Finding an IEP you trust with your health or your most precious investment, your home and family’s health, can be hard. A lot of friendly remediation companies will gladly take your business when they know that you have mold or water damage, but the truth is, many professionals in the industry are not removing all the mold completely.
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In fact, mold remediation by the definition in the scope of work does not include removal of mold fragments or dead mold spores.
For some with chronic respiratory issues, mold particles, and dead mold might need to also go for you to get well. In fact, those with Chronic Inflammatory Respiratory Syndrome (CIRS) or CIRS related to a Water Damaged Building (CIRS-WDB) only medically approved remediation protocols can be used. Also in Medically Sound Remediation, all mold particles and dead mold must be removed; and even further, no additional foreign chemicals are allowed to be used in the process.
Resources for Surviving Mold and Effective Mold Remediation
Given this new knowledge about the process, you might want to consider searching for professionals by their certifications, background, and relevant knowledge. Also, reading to understand the ultrafine particle (UFP) remediation and toxic mold exposure impacts on health.
In addition, look at the nationally and internationally renowned institutions that are working to formulate protocols and work with the most innovative medical standards on mold remediation. For example, the ISEAI website has a resource page including PDFs, links, and resources from their blogs like “Clean Indoor Air on a Budget” and even “Finding the Right IEP To Assess Your Home”.
Another great resource is the Surviving Mold, a platform built up by various medical professionals, IEP’s, and professional remediators working at the cutting edge for small particle removal. This website has many resources, including resources for medical professionals and industry professionals also. You may want to start by reading the Mold Consensus Statement created by the Surviving Mold panel of experts.
“For patients with CIRS, current methods of WDB investigation and remediation are often not sufficient to prevent relapse of symptoms with re-exposure. CIRS-WDB is a growing public health hazard best addressed by a team of experts in medicine with specialized training in CIRS-WDB, indoor air quality, remediation, and construction working together to develop a collaborative plan that ensures ongoing safe habitation. Assessments of human health effects before and after remediation are mandatory to ensure adequacy of remediation efforts.” –Medical Consensus Statement
Armed with some knowledge on the topic, now you can fully digest the nature of the IEP involved in the process, and that you can ask them the right questions to feel confident in their work. Now, how do you select or find an IEP? First, let’s discuss the scope of the IEP and what they do in full.
What is an IEP?
An Indoor Environmental Professional is a general term for professionals working in the indoor environmental assessment process. Their role is to work as an advocate for homeowners, taking down history of the home, being empathetic to the families health and concerns of their property. The IEP works to fully investigate and assess your indoor air quality issues, using many different techniques and types of testing.
IEP’s work alone, this is not because they are not professional, but because they are independent of testing labs, remediators, and medical providers. This separation from others in the industry is designed to maintain integrity. An IEP typically acts as an advocate for homeowners, making this role seem natural, much like how an attorney appears solely on their client’s side. Think of IEP’s as investigators hired by homeowners or business owners to make sure work that is hazardous to you, is done correctly even in your absence.
What Certifications Should an IEP have?
Each IEP may be at different stages of expertise, or also have different niche focus, but also, they will have a different history of work and various experiences that helped them to develop their skills. While there are many agencies that promote certifications, according to the International Society of Environmental Acquired Illnesses (ISEAI):
“…Only a few (certifying agencies) are recognized for their high standards, integrity, continuing education requirements and support for their members. Among these are ACAC, NORMI, AIHA, CIH, and CSP. It is essential that an environmental assessment is performed by a knowledgeable, credentialed IEP who has experience working with clients suffering from an Environmentally Acquired Illness (EAI) in order to create a maximally effective solution. In addition, please keep in mind that there are a handful of US states that require licensing in the mold industry, and they require separate licenses for mold assessors and mold remediation companies, to avoid conflicts of interest. By law, the licenses must be current with continuous education and insurance coverage.” -ISEAI
How do I look for a Qualified IEP in San Diego County?
When selecting an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) in San Diego County, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment. First, look for an IEP with extensive knowledge and experience in building science, HVAC systems, and moisture control. Be sure to ask them questions about their experiences and their skills.
An IEP should be able to evaluate the building envelope, air pathways, and moisture transfer, as well as identify issues with HVAC systems such as non-visible mold growth, poor drainage, and improperly sealed ducting. Additionally, their having an understanding of ventilation and air pressurization concepts is beneficial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Some IEPs may also offer specialized services such as Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF) evaluations, radon testing, and lead/asbestos inspections. It is important to inquire about their training and certifications in these areas before you have concerns, but know that IEPs can still get others to do specific tests. Also, it is important to know that an IEP will probably not get specific certifications if they are confident with specific testing labs or services.
An experienced IEP should be capable of detecting both obvious and hidden moisture sources, identifying past water intrusion events, and recognizing potential building defects. Their investigation should include a detailed history of the property, a thorough visual assessment, real-time measurements, and appropriate sampling. They should provide a comprehensive written report with findings, interpretations, and specific recommendations.
Post Remediation Verification (PRV Test)
Following the remediation process, post-remediation verification (PRV) testing is conducted to ensure that the remediation was effective and that the indoor environment is now safe and free from contaminants. If the remediation was not done properly, the PRV test will fail, necessitating further investigation and potentially additional remediation efforts. This process may involve revising the remediation plan and redoing the work until the environment passes the PRV test.
To ensure a successful remediation process, it is crucial to hire a team with a strong track record of passing PRV tests on the first attempt. When selecting a remediation company, inquire about their history with PRV tests. Companies with frequent failures may require more time and resources, leading to increased costs and inconvenience.
Seeking Support for Your Mold Remediation Project?
A well-trained and passionate remediation team is essential for helping families recover their homes from mold exposure. If you suspect mold exposure is affecting your health, it’s important to get in touch with local mold testing companies and Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) to initiate the remediation process.
Choosing a team that specializes in mold remediation, water damage remediation, and full restoration from mold, flood, or fire damage can ensure the best results for your home. Be sure to review the services offered by potential remediation companies, including remodeling, reconstruction, and emergency services, to find the best fit for your needs.
IEPs and Small Particle Remediation
The importance of small particle remediation cannot be overstated, particularly for individuals suffering from Chronic Inflammatory Respiratory Syndrome (CIRS) or other respiratory conditions linked to Water Damaged Buildings (WDB). In these cases, traditional mold remediation methods may not suffice, as they often fail to remove all mold fragments and spores, which can continue to pose a health risk. Medically sound remediation practices, which ensure the complete removal of these particles without introducing harmful chemicals, are essential for creating a safe living environment. Therefore, when selecting an IEP in San Diego County, it’s vital to find someone who is not only certified in these advanced remediation techniques but also experienced in working with clients who have environmentally acquired illnesses.
IEPs Ensure Health and Safety of your Home
In conclusion, finding the right Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) in San Diego County is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of your home environment, especially when dealing with complex issues like mold and small particle remediation. As you search for an IEP, prioritize professionals who not only possess the necessary certifications but also have a deep understanding of the specific challenges that can arise in indoor environments. These professionals are more than just service providers—they are your advocates in maintaining a healthy home, armed with the expertise to identify and address potential hazards that could impact your well-being.
An IEP’s role extends beyond simple assessments; they serve as the cornerstone of a comprehensive approach to indoor environmental health. Their ability to evaluate the entire building envelope, air pathways, and moisture transfer mechanisms, coupled with their knowledge of HVAC systems, makes them indispensable in the fight against indoor pollutants. By thoroughly investigating potential sources of contamination and providing detailed reports, an IEP can help homeowners implement effective strategies for long-term health and safety.
Moreover, the process of finding a qualified IEP should involve careful consideration of their credentials and experience. Look for professionals who are recognized by reputable certifying bodies such as the ACAC, NORMI, AIHA, CIH, or CSP. These certifications indicate that the IEP has met rigorous standards and is committed to ongoing education in their field. In a region like San Diego County, where environmental conditions can vary widely, having an IEP with a solid understanding of local building practices and climate-related challenges is particularly beneficial.
In addition to their technical expertise, a good IEP should be someone who communicates clearly and works collaboratively with you throughout the process. They should be willing to answer your questions, explain their findings, and provide actionable recommendations that are tailored to your specific situation. This level of transparency and collaboration is essential for building trust and ensuring that you feel confident in the decisions being made to protect your home and health.
As you navigate the process of selecting an IEP, remember that the goal is not just to address immediate concerns but to create a long-term solution that promotes a healthy indoor environment. By choosing a skilled and knowledgeable IEP, you are taking a proactive step toward safeguarding your family’s well-being and preserving the integrity of your home. Whether you are dealing with mold, moisture, or other indoor environmental issues, the right IEP can make all the difference in achieving a safe and healthy living space.
Ultimately, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is in good hands is invaluable. By investing the time to find a qualified IEP in San Diego County, you are ensuring that every aspect of your indoor environment is thoroughly assessed and that any remediation efforts are carried out to the highest standards.