Mold Remediation

4 Reasons Why Mold Has Captured Our Attention

For many years it seems that the problem of mold has slipped under the radar.  Why has it become such a great concern now?

• See also the Process of Mold Removal or Mold Remediation.
  Tighter construction techniques of today have reduced the natural air exchanges in structures and thus created a context in which mold can take hold.
• The use of different materials which are more susceptible to mold has also caused the risk to increase.
• With increased demand on the construction industry to build more homes, sometimes poorly qualified workers are hired and it is reflected in the workmanship.
• But probably the biggest contributor to the current awareness about mold is the media attention given to some spectacular mold remediation jobs in the United States and the coining of the term "Toxic Mold" or "Black Mold". 

Not all types of mold are dangerous to the extent that they are life threatening.  There are many species of fungi and not all of them are lethal.  The IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation, 2008 states on page 66:

"There are approximately 70,000 to 100,000 described species of fungi, including molds, mushrooms and yeasts (Alexopolous et al. 1996, Hoog et al. 2000)." 

Why Are Some Molds Dangerous?

The impact of fungi can affect us in three main ways:

• Allergic Reaction
• Infection
• Toxic (Toxigenic)

The complete answer to the question, "Why Are Some Molds More Dangerous", is quite involved and for a fuller discussion than I will give here, refer to Chapter 3 of the IICRC S520.  However, the short answer for this discussion, is the impact of certain molds to cause "Toxic" reactions by their ability to release Mycotoxins.

Nine Characteristics Of Mycotoxins 

• Mycotoxins are produced by many different micro fungi
• They are assumed to be a defence mechanism against other microorganisms (Penicillin).
• They are produced under very specific conditions
• They are toxic chemical compounds
• They can be carcinogenic e. g. Aflatoxins
• They can enter the body by ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact
• They are produced inside and on the surface of spores
• They are not inactivated by "killing" the spores
• Dead spores can still be allergenic or toxigenic 

The goal of mold remediation is to remove contaminates from the affected area and return it to a 'normal fungal ecology'.  This means that some methods being prescribed for addressing mold separate and apart from removal, are ineffective.  Such methods include the use of Antimicrobials and Gas- or vapor-phase antimicrobials such as gas-phase ozone.  In the last case, the use of gas-phase ozone, it comes with a significant warning noted on page 122 of the IICRC S520, "Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent, reactive (rubber and electrical wire insulation), and very unstable (Cole, Foarde, ACGIH Bioaerosols, 16.2.5)".  The use of these methods without proper remediation is a disaster waiting to happen! 

(Ozone is an appropriate deodorizer but must be applied professionally in a very strictly controlled ozone chamber application.  For a further look at the dangers of ozone applications in the home see Beware of Ozone-generating Indoor “Air Purifiers”  and also a link page, Hazardous Ozone-Generating "Air Purifiers" from the California Environmental Protection Agency.  I will be developing a page on my website on ozone and its proper use as a deodorizer including a discussion of its benefits and limitations).

The proper removal and remediation of mold from a facility requires very advanced training and experience in order to return your home or business back to a safe and healthy environment.  Ted is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification as an Applied Microbial Remediation Technician and has the experience to address your mold concerns professionally and effectively. 

Super Bee has been serving the Community of Camrose & East Central Alberta since 1980!