Is sampling/testing for mold necessary?
In
most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set
for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's
compliance with federal mold standards. Surface sampling may be useful to
determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling
for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in
designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods, and interpreting
results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by
the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional
organizations.
Hidden Mold
Investigating
hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the
investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. For
example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores if there
is mold growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you
may have a hidden mold problem, consider hiring an experienced professional.
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