Types Mold Sampling

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Types of samples include air, surface, bulk, and swab. Air is the most common form of sampling to assess mold levels. Indoor and outdoor air are sampled, and their mold-spore levels compared.

Air sampling often identifies hidden mold. Surface sampling measures the number of mold spores deposited on indoor surfaces, collected on tape or in dust.

Bulk removal of material from the contaminated area is used to identify and quantify the mold in the sample. With swab, a cotton swab is rubbed across the area being sampled, often a measured area, and subsequently sent to the mold testing laboratory. Final results indicate mold levels and species located in suspect area.

Multiple types of sampling are recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), since each has limitations; for example, air samples will not identify a hidden mold source and a tape sample cannot determine the level of contamination in the air. If you need to take air samples of a structure that may have mold, SERVPRO of Bend recommends calling a certified Industrial Hygienist before performing any work on the dwelling.

If you have any questions, you can talk to one of our AMRT certified technicians at 541-385-7044.