Moisture control is the key to mold control. Because mold is common in flooded communities, some basic facts about mold that you can share with the public are: Removing mold and mold conditions does not protect a building from mold in future hazard events. Such persons should receive training on proper clean up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. In this lesson you learned about: Future risks associated with the hazard event that resulted in the disaster declaration, Mitigation measures available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property, Identify the different types of flooding that occur in the United States, Recognize information about the NFIP to share with the general public, List the importance of directing individuals to local building officials, engineers, and other specialists before starting repairs, Match FEMA information, publications, and websites that support the mitigation recommendationsto specific audiences, How to receive credit for this independent study course. Worker and Employer Guide to Hazards and Recommended Controls Closed-basin flooding occurs when a lake has no outlet or a relatively small outlet. Always, read and follow product label precautions. Guidance Introduction Mold Prevention Investigating, Evaluating & Remediating Moisture & Mold Problems Table 1: Water Damage - Cleanup and Mold Prevention Table 2: Mold Remediation Guidelines Checklist for Mold Remediation Resources List Appendix A: Glossary, References, Acknowledgements Appendix B: Introduction to Molds They digest whatever they land on in order to survive. One way to protect against this hazard is to install backflow valves, which temporarily block drain pipes if water travels up them the wrong way. Effective communication with building occupants is an essential component of all large-scale remediation efforts. Pinpointing areas where leaks have occurred, identifying the causes, and taking preventive action to ensure that they do not reoccur. Study Resources . HVAC equipment, such as furnaces and hot water heaters, can be damaged extensively if inundated by flood waters. Walls that are not completely dry may allow mold spores to grow quickly. 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. The same information is contained in both locations, but the intranet version is behind the FEMA firewall. After correcting water or moisture infiltration, the prompt removal of contaminated material and structural repair is the primary response to mold contamination in buildings. Information on engineering issues and indoor air quality. For additional information on air sampling, refer to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' document, "Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control." In addition, use of respirators requires the employer to develop and implement a written respiratory protection program, with worksite-specific procedures and elements. Wet vacuums should be used only on wet materials, as spores may be exhausted into the indoor environment if insufficient liquid is present. In many cases, it is not economically practical or useful to test for mold growth on surfaces or for airborne spores in the building. The Consultation Program can help the employer evaluate and prevent hazardous conditions in the workplace that can cause injuries and illnesses, including mold problems. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Flooding can cause sewage from sewer lines to back up through drain pipes. Molds are microscopic organisms found everywhere in the environment, indoors and outdoors. IS 322: Flood Mitigation Basics for Mitigation Staff After a disaster event, which agency is. Short circuits in flooded systems pose an increased potential for fire. A quick guide to the dangers of mold in your home. An important reference with guidelines for immuno-compromised individuals can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors? This is because when things remain wet for more than two days, they usually get moldy. Most molds are harmless but some can cause infections, allergy symptoms and produce toxins. It is important to allow enough time to complete the course in its entirety. The publication also provides information on financial assistance for mitigation retrofitting. Click on the "Back" or the "Next" buttons at the top and bottom of screens to move backward or forward in the lesson. Personnel trained in the handling of hazardous materials and equipped with: Full face piece respirators with HEPA cartridges; Disposable protective clothing covering entire body including both head and shoes; and. Air sampling for mold may not be part of a routine assessment because decisions about appropriate remediation strategies often can be made on the basis of a visual inspection. 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. (PDF) Impacts of Federal and State Hazard Mitigation - ResearchGate Warning: Repeatedly pressing Tab beyond the number of selections on the screen may cause the keyboard to lock up. Owners can have their buildings moved by professionals to a safer place outside the Special Flood Hazard Area. However it CAN meet requirements for non-residential and commercial structures. Examples of fungicides include hexachlorobenzene, organomercurials, pentachlorophenol, phthalimides, and dithiocarbamates. If you have to leave the course, do not exit from the course or close your browser. Removing people from spaces near the work area is recommended for infants, persons having undergone recent surgery, immunosuppressed people, or people with chronic inflammatory lung diseases. NFIP Claims Handbook tells policyholders what to do before, during, and after a flood. 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. What is mold? 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. You can read a description of the report and purchase a copy. Indoor environmental quality training center giving courses in building moisture and biocontamination, and managing and operating facilities for good IAQ. This can be done by using moist techniques, such as a damp cloth or pad, for mold removal and by bagging the material in the confined space for later removal. Distinguish between types types of flooding, including flash, coastal, river and stream, and closed-basin flooding. Dry floodproofing is any measure to make a structure watertight below the level that needs flood protection to prevent floodwaters from entering. Goggles must be designed to prevent the entry of dust and small particles. Please note that these are guidelines; some professionals may prefer other remediation methods, and certain circumstances may require different approaches or variations on the approaches described below. These materials can usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. In addition, exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat in certain individuals. 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. A variety of cleanup methods are available for remediating damage to building materials and furnishings caused by moisture control problems and mold growth. Flash flooding is usually caused by intense rainfall and can flood an area in less than six hours. Preventive Maintenance Preventing mold growth in occupied areas The key to mold prevention is moisture control. Use Ctrl + Tab to deselect an element or reset to the beginning of a screens navigation links (most often needed for screens with animations or media). Referrals to physicians who have experience with environmental exposures. Ninety percent of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding. Barriers may not be used to bring a Substantially Damaged or Substantially Improved residence into compliance with a communitys floodplain management ordinances or laws. A N-95 respirator is recommended. C. The publication, A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home[EPA 402-K-02-003] reprinted September 2012, is available in: The publication, Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, [EPA 402-K-01-001] reprinted September 2008,is available in: The Key to Mold Control is Moisture Control Infographic Flood water can easily damage electrical system components including service panels, meters, switches, and outlets. IS-322-Flood-Mitigation-Basics-for-Mitigation-Staff-2.pdf Aside from official FEMA websites, there are FEMA-partner organizations that provide comprehensive, user-friendly information and guidance on flood mitigation. Other floods develop very quickly. Education and training on cleaning and maintenance. 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. Identify mitigation measures that can meet local floodplain management requirements for residences, including elevating and relocating structures, and property acquisition. A JFO Insurance Hotline, manned by HM Insurance Specialists, may be established after large flood disasters and is for the use of FEMA staff only. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Additional Information Visit OSHA's Safety and Health Topics webpage on Mold at: www.osha.gov/SLTC/molds 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. The guidelines are designed to protect the health of cleanup personnel and other workers during remediation. 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. Also, find EPA mold resources, including frequent questions, mold publications, images and a glossary of terms. 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. GEOG 2210 Quizzes & FEMA Flashcards | Quizlet Some biocides are considered pesticides, and some states require that only registered pesticide applicators apply these products in schools, commercial buildings, and homes. FEMA's HM Disaster Workforce Website houses a wealth of hazard mitigation information. Level IV: Extensive Contamination (greater than 100 contiguous square feet in an area). Community Floodplain Management ordinances. . There are two main types of floodproofing measures: Wet floodproofing is any measure applied to a structure and/or its contents that prevents or reduces damage from flooding while allowing flood waters to enter the structure. When speaking with members of the public about reducing the risk of future hazard damages: Remember that you are THE face and voice of hazard mitigation. This will prevent unnecessary contamination of food, beverage, cosmetics, and tobacco products by mold and other harmful substances within the work area. A. Gloves protect the skin from contact with mold, as well as from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. Along with mushrooms, yeasts, and mildew, molds are classified as fungi. Other moisture problems may result from roof leaks, landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under a building, or unvented combustion appliance. About 1,000 species of mold can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide. When water leaks or spills occur indoors - act promptly. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Several federal agencies also publish information about mold, including: Centers for Disease Control Environmental Protection Agency FEMA U.S. Public Health Service Molds gradually damage building materials and furnishings. Molds can cause adverse effects by producing allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions). Publications about Mold | US EPA Howard has a mold problem. However, OSHA does not control this information and cannot guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Pass the final exam. The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) developed this 3-part video series. 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. 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. 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. If the water or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, consult a professional who has experience cleaning and repairing buildings damaged by contaminated water. Dust suppression methods, such as misting (not soaking) surfaces prior to remediation, are recommended. Remediation can be conducted by the regular building maintenance staff. The three types of adverse health effects in humans caused bymold are allergy, infection, and toxin-mediated conditions (12).Further discussion of these health effects is provided in Appendix Aof this document. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to wear appropriate PPE while performing this task. Topics in this lesson include: At the end of this lesson you will be able to: There are two reasons why Hazard Mitigation staff talk to the public about the National Flood Insurance Program: First, the NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in communities that participate in the NFIP. Have building materials been wet more than 48 hours? This completes this lesson. EPA-402-K-02-003, September 2012 (reprinted). Mold Cleanup. Coastal flooding occurs when intense offshore storm systems push ocean water inland above the normal tide level. before taking further action. You should revisit the site(s) after remediation, and it should show no signs of moldy or musty odors, water damage, or mold growth. If you are using a mild detergent or plain water, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. 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. Second, each community participating in the program has adopted a floodplain management ordinance, which reflects the flood risk information provided in the FEMA flood maps. This insurance is designed to help those affected by floods accelerate recovery, mitigate future flood losses, and reduce the personal and national costs of flooding. Business owners who are concerned about the cost of professional help can contact the OSHA Consultation Project Office in their state for free consultation service. Below are FEMA mitigation publications relevant to this hazard. Note: If the Next button is dimmed, you must complete an activity before you can proceed in the lesson. Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in a sealed impermeable plastic bag. National Flood Insurance Program Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) Coverage: How You Can Benefit provides brief information on ICC Coverage. 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. Mold is a public health hazard, and the decision on the type of advice to provide to individuals with damaged homes is the responsibility of the State Health Department. This lesson describes mitigation options and the circumstances under which each is used. Mold | US EPA If any individual has health concerns, doubts, or questions before beginning a remediation/cleanup project, he or she should consult a health professional. In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area, as a background level of mold spores comparable to the level in outside air will persist. Removing mold and mold conditions does not protect a building from mold in future hazard events. Mold can generally be removed from nonporous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent. Respirators used to provide protection from mold and mold spores must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Managing a Mold Infestation: Guidelines for Disaster Response Floods are one of the most commonly occurring natural hazards in the United States. The American Industrial Hygiene Association offers accreditation to microbial laboratories (Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP)). business. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program FEMA has one post-disaster mitigation grant program to assist communities in reducing long-term hazard risk. For more detailed information, consult a health professional or your state or local health department. 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. Occupational and environmental health and safety information. 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. It also regulates the repair and rebuilding of structures in the floodplain that are substantially damaged or substantially improved.. Respirators protect cleanup workers from inhaling airborne mold, contaminated dust, and other particulates that are released during the remediation process. Molds typically consist of a network of threadlike filaments that infiltrate the surface on which the mold is growing. What happens once a loss claim has been reported, Explain the risk and the mitigation actions clearly and at a level of detail appropriate to the listener, Refer to publications/websites that reinforce or provide additional information about rebuilding or repairing to reduce future risk of damages, Communicating basic information to the public about flood-related mold issues, FEMA publications to promote flood mitigation, FEMA-approved online resources available for flood mitigation, Appropriate actions to take when advising the public. Such persons should receive training on proper clean-up methods, personal protection, and potential health hazards. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)indicate these anticipated levels, called Base Flood Elevations (BFE). To reduce the moisture level in the air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid). It serves as the national focus for developing and applying disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion and education activities. The work area and surrounding areas should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent solution. This Safety and Health Information Bulletin is not a standard or regulation, and it creates no new legal obligations. While conducting building inspections and remediation work, individuals may encounter hazardous biological agents as well as chemical and physical hazards. Follow all local building codes. Conversely, negative results may persuade investigators to abandon this hypothesis and to consider other sources of mold growth or dissemination. Use the arrow keys to select answers for multiple-choice review questions or self-assessment checklists. To help with these costs, the NFIP includes Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage for all eligible properties insured under the Standard Flood Insurance Policy. Musty or earthy odors may indicate mold. Mold Molds are simple, microscopic organisms that can grow virtually anywhere, both in homes and outdoors. For areas greater than100 ft.2, ensure that protective clothing coversentire body including head and feet. Floodplain management ordinances require that when a structure in the floodplain has Substantial Damage or undergoes Substantial Improvement, the owner must bring the structure into compliance with the most current standards when repairing or rebuilding. People who are sensitive to mold may experience stuffy nose, irritated eyes, wheezing, or skin irritation. Press Enter to select a navigation button or hyperlink. JAWS assistive technology users can press the 'Ctrl" key to quiet the screen reader while the course audio plays. An official website of the United States government. PDF Industrial Hygiene Public Health Army Mold Remediation Guidance Always consider consulting a health professional to address any employee health concerns. Devastating floods occur throughout the United States every year. They also can be used to monitor the progress of drying 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. Testing for mold is expensive, and there should be a clear reason for doing so. The following procedures may be implemented depending upon the severity of the contamination: Note: If abatement procedures are expected to generate a lot of dust (e.g., abrasive cleaning of contaminated surfaces, demolition of plaster walls) or the visible concentration of the mold is heavy (blanket coverage as opposed to patchy), it is recommended that the remediation procedures for Level IV be followed. These services are not routinely available from commercial laboratories. Even if they are inundated for only short periods, electrical system components usually have to be replaced. It also should include steps to carefully contain and remove moldy building materials in a manner that will prevent further contamination. Mold grows where there is sufficient moisture. If you know you have a mold problem, it is more important to spend time and resources removing the mold and solving the moisture problem that causes the moldy conditions than to undertake extensive testing for the type and quantity of mold. C. The State Health Department . Molds can grow on virtually any substance, as long as moisture or water, oxygen, and an organic source are present. An example of a dry floodproofing measure is to apply a waterproof veneer, such as a layer of brick backed by a waterproof membrane, directly to the outside surface of an existing structure. Biocides are toxic to animals and humans, as well as to mold. All areas should be left dry and visibly free from contamination and debris. This pamphlet briefly describes the benefits of ICC, how much coverage is available, the four options covered, when to file an ICC claim, and how the ICC payment is handled. Mold removal should be complete. Identify and correct moisture problems. Protective clothing (e.g., disposable coveralls)to prevent contamination and skin contact withmold and chemicals. In this lesson you learned about the mitigation methods for flooding that included: Lesson 5: Official Information and Resources. Repairing plumbing leaks and leaks in the building structure as soon as possible. Their website is located at www.nahb.org. Maintaining indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible). Simply scan the QR codes to access the resources. Available in both English and Spanish languages. Disposable PPE should be discarded after it is used. In conducting the mold remediation, every effort should be made to keep dust and mold out of the air. Care must be taken to assure that the filter is properly seated in the vacuum so that all the air passes through the filter. Several federal agencies also publish information about mold: Hazard Mitigation staff distribute ONLY the mold publication provided by the Hazard Mitigation Community Education and Outreach Group (CEO). Discard mold damaged materials in plastic bags. IBHS hosts the www.DisasterSafety.org website. Extensive courses given in IAQ. Technical information on topics such as air conditioning and air ducts. Ventilation ductwork also can be protected from flooding by locating it above the base flood level. In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? The advice of a medical professional should always be sought if there are any emerging health issues. Hazard Mitigation (HM) staff should only distribute mold publications provided by HM . River and stream flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash flooding in minutes. Level II: Mid-Sized Isolated Areas (10 - 30 sq. If you or . What mold publications should Hazard Mitigation staff distribute? A Please refer to the discussion of the different levels of remediation to ascertain the type of respiratory protection recommended. HEPA vacuums also are recommended for cleanup of dust that may have settled on surfaces outside the remediation area. 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.
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