Building Pathology — Toxic Mould Remediation

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide examples of strategies and procedures for remediation of buildings affected by toxic moulds. Four case studies are included in the paper. Moisture and inadequate ventilation are the keys to proliferation of toxic moulds and dispersion of spores in air. Prevention should always be the main objectives for any environmental management plan or service maintenance of a building. The management and remediation plan should include an adequate control of moisture, damp and ventilation in the building. The most effective strategy for remediating mould problems is by source control, preventing or limiting the generation of moulds, and the other is to remove the sources. There should be a detailed study to identify the sources of mould problems. The remediation could involve mothballing of a building to rectify defects including leaks and removal of damp materials; venting of underfloor or wall cavities and to improve the general airflow in the building. Remediation may involve vacuuming to remove spores in air and mould from surfaces. Other techniques include heat treatment, steam cleaning, biocides treatment, fumigation and UV treatment.