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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. If a community decides to pursue a property acquisition project, the land cannot be redeveloped and often is preserved as public open space, parks, or recreation areas. U.S. EPA IAQ Information Clearinghouse (IAQINFO). Any remediation work that disturbs mold and causes mold spores to become airborne increases the degree of respiratory exposure. It is important to dry these surfaces quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. Note: If the Next button is dimmed, you must complete an activity before you can proceed in the lesson. Respirators used to provide protection from mold and mold spores must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Technical information on topics such as air conditioning and air ducts. Information on health-related topics including asthma molds in the environment, and occupational health. In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Use hand, eye, and respiratory protection. This is because when things remain wet for more than two days, they usually get moldy. 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). How do I prevent mold from endangering my family? Maintaining indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible). Mold is a public health issue that is addressed by appropriate local, state, and federal experts. Moisture control is the key to mold control. What can he do? Always consider consulting a health professional to address any employee health concerns. These can be accessed from the FEMA website. 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. Humidity meters can be used to monitor indoor humidity. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area, using outside air if possible, and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Recognize information about the NFIP to share with the general public. Expert Help. 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. Mold Remediation Guidelines - Environmental Health and Safety Licensed contractors ensure that electrical system modifications are performed correctly and according to all applicable codes. The primary function of personal protective equipment is to prevent the inhalation and ingestion of mold and mold spores and to avoid mold contact with the skin or eyes. Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores (viable seeds) that usually cannot be seen without magnification. This safety and health information bulletin provides recommendations for the prevention of mold growth and describes measures designed to protect the health of building occupants and workers involved in mold cleanup and prevention. The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) developed this 3-part video series. Their website, FLASH.org, has preparedness and post-disaster materials that Hazard Mitigation staff or the public can easily access. Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors? Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should distribute only the mold Home Builders Guide to Coastal Construction is a FEMA produced series of 31 fact sheets providing technical guidance and recommendations concerning the construction of coastal residential buildings. A variety of cleanup methods are available for remediating damage to building materials and furnishings caused by moisture control problems and mold growth. Business owners who are concerned about the cost of professional help can contact the OSHA Consultation Project Office in their state for free consultation service. The work area should be unoccupied. Molds are usually not a problem unless mold spores land on a damp spot and begin growing. People allergic to mold may have difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath. Seal ventilation ducts/grills in the work area and areas directly adjacent with plastic sheeting. Floods are not all alike. Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere - inside or outside - throughout the year. Looking for condensation and wet spots. Your first step should be to inspect for any evidence of water damage and visible mold growth. Dry floodproofing may not be used to bring a - Course Hero 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. Molds gradually damage building materials and furnishings. IS-322-Flood-Mitigation-Basics-for-Mitigation-Staff-2.pdf Information on building regulations, science, and technology. Removing people from spaces near the work area is recommended for infants, persons having undergone recent surgery, immunosuppressed people, or people with chronic inflammatory lung diseases. 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. New York City Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Disease Epidemiology. However it CAN meet requirements for non-residential and commercial structures. REMEMBER YOU MUST COMPLETE THE ENTIRE COURSE TO RECEIVE CREDIT. For additional information on air sampling, refer to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' document, "Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control." This completes the final lesson in this course. A. People with weakened immune systems and with chronic lung diseases, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs. They should be placed into impermeable bags, and usually can be discarded as ordinary construction waste. Identify mitigation measures that can meet local floodplain management requirements for residences, including elevating and relocating structures, and property acquisition. This training can be performed as part of a program to comply with the requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (, Respiratory protection (e.g., N-95 disposable respirator) is recommended. If you are in doubt about sampling, consult an industrial hygienist or other environmental health or safety professional with experience in microbial investigations to help you decide if sampling for mold is necessary or useful, and to identify persons who can conduct any necessary sampling. These guidelines are subject to change as more information regarding mold contamination and remediation becomes available. As a general rule, simply killing the mold, for example, with biocide is not enough. Non-porous surfaces and porous materials that cannot be removed should be cleaned using a soap or detergent solution. Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group (CEO). Remove filters in a manner that minimizes the reentry of mold and other toxic substances into the workplace. The remediation manager should rely on professional judgment and experience to adapt the guidelines to particular situations. They should not be used to vacuum porous materials, such as gypsum board. Fungicides are commonly applied to outdoor plants, soil, and grains as a powder or spray. Indoor air related documents, answers to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) questions, maintains listing of State IAQ contacts, and regional EPA Contacts. There are various types of equipment useful in mold assessment and remediation. A major bloom involving a large area of a collection or one involving highly toxic mold species will require outside professional advice and assistance to stop the mold growth, clean the collection, and render the affected area safe for use again. This lesson will discuss the NFIP and informing the public about it after a disaster event. A community can permanently eliminate the risk of flood damage to buildings in a floodplain by purchasing the properties from their owners and removing the structures. The building owner, management, and/or employer should notify occupants in the affected area(s) of the presence of mold. When in doubt, caution is advised. This training can be performed as part of a program to comply with the requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (. Preventing Occupational Respiratory Disease from Exposures Caused by Dampness in Office Buildings, Schools, and Other Nonindustrial Buildings, WHOGuidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould (PDF), World Health Organization, 2009, 2004 Institute of Medicine Report, Damp Indoor Spaces and Health, National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH), Resources for Public Health Professionals. Filing and appealing flood insurance claims are covered. In addition, use of respirators requires the employer to develop and implement a written respiratory protection program, with worksite-specific procedures and elements. Identify and correct moisture problems. These guidelines are based on the size of the area impacted by mold contamination. Managing a Mold Infestation: Guidelines for Disaster Response 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. In all situations, the underlying cause of water accumulation must be rectified or the mold growth will reoccur. ONLY the mold publication provided by the Centers for Disease Control. Publications about Mold | US EPA Consult an engineer for the appropriate filter efficiency for your specific HVAC system, and consider upgrading your filters if necessary. Last updated on March 14, 2023. It makes sense to raise all components of the electrical system, including wiring, above the base flood level identified on the NFIP's Flood Insurance Rate Map for the location. Further, the inclusion of these resources is not intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, by the author of the reference or the organization operating the service identified by the reference. 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. More protective respirators may have to be selected and used if toxic contaminants such as asbestos or lead are encountered during remediation. This Guide provides information and guidance for homeowners and renters on how to clean up residential mold problems and how to prevent mold growth. Mold grows where there is sufficient moisture. 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. People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without health complaints or physical symptoms. Floodwaters in closed-basin lakes accumulate over long periods of time and may stay for weeks, months, or years. Venting kitchens (cooking areas) and bathrooms according to local code requirements. Molds typically consist of a network of threadlike filaments that infiltrate the surface on which the mold is growing. Unanchored heating oil or propane tanks can be easily moved by flood waters. Priority is given to businesses with fewer than 250 employees at a worksite, with further consideration given to the severity of the worksite problem. Short circuits in flooded systems pose an increased potential for fire. Molds are microscopic organisms found everywhere in the environment, indoors and outdoors. When changing the vacuum filter, remediators should wear respirators, appropriate personal protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection to prevent exposure to any captured mold and other contaminants. 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. The work area and areas used by remediation workers for egress should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent solution. However, the spores in the ambient air will not cause further problems if the moisture level in the building has been corrected. In addition, air sampling may provide tangible evidence supporting a hypothesis that investigators have formulated. Several federal agencies also publish information about mold: Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group (CEO). The goal of this course is to enable you to select the essential hazard mitigation information to communicate to members of the public following a flood event. An important reference with guidelines for immuno-compromised individuals can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. Tips for Filing Your Insurance Claim provides advice on: There are several websites that contain flood mitigation information. Consult an experienced mold remediator for more information. ONLY the mold publications that have been provided by the American Red Cross B. Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should only distribute mold publications provided by HM . ft.) - e.g., individual wallboard panels. 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. Protective clothing (e.g., disposable coveralls)to prevent contamination and skin contact withmold and chemicals. HEPA vacuums also are recommended for cleanup of dust that may have settled on surfaces outside the remediation area. If you know you have a mold problem, it is more important to spend time and resources removing the mold and solving the moisture problem that causes the moldy conditions than to undertake extensive testing for the type and quantity of mold. Dry floodproofing is any measure to make a structure watertight below the level that needs flood protection to prevent floodwaters from entering. Along with mushrooms, yeasts, and mildew, molds are classified as fungi. If you are working in a DRC or other outreach venue, your supervisor will explain which NFIP publication to distribute and to whom. Lesson Summary Before planning the remediation assess the extent of the mold or moisture problem and the type of damaged materials. When water leaks or spills occur indoors - act promptly. National Flood Insurance Program Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) Coverage: How You Can Benefit provides brief information on ICC Coverage. Follow all local building codes. ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group. Its mission is to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance, and preparation practices. The publication also provides information on financial assistance for mitigation retrofitting. Emergency management and public health professionals can easily share these resources digitally. Fix source(s) of moisture incursion problem(s) as soon as possible. Guidance Introduction Mold Prevention Investigating, Evaluating & Remediating Moisture & Mold Problems Table 1: Water Damage - Cleanup and Mold Prevention Table 2: Mold Remediation Guidelines Checklist for Mold Remediation Resources List Appendix A: Glossary, References, Acknowledgements Appendix B: Introduction to Molds Other resources are intended for use by building and emergency management professionals. This bulletin is directed primarily at building managers, custodians, and others responsible for building maintenance, but may also be used as a basic reference for those involved in mold remediation. A prompt response (within 24-48 hours) and thorough clean- up, drying, and/or removal of water-damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth. To protect your eyes, use properly fitted goggles or a full face piece respirator. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth often will occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains uncorrected. These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. If you suspect that the HVAC system is contaminated with mold, or if mold is present near the intake to the system, contact the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), or consult EPA's guide, "Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?" Over the past 10 years, the average flood claim paid has amounted to nearly $48,000. 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. The following list of resources includes information developed and maintained by public and private organizations. Proper well construction will protect a well from contamination. The mold must be removed, since the chemicals and proteins, which can cause a reaction in humans, are present even in dead mold. Questions That May Assist in Determining Whether a Mold Problem Currently Exists. Occupational and environmental health and safety information. Indoor environmental quality training center giving courses in building moisture and biocontamination, and managing and operating facilities for good IAQ. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home | Mold | US EPA Hurricanes, tsunamis, and unusually high tides can cause coastal flooding. Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. Make sure that work areas are well ventilated. If you have to leave the course, do not exit from the course or close your browser. Any initial water infiltration should be stopped and cleaned promptly. Referrals to physicians who have experience with environmental exposures. Education and training on cleaning and maintenance. River and stream flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash flooding in minutes. Seasonal rainfall and storm systems can cause the lake level to rise faster than it can empty. A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home | US EPA Dry floodproofing includes measures that make a structure watertight below the level that needs flood protection to prevent floodwaters from entering. Information on indoor comfort products and services. These materials can then usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. The Consultation Program can help the employer evaluate and prevent hazardous conditions in the workplace that can cause injuries and illnesses, including mold problems. which agency is responsible for the message to the public about mold hazards and remediation? Building materials and furnishings contaminated with mold growth that are not salvageable should be placed in sealed impermeable bags or closed containers while in the remediation area. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices since the 1970s, which resulted in tightly sealed buildings with diminished ventilation, contributing to moisture vapor buildup. If you are using a biocide such as chlorine bleach, or a strong cleaning solution, you should select gloves made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane, or PVC. In addition, before deciding to relocate occupants, one should also evaluate the remediator's ability to contain/minimize possible aerosolization of mold spores given their expertise and the physical parameters of the workspace. In this lesson you learned about: Lesson 3: Discussing the NFIP with the Public. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? Barriers may not be used to bring a Substantially Damaged or Substantially Improved residence into compliance with a communitys floodplain management ordinances or laws. 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. If any individual has health concerns, doubts, or questions before beginning a remediation/cleanup project, he or she should consult a health professional. Information on pesticides/antimicrobial chemicals, including safety and disposal information. As a member of FEMAs Hazard Mitigation disaster workforce, you are expected to be able to explainto the public: This independent study course is part of a series of five, intended for the Hazard Mitigation disaster workforce. A full face piece respirator provides both respiratory and eye protection. It is important to be able to discuss basic information about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) with anyone concerned about flooding. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms such as runny nose and red eyes. A boroscope is a hand-held tool that allows users to see potential mold problems inside walls, ceiling plenums, crawl spaces, and other tight areas. A storm surge can occur in just a few minutes. For more detailed information, consult a health professional or your state or local health department. There is a tremendous risk of mold growth after flooding. You must have identified and completely corrected the source of the water or moisture problem. If the water or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, consult a professional who has experience cleaning and repairing buildings damaged by contaminated water. CDC is recognized as the lead federal agency for protecting the health and safety of the American people at home and abroad. Air sampling for mold may not be part of a routine assessment because decisions about appropriate remediation strategies often can be made on the basis of a visual inspection. 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. Flood Hazards Portable Generators Flood water can make the air in your home unhealthy. Are there existing moisture problems in the building? 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. Additional Information Visit OSHA's Safety and Health Topics webpage on Mold at: www.osha.gov/SLTC/molds Visit the NFIPs official website, FloodSmart.gov for general information. Molds come in many colors; both white and black molds are shown here. Mold Molds are simple, microscopic organisms that can grow virtually anywhere, both in homes and outdoors. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Identify floodproofing measures including the difference between wet and dry floodproofing. Eating, drinking, and using tobacco products and cosmetics where mold remediation is taking place should be avoided. 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. While it is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores, controlling moisture can control indoor mold growth. Cleaning to remove the mold without fixing the moisture problem will most likely result in the mold coming back. Another partner organization is the Institute for Business Home Safety (IBHS). Never mix chlorine bleach solution with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because this may produce highly toxic vapors and create a hazard to workers. Ventilation ductwork also can be protected from flooding by locating it above the base flood level. These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. You can read a description of the report and purchase a copy. Flood insurance is the best way to protect from devastating financial loss. Molds can grow on virtually any substance, as long as moisture or water, oxygen, and an organic source are present. ft. or less) - e.g., ceiling tiles, small areas on walls. When you use biocides as a disinfectant or a pesticide, or as a fungicide, you should use appropriate PPE, including respirators. Their website is located at www.nahb.org. For areas greater than100 ft.2, ensure that protective clothing coversentire body including head and feet. Documented quality control in the laboratories used for analysis of the bulk, surface, and other air samples is necessary. When possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. Either a half mask or full face piece air-purifying respirator can be used. In addition, exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat in certain individuals. Health Effects of Mold Exposure FEMA's HM Disaster Workforce Website houses a wealth of hazard mitigation information. Homeowners Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your House from Flooding explains the meaning of retrofitting and details six retrofitting methods that protect the house from flooding including elevating, wet and dry floodproofing, relocating, floodwalls, and protecting service equipment. This one-pager has QR codes to several mold cleanup and moisture control resources including guidance for homeowners and renters to better understand how to safely and effectively cleanup mold and control moisture. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to wear appropriate PPE while performing this task. Some jobs may require the use of dust-tight chutes to move large quantities of debris to a dumpster strategically placed outside a window in the remediation area.