Campus Mold Management: Reporting and Remediation Procedures

Process Flow

Ensuring the well-being of our community members is paramount. We encourage everyone to maintain clean living spaces to support campus hygiene. Immediate notification of residence life personnel is crucial if mold is suspected.

Prompt reporting via phone (TKC Maintenance/Housekeeping on-call 828.357.4222) or online submission initiates a documented response from Facilities staff for rapid action.
Facilities Director or representative addresses mold reports within 24 hours for preliminary assessment and categorizes moisture issues using a 1-4 scale.
Level 1 (Small): Minor spots up to 10 sq. ft.; Maintenance or Housekeeping tackles cleanup with proper safeguards.
Level 2 (Mid): Moderate spread 11-32 sq. ft.; only Maintenance staff handle removal, avoiding porous surface cleaning.
Level 3 (Large): Significant contamination 33-100 sq. ft.; requires expert oversight from specialized professionals before intervention.
Level 4 (Extensive): Severe mold affecting over 100 sq. ft.; demands advanced containment and professional remediation strategies.

Post-assessment actions depend on findings: either professional restoration begins with temporary relocation arrangements or testing proves negative, halting further steps.

Tools and Classifications for Mold Management

Level I: Small Isolated Areas (10 sq. ft. or less contiguous)

Trained Maintenance staff handle removal and porous surface cleaning.
Regular staff may perform remediation if certified under OSHA standards.
Respiratory and protective gear are mandatory during work.
Work zones remain unoccupied until cleared safe by Facilities.
Containment isn't required but dust suppression is advised.
Disposed materials go in sealed bags as regular waste.
Post-cleanup inspection ensures no regrowth for a week.

Level II: Mid-Sized Isolated Areas (11-32 sq. ft.)

Housekeeping avoids involvement in removal tasks.
Staff receive similar training as Level I with strict adherence to safety protocols.
HEPA vacuums and protective equipment are essential.
Adjacent space precautions apply for vulnerable individuals.
Ventilation systems sealed during remediation.
Contaminated items removed securely and disposed normally.
Final area checks confirm complete clearance.

Level III: Large Isolated Areas (33 -100 sq. ft.)

Expert environmental consultants must oversee remediation; TKC personnel must refrain from direct engagement.

Procedures focus on thorough containment, specialized PPE, and meticulous cleanup verification.

Trained teams equipped with full-face respirators and protective suits manage the site.

Affected zone sealed completely to prevent spread.

Negative pressure systems maintain containment integrity.

Decontamination protocols follow all removal steps.

Level IV: Extensive Contamination (>100 sq. ft.)

Specialized containment and advanced protective measures are mandatory; TKC employees must stay clear unless certified.

Comprehensive isolation, HEPA filtration, and rigorous decontamination ensure safety throughout the process.