4 Ways To Protect Employees During Mold Removal

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

Important to Move Employees to a alternate location when mold is being remediated.

Employees in a commercial structure that is undergoing mold removal should still be able to get work done. Learn about four ways to protect building occupants during the removal process. 

1. Turn Off the HVAC System

The cooling and heating system can spread mold spores throughout a structure. It is a good idea to turn this system off as soon as you suspect that mold is developing. The problem may intensify if spores spread to other areas in the structure where conditions are conducive to mold growth. Provide fans or space heaters if necessary. Employees can also work out of a temporary location until containment is complete.

2. Seal Off Affected Areas

Sometimes, remediation professionals will recommend a limited or full containment strategy to prevent cross-contamination during mold removal. Specialists may use a single layer of polyethylene sheeting to seal off 10 to 100 square feet of a structure. If more than 100 square feet are impacted or the problem involves black mold or another toxigenic fungus, cleanup experts can create a negative air chamber out of plastic barriers and double layers of sheeting. A decontamination chamber should also prevent spores from spreading.

3. Relocate Employees to Another Area

Depending on how much of a structure is touched by mold, it may be advisable to relocate employees to a less affected part of the building. Employees often benefit from the opportunity to work out of another location until remediation is underway or complete.

4. Inform Employees About Remediation

Employees are likely to be concerned about the presence of mold in a workplace. Keep building occupants apprised of the remediation schedule and the measures being taken to promote their safety.

If you take these steps, employees should be able to work during mold removal. Remain as productive as possible by working with a commercial mold remediation and restoration company in Austin TX.