SEC-023: Mold Management
Academic Division and the Medical Center.
To avoid growth of mold and mildew in University facilities which can impact the health and comfort of building occupants and to provide a systematic approach to remediation of mold and mildew problems.
- Terms:There are no terms that require definition.
In the event of a flood or large water leak that results in wet building components or furnishings, efforts must be made to dry out the moisture within 48 hours.
Compliance with Policy:
Failure to comply with the requirements of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion in accordance with relevant University policies.
Questions about this policy should be directed to Environmental Health and Safety.
Contact your specific maintenance organization (e.g., Facilities Management, Housing Maintenance, Medical Center Physical Plant, etc.) and the Office of Risk Management immediately in the event of a flood or large water leak. An effort will be made to dry wet porous materials (ceiling tiles, installed carpeting, upholstered furnishings, and wallboard) effectively within 48 hours (by active vacuum extraction followed by area dehumidification) to ameliorate mold growth. You should contact the appropriate service office if you discover visible mold on building materials (drywall, ceiling tiles) or furnishings (carpeting, upholstered furniture, or books) and the contaminated area totals approximately 10 square feet (or more).
Other situations may result in mold growth, including uncontrolled high humidity (i.e., consistently greater than 65%) may result in indoor amplification of mold, improper placement of vapor barriers, or persistent plumbing fixture leaks. Industrial Hygiene specialists from Environmental Health and Safety can assist in investigating and identifying building deficiencies, specific health complaints, and hidden sources of contamination.
- Remediation:
Porous materials from which microbial growth cannot be adequately cleaned must be removed from buildings. The removal process of mold-contaminated materials will vary depending on the location and extent of the mold growth, but will likely require some level of isolation or containment. Larger areas with mold contamination may require evacuation of occupants and the involvement of trained abatement professionals. Representatives of EHS are qualified to make this determination. Remediation of more than ten square feet of mold-contaminated building materials should only be performed by workers with mold remediation training. Any remediation attempt should include long-term plans to maintain systems and prevent recurrence of microbial contamination. These plans will address adequate repairs and preventive maintenance of the building structure, the HVAC, the plumbing, and any other building systems. These plans should also include a means for the prompt response to recurring problems.