Mold can pose significant health concerns for those who occupy a space frequently. Spores can be found most commonly in spaces that frequent regular exposure to moisture such as bathrooms, basements, kitchen areas, industrial workspaces, etc. Often, mold can be physically visible, but at times can be hidden behind building materials that are susceptible to water leaks such as behind walls, under flooring, and around the plumbing. AirQuest provides mold consulting services to assist building managers and owners in the detection and removal of mold found on building material surfaces such as walls, ceilings, carpets, etc. to reduce the risk for occupants and property owners from for long-term mold exposure.
Indoor air contamination by mold is an emotionally charged issue. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions, especially to people with asthma, allergies, or have a compromised immune system. A causal link between more severe health effects and mold exposure is a topic of debate and on-going research within the scientific community. AirQuest has developed a scientific and practical approach to addressing mold concerns on behalf of homeowners, property owners, property managers, and insurance companies.
AirQuest’s mold consultants begin an assessment with a visual inspection to identify visible mold and water damage. A moisture meter or thermal imaging camera is used to identify building materials containing excessive moisture. Based upon the results of the initial investigation, additional analysis, repair of the moisture source, and remediation of water damaged or mold-contaminated building materials may be recommended.
Microbial & Moisture Survey
The initial investigation into potential fungal concerns begins with a comprehensive visual inspection and a moisture survey. AirQuest uses state-of-the-art techniques to identify and investigate the sources of moisture in building systems.
Mold requires a moisture source to proliferate in an indoor environment. Whether the moisture source is a roof leak, a plumbing leak, or contains issues with the exterior building that cause problems associated with the mechanical system (i.e., an air conditioning drain-pan leak or excessive humidity), a critical step in the mold identification and remediation process is to identify and remove the source of the moisture before water-damaged or mold-contaminated materials need replacement. AirQuest’s mold consultants work with professionals from many trades to accomplish this critical task.
Visual identification of mold is typically sufficient to determine the need for remediation and all that is required under standard industry practice. However, there are some limited circumstances, and some clients may require that mold sampling and analysis be performed.
Following the identification process, we measure the effectiveness of techniques used to control and clean up contamination during a remediation project.
AirQuest’s mold consultants are trained and experienced in the use of state-of-the-art technologies for the collection of representative mold samples, including air sampling, surface dust sampling, Cell-O-Tape, vacuum dust, swab or wipe, bulk material sampling, and Microbial Volatile Organic Compound (MVOC) sampling. Samples are submitted to an American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Environmental Microbiology Accredited laboratory for analysis, quantification, and speciation.
Mold Abatement Oversight
The removal of mold-contaminated material may cause an airborne release of mold spores that can affect adjacent areas and degrade air quality.
An adequately designed mold abatement plan and oversight by an AirQuest project manager will provide:
- Documentation of sufficient engineering controls that are placed to prevent contamination of non-affected areas
- Targeted areas that are removed
- Professional post-abatement cleaning procedures (including HEPA-vacuuming and wet wiping procedures) that are performed to remove microscopic (invisible) mold spores from surfaces within the impacted area
AirQuest develops mold remediation specifications in accordance with the latest in industry standards established by the American Industrial Hygiene Association, American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, United States Environmental Protection Agency, and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification.
Hire AirQuest for Mold Consulting and Assessment Services
With our experience working with government facilities as well as private entities, we can provide you reliable mold consultations and assessments. To inquire about AirQuest’s mold detection and removal services, you can contact us and speak to a consultant.