Our 8 Step Process!
Assess the Origin of Contamination
In order to investigate the origin you must have a Mold Inspection performed using an approved third party. This is where a professional consultant identifies the source of water infiltration that caused the mold contamination. As part of the investigation a consultant will attempt to identify the full extent of the mold growth throughout the area or building so all areas with potential contamination are addressed. Following this, a reputable consultant will then create a scope of work for us to follow.
Determine the Species of the Mold
The particular mold species can be very important. This is identified through the Mold Testing process using an accredited laboratory. Understanding the mold species present helps us determine the most cost effective way of resolving the mold concern.Certain species may require additional safety protocols to protect building occupants. Mold identification to the species level can also help a physician to determine if health concerns may be related to the mold contamination.
Remediation Plan
After the investigation is complete, a remediation plan can be developed. A full remediation plan includes addressing what caused the mold and all safety protocols that will be required for a successful remediation.
Containment, Decontamination Chambers & Negative Air
Depending on the extent of the contamination, the area is contained and negative air pressures are properly set and regularly monitored to prevent cross contamination of mold spores and mycotoxins to other areas of the home, or building. During the mold removal and remediation process mold spores become disrupted and counts can be increased 10 – 100 times. Proper procedures, containment and HEPA filtration equipment are required to prevent cross contamination. Without these controls the situation can become much worse than the original issue.
Removal of the Mold
Once the containment and decontamination chamber is set up, and required negative air pressure levels are achieved the mold is removed. Mold damaged materials are dry ice blasted, removed or decontaminated. Often this includes the removal and disposal of porous materials such as drywall, carpet, underlay etc.. Non porous and some semi porous materials are cleaned and decontaminated. Damaged or moldy materials that are removed are bagged or sealed with plastic sheathing before removal from the containment to prevent cross contamination from occurring.
Odor Removal
Mold contamination usually creates offensive odors such as a musty basement smell. We use carbon filters to assist in the elimination of odors from the area during the remediation process. Specialized treatments may be required to ensure odors do not return in the future.
Cleaning, HEPA Vacuuming & Air Scrubbing
After completion of removing the mold contaminated materials, the area must be thoroughly cleaned using antimicrobial treatments on hard surfaces and HEPA vacuuming the porous surfaces to remove residual mold spores. The air must be scrubbed and purified to remove mold spores and mycotoxins using approved DOP tested HEPA air scrubbing equipment.
Post Remediation Verification
Post remediation verification must be conducted by an approved third party to insure the environment has been brought back to a normal fungal ecology suitable for occupancy. The final clearance investigation must include a visual inspection using specialized instrumentation to a full range of air quality and surface sampling.
