Moisture, Mildew, and Mold: Detection and Remediation

Detection and Remediation

Hampshire College takes seriously issues of moisture, mildew, and suspected mold within our facilities. This page provides information about the College’s procedures for the detection and remediation of moisture, mildew, and suspected mold within any campus building or facility owned, leased, or operated by the College.

The College follows industry standards, governmental guidance, and best practices for assessment and remediation.

Hampshire College employees must always report these conditions to their immediate supervisor, residents report conditions to Residence Life staff, and guests report conditions to their host. In addition, please electronically submit a Facilities and Grounds Department Work Order Request.

Report an emergency immediately to Campus Safety and Wellbeing by calling 413.559.5424. 

Once alerted, Facilities and Grounds or Environmental Health and Safety staff will utilize the CDC and NIOSH; *Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool, to assess moisture and water concerns.

The Process

The follow-up process may change slightly, depending on each situation.

• Stop the source of the moisture or water problem, such as a pipe or roof leak.
• Begin the drying process by utilizing dehumidification, and removing any standing water.
• Remove all affected building materials and other wet items.
  • Properly dispose of building materials including sheet-rock and insulation, as well as items that cannot be appropriately cleaned, washed or decontaminated.
• Clean all surfaces that can be washed using an agency approved disinfectant or cleaner, specifically identified for mildew and mold.
• Utilizing instruments and equipment verify that all areas are dry and verify remediation is complete.
• Replace building materials, to reset the space. 
• The timeframe will vary depending on each event and the complexities of the situation. 

All of Hampshire College's remediation efforts are aligned with evidence-based best practices as well as state and federal recommendations. The College does not conduct indoor air quality testing during suspected mold investigations. Massachusetts does not recommend air testing as part of routine water damage remediation because mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually, and there is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. 

Additionally, regulatory agencies admit there are no established limits (federal or state regulations, building standards, or guidelines) on what levels of mold can exist before health impacts are expected. This means that even if tests are conducted, there is no way to compare results or determine whether the measured level could cause health effects because mold concentrations in the air cannot be interpreted in relation to health risks.

Tips for Healthy and Environmentally Friendly Living

Many factors contribute to indoor air quality, a few examples are ventilation, temperature and humidity levels, building materials, and cleaning products (chemicals) used in the building. Personal choices such as fragrances, house plants, and storage of food can also impact your health.

• Cleaning and general housekeeping of your space regularly including emptying all trash and recycling regularly.
• Properly hang damp material like clothes or towels to dry; keep your bathroom exhaust fan on 30 minutes after you shower and pull the shower curtain closed.
• Keep all furniture and other materials away from heating/cooling units to allow proper airflow and to prevent creating dark, cramped spaces where mold can flourish. Do not over crowd the space with furniture. 
• Consider your individual irritants, as you place potted plants or other environmental decor around your living space. Never place plants near heating or cooling equipment as you can spread organic material from the plants.