Abcott Construction
Limited

Consulting
Engineers of
Ontario


Markham Waxers

Environmental
Abatement Council
of Ontario

PROCEDURES FOR CLEANING OF FUNGUS AND MOLDS

1 General

1.1 Conform to Sections of Division 1 as applicable.

1.2 Fungus and molds are a common problem in many buildings including homes, schools, hospitals, as well as industrial and commercial facilities. These microbes are devoid of chlorophyll and obtain their food from non-living organic matter or by feeding as parasites on living hosts. Fungus and molds are generally associated with rotting material(s). Any area where moisture collects and temperatures are adequate is a potential site for growth of fungus and molds. If left uncontrolled, fungi cause deterioration of wood, textiles, ropes, electrical insulation, and many other articles of commerce and industry.

1.3 A specific Fungi, Stachybotrys chartarum, has been identified as a potential source of health related concerns in schools, identified in, but not limited to, portable classroom buildings.

1.4 Stachybotrys chartarum is a potent mycotoxin which renders indoor environments unacceptable for human occupanc

2 Site Conditions

2.1 Each work site contains specific conditions as outlined.

2.2 Work areas may include both interior and exterior portions of buildings as specified.

2.3 Typically costruction of a portable classroom building consists of a wood frame with aluminum cladding over impregnated paper and firerated drywall for exterior walls with vinyl coated or painted drywall for interior walls. Floors are plywood or pressboard with tile or sheet flooring cover. Ceilings are t-bar with 2X4 layin tiles, 1X1 stick-up tiles on drywall or painted drywall. Walls and floors are typically insulated with fibreglass batt insulation with a polyethylene vapour barrier on the inner side.

3 Scope of Work

3.1 Performance of work, as specified, is intended for the removal, disposal and/or decontamination of areas and/or material(s) affected by microbial contamination.

3.2 Work includes removal of existing surface fungal and/or mold growth and elimination of the filamentous hyphae which have penetrated the substrate of base materials.

3.3 Removable building materials, including but not limited to layin ceiling tiles, insulating materials, papers, etc., considered contaminated will be sent for disposal at Owner Designee's discreation.

3.4 Building materials deemed clean and/or decontaminated will be re-used at Owner Designee's discreation.

4 Related Work

4.1 Demolition of building components other than those required to be removed for cleaning and/or decontamination purposes.

4.2 Handling and disposal of microbe contaminated material(s).

4.3 Removal and/or cleaning and encapsulation of small areas of microbial contamination.

4.4 Mechanical work.

4.5 Electrical work.

5 Description of Work

5.1 Description of work is limited to requirements for portable classroom buildings only.

5.2 All work of structural members adjacent to structural members is to include cleaning with abrasive blasting and disinfection.

5.3 Complete work such that the portable(s) may be turned over to Owner for immediate referbishing with new materials and/or cleaned and disinfected materials.

5.4 Where exterior cladding is removed for work, protect exposed area from weather with 6 mil clear polyethylene sheeting until re-installment of cladding takes place. Polyethlyene sheeting will be attached to provide a water tight seal by use of tape, adhesive and staples.

5.5 Where exterior cladding is removed, area is to be fenced to restrict access.

5.6 Any polyethylene sheeting used to cover contaminated work will be disposed of as outlined under section 6 of this specification.

5.7 All building materials removed during work to be re-installed shall be numbered for identification during re-installation. A drawing showing numbered materials and locations shall be provided for each portable classroom building.

5.8 Complete all work as outlined and as instructed by Owner's Designee. Inform Owner's Designee of any additional contamination noted. Work performed in addition to original outline shall be billed at unit rates as supplied by contractor.

5.9 Any deficiences in work as outlined noted during inspection(s) by Owner's Designee shall be rectified immediately at no additional cost to Owner.

5.10 Remove and dispose of any and all materials with visible fungi growth as specified and/or indicated on Drawings.

5.11 Perform cleaning and decontamination work by full enclosure method

6 Definitions

6.1 HEPA Filter: High Efficiency Particulate Aerosol filter at least 99.97 percent efficient in collecting 0.3 micrometer aerosol.

6.2 Polyethylene Sheeting: Polyethylene sheeting of 0.15 mm (6 mil) minimum thickness with tape seals along edges, around penetrating objects, over cuts and tears, and elsewhere as required to provide continuous polyethylene membrane protection.

6.3 Authorized Visitor(s): Owner's Designee or person(s) representing regulatory agencies, and person(s) authorized by them.

6.4 Cleaning & Disinfection Work Area(s): Area(s) where work takes place which will, or may, disturb microbial growth, including fungus and molds, or settled dust(s) that may contain spores.

6.5 Controlled Wet Abrasive Blasting: Method to remove top layer of base structural elements (wood beams and joists) to remove filamentous hyphae (root like structures) without compromising structural integrity. "Torbo Blaster" is recommended.

6.6 Curtained Doorway: Device to allow ingress or egress from 1 room to another while permitting minimal air movement between rooms, typically constructed by placing 2 overlapping sheets of polyethylene sheeting (2 sheets of polyethylene per flap) attached to head and 1 jamb of existing or temporarily constructed door frame. Secure vertical edge of 1 flap along 1 vertical side of door frame and vertical edge of other flap along opposite vertical side of door frame. Reinforce free edges of polyethylene with duct tape.

6.7 Negative Pressure: Reduced pressure within work area(s) established by extracting air directly from work area, and discharging it directly to exterior of building. Discharged air first passes through HEPA filter. Extract sufficient air to ensure constant reduced pressure at perimeter of work area with respect to surrounding areas.

6.8 DOP Test: A testing method employing dioctyl phthalate aerosol for purpose of leak-testing negative air units.

7 Quality Assurance

7.1 Ensure work proceeds to schedule, and meets all requirements of this Section. Perform work so airborne microbes and/or spores, microbial contaminated waste, or water runoff do not contaminate areas outside work enclosure.

7.2 Pay cost to Owner of inspection and testing performed as result of failure to perform work satisfactorily regarding quality, safety, or schedule.

7.3 Use only skilled and qualified workers for all trades required for this work.

8 Submittals

8.1 Before Commencing Work:

8.2 Obtain and submit all necessary permits for transporting and disposal of waste(s).

8.3 Submit names of supervisory personnel who will be responsible for cleaning and disinfection work area(s). One of these supervisors must remain on site at all times removal, clean-up or disinfection is occurring.

8.4 For each work area, submit for review and approval by Owner's Designee drawings showing layout and construction of decontamination facilities and proposed location of negative pressure unit or units.

8.5 Submit list of existing damage for acceptance.

9 Worker And Visitor Protection

9.1 Instructions: Before entering work area(s), instruct workers and visitors in use of respirators, dress, showers, entry and exit from work areas, and all aspects of work procedures and protective measures. Instruction shall be provided by Competent Person.

9.2 Respirators: Provide appropriate respiratory equipment for all persons within work area including authorized visitors. During removal, clean-up and disinfection in enclosed work area(s) workers, supervisors, and authorized visitors shall be supplied with and use non-powered full face respirator or PAPR equipped with HEPA cartridge filter suitable for Chlorine. Replace filters daily or test according to manufacturer's specifications and replace as indicated. Provide proper instruction to workers and visitors in use of respirators, including qualitative fit testing. No supervisor, worker or authorized visitor shall wear facial hair which affects seal between respirator and face. Maintain respiratory protection equipment in proper functioning and clean condition, or remove from site.

9.3 Protective Clothing: Provide workers and visitors in full-enclosure sites with full body "Tyvek" coveralls with integral hoods. Once coveralls are worn in work area, treat as contaminated waste and dispose of. Workers and visitors shall also wear rubber boots, latex gloves beneath disposable fabric gloves.

9.4 Before entering full-enclosure work area(s) remove street clothes in clean change room and put on respirator with new or tested filters, clean coveralls and head covers before entering equipment and access areas or work area(s). Store street clothes, uncontaminated footwear, towels etc. in clean change room.

9.5 Persons leaving full-enclosure work area(s) shall remove gross contamination from clothing before leaving work area. Proceed to equipment and access area and remove all clothing except respirator. Place contaminated worksuit in receptacles for disposal with other contaminated materials. Footwear, clothing, hardhats, protective eye wear, etc., shall be left in equipment and access area to dry for later use. Still wearing respirator proceed naked to showers. Clean respirator to ensure that visible contamination is removed. After having thoroughly washed hair and body with shampoo and soap, remove respirator. Remove filters and dispose of in container provided for this purpose or test filters according to manufacturer's recommendation. Dispose of filters as necessary. Wet clean inside of respirator. Upon completion of cleaning, removal and disinfection procedures, dispose of footwear as contaminated waste or clean before removing from equipment and access area, or carry in sealed plastic bag to next contaminated work area.

9.6 Following showering, proceed to clean change room, dry off and dress in street clothes. Store respirators in fashion to allow them to be put on prior to entering work area at start of next shift without contaminating clean area. If re-entry to work area is to take place after having left for eating, drinking, or smoking, follow procedures in para. 9.4.

9.7 Removal of waste and equipment from holding room of waste decontamination enclosure system shall be performed by workers entering from outside. These workers shall wear clean coveralls and half-face respirators equipped with HEPA filters. No worker shall use this system as means to leave or enter work area.

9.8 Do not eat, drink smoke or chew gum or tobacco at Site except in established clean room.

9.9 Be fully protected as specified herein when possibility of disturbance or contact with fungi exists.

10 Products

10.1 MATERIALS

10.1.1 Polyethylene: 0.15 mm (6 mil) minimum thickness unless otherwise specified; in sheet size to minimize joints.

10.1.2 Rip-Proof Polyethylene: 0.20 mm (8 mil) fabric made up from 0.13 mm (5 mil weave and 2 layers 0.04 mm (1.5 mil) poly laminate, in sheet size to minimize joints.

10.1.3 Tape: Tape suitable for sealing polyethylene to surface encountered, under both wet conditions using amended water, and dry conditions.

10.1.4 Disinfectant: 5% solution, by volume of Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite).

10.1.5 Fungicide: 5% solution or manufactures recommended strength.

10.1.6 Waste Receptors: Two separate containers of which 1 shall consist of 0.15 mm (6 mil) minimum thickness sealable clear polyethylene bag. Other container may be 0.15 mm (6 mil) minimum thickness clear polyethylene bag or rigid sealable container such as cardboard or fibre drum or wood box. Other container shall be adequate to prevent perforating rips, or tears during filling, transport or disposal. Containers must be acceptable to disposal site selected, and Ministry of Environment and Energy.

10.1.7 Sealer: Sealer for purpose of trapping residual microbe spores. Product must have flame spread and smoke development ratings both less than 25. Product shall leave no stain when dry: TC-55 (clear), A/D Fire Protection Systems Inc., Scarborough, Ontario (or equivalent).

10.1.8 Sprayer: Garden type, portable manual sprayer, low velocity, capable of producing fine spray.

10.1.9 Ground Fault Panel: Portable electrical panel equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (5 Ma protection) of sufficient capacity to power all electrical equipment and lights in asbestos work enclosure. Panel complete with ground fault interrupter lights, test switch to ensure unit is working, and reset switch. Installed by licensed electrician.

10.1.10 HEPA Vacuum: Vacuum with all necessary fittings, tools and attachments. Air must pass HEPA filter before discharge.

10.1.11 Protective Coveralls: Disposable full body coveralls complete with elasticized hoods made of spun polyolefin material "Tyvek" by Dupont or nonwoven material Kleenguard by Kimberley Clark (or equivalent).

10.1.12 Flexible ducting: Metal reinforced flexible ductwork, 300 mm (12") diameter minimum.

10.1.13 Negative Air Unit: Portable air handling system which extracts air directly from asbestos work area and discharges air outside building. Unit shall be fitted with prefilter and HEPA final filter. Air shall pass HEPA filter before discharge. Unit shall have pressure differential gauge to monitor filter loading. Unit shall have auto shut-off and warning system for HEPA filter failure. HEPA filter shall have separate hold down clamps to retain filter in place.

11 Execution

11.1 Full-Enclosure Work Area(s):

11.1.1 Install 3 stage worker decontamination facilities complete with hot and cold potable water and heat at a location as close as practicable to the work area, acceptable to Owner's Designee. Decontamiantion to be constructed as outlined in section 11.2.

11.1.2 Seal all windows and doors on the exterior with polyethylene sheeting and tape.

11.1.3 Establish negative pressure in work area as described in Para. 6.7. Negative pressure units shall have total rated capacity with filters in place sufficient to provide minimum 1 air change every 20 minutes in wet removal sites, and 1 change every 15 minutes in dry removal sites. Volume of air shall be sufficient to ensure air flow is maintained from clean areas into work area. Vents units to outside of building by removing, and later replacing, windows, and/or providing flexible ductings. Locate vents to discharge air away from building access points or sidewalks. Do not discharge air into building interior without obtaining approval from Owner's Designee. Leak test any negative air units to be exhausted within building, at operating position at project, using DOP method. Venting of exhaust air through occupied area shall be in rigid airtight duct work. Operate negative pressure units continuously from this time until completion of final air monitoring. Replace pre-filters as necessary to maintain air flow. Maintain negative air pressure of 5 Pascal (0.02 inches water column) pressure reduction within enclosure with respect to surrounding areas.

11.1.4 Maintain emergency and fire exits from work area, or establish alternative exits satisfactory to authorities having jurisdiction.

11.1.5 Ensure existing power supply to work area is isolated and disconnected where necessary. Do not disrupt power supply to remaining areas of building. Provide ground fault electrical system where application of disinfectant, fungicide and/or water is required. Supply all electrical apparatus from this ground fault system. Ensure safe installation of electrical lines and equipment.

11.1.6 Provide temporary lighting in work area (if required) to levels that will permit work to be done safely and well.

11.1.7 Provide fire extinguisher at each emergency exit, and in decontamination facilities. Protect extinguishers with polyethylene sheeting in manner that will not hamper emergency use.

11.2 Workers' Decontamination Enclosure System

11.2.1 Construct workers' decontamination enclosure at entrance to each work area. Worker decontamination enclosure system shall comprise three interconnecting rooms as follows:

11.2.1.1 Provide a set of curtain doorways between each room, and at both dirty and clean entrances to enclosure systems.

11.2.1.2 Equipment and Access Room: Build room between shower room and work area. Install waste receptor, and storage facilities for worker's shoes and any protective clothing to be reworn in asbestos work areas. Equipment and access room shall be large enough to accommodate specified facilities, and other equipment needed, and at least one worker allowing sufficient space to undress comfortably. Minimum size 3 m² (30 sq ft).

11.2.1.3 Shower Room: Build room between clean room and equipment and access room. Provide constant separate supplies of hot and cold water. Provide valves controllable at shower(s) to regulate water temperature. Provide rigid piping with water tight connections and connect to water sources and drains. Provide soap, clean towels and appropriate containers for disposal of used respirator filters. Direct waste water to sanitary sewer drains. Install ground fault protected power supply, hooks and shelves, for storage and changing of PAPR, if applicable.

11.2.1.4 Clean Room: Build room between shower room and clean areas outside of enclosures. At doorway to clean room, provide vented wood door, with locking passage set. Provide hangers for workers' street clothes and personal belongings. Provide storage for clean protective clothing and respiratory equipment. Install water heater, if required.

11.3 Waste And Equipment Decontamination Enclosure System

11.3.1 Construct System Comprised of 3 Linked Rooms: Purpose of this system is to provide means to decontaminate bags, drums, scaffolding, material containers, vacuum and spray equipment; and other tools and equipment for which worker decontamination system is not suitable. Provide curtain doorways between rooms, and at both dirty and clean entrances to Enclosure System.

11.3.1.1 Staging Area: Build staging area in asbestos work area for gross removal of dust and debris from waste containers and equipment, labelling and sealing of waste containers, and temporary storage pending removal to container cleaning room.

11.3.1.2 Container Cleaning Room: Build container cleaning room between staging area and holding room. Room shall be of sufficient size to allow proper washing of equipment and drums or double bagging of waste. Treat wash water as contaminated waste.

11.3.1.3 Holding Room: Build holding room between container cleaning room and uncontaminated area. Holding room shall be of sufficient size to accommodate largest item of equipment used and ten waste containers.

11.4 Construction Of Decontamination Enclosures

11.4.1 Floor: Prior to erecting wall framing, lay 1 sheet of rip-proof polyethylene over floor area to be covered by enclosures (if enclosure not outside). Turn 600 mm (24") of rip-proof polyethylene up outside of enclosure, overlapping with polyethylene sheeting covering perimeter walls. Provide second layer of rip-proof polyethylene to all floors, extending 600 mm (24") up inside of enclosure walls.

11.4.2 Walls: Build load bearing walls of 39 mm x 89 mm (2" x 4") wood framing, 400 mm (16") o.c. with continuous top and sill plates. Cover both sides walls with polyethylene sheeting. Walls exposed to asbestos work area shall be covered with minimum 9 mm (3/8") plywood sheeting or hardboard. Caulk seal and tape plywood joints. Walls exposed to occupied area shall be covered with good 1 side 9 mm plywood.

11.4.3 Roof: Size of joists shall be determined by span, loads, use and Code. Use as a minimum 39 mm x 138 mm (2" x 6") joists. Cover joists with 19 mm (3/4") plywood sheeting. Seal and tape joints, and cover with 2 layers of rip-proof polyethylene. At underside of joists install 1 layer of polyethylene sheeting.

11.4.4 Doorways: Build curtain doorways designed so that when workers or drums and equipment move through doorway, 1 of 2 barriers comprising doorway always remains closed.

11.5 Maintenance Of Enclosures

11.5.1 Maintain enclosures in tidy condition.

11.5.2 Ensure barriers and polyethylene linings are effectively sealed and taped. Repair damaged barriers and remedy defects immediately upon discovery.

11.5.3 Visual inspection of enclosures at beginning and end of each working period will be completed by Owner's Designee.

11.6 Do Not Commence Work Until

11.6.1 Arrangements have been made for disposal of waste.

11.6.2 Work areas and decontamination enclosures are effectively segregated. Negative pressure equipment is operating continuously.

11.6.3 Tools, equipment and materials waste receptors are on hand.

11.6.4 Arrangements have been made by Contractor for work area security.

11.6.5 Signs are displayed in areas where access to sealed work area is possible. Signs shall read:

CAUTION
Potential Health Hazard Area
No Unauthorized Entry
Wear assigned protective equipment

11.6.6 Proof of notification to Ministry of Labour has been submitted.

11.6.7 Owner's Designee has been notified of intention to proceed and has reviewed enclosures, equipment and procedures.

11.7 Procedures For Full-Enclosure Work Area

11.7.1 Before performing any contaminated work, prepare Site as described in articles 11.1 through 11.6.

11.7.2 Treat removed materials, and items not to be reused, as follows: as contaminated waste.

11.7.3 Promptly seal holes or penetrations in structure above ceiling, ducts, etc. to provide air tight enclosure around work area(s).

11.7.4 Protect electrical, communication, life safety and control systems to remain in place in work area with polyethylene and tape.

11.7.5 Seal joints and holes in uninsulated HVAC ductwork through work area, using tape and rip-proof polyethylene to make air tight.

11.8 Interior Procedures

11.8.1 Turn off air handling unit(s) serving portable classroom, remove supply grilles and dispose of air filters (if present). HEPA vacuum internal duct work and internal components of air handling unit(s). Wipe accessible areas with bleach solution, rinse with water and dry thoroughly. Replace grilles and seal vents with polyethylene sheeting and tape.

11.8.2 Wipe down with bleach solution then rinse with water and dry all furnishings prior to removal from contaminated area to temporary storage.

11.8.3 HEPA vacuum all fabric materials such as furniture, partitions, drapes, and paper materials and remove to temporary storage area.

11.8.4 All surfaces in the work area not affected are to be protected wth 6 mil polyethylene sheeting.

11.8.5 Place work area under negative pressure.

11.8.6 Remove and clean and number for storage all fixtures from walls slated for removal.

11.8.7 Remove and HEPA vacuum ceiling tiles in work area, place in temporary storage area for later re-installation. Ceiling tiles with water damage or fungal growth shall be disposed of.

11.8.8 HEPA vacuum all accessible surfaces in the work area.

11.8.9 Disinfect all accessible surfaces in the work area.

11.8.10 Structural elements affected, such as wood beams and joists, wood floor and subfloor, shall be cleaned using controlled wet abrassive blasting. Blasting procedure will be conducted with sufficient force and aggregate content to remove to ¼ inches of substrate, without compromising structural integrity, in order to eliminate all fungi and/or mold both surface and subsurface. Water used shall contain a 5% solution (or manufactures' recommended strength) of fungicide which will penetrate and protect the substrate from regrowth.

11.8.11 Collect gross debris from blasting and dispose in drums. HEPA vacuum as final clean-up.

11.9 Exterior Procedures

11.9.1 Place classrooms under positive pressure using negative air units.

11.9.2 Shut down air handling system(s) to the portable classroom.

11.9.3 Remove exterior cladding to access drywall sheathing and/or other materials specified for removal.

11.9.4 HEPA vacuum then wet wipe exterior cladding panels with bleach solution, rinse and dry ready for re-use.

11.9.5 Structural members exposed, such as wood beams and joists, wood floor and subfloor, exhibiting contamination shall be cleaned using controlled wet abrassive blasting. Blasting procedure will be conducted with sufficient force and aggregate content to remove to ¼ inches of substrate, without compromising structural integrity, in order to eliminate all fungi and/or mold both surface and subsurface. Water used shall contain a 5% solution (or manufactures' recommended strength) of fungicide which will penetrate and protect the substrate from regrowth. All other structural members shall be wiped down with bleach solution, rinsed and dried.

11.9.6 Dispose of all porous materials deemed to be contaminated and which cannot be readily cleaned or re-used including but limited to tar paper and fibreglass insulation.

11.9.7 Treat all materials removed to expose microbial growth, as contaminated waste unless such materials are specified to be reused.

11.9.8 Make cleaned exterior sections weather proof as per section 5.4.

11.10 Clean-Up

11.10.1 If drums are used for waste disposal, drums shall be sealed and cleaned in waste decontamination enclosures. If double plastic bags are used, inner bag shall be cleaned of gross contamination and placed in a clean 0.15 mm (6 mil) outer plastic bag in container cleaning room immediately prior to transfer to bin for disposal.

11.10.2 Remove sealed and labelled waste receptors and dispose of to authorized disposal area in accordance with requirements of disposal authority.

11.10.3 Request visual inspection and clearance testing by Owner's Designee.

11.11 Tear Down Of Protection

11.11.1 Following inspection, testing and acceptance, tear down enclosure.I

11.11.2 Remove polyethylene sheeting exposed during contaminated work including upper surfaces plus any underlying sheeting contaminated by water leaks, rips, tears, or exposed by failure of upper layer. Wear half facepiece respirator and disposable coveralls during removal of sheeting. Carefully roll sheeting away from walls to centre of work area. As sheeting is rolled away from walls and corners, HEPA vacuum any visible debris.

11.11.3 Place polyethylene sheeting, seals, tape, cleaning material, clothing, and other contaminated waste in appropriate waste receptors for transport. Remove any debris fallen behind sheeting with HEPA vacuum.

11.11.4 Clean up work area(s), equipment and access area, washing/showering room, and other enclosures that may have been contaminated during work.

11.11.5 Clean up waste receptors and equipment used in work and remove from work area(s) via drum and equipment decontamination enclosure system, at an appropriate time in sequence.

11.11.6 Remove hoardings, temporary lighting, equipment and facilities provided for work.

11.11.7 A final review may be carried out by Owner's Designee to ensure that no dust or debris remains.

11.12 Re-Establishment Of Objects And Systems

11.12.1 When clean-up is complete reconstruct items demolished which are to remain and reinstall objects and items removed to facilitate fungi removal operation in their proper positions. Reconstruction and reinstallation shall be by workers qualified in work being reinstalled or reconstructed.

11.12.2 Make good all damage at completion of work not identified in pre-removal survey.

11.13 Inspection

11.13.1 From commencement of work until completion of clean-up operations, Owner's Designee may be present periodically, both inside and outside work area(s).

11.13.2 Pay cost to provide reinspection of work found not in accordance with these specifications and requirements of authorities having jurisdiction.

11.14 Waste Transport And Disposal

11.14.1 Conform to requirements of Regulation 347 under Environmental Protection Act for Waste Management, transporting and disposal of wastes

11.14.2 Check with dump operator to determine type of waste containers acceptable.

11.14.3 Ensure shipment of containers to dump is taken by appropriate waste hauler.

11.14.4 Ensure dump operator is fully aware of material being dumped.

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