.
This step is crucial to maintain a controlled environment and minimize the risk of recontamination.
Step 16: Schedule the PRV Testing
Schedule the PRV Testing:
1. Contact a certified professional to schedule the PRV (Post Remediation Verification) testing for the mold-infested area.
2. Provide the professional with all the necessary details, such as the address of the property and the specific areas that have been remediated.
3. Discuss the available dates and times for the testing to take place, ensuring that it aligns with your project timeline.
4. Confirm the cost and any additional requirements or documentation needed for the testing process.
5. Once a suitable date and time have been agreed upon, book the PRV testing appointment.
6. Make a note of the scheduled testing date and ensure that all necessary parties involved in the project are aware of it.
7. Keep track of any relevant contact information provided by the professional conducting the PRV testing, in case any further communication or coordination is required.
8. Prioritize the completion of any remaining steps in the mold removal process before the scheduled PRV testing date.
9. Take any necessary precautions to prevent recontamination of the area before the testing, such as minimizing foot traffic or keeping windows and doors closed.
10. Be prepared to provide access to the testing area on the scheduled date and cooperate with the professional during the testing process.
11. After the PRV testing is completed, await the results and follow any recommendations or actions provided by the professional conducting the test.
12. If the PRV testing confirms that the mold-infested material has been successfully removed and the area is now safe, proceed with the next steps in the mold mitigation project.
13. If the PRV testing identifies any issues or areas that still require remediation, consult with the professional to determine the necessary actions to address these concerns.
14. Keep all documentation related to the PRV testing for future reference or potential follow-up inspections.
Step 17: Receive PRV clearance and remove containment
Once you receive notification from your hygienist that the containment has passed its post remediation verification testing, you can remove the containment.
You will want to take photos once the containment is down for the reconstruction crews as well as any additional damage that may occur while removing the containment. These items happen and will need to be supplemented on the structure repair.
