Several federal agencies also publish information about mold, including: Centers for Disease Control Environmental Protection Agency FEMA U.S. Public Health Service Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors? FEMA Guidance Documents | FEMA.gov If left unchecked, mold can eventually cause structural damage to a wood framed building, weakening floors and walls as it feeds on moist wooden structural members. Managing a Mold Infestation: Guidelines for Disaster Response Keeping HVAC drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed. The filter and contents of the HEPA vacuum must be disposed of in impermeable bags or containers in such a way as to prevent release of the debris. Any initial water infiltration should be stopped and cleaned promptly. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris that can sweep away most things in its path. Mold removal should be complete. CDC is recognized as the lead federal agency for protecting the health and safety of the American people at home and abroad. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in some individuals who are allergic to mold. Structures must be elevated by trained professionals. Flood water can easily damage electrical system components including service panels, meters, switches, and outlets. Consequently, appropriate personal protective clothing (i.e., reusable or disposable) is recommended to minimize cross-contamination between work areas and clean areas, to prevent the transfer and spread of mold and other contaminants to street clothing, and to eliminate skin contact with mold and potential chemical exposures. These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? If possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off-hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. Identify and correct moisture problems. This requirement is most significant for structures built before the current floodplain ordinance was enacted. Care must be taken to assure that the filter is properly seated in the vacuum so that all the air passes through the filter. Refer to an HM Insurance Specialist at the JFO if you need assistance with answering a specific question from a member of the public, or if you need clarification and additional information about aspects of the NFIP. You can request the phone number for an HM Insurance Specialist or the JFO Insurance Hotline phone number from your supervisor. Flood insurance is a mitigation measure that protects policy holders from the financial risks of flooding. Mold Course Chapter 5: | US EPA Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLYthe mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group. Mold Cleanup. Their interpretation is best left to the industrial hygienist or other environmental health or safety professional. You must have identified and completely corrected the source of the water or moisture problem. When advising members of the public about reducing the risk of future hazard damages, direct them to local building officials before beginning any repairs or rebuilding because: Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved, A floodplain ordinance may affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained Substantial Damage, Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work. This Guide provides information and guidance for homeowners and renters on how to clean up residential mold problems and how to prevent mold growth. Recognize information about the NFIP to share with the general public. Floodplain management ordinances require that when a structure in the floodplain has Substantial Damage or undergoes Substantial Improvement, the owner must bring the structure into compliance with the most current standards when repairing or rebuilding. Large items with heavy mold growth should be covered with polyethylene sheeting and sealed with duct tape before being removed from the remediation area. Remember to change filters as appropriate, especially following any remediation activities. This guide is intended to provide streamlined guidance to state, territorial, and tribal governments on the essential elements of Public Assistance, Individual Assistance, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and required actions to request, initiate, and receive FEMA disaster assistance grants. ONLY the mold publication provided by the Centers for Disease Control. It makes sense to raise all components of the electrical system, including wiring, above the base flood level identified on the NFIP's Flood Insurance Rate Map for the location. These direct reading devices have a thin probe that is inserted into the material to be tested or pressed directly against the surface of the material. Appropriate precautions and protective equipment for biocide applicators should be selected based on the product manufacturer's warnings and recommendations (e.g., goggles or face shield, aprons or other protective clothing, gloves, and respiratory protection). More protective respirators may have to be selected and used if toxic contaminants such as asbestos or lead are encountered during remediation. Are building occupants reporting health problems that they think are related to mold in the indoor environment? A N-95 respirator is recommended. Molds are part of the natural environment. The American Industrial Hygiene Association offers accreditation to microbial laboratories (Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP)). Dry floodproofing is any measure to make a structure watertight below the level that needs flood protection to prevent floodwaters from entering. Moisture meters can be used on materials such as carpet, wallboard, wood, brick, and concrete. Respirators must be used in accordance with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (. The guidelines have been designed to help construct a remediation plan. Follow all local building codes. A storm surge can occur in just a few minutes. Substantial Improvement is defined as improvement with a cost that is equal to or greater than half of the market value of a structure before the improvement. When speaking with members of the public about reducing the risk of future hazard damages: Remember that you are THE face and voice of hazard mitigation. Visible mold and moldy odors should not be present. By reading this safety and health information bulletin, individuals with little or no experience with mold remediation may be able to reasonably judge whether mold contamination can be managed in-house or whether outside assistance is required. Ventilation ductwork also can be protected from flooding by locating it above the base flood level. This can be done by using moist techniques, such as a damp cloth or pad, for mold removal and by bagging the material in the confined space for later removal. Physician referral directory, information on allergies and asthma. Notification should include a description of the remedial measures to be taken and a timetable for completion. NFIP Summary of Coverage provides guidance on deductibles, what is and is not covered by flood insurance, and how items are valued at time of loss. GEOG 2210 Quizzes & FEMA Flashcards | Quizlet As a member of FEMAs Hazard Mitigation disaster workforce, you are expected to be able to explainto the public: This independent study course is part of a series of five, intended for the Hazard Mitigation disaster workforce. Looking for condensation and wet spots. Another partner organization is the Institute for Business Home Safety (IBHS). When changing the vacuum filter, remediators should wear respirators, appropriate personal protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection to prevent exposure to any captured mold and other contaminants. This training can be performed as part of a program to comply with the requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Filing and appealing flood insurance claims are covered. Most typical indoor air exposures to mold do not present a risk of adverse health effects. Inhaling mold can cause adverse health effects, including allergic reactions. Other resources are intended for use by building and emergency management professionals. This type of floodproofing is often used to protect non-residential structures, water supplies, and sewage systems. Removing mold and mold conditions does not protect a building from mold in future hazard events. IS 322: Flood Mitigation Basics for Mitigation Staff After a disaster event, which agency is. Their website is located at www.nahb.org. These courses address basic mitigation measures to reduce risk from earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornados, and wildfires, at a level appropriate for communication to the general public. A filter with a minimum efficiency of 50 to 60% or a rating of MERV 8, as determined by Test Standard 52.2 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, may be appropriate. Occupational and environmental health and safety information. Lesson Summary - Emergency Management Institute When deciding if relocating occupants is necessary, consideration should be given to the size and type of mold growth, the type and extent of health effects reported by the occupants, the potential health risks that could be associated with the remediation activity, and the amount of disruption this activity is likely to cause. Business owners who are concerned about the cost of professional help can contact the OSHA Consultation Project Office in their state for free consultation service. Contractors and other professionals (e.g. Actions that tend to disperse mold include: breaking apart moldy porous materials such as wallboard; destructive invasive procedures to examine or remediate mold growth in a wall cavity; removal of contaminated wallpaper by stripping or peeling; using fans to dry items or ventilate areas. For additional information on air sampling, refer to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' document, "Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control." The site includes recommended mitigation strategies for most types of natural hazards. Before planning the remediation assess the extent of the mold or moisture problem and the type of damaged materials. The outside of the bags should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a detergent solution or HEPA vacuumed in the decontamination chamber prior to their transport to uncontaminated areas of the building. Publications on floods, flood proofing, etc. A. If any individual has health concerns, doubts, or questions before beginning a remediation/cleanup project, he or she should consult a health professional. Learn more about mold and moisture control. . Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature by breaking down organic matter such as toppled trees, fallen leaves, and dead animals. Any remediation work that disturbs mold and causes mold spores to become airborne increases the degree of respiratory exposure. Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. These services are not routinely available from commercial laboratories. Available in both English and Spanish languages. ft. or less) - e.g., ceiling tiles, small areas on walls. Flood insurance is the best way to protect from devastating financial loss. It can be accessed from the internet via the Homeland Security Information Network using any computer or from the intranet using a FEMA computer. Other moisture problems may result from roof leaks, landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under a building, or unvented combustion appliance. Then tab to the Submit button and press Enter to complete a Knowledge Review or Self-Assessment. Venting kitchens (cooking areas) and bathrooms according to local code requirements. Make sure that work areas are well ventilated. They also can be used to monitor the progress of drying damaged materials. If you suspect that mold has damaged building integrity, consult a structural engineer or other professional with the appropriate expertise. Flooding can cause sewage from sewer lines to back up through drain pipes. They can be used to remove water from floors, carpets, and hard surfaces where water has accumulated. These can be accessed from the FEMA website. Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. Track your progress by looking at the Progress bar at the top right of each screen. Method 4: Discard Remove Damaged Materials and Seal in Plastic Bags Building materials and furnishings that are contaminated with mold growth and are not salvageable should be double-bagged using 6-mil polyethylene sheeting. It consists of a video camera on the end of a flexible "snake." Decisions about the type of advice to provide to individuals dealing with mold are the responsibility of the State Health Department. ft.) - e.g., individual wallboard panels. This lesson will discuss the NFIP and informing the public about it after a disaster event. However, the spores in the ambient air will not cause further problems if the moisture level in the building has been corrected. The Bulletin is advisory in nature, informational in content, and is intended to assist employers in providing a safe and healthful workplace. Flood control barriers protect structures by deflecting the destructive forces of flood waters away from vulnerable structures. It is important to dry these surfaces quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. A box surrounds the button that is currently selected. Pinpointing areas where leaks have occurred, identifying the causes, and taking preventive action to ensure that they do not reoccur. A. A quick guide to the dangers of mold in your home. Mold levels are likely to be high in a confined space, so PPE should be selected . Owners can have their buildings moved by professionals to a safer place outside the Special Flood Hazard Area. Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere - inside or outside - throughout the year. Some of the more common items include: Moisture meters measure/monitor moisture levels in building materials, and may be helpful for measuring the moisture content in a variety of building materials following water damage. After correcting water or moisture infiltration, the prompt removal of contaminated material and structural repair is the primary response to mold contamination in buildings. What happens once a loss claim has been reported, Explain the risk and the mitigation actions clearly and at a level of detail appropriate to the listener, Refer to publications/websites that reinforce or provide additional information about rebuilding or repairing to reduce future risk of damages, Communicating basic information to the public about flood-related mold issues, FEMA publications to promote flood mitigation, FEMA-approved online resources available for flood mitigation, Appropriate actions to take when advising the public. Course Summary: IS-322 Flood Mitigation Basics for Mitigation Staff In January 2019, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released: Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool for General Buildings (PDF) These tools may help identify and determine the severity of known and unknown areas of dampness and mold, prioritize repair and remediation, and track past and present problems. A full face piece respirator provides both respiratory and eye protection. Mold grows where there is sufficient moisture. Visit the NFIPs official website, FloodSmart.gov for general information. Improper maintenance and design of building heating/ventilating/air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, such as insufficient cooling capacity for an air conditioning system, can result in elevated humidity levels in a building. Emphasis should be placed on preventing contamination through proper building and HVAC system maintenance and prompt repair of water damaged areas. Consult an engineer for the appropriate filter efficiency for your specific HVAC system, and consider upgrading your filters if necessary. Remediation can be conducted by the regular building maintenance staff. 1999. This document will help those responsible for building maintenance in the evaluation of remediation plans. Has the building been recently remodeled or has the building use changed? The work area and surrounding areas should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent solution. Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. The tanks, hoses, and attachments of these vacuums should be thoroughly cleaned and dried after use since mold and mold spores may adhere to equipment surfaces. In conducting the mold remediation, every effort should be made to keep dust and mold out of the air. Mold also can damage materials in your home. Use hand, eye, and respiratory protection. Effective communication with building occupants is an essential component of all large-scale remediation efforts. Non-porous surfaces and porous materials that cannot be removed should be cleaned using a soap or detergent solution. It also requires periodic maintenance to remain effective. Follow the bolded green instructions that appear on each screen in order to proceed to the next screen or complete a Knowledge Review or Activity. The work area should be unoccupied. Gloves protect the skin from contact with mold, as well as from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. While it is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores, controlling moisture can control indoor mold growth. The primary function of personal protective equipment is to prevent the inhalation and ingestion of mold and mold spores and to avoid mold contact with the skin or eyes. There is a tremendous risk of mold growth after flooding. Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach group. In addition, before deciding to relocate occupants, one should also evaluate the remediator's ability to contain/minimize possible aerosolization of mold spores given their expertise and the physical parameters of the workspace. In all situations, the underlying cause of water accumulation must be rectified or the mold growth will reoccur. In this lesson you learned about: Future risks associated with the hazard event that resulted in the disaster declaration, Mitigation measures available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property, Identify the different types of flooding that occur in the United States, Recognize information about the NFIP to share with the general public, List the importance of directing individuals to local building officials, engineers, and other specialists before starting repairs, Match FEMA information, publications, and websites that support the mitigation recommendationsto specific audiences, How to receive credit for this independent study course. The three types of adverse health effects in humans caused bymold are allergy, infection, and toxin-mediated conditions (12).Further discussion of these health effects is provided in Appendix Aof this document. High-quality filters must be used in a HVAC system during remediation because conventional HVAC filters are typically not effective in filtering particles the size of mold spores. How do I prevent mold from endangering my family? These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. C. ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group. Indoor air related documents, answers to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) questions, maintains listing of State IAQ contacts, and regional EPA Contacts. A prompt response (within 24-48 hours) and thorough clean- up, drying, and/or removal of water-damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth. Mold exposure may cause or aggravate asthma or respiratory problems in adults and children. They should not be used to vacuum porous materials, such as gypsum board. However it CAN meet requirements for non-residential and commercial structures. Most molds are harmless but some can cause infections, allergy symptoms and produce toxins. Wet floodproofing measures are typically used to protect electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (also known as HVAC), and utility components of a structure when flooding occurs. Performing regularly scheduled building/ HVAC inspections and maintenance, including filter changes. Humidity meters can be used to monitor indoor humidity. Centers for Disease Control Environmental Protection Agency FEMA U.S. Public Health Service Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group. These materials may be disposed of as ordinary waste. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program FEMA has one post-disaster mitigation grant program to assist communities in reducing long-term hazard risk. When informing the public about flood control barriers, it is important to point out that this type of mitigation measure can affect local drainage, possibly creating or worsening flood problems for others. Referrals to clinics with physicians, who have experience with environmental exposures, include exposure to mold; maintains a database of occupational and environmental cases. The onset of allergic reactions to mold can be either immediate or delayed. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) The same information is contained in both locations, but the intranet version is behind the FEMA firewall. Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Discard mold damaged materials in plastic bags. This pamphlet briefly describes the benefits of ICC, how much coverage is available, the four options covered, when to file an ICC claim, and how the ICC payment is handled. Surfaces in the work area and areas directly adjacent that could become contaminated should be covered with a secured plastic sheet(s) before remediation to contain dust/ debris and prevent further contamination. Other floods develop very quickly. What precautions should be taken when cleaning up mold? To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. Topics in this lesson include: At the end of this lesson you will be able to: There are two reasons why Hazard Mitigation staff talk to the public about the National Flood Insurance Program: First, the NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in communities that participate in the NFIP. This section provides a brief overview, but does not describe all potential health effects related to mold exposure. Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should distribute only the mold When possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. Industrial hygienists or other environmental health and safety professionals with experience performing microbial investigations and/or mold remediation should be consulted prior to remediation activities to provide oversight for the project. PDF Industrial Hygiene Public Health Army Mold Remediation Guidance Mold Molds are simple, microscopic organisms that can grow virtually anywhere, both in homes and outdoors. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals with specific experience in designing mold-sampling protocols, sampling methods for microbial contaminants, and interpretation of results. Its mission is to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance, and preparation practices. There are molds that grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and insulation, while other molds feast on the everyday dust and dirt that gather in the moist regions of a building. The glove material should be selected based on the type of substance/ chemical being handled. Along with mushrooms, yeasts, and mildew, molds are classified as fungi. An example of a dry floodproofing measure is to apply a waterproof veneer, such as a layer of brick backed by a waterproof membrane, directly to the outside surface of an existing structure. Each lesson will take between 10 and 30 minutes to complete. Complete isolation of work area from occupied spaces using plastic sheeting sealed with duct tape (including ventilation ducts/grills, fixtures, and other openings); The use of an exhaust fan with a HEPA filter to generate negative pressurization; and. Identify floodproofing measures including the difference between wet and dry floodproofing. Remediators, particularly those with health related concerns, may wish to check with their physicians or other health-care professionals before working on mold remediation or investigating potentially moldy areas. Click on the "Glossary" button to look up key definitions and acronyms. A humidistat is a control device that can be connected to an HVAC system and adjusted so that if the humidity level rises above a set point, the HVAC system will automatically turn on and reduce the humidity below the established point. Some methods that may be used include the following: Wet vacuums are vacuum cleaners designed to collect water. Fungicides are commonly applied to outdoor plants, soil, and grains as a powder or spray. This training can be performed as part of a program to comply with the requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (, Respiratory protection (e.g., N-95 disposable respirator) is recommended. Additional Information Visit OSHA's Safety and Health Topics webpage on Mold at: www.osha.gov/SLTC/molds This is also an expensive option but it can permanently eliminate the flooding risk to the structure if the building is moved to a safe area. Consult an experienced mold remediator for more information. The publication also provides information on financial assistance for mitigation retrofitting. When you use biocides as a disinfectant or a pesticide, or as a fungicide, you should use appropriate PPE, including respirators. Your first step should be to inspect for any evidence of water damage and visible mold growth. Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide - US EPA It is important to allow enough time to complete the course in its entirety. If you exit from the course, you will need to start that lesson over again. Note: If the Next button is dimmed, you must complete an activity before you can proceed in the lesson. After the Flood: Tips from the NFIP provides advice on looking out for hazards in a flood-prone home, filing for flood insurance claims, and cleaning up after a flood. Visible mold, mold-damaged materials, and moldy odors should no longer be present. Flood Preparedness and Response - Response/Recovery | Occupational Who's affected? This Safety and Health Information Bulletin is not a standard or regulation, and it creates no new legal obligations. If you know you have a mold problem, it is more important to spend time and resources removing the mold and solving the moisture problem that causes the moldy conditions than to undertake extensive testing for the type and quantity of mold. A company employs 400 400 salespeople. Insurance can be purchased for structures, contents, or both. FEMA Publications Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. Learn about mold growth indoors, including topics like basic information about indoor mold growth, how mold can affect health and mold testing. Floodwaters in closed-basin lakes accumulate over long periods of time and may stay for weeks, months, or years. D. If you are working in a DRC or other outreach venue, your supervisor will explain which NFIP publication to distribute and to whom. This Guide is also available in HTML. This completes the final lesson in this course. Dry floodproofing may not be used to bring a - Course Hero Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores (viable seeds) that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Examples of fungicides include hexachlorobenzene, organomercurials, pentachlorophenol, phthalimides, and dithiocarbamates. There are two main types of floodproofing measures: Wet floodproofing is any measure applied to a structure and/or its contents that prevents or reduces damage from flooding while allowing flood waters to enter the structure. Resources for Flood Cleanup and Indoor Air Quality | US EPA If the structure is damaged or improved, but not to the regulatory definition of Substantial Damage or Substantial Improvement or if it already meets the ordinance, the owner can reduce the risk of future damages by selecting other, less expensive mitigation measures. Of these, 83 83 received a bonus last year, 100 100 attended a special sales training program at the beginning of last year, and 42 42 both attended the special sales training program and received a bonus.
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