ENVIRONMENTAL DIAGNOSTICS CORPORATION
conducts indoor air quality sampling, consulting, and documentation for commercial and residential buildings. Our highly commended proactive, reactive, and mold assessments, cutting edge sampling methods, and interpretative tools make EDC a leader in the industry. Our timely turnaround of reports complements our innovation toward solving the most difficult indoor air quality concerns. Our proactive due diligence screening of many commercial buildings in the Metro DC area is widely regarded as a beneficial tenant relations and property management tool.

MOLD MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Initial Evaluation
EDC’s comprehensive and experienced evaluation methods provide a characterization of mold contamination and a detailed plan of action.

Clearance Evaluation
(post remediation)

EDC’s clearance criteria and procedures are based on experience from thousands of projects, a synthesis of sources including, IICRC, AIHA, EPA, and ACGIH, and state-of-the-art sampling methods to provide you with the highest confidence that mold remediation efforts were successful.

10 Common Myths About Mold

Myth #1: All Molds Are Toxic
Mycotoxins, which can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs and systems of the body, are produced by molds such as stachybotrys, fusarium, alternaria, and others. There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores from the indoor environment; the way to control mold is to control moisture.
Myth #2: Only Humid, Wet Climates Need To Worry About Mold
Water incursion and dampness initiates the growth of mold. Though the air may not feel warm and humid, the spaces between walls, in basements, under sinks, around pipes, and in crawlspaces may be the perfect environment for mold. Mold survives almost anywhere with water and/or humidity (usually above 60% on a consistent basis). Standing water, water-damaged materials or wet surfaces can support mold growth.
Myth #3: Some Surfaces Are Resistant to Mold
Mold can grow on any surface with enough moisture present for an extended period of time. However, some materials are manufactured with biocides designed to resist mold growth, but the sustainability of the chemical can vary with time and exposure.
Myth #4: If You Don’t See Mold, You Don’t Have It
Mold in its early stages is quite natural and unassuming. By the time you are aware of it, it may be a significant problem. Mold can be found in hidden areas around pipes, behind cabinets, and under sinks. It may be visible and detectable to only trained professionals.
Myth #5: Effective Regulations And Laws Are In Place
While some states, including California, New York, Texas, and Louisiana do have standards for mold identification and remediation, those rules are not uniformly applied. There are no nationwide standards in place for environmental testing, remediation techniques, contractor qualifications, worker training, and protective equipment. As a result, this industry is susceptible to unscrupulous or uninformed service providers.
Myth #6: If A Building Or Home Is Contaminated By Mold, Insurance Will Cover It
The insurance industry is concerned about escalating and unpredictable costs associated with mold testing and remediation. In fact, many insurance policies now contain exclusionary language that precludes coverage for loss or damage caused by, or resulting from “fungus”, which can be defined to include mold. For some, the solution is to purchase specialty environmental insurance.
Myth #7: Cleaning Off The Area Where Mold Was Growing Will Eliminate The Mold
Mold can become dormant and reactivate with the addition of moisture. It is easy to clean a hard surface, but absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, drywall, or carpet may need to be replaced.
Myth #8: The Worst Mold Can Do Is Cause Cold-Like Symptoms
Researchers and health experts continue to debate the exact symptoms associated with mold exposure. In addition, the type and severity of symptoms vary widely among people. The most common health effects include allergic reactions, asthma, respiratory complaints, headaches, and fatigue. The repercussions of exposure to mold by critically sensitive people can be much more serious.
Myth #9: Mold Can Only Grow Around Pipes, Or As A Result Of Leaks Or Floods
Mold is not limited to areas directly affected by water damage. Mold can invade the air-conditioning system and distribute mold spores throughout a home or building.
Myth #10: If A Plumber Or Contractor Checked A Home Or Building And Did Not Mention Mold, Then There Must Not Be Any
Many plumbers and contractors are not specifically trained to recognize mold contamination.

From an article by Burton T. Fried, President of LVI Services
Appearing in January 2005 issue of Compliance Magazine