Knowing The Professional Mold Remediation Standards

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

In 2008, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification released its first book on professional mold remediation standards, officially known as the BSR-IICRC S520. The 56-page guide for technicians who face the challenges of correcting fungus contamination as part of their job is currently under revision and an updated version is expected to be released later this year.

The IICRC S520 followed on the heels of the Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration S500. First published in 1994, the S500 details procedures for the restoration of structures, systems and contents damaged by water. Although the IICRC S500 also recognized the problem of mold contamination resulting from water damage, the guide does not discuss fungal infestation in depth. Consequently, the IICRC realized there was a need to develop a reference guide designed to accompany remediators in the field, and the idea of the IICRC S520 was born.

After three years of gathering the input and applicable knowledge of industry professionals, health experts and trade associations (among the many voices that contributed to the project), the Standard for Professional Mold Remediation S520 was ready for publication. The IICRC S520 in its original form remains accurate in content, IICRC officials say, but constant advancements in technology and new research discoveries make the S520 a living project subject to ongoing changes.

Some of the topics covered in the IICRC guide to professional mold remediation standards include principles of mold remediation; equipment, tools and materials required for the job; building and material science; safety and health; administrative procedures, documentation and risk management, and limitations, complexities, complications and conflicts.

A draft of the S520 is currently open for informal peer review and comments and can be accessed through the IICRC website.

Source: IICRC.org