The Secret of Mold Analysis - Magnification Makes the Difference

The analysis of air and surface samples is a critical part of any mold investigation or remediation project. Nevertheless, many practitioners do not realize that analysis of spore trap samples currently is more of an art than a science. The scientific procedures of the analysis process are not very rigid, even for the most basic aspects of the work. With little strict guidance in the industry, the variation in sample results makes it seem as if each lab is offering its own perspective on the data. Much like multiple artists painting the same sunset, the results can be pretty startling when viewed side by side.

To accurately identify spores using light microscopy (i.e., using a regular microscope like those used in school biology classes), the analyst must consider size, shape, texture, septation, attachment scars and color of the objects seen through the lens. With all these characteristics to observe and interpret, it takes time to evaluate some spores, especially smaller types. During the analytical process, the microscopist needs to focus up and down on a particular field of view on the slide and use higher magnification to determine some of these characteristics.

While large fungal spore types are relatively easy to identify and count, small spore types are very difficult and time-consuming to quantify, particularly when there are heavy concentrations on the slide. Misidentification of small spores can occur if all six characteristics are not taken into consideration, leading to erroneous conclusions. For example, smaller round types of Cladosporium, ascospores and basidiospores can be misidentified as Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores (or vice versa) if an analyst fails to carefully observe distinguishing characteristics due to time constraints or the use of too low a magnification.

Click here to read the complete article, originally printed in the Cleaning & Restoration magazine, published January 2013


  

The issue comes up during instruction quite frequently. In mold classes, water restoration seminars, fire cleanup presentations, and forensic restoration training; it is variations of the same thought. What takes precedence in our business when we run into materials that may be regulated under various health and safety standards? Of course, the standard answer from many instructors is that all restoration work must cease when there is a question about the presence of regulated materials. But, is that really the case? What if such a  response puts workers or occupants at even greater risk than that posed by the regulated hazards? What truly takes precedence? Read more here: http://bit.ly/2hZValP

Mold Basics - Three Critical Components to Remediation

Please enjoy this helpful PDF from our Information Series:

"Mold Basics: Understanding the Three Critical Components of Every  Fungal Remediation Project". http://bit.ly/2iRPDxI

Superbugs - Part 2

An Emerging Superbug: Candida Auris

Healthcare facilities in several countries have reported that a type of yeast called Candida auris has been causing severe illness in hospitalized patients. In some patients, this yeast can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, causing serious invasive infections. This yeast often does not respond to commonly used antifungal drugs, making infections difficult to treat. Patients who have been hospitalized in a healthcare facility a long time, have a central venous catheter, or other lines or tubes entering their body, or have previously received antibiotics or antifungal medications, appear to be at highest risk of infection with this yeast. (From cdc.gov)
More information: http://bit.ly/2jjBBZt.

CDC's September update: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/c-auris-alert-09-17.html

Why Restoration Professionals Should Avoid Using Bleach

This information is still timely, even after 12 years!

There are many situations in which restoration professionals may think that use of bleach as a cleaner/sanitizer is effective. Indeed, there are certain restoration projects, such as sewage backflows, floods, and even mold remediation, where individuals have been taught to use bleach as part of their restoration protocol. This history is supported by continuing references in publications put out by numerous organizations including the EPA, American Red Cross, Salvation Army and others. The use of bleach as a “disinfectant” seemed to reach new heights over the past few months as semi-truckloads of the chemical were donated for disaster relief efforts in the Gulf states following hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Click here to read more of this article.