It’s not uncommon that a home or business owner will see mold and think, “I can get rid of this myself”. However, these individuals severely underestimate the correct way to remediate mold. And, if they go about attempting to remove mold themselves, put not only themselves in danger, but anyone else who comes into contact with the area affected. In order to protect homeowners who may be considering DIY mold removal instead of looking to the experts, we’ve put together this informational article. This way, we hope to inform individuals about alternative methods of mold removal which aren’t dangerous and done properly.
What is the IICRC?
Essentially, the IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration, is an organization dedicated to the safety or restoration, cleaning, and inspection. They’re a nonprofit company that gauges quality standards of restoration, cleaning, and inspection processes for the industry. And, they involve themselves in the education of industry professionals in the mold remediation field so that mold may be remediated safely and securely. Thus, helping to protect individuals from the potential dangers of mold during the removal process.
The 5 Standards of the IICRC for Mold Remediation
To help individuals practice the safest methods of mold remediation, the IICRC has established 5 quality standards. These 5 standards include:
- All individuals involved in the mold remediation process must ensure their individual safety. This is done by understanding and practicing a number of health-related practices. Thus, helping to keep individuals exposed to mold safe.
- Before remediation, a mold inspection may be necessary in order to assess the entirety of the mold issue present. Typically, an expert conducts these inspections.
- If the inspection has determined a probability of mold spreading, additional standards must be met to ensure that the spreading of mold is prevented. Furthermore, the IICRC recognizes the additional hardship involved in remediating mold that has already spread.
- If possible, the IICRC suggests the removal of entire structures, systems, or materials if they have mold spore contamination. This way, the spreading of mold is containable.
- Once the mold is remediated, the IICRC suggests home and business owners take further steps to ensure that mold growth does not resurface. This includes education on what causes mold to grow so that mold doesn’t have the chance to flourish.
What Happens if You Don’t Comply with IICRC Standards?
If home or business owners don’t take the time to remediate mold according to the 5 standards of the IICRC, a number of consequences may ensue. For example, non-mold removal professional individuals who go about DIY mold removal may experience:
- Respiratory issues and trouble breathing
- Itching of the skin
- Swelling of the eyes
- Running nose and eyes
- Tightness of the chest
- Coughing
- Headaches
- Scratchy throat
In all honesty, these side effects are the best-case scenario when it comes to mold exposure, as they are only the minor health effects that come with mold exposure. However, there are individuals who are even more likely to experience negative effects of mold – your family. Specifically, older adults and infants.
Long Term mold exposure can lead to the development of asthma, which can be fatal for elderly individuals. Furthermore, infants are at a higher risk for respiratory illness like bronchitis, pneumonia, and croup.
Getting Help from Professional Mold Removal Experts
Overall, the best thing home and business owners who have identified mold growing in an establishment can do is to turn to the professionals. Here at A Plus Mold Remediation Inc., we always remediate mold following the industrial safety standards of the IICRC. And, work to keep our customers safe by using the highest quality of cleaning materials and equipment available today.
To talk to us about your mold problem and get a quote for mold remediation in the South Florida area, contact today on our website. Or, simply give us a call at 561-247-3506.