Black Mold Removal

As a Council-certified Indoor Environmental Consultant there are a few things that stand out to me while reading this article. One of the first is that black mold is not always the same type of mold; and, when it is seen or found, it doesn't always mean that the mold is toxic or that the 'toxic' mold is producing toxins. There are several factors that affect mycotoxin production and mold activities. Also, the self test kits do not produce reliable results because of the way they collect data - there is no set volume of air pumped through the plate to collect the sample for reliable sample analysis. If you are concerned about "black mold (that) is toxic" then you should look to a professional to help you with the situation. A professional can provide you with more than just laboratory results, but also methods of reliable and sound investigation, analytical reports with protocols (recommendation of care), information on safety and health concerns/information, and specifics on the results of your building diagnosis. This information is important because remediating a mold situation is not solved by just dilluting the situation with bleach (chlorine or any other biocide). Source removal is necessary under appropriate containment measures (as outlined in numerous State regulations and the IICRC S520 Standard & Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation). Improper use of a biocide can not only lead to a larger problem, but it can be its own indoor air quality pollutant. Biocides can be inactivated by a number of things. For example: left over organics, some organic substances, pH of environment the biocide is being applied, temperature of environment applied, nature of the organism, and limitations of the biocide itself. I'll give you another example: some Penicillium is known to process copper; thus, making copper containing biocides ineffective against them. pH plays an important role in the effectiveness of chlorine. Also, concentration and dwell time has to be correct: alcohol is most affective at 70 - 75% concentrations with dwell times around fifteen minutes minimum, but can be made ineffective (against what microorganisms it can kill) by left over organics or organic debris. Get advise from a professional that does not remediate their own work (conflict of interest). There are great organizations out there to help you find a professional in your area, such as the Indoor Air Quality Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. See also www.SolutionsIEC.com for articles and upcoming article on Biocides Usage on Mold. Best wishes.