MRS Mold Identification and Assessment 3

Question 1

Which condition best describes the relative humidity level above which most indoor molds begin to grow?

Accepted Answer

Above 60%

Answer

Most indoor mold species begin to colonize surfaces when sustained relative humidity exceeds 60%, with growth accelerating above 70%.

Question 2

What is the significance of finding Chaetomium species during a mold assessment?

Accepted Answer

It is a strong indicator of past or ongoing chronic water damage

Answer

Chaetomium thrives on wet cellulose and is rarely found outdoors in significant quantities, making its indoor presence a reliable indicator of water damage.

Question 3

During visual inspection, what does 'efflorescence' on a concrete wall indicate regarding mold risk?

Accepted Answer

Water is migrating through the concrete, creating moisture conditions favorable to mold

Answer

Efflorescence is salt deposits left behind as water moves through concrete, indicating moisture intrusion that can support mold growth on adjacent organic materials.

Question 4

What type of sampling should a mold assessor collect when mold is suspected inside a wall cavity without opening the wall?

Accepted Answer

Air sample from a small drilled hole into the cavity

Answer

Drilling a small hole and drawing air from within the cavity allows spore trap sampling to detect mold without destructive opening of the wall.

Question 5

Which document provides widely referenced federal guidance on mold investigation and remediation in homes and buildings?

Accepted Answer

EPA Publication 402-K-02-003 'Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings'

Answer

The EPA publication 'Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings' is the primary federal guidance document for mold investigation and remediation practices.

(MRS) Mold Remediation Specialist Practice Test

(MRS) Mold Remediation Specialist Practice Test

MRS Mold Identification and Assessment 3