Mold Testing and Sampling
What this domain tests
Mold Testing and Sampling tests whether you can choose, collect, and interpret samples without overstating what they prove. Sampling is optional and supports a visual inspection; it does not replace it. The exam expects you to connect sampling method, chain of custody, laboratory data, and clear reporting.
Core rules
- Air sampling: use a calibrated pump and spore trap or culture method according to the manufacturer and laboratory instructions. Record flow rate, duration, total volume, location, weather, HVAC operation, and door/window status. Collect an outdoor control when required by the sampling plan or laboratory.
- Surface sampling: use a tape lift or swab for visible growth; use bulk sampling for damaged material. A surface sample confirms fungal growth at that spot, not airborne exposure.
- Chain of custody: label each sample uniquely, record time and location, maintain custody records, and use an accredited laboratory.
- Interpret results in context: compare indoor and outdoor samples, consider genera, spore types, and detection limits. A spore count alone is not a health diagnosis.
Worked example
A client sees green-black growth on a bedroom wall under a window. You collect a tape lift from the visible growth and, because the client requests air data, run an indoor spore trap in the room and an outdoor control at the same time. The laboratory reports Cladosporium and Penicillium/Aspergillus-type spores indoors and outdoors. Reasoning: the surface sample supports the visual finding; the air data show a mixture but do not prove the wall is the source or that occupants are at risk. You report the results with the outdoor comparison, note the limitation, and recommend moisture correction.
Traps
Calling a high total count "toxic"; sampling without a control; comparing samples taken on different days or HVAC conditions; treating non-viable spore traps as viability tests; and using one sample as a clearance test.