If you want to become a certified mold professional, then this guide is for you.
Mold remediation professionals are needed in many industries.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a new career or just trying to do some side work on the weekends, there’s something here for everyone.
We’ll highlight what mold remediation jobs are available, and what are some of the best certifications and education for you to be successful in mold removal industry.
What is mold remediation?
Before you decide to become a mold remediation professional, lets first define what mold remediation is.
Mold remediation is the process or series of activities involved in removing and discarding items contaminated with mold that are beyond salvaging.
When materials become contaminated by mold growth, the course of action taken depends on whether the items are porous, semi-porous or non-porous, and the extent of damage caused by the moisture itself.
Mold remediation can be broken down into two parts: restoration and prevention.
The first part refers to the process of removing contaminated materials after a water loss has occurred.
Water damage might occur due to flooding or leaky pipes for example, this kind of work requires different equipment than other types so it’s important not to confuse them with one another.
This type usually requires full protective gear including an N-95 respirator mask because spores are released during removal processes which could irritate your respiratory system if inhaled by accident.
The second part is about preventing future issues through training homeowners on how to perform basic maintenance tasks such as changing air filters regularly and maintaining good moisture control in the home.
What kind of mold remediation jobs are available?
Now that we know what mold remediation is, let’s move on to the next step.
There are many different types of mold remediation jobs available in many sectors.
In fact, this industry is growing rapidly as more and more people become aware of the dangers associated with black mold and other harmful strains.
Some of the most common positions include:
- Mold Remediation Technician
- Mold Inspector
- Mold Remediation Project Manager
Each position has its own set of qualifications or skillset. It’s important to remember that not all positions require a degree.
Why is mold remediation industry growing so rapidly?
As more individuals become aware of the potential hazards associated with mold infestations and other microbial contaminants, there’s been an increase in demand for professionals that know how to handle mold safely.
Perhaps you’ve seen cases, where homes have been infested by mold growth or you have experienced mold issues in your home before.
Either way, mold remediation is a hot topic these days and it is important for mold remediation professionals to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, knowledge, and education to deal with a client’s mold problem successfully and safely.
Importance of Certifications in the Mold Remediation Industry
Certifications are important in any industry, but they can be especially important for mold remediation companies.
This is because the work that these professionals do takes a lot of time and skill.
If you lack the right skillset and certifications, then it’s going to be much more difficult for you to get the job done correctly.
Not to mention, the lack of knowledge can lead to liabilities and possible OSHA citations.
Recommended certifications for Mold Remediation Professional
Below we will review some common certifications in the mold remediation field.
It is important to note that some states require special certifications and license to perform mold remediation operations. Check with your local regulatory department to see what their requirements are.
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) offers a variety of different certification levels, so it’s important to make sure that you select the one that is most appropriate for your business.
These certifications include:
- Mold Removal Specialist Certification
- Water Damage Restoration Technician
- Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)
- Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)
Health and safety certifications and knowledge are also important in the mold remediation industry. The following are some useful certifications that any mold remediation professional should have
- OSHA 30 Hour Certification for General Industry
When performing mold remediation in older homes, for instance, homes built in the 1950’s or 1970’s, other potential hazards can be present.
These hazards can include lead based paint and asbestos. As a result, having the certifications below will be beneficial:
- Lead Renovator Certification: Renovate Repair Paint (RRP) certification for handling Lead-Based Paint Hazards.
- Asbestos Awareness Training
- Leas Awareness Training
Where to get hands on experience in Mold Remediation
Mold remediation professionals are needed in many industries, however, they appear to operate mainly in the construction, property management, and retail industry.
Keep in mind, just working with a Certified Mold Remediation Company can also provide a vast amount of hands on experience.
#1 – The Construction Industry
The construction industry is a great place to start your career with mold remediation, because it has one of the highest rates of all industries with problems related to water damage and mold growth.
Annually, companies spend millions of dollars on mold remediation in the construction industry. Therefore, we can all agree that there is plenty of opportunities in this industry!
#2 – Retail Businesses
Retail businesses are another excellent choice when looking at where to begin your career in mold remediation.
These types of companies have the potential for high turnover rates, which can make it difficult for them to maintain their buildings or facilities.
The retail business industry is constantly growing, so you can be sure to find a job in this field relatively easily.
#3- Property Management
Mold is a big concern for property management companies.
With so many properties being rented out to people, there is an equally high chance of them growing mold and not reporting it.
This can lead to property management companies having a lot of issues with their buildings due to lack of maintenance on the part of the tenants or owners.
Because they often spend most or all of their time inside these structures, this industry is a great place to get hands-on experience in mold remediation.
Final Thought On Becoming A Certified Mold Professional
Many different certifications can be obtained and industries available to gain hands-on experience in mold remediation.
Certifications from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and providers such as the IICRC offer certifications that will be crucial when performing mold remediation operations.
The construction, retail business, and property management industries all provide great opportunities for those looking to get started with or further their career in this growing field.
With the right knowledge and experience, you can begin a successful career in mold remediation.