Mold Contamination Levels

A mold infestation sounds like a horrific experience, but not every such situation requires the heavy-duty mold removal hardware and a group of professionals in hazard suits.  The mold eradication industry has developed a rating system of levels to determine the gravity of the mold contamination in a particular area.  In order of increasing mold intensity and toxic level, there are four mold contamination levels, with a fifth level specifically for mold found in ventilation and air conditioning.  They are, as follows:

Level I is the smallest scale of infestation, measuring 10 square feet or less in area.  This level of mold is typically found on baseboards or ceiling tiles.  It can be cleaned without having to resort to an experienced mold cleaning service, unless you suffer from allergies, asthma or immune disorders, that would make you susceptible to opportunistic infection.  You should wear protective eyewear, gloves and a disposable respirator, and vacate anyone who may be at risk for a toxic mold reaction from the premises.  Store-bought mold cleaner should be sufficient, but if certain materials cannot be cleaned, remove them from the location in a sealed plastic bag.  Once you are done wiping out the mold, clean the area with a damp cloth or mop, and then allow all treated areas to dry.  Make sure the mold has been completely removed, so another infestation does not occur.

Level II comprises mold infestation of between 10 to 30 square feet.  The same measures taken as with Level I contamination will work, but one must be extra careful to remove the infested material from the area in sealed plastic.  In addition, it is recommended that one use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum to siphon up all of the mold particles that may remain after cleaning.

Level III mold infestation covers an area of between 30 to 100 square feet, and can still be removed without professional assistance.  However, due to the significant increase in the size of the area to be treated, it is recommended that one use plastic sheeting to seal all ventilation ducts or grills not only in the contaminated location, but also in adjacent areas.  Also, everyone who is not taking part in the remediation efforts should vacate the work area itself, and from the adjacent areas as well if they are exceptionally vulnerable to mold.

Level IV infestation is the worst level, stretching out in an area greater than 100 square feet.  Calling in an expert mold remediator would definitely be a good idea if the contamination spreads that far.  Everyone working on the mold should be trained in the handling and disposal of hazardous materials and equipped to handle such potentially high toxicity levels.  Protective gear, which includes full-face respirators, HEPA cartridges, and covering suits that cover both your head and your shoes, should be worn as well. 

Level V contamination should be left to professional remediators, given the relative difficulty of cleaning out ventilation shafts and the dangers of airborne mold particles spreading if the mold infestation is not properly contained. 

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