Issue link: http://iaqnet.uberflip.com/i/637188
Final Guidelines for the Protection and Training of Workers Engaged In Maintenance and Remediation Work Associated with Mold 9 -Small isolated area of contamination of less than 10 sq. ft* -Areas of contamination greater than 10 sq. ft. * Noted as appropriate for regular building maintenance staff to perform. These mold work level categories have been widely recognized and used. OSHA's Brief Guide to Mold in the Workplace (OSHA, 2003) employs the Level I through IV categories generally as stated in the NYC Guide. Level V, HVAC systems, is not included except with a recommendation to consult NADCA or an EPA guide. Level I and II are stated as being appropriate for performance by building maintenance staff, as in the NYC Guide. EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Public Buildings (EPA, 2001), includes three levels of remediation of "mold growth caused by clean water." Small: Less than 10 sq. ft. Medium: 10-100 sq. ft. Large: Greater than 100 sq. ft. Examples of materials or furnishings affected are provided in each category. HVAC is addressed separately and refers to the related EPA guide "Should you have the air ducts in your house cleaned?" Health Canada (Health Canada, 1995) identifies three levels or categories of remediation work specific to mold contamination. Small: 0.3 sq. m. or less. Medium: 3 sq. m. Large: 10 sq. m. (or more) HVAC is not specifically addressed by the Health Canada document. (The NYC guides, 1993 edition, is referenced rather than the revised 2002 edition) Preventive maintenance is specifically addressed. The most recent Health Canada guidance (2004) is more focused on inspection than remediation. It specifically recommends quickly remediating problems and references the 2000 NYDOH guidelines. ACGIH (1999) identifies three levels (minimal, moderate, and extensive) based upon the extent of visible mold growth without a size description. Detailed HVAC system contamination is addressed. 2.2.5 Site specific information There was strong consensus that training developed from recommendations in this guidance must be tailored to meet the specific realities of the site where work is to be done. The HAZWOPER standard, for instance, requires providing additional training at the site to complement training received in the classroom. 2.2.6 Special trainee abilities There was consensus that the cleaning of mold-contaminated HVAC equipment was too specialized and required training beyond what is recommended in this document. The courses offered by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association were noted as good examples of specialized training. Additionally, the International Union of Operating Engineers proposed