Department of Health and Human Services

Health Precautions
During Mold Cleanup and Removal

When approaching a mold removal and cleaning project, one of the most important considerations is the potential risk from mold exposure (see Health Effects of Indoor Mold). Mold counts in the air can be 10 to 1,000 times higher than normal during a removal or cleaning project. Because of the potential health risks from mold exposure it is advisable, particularly for larger (greater than 30 square feet) contamination situations, to contact a mold remediation contractor (see Hiring a Mold Consultant or Contractor). Individuals who have allergies, asthma or respiratory disease; are immunosuppressed; or have other health problems should not take part in a during mold removal/cleaning project or be in the general area of the project.

To minimize exposure and/or potential health risks from conducting a mold remediation project, take the following precautions:

• Wear respiratory (nose and mouth) protection when handling or cleaning moldy materials. The minimal type of breathing mask, or respirator, that should be used for protection from mold particles is an "N-95" particulate respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
• Wear protective clothing that can be laundered or discarded after the project.
• Wear gloves and eye protection.
• Follow the recommended mold cleaning and removal steps to minimize dust dispersal (see Moldy Non-porous and Semi-porous Materials and Moldy Porous Materials).

Additional details and steps for addressing various types and sizes of mold remediation projects can be found at the New York City Department of Health's website under Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments.

Related Pages

• Mold Home Page
• Health Effects of Indoor Mold
• Where Does Mold Grow?
• Conditions that Promote Mold Growth
• Cleanup and Removal of Mold
• Hiring a Mold Consultant or Contractor
• After the Flood: Getting back into your home safely
• Related Websites