Preserve Good Health by Cleaning the Air you Breath
Information based on article written By Dr. Susan Tanner, MD.
While many of us are still spending the majority of our time at home during the lockdown, the need to assess our indoor air quality and possibly remediation for mould may become more evident. As so much time is spent in the home environment, it is imperative that our air quality is at its best. If you are someone who has already been made sick from mould and mycotoxins, you know that it is all the more essential to make sure that the air you are breathing in your home or workspace, is as clean as possible. Once a person is sensitized to mould or any other toxin for that matter, it takes very little re-exposure, in this case recirculated indoor mould, to set off the chain of inflammation we refer to as “cytokine storm” which can present in myriad ways both physically and mentally.
Investigating Your Home for Mold
How do I find out if I have a mould problem in my home?
Using inexpensive humidity monitors and moisture meters can help homeowners see if their environment is ripe for mould growth. Anywhere indoor humidity exceeds 50% is the right conditions for mold to flourish.
If mould is discovered in your home or workplace, it is important to have the situation tested and assessed by a qualified mould testing technician for safe occupancy to avoid potential health risks.
The objective of the ‘Assessment Report’ is to identify the source of the mould and provide a recommended solution. A site investigation will also enable a recommended safety plan and provide health advice applicable to the species identified.
Psychrometric data including moisture and humidity testing, temperature, dewpoints and thermal imaging are all components in creating the ‘Assessment Report’. This is a prudent starting point if you are unaware of the mould source or species and will provide all the information you need to know.
If you feel sick or worse when they spend time at home, but feel symptoms subside or better when on vacation, or away from home, there is a strong probability that the source of your sickness has something to do with their home environment.
Mould Inspections NZ Ltd is the most accredited and qualified mould specailist company in New Zealand. We have strived to achieve qualifications and accreditation to all 3 levels of service:
- Mould Testing
- Mould Assessment Reports
- Decontamination
For more information visit www.mouldinspections.co.nz
What does a good mould test involve?
A site visit will generally assist in determining the best suited testing option. Visible mould growth can be tape, swab or material sample tested and this will determine the mould species, toxicity and growth rate.
If safety certification is required for ongoing use in commercial or public buildings, air spore testing would be the preferred option to monitor air quality and occupational safety. Monthly air monitoring programmes can be scheduled to ensure ongoing safety levels whilst remediation works are being undertaken. This is a prudent and cost effective alternative to relocation of staff, especially in commercial situations where temporary relocation may be a disruptive, costly and inconvenient option.
Another testing option is the Self-Test Kit which can be provided for isolated visible surface mould. This is the most affordable option which will identify the mould species and the current growth rate. This method is very popular for residential tenants who may require certification for their landlord.
To ensure the best service we use an international accredited laboratory which boasts the fastest turnaround time and most comprehensive report. Speed is valuable when you have a toxic species in your property and occupant health is at stake.
What Happens If I Find Mould in My Home?
If mould is found in your home, then remediation techniques may vary from one scenario to another depending on the cause and species. A good and reputable remediator will have proper certifications and will go over the findings and then give a written description of the plan and cost of addressing the issues. Controlling water ingress and keeping humidity levels down to 45% are paramount. Removal of water-damaged materials (wood, Sheetrock), and not just painting over it is necessary. Thoroughly cleaning and sealing concrete, foundation material is another step. Fogging of the home is also helpful as this penetrates deeply into areas, nooks and crannies to kill spores. This should ONLY be done after the issues causing the mould are solved and after all mould is removed and/or thoroughly cleaned. EC3 botanical products are highly recommended as you do not want to add a toxic compound to your home or to contribute to your total body load by using chemicals and detergents.
Consider remediation a great time to declutter your home. Books and papers do not clean very well, even after fogging, and may need to be discarded. Some soft, upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows, curtains may need to be replaced, as fogging can only do so much.
All clothing from closets should be washed in mould spore killing compounds, like EC3 Laundry Additive. Dry-cleaned clothing sometimes can be salvaged as there are a few dry cleaners who offer mould mitigation processes.
As well as testing Mould Inspections NZ offer a decontamination service NZ wide.
Different situations require different solutions. They can provide:
- ‘Phase 1 (non-invasive)’ temporary decontamination procedure which will kill the existing surface and airborne mould spores immediately. Depending on the situation, this will generally provide a window of safety to enable continued use of the premises whilst the remediation works are planned and undertaken.
- ‘Phase 2 (invasive) decontamination is regularly required for abundant toxic or highly allergenic mould species as toxic species can thrive within wall & roof cavities. This option involves professional removal of contaminated materials, chemical decontamination and preparation of a safe site for remediation.
Ongoing Treatment
The mould rabbit hole can seem overwhelming. Interim measures can be taken using HEPA air filters, EC3 Candles and EC3 cleaning solutions to make an environment livable until a move or professional measures can be taken. Reducing clutter in your living spaces will also help. You can even fog some areas yourself, but do not consider this full remediation without addressing the underlying problems.