EPA Mold Remediation in Schools & Commercial Buildings

Molds are fungi that digest organic materials. They produce microscopic spores in order to multiply. Mold spores exist in the air both indoors and outdoors. Spores create health and infrastructure problems indoors when they land on wet and damp areas and begin to grow into mature mold. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has created a helpful set of instructions and guidelines for mold remediation in schools and commercial buildings.

Water Damage Cleanup and Mold Prevention

• Water damage is a common cause of mold infections in schools and commercial buildings. Eliminating leaks and other uncontrolled water sources that create damp, mold-friendly environments is the first step in mold remediation. This also serves as a preventive measure to stop mold growth before it can begin. Identify your uncontrolled water sources, such as running faucets and cracked pipes. Fix and replace them as needed before continuing your school or commercial building's mold remediation.

  Discard water-damaged books, papers, ceiling tiles, insulation and all other porous items you cannot clean. Replace these items as necessary. Vacuum or wipe down non-porous surfaces with detergent. Allow all surfaces and remaining materials to dry before continuing.

Mold Remediation Procedure

• Wear protective clothing. At minimum, you will need gloves, an N-95 respirator and protective eye wear such as goggles. These are required for the lightest of mold remediation jobs. Precautions for more serious mold remediation can include half and full-face respirators, protective hear gear, foot coverings and clothing you are comfortable with disposing of after remediation. Refer to the EPA Mold Remediation link in the Resources section to identify what protective clothing is most appropriate for your mold remediation.

  Seal off the area of your school or commercial building undergoing mold remediation by using polyethylene sheets to cover openings such as doors, windows and vents. Use a HEPA filter to maintain negative pressure in the area, depending on the size of your infected area. Refer to the EPA Mold Remediation link in the Resources section to determine whether or not you need a HEPA filter for your mold remediation.

  Damp-wipe infected surfaces with plain, warm water or a detergent solution as desired. Use wood surface cleaner for any affected wood. Wet-vacuum or steam-clean any salvageable upholstery, drapes or carpet.

  Remove solid mold and loose infected materials such as drywall, wooden beams, carpet and padding in sturdy plastic bags that can be sealed. Ventilate the area after mold remediation and before making it available for public use again.

Tips and Warnings

• Mold can be an irritant to the respiratory system, causing allergic reactions and even triggering asthma attacks in some cases.

  Consider cleaning the air ducts in your school or commercial building if you have observed mold and related damage.

  Schedule mold remediation during hours when your school or commercial building is unoccupied, or as sparsely occupied as possible. Keep people clear of mold remediation sites.

  Consult an environmental protection or cleaning expert before attempting mold remediation on your own.