DOHMH guidelines on fungi assessment and remediation, Apr 2000

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

interior lined ducts and filters, should be removed. Other contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed in sealed plastic bags. When a decontamination chamber is present, the outside ofthe bags should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a detergent solution or HEPA vacuumed prior to their transport to uncontaminated areas of the building. There are no special requirements for the disposal of moldy materials. (e) The contained area and decontamination room should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth and/or mop and a detergent solution prior to the removal of isolation barriers. (f) All areas should be left diy and visibly free from contamination and debris. (g) Air monitoring should be conducted prior to re-occupancy with the HVAC system in operation to determine if the area(s) saved by the sj^tem are fit to reoccupy.

(h) A variety of biocides are recommended by HVAC manufacturer for use with HVAC components, such as, cooling coils and condensation pans. HVAC manufacturers should be consulted for the products they recommend for use in their systems.

4. Hazard Communication When fungal growth requiring large-scale remediation is found, the building owner, management, and/or employer should notify occupants in the affected area(s) ofits presence. Notification should include a description of the remedial measures to be taken and a timetable for completion. Group meetings held before and after remediation with full disclosure of plans and results can be an effective communication mechanism. Individuals with persistent health problems that appear to be related to bioaerosol exposure should see their physicians for a referral to practitioners who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties and are knowledgeable about these types of exposures. Individuals seeking medical attention should be provided with a copy ofall inspection results and interpretation to give to their medical practitioners.

Conclusion InsKiTuTlaiy, the prompt remediation of contaminated material and infrastructure repair must be the primary response to fungal contamination in buildings. The simplest and most expedient remediation that properly and safely removes fungal growth from buildings should be used. In all situations, the underlying cause ofwater accumulation must be rectified or die fungal growth will recur. Emphasis should be placed mi preventing cc ination through proper building maintenance and prompt repair of water damaged areas. Widespread contamination poses much larger problems that must be addressed on a case-by-case basis in consultation with a health and safety specialist Effective cc ication with building occupants is an essential cc onent of all remedial efforts. Individuals with persistent health problems should see their physicians for a referral to practitioners who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties and are knowledgeable about these types of exposures.

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