Level 1

Level one is designated for smaller areas of contamination of only 10 square feet.  This means you might find mold on a ceiling tile, a corner of a room, or a spot on a wall.  Generally you don’t have to call a professional for this level of mold contamination. The typical cleaning staff of most businesses should be trained in proper clean up procedures as well as what to look for as potential hazards.

While taking care of the problem, there should not be anyone but those with adequate protection to clean up the mold.  Any non-essential personnel should be relocated until cleaning is completed.  Any contaminated items that need to be removed should first be sealed up so as not to spread mold spores through the building.

Level 2

When the area affected is between 10 and 30 square feet and is an isolated occurrence, it falls under the category of a level two contamination.  This extends the space affected and requires more care.  Dust suppression is recommended to be used prior to treatment of the affected area.  In regards to cleaning protocols, it is similar to those in level one contamination’s.

Level 3

Dealing with isolated areas of 30 to 100 square feet is when professionals should at least be consulted.  Environmental health professionals would be able to provide insight into needs to be done for the specific incident.

With this level of contamination it is important to limit the mold’s spread to other potential surfaces to grow on.  Before clean up, be sure all ventilation surrounding the affected area is sealed and the nearby areas are properly covered with plastic sheeting.  Make sure the area is vacuumed, mopped, cleaned, and left dry.

Level 4

Once the mold contamination has reached level four it is time to have personnel who are fully trained in the handling of hazardous materials.  Once the area of contamination extends past 100 square feet it is deemed necessary for level 4 protection which is the highest level.

A level 4 designation requires those personnel handling the cleanup to be full covered in protective clothing, which includes your head, hands, and feet.  Full face respirators with HEPA would also be needed in order to maintain safety.  Before cleanup takes place, isolate the affected area with plastic sheeting.  This includes taping off air ducts, fixtures, outlets, and any other openings you come across.

Once the area is sufficiently cleaned, look it over and be sure that all surfaces are visibly clean and dry before removing the plastic and any protective clothing.