 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Microbial Services We are constantly exposed to thousands of different types of fungi in our everyday lives. Certain types of fungi tend to exist naturally in soils, plants, fruits, and textiles in our environment. Exposure to these fungi in naturally occurring doses is generally not harmful to our health. Exposure to these fungi at levels which exceed those naturally existing in the environment may be harmful. JRM is an environmental consulting firm specializing in microbial investigations, project design, and remediation strategies. We specialize in assisting our clients in evaluating the cause and extent of loss in complex situations. Complex projects may include situations which involve several potential causative events, require creative remediation design, involve immune compromised individuals, and/or may involve multiple environmental issues. JRM approach to the microbial issue is focused on understanding the needs and goals of our clients. Effective decisions are then developed balancing the client’s goals. Microbial Investigations While it is possible to visibly see mold on a surface or smell mold in the air, it is not possible to know if those mold spores have become airborne. Just because you are seeing or smelling the mold does not indicate the spores have become airborne. When molds become aerosolized (airborne) the issue becomes much greater because there are then potential personal injury implications as well as substantial contents cleaning recommendations which will need to be followed to remediate the structure. The only state with has enacted legislation at this time in the state of California. Senate Bill 732 requires that any person who sells residential, commercial, or industrial property and knows or has reasonable cause to believe that mold is present and exceeds limits, must provide a written disclosure to potential buyers. A visual inspection is an important first step in any microbial investigation. Unfortunately, molds thrive in environments where there is a lack of ventilation such as in wall cavities, sub floors, beneath wall and floor coverings, behind vapor barriers, and above ceiling tiles. Therefore, when microbial growth is suspected it is critical to investigate all area thoroughly for potential moisture impact. JRM performs Microbial Investigations which consists of spore trap Air-O-Cell sampling in potentially impacted or high risk areas as well as outdoor samples, which will be used as a baseline comparison. Once the information is compiled, results are documented in reports detailing building description, mold locations, as will as condition. Sample and material locations maps, correct action cost estimates, and photographs are frequently included. JRM will make recommendations as to how to best handle an mold issue based on cost, client goals, future renovation or demolition plans, if any, and the condition and location of contaminated materials. Microbial Project Design When plans call for remediation JRM will develop site the proper specifications for such remediation which will include the following:
All project design specifications will also specify designated work periods, housekeeping requirements, security issues, insurance requirements, etc. Drawings of areas to be affected may also be included. |
There
are more than one-hundred thousand identified species of fungi existing
naturally in our environment today. Species that have existed for
millions of years, are generally present throughout the world at
ambient levels, and have limited negative impact on mankind. Upon
germination, fungi become mold. Germination or reproduction of fungi
occurs when fungi, which are naturally present in building materials
(such as ceilings tiles, ceiling insulation, fireproofing, drywall,
plaster, carpet and/or pad, insulation, etc.), are exposed to moisture.
As long as the moisture is present the fungi will reproduce.
