Avoid Mold Cross-Contamination Through Containment and a Professional Response

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Containment for mold.

Containment and a Professional Response Can Help Prevent Mold Cross-Contamination

Mold cleanup can be a particularly tricky task because of the potential for cross-contamination. This is especially troublesome if mold contamination has closed down part of the commercial property, and there's concern that other parts may get shut down as well. Sadly, when property owners turn to DIY cleanup efforts, spores are often transported to previously unaffected areas. Rather than risking the spread of spores, it's best to turn this task over to Keeneyville, IL, professionals.

The First Containment Efforts
When you first notice the mold problem, reach out to mold cleanup and remediation professionals. These technicians have the training, equipment, and necessary supplies to avoid spreading spores. As you wait for the professionals to arrive, there are a few steps you should take:

Cordon off the affected area. If possible, completely cut off access to the area. Closed doors may prevent spores from traveling beyond the area as well as discouraging people from walking through.
Limit traffic in and out of the contamination zone. Spores can easily travel outside of the affected area on shoes, clothing, or even a slight breeze.
Turn off the heating and cooling system. HVAC systems are efficient at providing ventilation, but they are equally efficient at housing and carrying mold spores throughout the entire building.

Once these steps are complete, it is safe to wait for cleanup technicians to arrive.

Professional Cleanup Methods
Technicians take further steps during cleanup to keep mold contained. These include wearing protective gear, such as boots, gloves, and filtration masks. If necessary, they will further seal off the affected room or rooms with plastic sheeting. Sometimes, exhaust fans are required to provide ventilation that only moves toward the exterior of the building. Technicians use airtight plastic bags for removing affected items and may create a decontamination zone.
Thorough mold cleanup requires swift containment efforts. It is also a project with the potential for many mistakes and should be turn over to professionals as soon as possible.