brushing or agitation device: Wire brushing or sanding is used when microbial growth can be seen on solid wood surfaces such as framing or underlayment (the subfloor). Dry-ice blasting: Removes mold from wood and cement; however, this process may spray mold and its byproducts into surrounding air. Wet vacuum: Wet vacuuming is used on wet materials, and this method is one of those approved by the EPA. Damp wipe: Removal of mold from non-porous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and a detergent and drying quickly. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum cleaner: Used in remediation areas after materials have been dried and contaminated materials removed; collected debris and dust is stored to prevent debris release. Debris disposal: Sealed in the remediation area, debris is usually discarded with ordinary construction waste. Equipment Equipment used in mold remediation includes: Moisture meter to measure drying of damaged materials; Humidity gauge, often paired with a thermometer; Borescope, a flexible tube with a camera at the end, to illuminate potential mold problems inside walls, ceilings and crawl spaces; Digital camera to document findings during evaluation; Personal protective equipment (PPE): respirators, gloves, impervious suit, and eye protection; Thermographic camera, infrared thermal-imaging cameras to identify secondary moisture sources. Hepa Vacuum, a also known a High Efficiency Particulate Filter is commonly used with mold remediation for safely removing any mold spores from the surface and building materials to deter these pores from becoming airborne. Protection levels During mold remediation in the U.S., the level of contamination dictates the protection level for remediation workers. Contamination levels have been enumerated as I, II, III, and IV: Level I: Small, isolated areas ( or less); remediation may be conducted by trained building staff; Level II: Mid-sized, isolated areas (); may also be remediated by trained, protected building staff; Level III: Large, isolated areas (): Professionals experienced in microbial investigations or mold remediation should be consulted, and personnel should be trained in the handling of hazardous materials and equipped with respiratory protection, gloves and eye protection; Level IV: Extensive contamination (more than ); requires trained, equipped professionals After remediation, the premises should be reevaluated to ensure success. Residential mold prevention and control According to the EPA, residential mold may be prevented and controlled by cleaning and repairing rain gutters, to prevent moisture seepage into the home; keeping air-conditioning drip pans clean and drainage lines clear; monitoring indoor humidity; drying areas of