Contaminate and clearance issues Bacteria, mould spores, virus are normally present and humans have developed immunity to these life forms when occurring in normally found levels. During flood events the water recognised as black water, will contain elevated levels of all contaminates as it passes over soil, through sewers and drains Damp or wet buildings act as giant grow bags and the environmental conditions are usually conducive the bio amplification.
The restoration process increases growth factors and air movement can cause the spread of contaminates throughout the property.
Contractors will often apply what they call sanitising agents and this may or may not kill organisms. Unfortunately dead organisms are now seen as more allergenic or toxic than live or viable organisms.
Live organisms can release microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) and these can be a health hazard.
Building materials and some furnishings often contain chemicals such as formaldehyde and these VOCs are also health hazards.
Where is the contamination?
The contamination can generally be described as particulates which will become airborne and settle on vertical and horizontal surfaces.Any movement such as opening doors, walking will cause re- aerosolisation and become or continue to be an inhalation hazard
What is the risk?
It is now recognised that around 20% of the wolds population are genetically prone to mould related illness,often described as atopic.
Most of the contaminates likely to be present are known allergens and some are possibly toxic.Age general health and levels of exposure are also major factors.Of course live pathogens can also cause negative health impact through infection etc.
Clearance
The limitations of any restoration protocol must be recognised and this applies to investigation protocols too.
Clearance will revolve around:
Visual cleanliness Surface sampling for contaminates Air sampling for contaminates Live and viable contaminates Non viable and dead or dormant contaminates Levels and species or types of contaminates VOCs Particulate counts and sizes Building Forensics provide all necessary measurement and lab analysis
