Texas Mold Assessment Consultant Practice Exam

What is the recommended cleanup method for books and papers with mold growth?

1. Throw them away

2. Wet clean them

3. Thoroughly dry then HEPA vacuum

4. Use a bleach solution

The correct answer is: Thoroughly dry then HEPA vacuum

The recommended cleanup method for books and papers with mold growth involves thoroughly drying them and then using a HEPA vacuum. This approach is effective because it minimizes the spread of mold spores during the cleanup process. First, allowing the affected items to dry is critical as moisture promotes mold growth, so removing that moisture is a key step in preventing further damage. Once the items are dry, using a HEPA vacuum is essential because it can effectively capture the fine mold spores without releasing them back into the air, reducing the potential for cross-contamination and exposure. Contrary to other methods, throwing away the items does not allow for salvage of potentially valuable materials, especially if the cleanup is handled properly. Wet cleaning might contribute to further mold growth if the materials do not dry adequately afterward. The use of bleach is problematic too; while it may kill surface mold, it does not penetrate porous materials like paper and books effectively, and it can actually worsen mold problems by promoting additional growth in some cases. Thus, the chosen method ensures both safety and efficacy in dealing with mold on books and papers.