Floodwaters in closed-basin lakes accumulate over long periods of time and may stay for weeks, months, or years. Videos in the series include: For more information on damp buildings and health effects, see the 2004 Institute of Medicine Report, Damp Indoor Spaces and Health, published by The National Academies Pressin Washington, DC. Accredited laboratories must participate in quarterly proficiency testing (Environmental Microbiology Proficiency Analytical Testing Program (EMPAT)). Walls that are not completely dry may allow mold spores to grow quickly. A full face piece respirator provides both respiratory and eye protection. The guidelines have been designed to help construct a remediation plan. Use hand, eye, and respiratory protection. 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. It can be accessed from the internet via the Homeland Security Information Network using any computer or from the intranet using a FEMA computer. Level II: Mid-Sized Isolated Areas (10 - 30 sq. Looking for condensation and wet spots. These can be accessed from the FEMA website. When possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. The following sections discuss the various types of PPE that may be used during remediation activities. Bioaerosols Assessment and Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), The Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA), New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Disease Epidemiology 2002. At a disaster, the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach (CEO) group, in collaboration with the state, decides which of these approved publications and resources support the Hazard Mitigation Strategy for the disaster. Maintaining indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible). Mold slide 1 of 2 The Key to Mold Control is Moisture Control If mold is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture. To protect your eyes, use properly fitted goggles or a full face piece respirator. Remove filters in a manner that minimizes the reentry of mold and other toxic substances into the workplace. 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. Referrals to physicians who have experience with environmental exposures. REMEMBER YOU MUST COMPLETE THE ENTIRE COURSE TO RECEIVE CREDIT. In addition, use of respirators requires the employer to develop and implement a written respiratory protection program, with worksite-specific procedures and elements. The use of a biocide, such as chlorine bleach, is not recommended as a routine practice during mold remediation, although there may be instances where professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when immuno-compromised individuals are present). You can select any of the lessons from this menu by simply clicking on the lesson title. A licensed well-drilling contractor can inspect a well and suggest improvements such as: Elevating a structure reduces the risk of flood damage by raising the entire building above the BFE indicated on the FEMA flood map. Respirators protect cleanup workers from inhaling airborne mold, contaminated dust, and other particulates that are released during the remediation process. The Consultation Program can help the employer evaluate and prevent hazardous conditions in the workplace that can cause injuries and illnesses, including mold problems. Answers to Questions About the National Flood Insurance Program explains the NFIP, including coverage, claims, flood maps, and FEMAs repetitive loss strategy. If you are using a mild detergent or plain water, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. If you are working in a DRC or other outreach venue, your supervisor will explain which NFIP publication to distribute and to whom. What can he do? The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) developed this 3-part video series. Non-porous surfaces and porous materials that cannot be removed should be cleaned using a soap or detergent solution. Documented quality control in the laboratories used for analysis of the bulk, surface, and other air samples is necessary. Coastal flooding occurs when intense offshore storm systems push ocean water inland above the normal tide level. Information on worker safety and health, compliance assistance, laws and regulations, cooperative programs, state programs, statistics, and newsroom. Fix source(s) of moisture incursion problem(s) as soon as possible. Indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Information about floodplain management ordinances is best provided by the local government. Publications on floods, flood proofing, etc. Wells suspected of being contaminated should be inspected by a professional. Pursuant to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, employers must comply with hazard-specific safety and health standards and regulations promulgated by OSHA or by a state with an OSHA-approved state plan. The purpose of mold remediation is to correct the moisture problem and to remove moldy and contaminated materials to prevent human exposure and further damage to building materials and furnishings. These guidelines are based on the size of the area impacted by mold contamination. Substantial Damage is defined as damage from any source for which the cost of repair is equal to or greater than half of the market value of the structure before the loss. Testing is usually done to compare the levels and types of mold spores found inside the building with those found outside of the building or for comparison with another location in the building. This finding may convince the investigators that the mold is growing within, and being disseminated by, the HVAC system. It is recommended that personnel be trained in the handling of hazardous materials and equipped with respiratory protection (e.g., N-95 disposable respirator). Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere - inside or outside - throughout the year. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. Currently, there are no federal standards or recommendations, (e.g., OSHA, NIOSH, EPA) for airborne concentrations of mold or mold spores. 1999. Visit the NFIPs official website, FloodSmart.gov for general information. Your first step should be to inspect for any evidence of water damage and visible mold growth. Owners can have their buildings moved by professionals to a safer place outside the Special Flood Hazard Area. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth often will occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains uncorrected. Individuals with persistent health problems that appear to be related to mold exposure should see their physicians for a referral to practitioners who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties and are knowledgeable about these types of exposures. Many communities have adopted even stricter standards in their floodplain ordinance and require higher elevation called freeboard. Freeboard helps compensate for many unknown factors that can contribute to flood heights greater than those calculated in base flood elevations, such as wave action, bridge openings, and the effects of urbanization of the watershed. The information in these guidelines is intended only as a summary of basic procedures and is not intended, nor should it be used, as a detailed guide to mold remediation. You should revisit the site(s) after remediation, and it should show no signs of moldy or musty odors, water damage, or mold growth. 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. Available in both English and Spanish languages. A major bloom involving a large area of a collection or one involving highly toxic mold species will require outside professional advice and assistance to stop the mold growth, clean the collection, and render the affected area safe for use again. Instructions for cleaning surfaces, as listed on product labels, should always be read and followed. In addition, exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat in certain individuals. Mold: Worker and Employer Guide to Hazards and Recommended Controls (pdf) (1.2 MB, June 2015) Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem. A. 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. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in some individuals who are allergic to mold. It is important to package mold-contaminated materials in this fashion to minimize the dispersion of mold spores. 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. Carpet maintenance, restoration guidelines for water-damaged carpet, other carpet-related issues. 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. Hurricanes, tsunamis, and unusually high tides can cause coastal flooding. EPA-402-K-02-003, September 2012 (reprinted). Providing adequate drainage around buildings and sloping the ground away from building foundations. 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. Information on and standards for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industry. Use the arrow keys to select answers for multiple-choice review questions or self-assessment checklists. These materials can then usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. 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. In addition, pursuant to Section 5(a)(1), the General Duty Clause of the Act, employers must provide their employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Disposable PPE should be discarded after it is used. Repairing plumbing leaks and leaks in the building structure as soon as possible. Also, find EPA mold resources, including frequent questions, mold publications, images and a glossary of terms. Consult an engineer for the appropriate filter efficiency for your specific HVAC system, and consider upgrading your filters if necessary. Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLYthe mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group. You can request the phone number for an HM Insurance Specialist or the JFO Insurance Hotline phone number from your supervisor. 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. Outdoor utilities such as heat pumps or air conditioners can be protected by placing them on an elevated platform above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Molds come in many colors; both white and black molds are shown here. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold, as it could spread contamination throughout the building. Any remediation work that disturbs mold and causes mold spores to become airborne increases the degree of respiratory exposure. Mold and Health. Identify floodproofing measures including the difference between wet and dry floodproofing. Clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water. industrial hygienists or other environmental health and safety professionals) who respond to mold and moisture situations in buildings, as well as members of the general public, also may find these guidelines helpful. FEMA Publications Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. 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. 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. In all situations, the underlying cause of water accumulation must be rectified or the mold growth will reoccur. The building owner, management, and/or employer should notify occupants in the affected area(s) of the presence of mold. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program FEMA has one post-disaster mitigation grant program to assist communities in reducing long-term hazard risk. In some cases, especially those involving large areas of contamination, the remediation plan may include temporary relocation of some or all of the building occupants. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because this may produce highly toxic vapors and create a hazard to workers. Information on indoor comfort products and services. Last updated on March 14, 2023. Preventing Occupational Respiratory Disease from Exposures Caused by Dampness in Office Buildings, Schools, and Other Nonindustrial Buildings, WHOGuidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould (PDF), World Health Organization, 2009, 2004 Institute of Medicine Report, Damp Indoor Spaces and Health, National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH), Resources for Public Health Professionals. Inexpensive (less than $50) models that monitor both temperature and humidity are available. What precautions should be taken when cleaning up mold? Other resources are intended for use by building and emergency management professionals. Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature by breaking down organic matter such as toppled trees, fallen leaves, and dead animals. It provides an overview of mold and how it impacts peoples health, what can be done to fix a mold problem, and how to prevent mold problems. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA's publication, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings," or other guidelines developed by professional or governmental organizations. Dust suppression methods, such as misting (not soaking) surfaces prior to remediation, are recommended. It serves as the national focus for developing and applying disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion and education activities. The onset of allergic reactions to mold can be either immediate or delayed. Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. (e.g., asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and severe allergies). This type of floodproofing is often used to protect non-residential structures, water supplies, and sewage systems. Emphasis should be placed on preventing contamination through proper building and HVAC system maintenance and prompt repair of water damaged areas. Track your progress by looking at the Progress bar at the top right of each screen. The remediation plan should include steps to permanently correct the water or moisture problem. An important reference with guidelines for immuno-compromised individuals can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. However, sampling results can be used as a guide to determine the extent of an infestation and the effectiveness of the cleanup. ft. or less) - e.g., ceiling tiles, small areas on walls. Extending the casing at least 2 feet above the highest known flood elevation, Installing a sanitary seal or cover on the casing, Installing a backflow value in the water line, The importance of directing the public to local building officials before they begin repairs or rebuilding, How FEMA addresses the topic of flood-related mold with the public, Which publications are available to promote flood mitigation, What FEMA-approved online resources are available for flood mitigation, What appropriate actions to take when advising the public, Recognize the information and advice to provide regarding mold, Identify FEMA partner organizations and the websites that contain FEMA mitigation publications, Identify the correct actions to take when advising the public regarding flood mitigation and the NFIP. People allergic to mold may have difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Seasonal rainfall and storm systems can cause the lake level to rise faster than it can empty. Communities generally engage in acquisition or buyout" projects when a grant has been awarded to provide funding. Remediation includes both the identification and correction of the conditions that permit mold growth, as well as the steps to safely and effectively remove mold damaged materials. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants. Many of these mitigation measures involve elevating equipment above the expected flood levels. The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Inc., known as FLASH, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting disaster safety and property loss mitigation across a variety of natural hazards, including floods. Remember to change filters as appropriate, especially following any remediation activities. They should be placed into impermeable bags, and usually can be discarded as ordinary construction waste. D. Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. 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. FEMA Publications Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. After a flood, there are many mitigation measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk of future flood damage. Click on the "Glossary" button to look up key definitions and acronyms. 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. Education and training on cleaning and maintenance. In addition to elevating large utilities, household appliances such as washing machines and dryers should be elevated above potential flood waters. About 1,000 species of mold can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide. 1. The work area and areas used by remediation workers for egress should be cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent solution. In this lesson you will learn about the different types of flooding that occur along coasts, rivers, streams, and lakes. Are there existing moisture problems in the building? People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without health complaints or physical symptoms. When water leaks or spills occur indoors - act promptly. It also requires periodic maintenance to remain effective. 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. 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. Flood Hazards Portable Generators Flood water can make the air in your home unhealthy. Cleaning and drying wet or damp spots as soon as possible, but no more than 48 hours after discovery. which agency is responsible for the message to the public about mold hazards and remediation? 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. Gloves protect the skin from contact with mold, as well as from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. When in doubt, caution is advised. ONLY the mold publication provided by the Centers for Disease Control. Molds are part of the natural environment. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in sealed impermeable plastic bags. A good way to protect HVAC equipment is to locate it on an upper floor or in the attic rather than in the basement or lower level of a structure. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? The glove material should be selected based on the type of substance/ chemical being handled. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area, using outside air if possible, and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Filing and appealing flood insurance claims are covered. Either a half mask or full face piece air-purifying respirator can be used. 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. However, OSHA does not control this information and cannot guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Insurance can be purchased for structures, contents, or both. Mold can generally be removed from nonporous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent. More protective respirators may have to be selected and used if toxic contaminants such as asbestos or lead are encountered during remediation. A community can permanently eliminate the risk of flood damage to buildings in a floodplain by purchasing the properties from their owners and removing the structures.
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