Mold testing standards and procedures (with Eric Larsen)

Structure Talk

In this today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa are joined by Eric Larsen to discuss mold testing and inspection. They cover topics such as national standards and credentials for mold inspection, the importance of certifications, the different types of mold tests, and the limitations of mold testing. They also touch on the value of air sampling, surface sampling, viable spore sampling, and ATP testing. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the various methods and considerations involved in mold testing and inspection. In this conversation, Eric and Tessa discuss the interpretation of mold test results. They highlight that not all mold inspectors interpret the results, it is recommended to look at reference samples and consider the conditions in the room to determine if it is related to indoor mold. They also discuss the lack of federal or state guidelines for elevated mold levels and the variation in what is considered elevated based on individual circumstances. The most concerning types of mold mentioned are Stachybotrys, Ketotium, and the Aspergillus Penicillium grouping. Eric shares some interesting mold investigation stories, and they emphasize the importance of finding a qualified professional to diagnose and resolve mold issues.
Takeaways
Mold testing and inspection do not have national standards or required credentials, but certifications can provide credibility and expertise.
Air sampling is a common and reliable method to determine mold exposure and can be used to compare indoor and outdoor air quality.
Surface sampling can provide additional information about the types of mold present and can be useful for targeted remediation.
Viable spore sampling and ATP testing are less common methods that offer a more detailed analysis of mold species and instant results, respectively.
Mold testing has limitations, and it is important to consider other signs and indicators of mold issues when interpreting test results. Not all mold inspectors interpret the results of mold tests, but it is recommended to consider reference samples and the conditions in the room to determine if it is related to indoor mold.
There are no federal or state guidelines for elevated mold levels, and what is considered elevated can vary based on individual circumstances.
The most concerning types of mold are Stachybotrys, Ketotium, and the Aspergillus
Penicillium grouping.
It is important to find a qualified professional to diagnose and resolve mold issues, and to be aware of potential conflicts of interest in the industry.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:15 National Standards and Certifications
08:13 The Importance of Certifications
11:01 Quality and Variability in Mold Testing
14:26 The Role of Lab Technicians
22:30 Costs and Profit Margins in Mold Testing
26:34 Surface Sampling and Interpretation
30:37 Viable Spore Sampling and ATP Testing
31:05 Interpreting Mold Test Results
39:01 Understanding Elevated Mold Levels
44:49 The Most Concerning Types of Mold
48:20 Interesting Mold Investigation Stories
53:38 Finding a Qualified Professional for Mold Issues