Mould Inspection
An on-site inspection is the most important and critical step to identifying mould problems and to determine the best plan of action for permanent removal.
Although identifying the visual mould is important on indoor surfaces this does not indicate the problem and that the source has been identified. Without identifying the source of the problem, evening using the best removal and remediation practices the mould will simply return.
Through the development of a questionnaire checklist, we gather the appropriate information which determines best course of action. The extent of the inspection may include but not limited to carry out moisture testing, inspections of the mechanic ventilation system, wall cavities, ceiling cavities or hidden mould in furniture.
Mould Sampling
There are a number of reasons why mould sampling should also be considered with the initial inspection.
These include:
- Evidence of wide spread mould contamination
- Health complaints related to spending time in the building
- Post remediation clearance testing for quality control
- Health risk assessment by qualified professionals to detect species
- Species identification
There are two common methods of mould sampling:
- Surface Sampling
- Airborne Sampling
Surface Sampling – is a powerful quality control tool to determine if the remediation process has been carried out correctly. Surface sampling can also assist in the identification fungal species especially where the spores might not be airborne.
Airborne Sampling – is the standard method for determining exposure to any indoor environment. It is important to note that this type of sampling cannot on its own be used to completely exclude the presence of mould contamination. Any indoor air samples should be taken together with an outdoor sample as a reference guide.
