Containment 101: How to Properly Contain Mold During Remediation

5/21/2023 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is the process of removing mold from a building or home. During mold remediation, it is crucial to contain the mold to prevent it from spreading further. If mold is not contained properly, it can cause serious problems for the occupants and lead to more extensive damage to the building. In this blog, we will discuss how mold is contained during remediation.

Establish Containment Area

The first step in containing mold during remediation is to establish a containment area. This can be done using plastic sheeting or other materials to create a sealed area where the mold removal will take place. The containment area should be large enough to accommodate the workers, their equipment, and any debris that will be removed.

Negative Air Pressure

Once the containment area has been established, negative air pressure should be created. Negative air pressure means that air is being sucked out of the containment area, which prevents mold spores from escaping into other areas of the building. This is achieved using a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter that is placed inside the containment area and connected to an air duct that leads outside.

Seal Off HVAC System

The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system should be sealed off to prevent mold spores from spreading through the ductwork. This can be done by blocking off the vents and covering the air intake with plastic sheeting.

Use Personal Protective Equipment

During mold remediation, workers should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves from exposure to mold spores. This includes respirators, gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing.

Clean Containment Area

Once the mold removal is complete, the containment area should be thoroughly cleaned using a HEPA vacuum and damp cloths. The plastic sheeting should then be removed and disposed of properly.

In conclusion, containing mold during remediation is crucial to prevent it from spreading further and causing problems or additional damage to the building. Establishing a containment area, creating negative air pressure, sealing off the HVAC system, using PPE, wetting and bagging materials, and cleaning the containment area are all essential steps in containing mold during remediation. By following these procedures, mold can be safely and effectively removed from the building.