In addition, exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat in certain individuals. Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors? Any remediation work that disturbs mold and causes mold spores to become airborne increases the degree of respiratory exposure. These remediation guidelines are based on the size of the affected area to make it easier for remediators to select appropriate techniques, not on the basis of research showing there is a specific method appropriate at a certain number of square feet. New York City Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Disease Epidemiology. Some biocides are considered pesticides, and some states require that only registered pesticide applicators apply these products in schools, commercial buildings, and homes. If you exit from the course, you will need to start that lesson over again. 1999. Safety glasses or goggles with open vent holes are not appropriate in mold remediation. Use Ctrl + Tab to deselect an element or reset to the beginning of a screens navigation links (most often needed for screens with animations or media). Visible mold and moldy odors should not be present. Molds may cause localized skin or mucosal infections but, in general, do not cause systemic infections in humans, except for persons with impaired immunity, AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, or those taking immune suppressive drugs. Potential health effects from mycotoxins are the subject of ongoing scientific research and are beyond the scope of this document. If you are using a mild detergent or plain water, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. Notification should include a description of the remedial measures to be taken and a timetable for completion. Moisture control is the key to mold control. A lock (LockA locked padlock) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. This lesson will discuss the NFIP and informing the public about it after a disaster event. Currently, there are no federal standards or recommendations, (e.g., OSHA, NIOSH, EPA) for airborne concentrations of mold or mold spores. It is a violation of Federal (EPA) law to use a biocide in any manner inconsistent with its label direction. Answers to Questions About the National Flood Insurance Program explains the NFIP, including coverage, claims, flood maps, and FEMAs repetitive loss strategy. Pursuant to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, employers must comply with hazard-specific safety and health standards and regulations promulgated by OSHA or by a state with an OSHA-approved state plan. . The purpose of mold remediation is to correct the moisture problem and to remove moldy and contaminated materials to prevent human exposure and further damage to building materials and furnishings. Mold Cleanup. Mold Course Chapter 5: | US EPA Short circuits in flooded systems pose an increased potential for fire. Information on engineering issues and indoor air quality. Preventive Maintenance Preventing mold growth in occupied areas The key to mold prevention is moisture control. A good way to protect HVAC equipment is to locate it on an upper floor or in the attic rather than in the basement or lower level of a structure. Emphasis should be placed on preventing contamination through proper building and HVAC system maintenance and prompt repair of water damaged areas. The document summarizes basic procedures for mold remediation after flooding and other disasters with an emphasis on worker protection. Of these, 83 83 received a bonus last year, 100 100 attended a special sales training program at the beginning of last year, and 42 42 both attended the special sales training program and received a bonus. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Note: If the Next button is dimmed, you must complete an activity before you can proceed in the lesson. Remediation can be conducted by the regular building maintenance staff as long as they are trained on proper clean-up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. Follow all local building codes. Scientific research on the relationship between mold exposures and health effects is ongoing. Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Are building occupants reporting health problems that they think are related to mold in the indoor environment? Other forms of hazard mitigation include provision of emergency services, private property protection, information and awareness, and infrastructure protection activities; there may also be. Remediators, particularly those with health related concerns, may wish to check with their physicians or other health-care professionals before working on mold remediation or investigating potentially moldy areas. ft. or less) - e.g., ceiling tiles, small areas on walls. Last updated on March 14, 2023. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants. Seasonal rainfall and storm systems can cause the lake level to rise faster than it can empty. Course Summary: IS-322 Flood Mitigation Basics for Mitigation Staff Molds gradually damage building materials and furnishings. If a propertys water supply comes from a well, flood waters entering that well can contaminate the groundwater and make the well water unsafe. Official websites use .gov Molds typically consist of a network of threadlike filaments that infiltrate the surface on which the mold is growing. Each lesson will take between 10 and 30 minutes to complete. Remediation can be conducted by the regular building maintenance staff. Remediation plans may vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the job, and may require revision if circumstances change or new facts are discovered. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult to repair, but they also create health hazards. Many of these mitigation measures involve elevating equipment above the expected flood levels. These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. What happens once a loss claim has been reported, Explain the risk and the mitigation actions clearly and at a level of detail appropriate to the listener, Refer to publications/websites that reinforce or provide additional information about rebuilding or repairing to reduce future risk of damages, Communicating basic information to the public about flood-related mold issues, FEMA publications to promote flood mitigation, FEMA-approved online resources available for flood mitigation, Appropriate actions to take when advising the public. Has the building been recently remodeled or has the building use changed? It serves as the national focus for developing and applying disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion and education activities. Most molds are harmless but some can cause infections, allergy symptoms and produce toxins. HEPA vacuums also are recommended for cleanup of dust that may have settled on surfaces outside the remediation area. Molds are part of the natural environment. In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area, as a background level of mold spores comparable to the level in outside air will persist. Improper maintenance and design of building heating/ventilating/air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, such as insufficient cooling capacity for an air conditioning system, can result in elevated humidity levels in a building. Respirators must be used in accordance with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (. Publications on floods, flood proofing, etc. These materials can then usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. When you use biocides as a disinfectant or a pesticide, or as a fungicide, you should use appropriate PPE, including respirators. If a home or business is damaged by a flood, the owner may be required to meet certain building requirements in the community to reduce future flood damage. For additional information on air sampling, refer to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' document, "Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control." This pamphlet briefly describes the benefits of ICC, how much coverage is available, the four options covered, when to file an ICC claim, and how the ICC payment is handled. Spend the time needed to become familiar with the purpose of and intended audience for the resources and publications that are included in this lesson. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Refer interested individuals to local building officials and plumbing specialists before undertaking any of these measures. In this lesson you learned about: Future risks associated with the hazard event that resulted in the disaster declaration, Mitigation measures available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property, Identify the different types of flooding that occur in the United States, Recognize information about the NFIP to share with the general public, List the importance of directing individuals to local building officials, engineers, and other specialists before starting repairs, Match FEMA information, publications, and websites that support the mitigation recommendationsto specific audiences, How to receive credit for this independent study course. These can be accessed from the FEMA website. In addition, there are no standards for "acceptable" levels of mold in buildings, and the lack of a definitive correlation between exposure levels and health effects makes interpreting the data difficult, if not impossible. When informing the public about flood control barriers, it is important to point out that this type of mitigation measure can affect local drainage, possibly creating or worsening flood problems for others. Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should distribute only the mold publications provided by the HM Community Education and Outreach. There are many types of mold. Protecting Your Property from Flooding provides information on damage-resistant building materials, dry flood proofing, raising electrical components, anchoring fuel tanks, raising HVAC equipment, protecting walls and installing sewer backflow valves. This will be further discussed later in the course. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? A Instructions for cleaning surfaces, as listed on product labels, should always be read and followed. Inhaling mold can cause adverse health effects, including allergic reactions. Dry floodproofing is any measure to make a structure watertight below the level that needs flood protection to prevent floodwaters from entering. You can request the phone number for an HM Insurance Specialist or the JFO Insurance Hotline phone number from your supervisor. High-quality filters must be used in a HVAC system during remediation because conventional HVAC filters are typically not effective in filtering particles the size of mold spores. Learn about mold growth indoors, including topics like basic information about indoor mold growth, how mold can affect health and mold testing. Visible mold, mold-damaged materials, and moldy odors should no longer be present. A quick guide to the dangers of mold in your home. These can be accessed from the FEMA website. As specified by OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.134 individuals who use respirators must be properly trained, have medical clearance, and be properly fit tested before they begin using a respirator. PDF Mold - Occupational Safety and Health Administration Mold Remediation Guidelines - Environmental Health and Safety before taking further action. Insurance can be purchased for structures, contents, or both. Dust suppression methods, such as misting (not soaking) surfaces prior to remediation, are recommended. This can be done by using moist techniques, such as a damp cloth or pad, for mold removal and by bagging the material in the confined space for later removal. EPA 402-K-01-001. Information on health-related topics including asthma molds in the environment, and occupational health. Owners can have their buildings moved by professionals to a safer place outside the Special Flood Hazard Area. Eating, drinking, and using tobacco products and cosmetics where mold remediation is taking place should be avoided. A JFO Insurance Hotline, manned by HM Insurance Specialists, may be established after large flood disasters and is for the use of FEMA staff only. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed impermeable plastic bag. Mold can generally be removed from nonporous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent. 1 2 Molds are part of the natural environment, and can be found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. REMEMBER YOU MUST COMPLETE THE ENTIRE COURSE TO RECEIVE CREDIT. Wet vacuums should be used only on wet materials, as spores may be exhausted into the indoor environment if insufficient liquid is present. The contained area and decontamination room should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mopped with a detergent solution and be visibly clean prior to the removal of isolation barriers. When water leaks or spills occur indoors - act promptly. CDC is recognized as the lead federal agency for protecting the health and safety of the American people at home and abroad. Due to the wide difference in individual susceptibility to mold contamination, sampling results sampling may have limited application. JavaScript appears to be disabled on this computer. Structures must be elevated by trained professionals. If dislodged, these tanks also pose serious threats to public safety and to the environment. The work area and areas used by remediation workers for egress should be cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent solution. Molds can cause adverse effects by producing allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions). Venting moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible. Do not use fungicides developed for outdoor use in any indoor application, as they can be extremely toxic to animals and humans in an enclosed environment. They digest whatever they land on in order to survive. They also can be used to monitor the progress of drying damaged materials. Cleaning to remove the mold without fixing the moisture problem will most likely result in the mold coming back. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms such as runny nose and red eyes. The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Inc., known as FLASH, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting disaster safety and property loss mitigation across a variety of natural hazards, including floods. It is important to dry these surfaces quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. C. The information in these guidelines is intended only as a summary of basic procedures and is not intended, nor should it be used, as a detailed guide to mold remediation. These services are not routinely available from commercial laboratories. It also regulates the repair and rebuilding of structures in the floodplain that are substantially damaged or substantially improved.. The base flood is a flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.The NFIP uses the BFE to describe the minimum elevation to which new development in a flood hazard area must be regulated. Such persons should receive training on proper clean-up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. Please click here to see any active alerts. In addition, sampling and analysis should follow any other methods recommended by either OSHA, NIOSH, EPA, the American Industrial Hygiene Association, or other recognized professional guidelines. The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) developed this 3-part video series. ft.) - e.g., individual wallboard panels. Wet floodproofing measures are typically used to protect electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (also known as HVAC), and utility components of a structure when flooding occurs. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in sealed impermeable plastic bags. Substantial Damage is defined as damage from any source for which the cost of repair is equal to or greater than half of the market value of the structure before the loss. A variety of cleanup methods are available for remediating damage to building materials and furnishings caused by moisture control problems and mold growth. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program FEMA has one post-disaster mitigation grant program to assist communities in . Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should only distribute mold publications provided by HM . In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. The effects of flooding can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or extensive, affecting entire river basins and multiple states. Has routine maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered? National Flood Insurance Program Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) Coverage: How You Can Benefit provides brief information on ICC Coverage. The following list of resources includes information developed and maintained by public and private organizations. The following sections discuss the various types of PPE that may be used during remediation activities. This guide is intended to provide streamlined guidance to state, territorial, and tribal governments on the essential elements of Public Assistance, Individual Assistance, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and required actions to request, initiate, and receive FEMA disaster assistance grants. To see a numeric display, roll your mouse over the Progress bar area. The onset of allergic reactions to mold can be either immediate or delayed. Consult an experienced mold remediator for more information. Floodplain management ordinances require that when a structure in the floodplain has Substantial Damage or undergoes Substantial Improvement, the owner must bring the structure into compliance with the most current standards when repairing or rebuilding. SHIB 03-10-10 A Brief Guide to Mold in the Workplace - English The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) represents the building industry for members and affiliated state and local builders organizations. Information on indoor comfort products and services. business. PDF Industrial Hygiene Public Health Army Mold Remediation Guidance NFIP Summary of Coverage provides guidance on deductibles, what is and is not covered by flood insurance, and how items are valued at time of loss. A company employs 400 400 salespeople. Dry floodproofing may not be used to bring a - Course Hero Centers for Disease Control Environmental Protection Agency FEMA U.S. Public Health Service Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group . Mold and Health. People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without health complaints or physical symptoms. Information on pesticides/antimicrobial chemicals, including safety and disposal information. People who are sensitive to mold may experience stuffy nose, irritated eyes, wheezing, or skin irritation. Printable Version of a Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home You should have revisited the site(s) shortly after cleanup and it should show no signs of water damage or mold growth. This mold can be difficult or impossible to remove completely. Examples of fungicides include hexachlorobenzene, organomercurials, pentachlorophenol, phthalimides, and dithiocarbamates. Flood insurance is a mitigation measure that protects policy holders from the financial risks of flooding. In conducting the mold remediation, every effort should be made to keep dust and mold out of the air. It is important to package mold-contaminated materials in this fashion to minimize the dispersion of mold spores. We would not have food and medicines, like cheese and penicillin, without mold. What can he do? Clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water. What is mold? Identify and correct moisture problems. Referrals to physicians who have experience with environmental exposures. Remember to change filters as appropriate, especially following any remediation activities. Please note that mold may cause staining and cosmetic damage. Identify mitigation measures that can meet local floodplain management requirements for residences, including elevating and relocating structures, and property acquisition. The remediation manager should rely on professional judgment and experience to adapt the guidelines to particular situations. Wells suspected of being contaminated should be inspected by a professional. You should revisit the site(s) after remediation, and it should show no signs of moldy or musty odors, water damage, or mold growth. The American Industrial Hygiene Association offers accreditation to microbial laboratories (Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP)). The advice of a medical professional should always be sought if there are any emerging health issues. One way to protect against this hazard is to install backflow valves, which temporarily block drain pipes if water travels up them the wrong way. Respirators must be used in accordance with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (. No major drilling or cutting of dry wall is required. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold, as it could spread contamination throughout the building. These courses address basic mitigation measures to reduce risk from earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornados, and wildfires, at a level appropriate for communication to the general public. These barriers, including levees, berms, floodwalls, and temporary barriers, may be used to create a protected area for a single structure or for multiple structures. All molds share the characteristic of being able to grow without sunlight; mold needs only a viable seed (spore), a nutrient source, moisture, and the right temperature to proliferate. Accredited laboratories must participate in quarterly proficiency testing (Environmental Microbiology Proficiency Analytical Testing Program (EMPAT)). Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature by breaking down organic matter such as toppled trees, fallen leaves, and dead animals. HVAC equipment, such as furnaces and hot water heaters, can be damaged extensively if inundated by flood waters. Visit the NFIPs official website, FloodSmart.gov for general information. To reduce the moisture level in the air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid). If the structure is damaged or improved, but not to the regulatory definition of Substantial Damage or Substantial Improvement or if it already meets the ordinance, the owner can reduce the risk of future damages by selecting other, less expensive mitigation measures. Remediation includes both the identification and correction of the conditions that permit mold growth, as well as the steps to safely and effectively remove mold damaged materials. The work area should be unoccupied. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Click on the "Glossary" button to look up key definitions and acronyms. Track your progress by looking at the Progress bar at the top right of each screen. Consult an engineer for the appropriate filter efficiency for your specific HVAC system, and consider upgrading your filters if necessary. Mold can cause structural damage to buildings the longer it grows the more damage it can cause. When advising members of the public about reducing the risk of future hazard damages, direct them to local building officials before beginning any repairs or rebuilding because: Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved, A floodplain ordinance may affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained Substantial Damage, Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work. Individuals with persistent health problems that appear to be related to mold exposure should see their physicians for a referral to practitioners who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties and are knowledgeable about these types of exposures. The specific method or group of methods used will depend on the type of material affected. Venting kitchens (cooking areas) and bathrooms according to local code requirements. It provides an overview of mold and how it impacts peoples health, what can be done to fix a mold problem, and how to prevent mold problems. The site includes recommended mitigation strategies for most types of natural hazards. Mold | NCHH This completes the final lesson in this course. Flood waters often carry hazardous and toxic materials, including raw sewage, animal waste, oil, gasoline, solvents, and chemicals. Who's affected? Gloves protect the skin from contact with mold, as well as from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. When possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. You can read a description of the report and purchase a copy. Seal ventilation ducts/grills in the work area and areas directly adjacent with plastic sheeting. Molds are part of the natural environment. This completes this lesson. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has published: World Health Organization (WHO) Document. Centers for Disease Control Environmental Protection Agency FEMA U.S. Public Health Service Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group.