One of the biggest problems with any kind of mold growth is that they produce spores that can easily travel to any part of the house. In any mold remediation process, therefore, it is important to contain the mold spores as close to the source as possible to eliminate the spread of mold-related infestations.
Mold spores have aerodynamic diameters of about 2–10 µm, which implies that they can easily be deposited into our system through inhalation, ingestion or skin contact. Prolonged exposure to mold can cause a wide range of diseases, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, farmer’s lung disease, and malt worker’s lung disease among others.
Tools That You Need
In any mold remediation process, you need the right protection tools for the job. Here are some of the most important equipment you should have:
- Gloves
The best gloves to use for mold remediation are those that can extend to the middle of your forearm. When you are using plain water or mild detergents to clean molds, you can use normal household rubber gloves. However, when you are using stronger cleaning solutions, you need gloves that are made from nitrile, natural rubber, or polyurethane. Consider using latex medical examination gloves if your hands are going to be in contact with infectious materials.
- Protective clothing
You need an appropriate protective suit to minimize cross-contamination between the contaminated areas and clean areas. Coverall suits that come with hoodies and booties are the best because they completely keep mold spores from your skin and protect you from potential chemical splash. They are also easy to put on and take off.
- Respirator
You should never try to use chemicals or even detergents to clean up mold without using a respirator to protect yourself against mold spores and chemical fumes. Regular P100 respirators will suffice when you are using plain water or mild detergents to remove molds. However, when using strong chemicals, you need a P100 filter to protect you from chemical fumes as well.
- Goggles
If you are not going to wear a full-face respirator, then you need goggles. It is not advisable to do mold remediation without full eye protection because excessive exposure to mold spores can lead to eye infections.
- Other tools
Other tools that you may need include:
- A vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Air vents to prevent the spread of the mold spores to other areas of the house
- Heavy sheets of plastic for covering the doorways
- Negative air machine to help with the clearing of airborne spores.
Taking care of remediation tools after the decontamination process
Materials and tools used during the decontamination process should be wiped off or washed thoroughly before they are removed from the area. Tools that reusable like respirators and face masks should be washed thoroughly and disinfected before being used again. However, strive to replace things like filters or cartages after every remediation process.
Molds can be harmful to your health and need to be removed immediately they are spotted. With the right tools, however, the mold problem is something that you can easily take care of. If you are not a DIY enthusiast or if the mold infestation is extensive, it is advisable to call a professional mold remediation company.
